Taichi is Medicine (TIM): the Model of Taichi and Health Promotion

Main Article Content

Feng Wang

Abstract

Taichi is a popular alternative medicine approach embraced by experts worldwide. However, the foundational theories and potential mechanisms of Taichi, along with its impacts on health promotion, remain uncertain. This study aims to present a new model for the integration of Taichi exercise and health, termed ‘Taichi is Medicine’ (TIM). Taichi is characterized by circular movements, relaxation, belly respiration, a gentle-slow-smooth approach, and the promotion of dynamic balance. Its foundational theories involve Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Taoist Philosophy (TP), Exercise is Medicine (EIM), Positive Psychology (PP), as well as Self-Determination Theory (SDT). The potential mechanisms encompass the mind-body connection, postural alignment stability, as well as biochemical factors. TIM is a new model grounded in the core viewpoint of dynamic balance, extending its application to the physical, mental, and spiritual-social dimensions of health.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Article Details

How to Cite
Wang, F. (2024). Taichi is Medicine (TIM): the Model of Taichi and Health Promotion. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 20(3), 356–358. https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.20.3.47
Section
Commentary

References

Guo Y, Qiu P, Liu T. Tai Ji Quan: An overview of its history, health benefits, and cultural value. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 2014. 3(1): p. 3-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jshs.2013.10.004

Rodrigues JMSM, Mestre MICP, Matos LC, Machado JP. Effects of taijiquan and qigong practice over behavioural disorders in school-age children: A pilot study. J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2019;23(1):11-15. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2018.01.019.

Bartimole L, Fristad MA. Taiji (Tai Chi) For Fall Prevention in the Elderly: Training the Trainers Evaluation Project. Explore (NY). 2017;13(3):198-200. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2017.02.004.