Epigenetic Changes Related To T'ai Chi Practice

A T'ai Chi practice group from the 2012 study has also shown significantly slower methylation changes related to aging, meaning that T'ai Chi may be associated with some beneficial epigenetic changes.

So, what is Epigenetics and how it can influence changes in our genes?

Epigenetics is a relatively new medical field offering explanations on how exposure to toxins, stress, our diets, or even the amount of love we receive in our lives might subtly alter the genes we pass on to our children. It is the study of biological processes and mechanisms which are able to switch genes. Chemicals known as epigenetic marks offer some basic instructions to our genes, telling them when to switch on or off. All our cells are made of the same DNA. Epigenetic marks help to silence certain gene sequences and activate the others. If these marks don't work properly, gene mutations can occur. Things like diet and exercise can activate or shut down these marks. This is why someone gets cancer or passes an illness down to their offspring.

When compared to other forms of exercise, T'ai Chi showed better results. It is still unknown how exactly T'ai Chi can influence these positive changes, but it is most likely due to integrated holistic combination of psychological and physiological aspects. It is considered to impart its benefits on a molecular well-being of the cells.

T'ai Chi And Insomnia

The majority of those who suffer insomnia take some prescription drugs to help them sleep better. Over the years, many studies have shown side effects of prolonged usage of these drugs. More and more people are converting to natural solutions to battle their insomnia, mostly with yoga or T'ai Chi.

The Eastern discipline is not only helpful to older people. A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Health Care conducted on middle school children combined T'ai Chi and an educational program on stress reduction. This study on teenagers lasted five weeks, and after this time, the participants stated that they experienced relaxation, calmness, increased self-awareness, better sleep, and less reactivity. This study offered hope that all ages can benefit from T'ai Chi regarding sleep management and the overall well-being.

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T'ai Chi's ability to influence our genes is something of a great importance. While research has shown it is a fact that T'ai Chi is able to benefit to sleep disorders, issues like fibromyalgia or heart disease, it is still unknown in which way exactly. In the following years, we will have more information, as epigenetic changes — and the widespread benefits of this calming discipline — are yet to be discovered. So far, many studies have shown T'ai Chi is able to influence the whole body.

T'ai Chi is relaxation and exercise combined. Learning its techniques is a great opportunity to cultivate Chi, your body's internal energy, circulate it and use it for numerous health benefits.