Diet and exercise are the cornerstone of diabetes management. People with diabetes who exercise regularly have better control over their blood glucose levels and fewer complications such as heart disease and stroke. Tai chi offers a major advantage: It’s enjoyable, and to many, it’s almost addictive. Tai chi is a gentle exercise, and has been shown by studies to prevent diabetes in 60 percent of cases, and is effective in preventing and improving the control of diabetes.
Stress stands in the way of controlling diabetes. Since tai chi encourages mental relaxation and reduces stress, it follows that Tai Chi can improve the control of diabetes. The major problems of diabetes are the associating complications such as heart disease, visual impairment, and stroke. Tai chi focuses on building strength, balance and flexibility through slow, fluid movements combined with mental imagery and deep breathing. Scientific studies have shown tai chi to have beneficial effects on cardio-respiratory fitness, muscular strength, balance, peripheral circulation, reduced tension, and anxiety. These in turn minimise the complications of diabetes.
Diabetes causes peripheral neuropathy, a condition in which the nerves in the feet are damaged thus affecting stability in walking. Tai chi has proved to be effective in helping balance and mobility.
Learning Outcomes
Understand how tai chi improves health and relaxation, helps manage Diabetes, and helps to prevent falls
Improved your tai chi skill and knowledge
Learned why Yang and Sun Styles tai chi were chosen for the Tai Chi for Diabetes program
Experienced the features of the Tai Chi for Diabetes program
Learned why it is important to be TCHI qualified, to teach this program effectively and safely
Gained knowledge about Diabetes and falls prevention
