How Tai Chi and Qigong benefit younger individuals versus older adults can differ significantly. Two new studies, published in July and August 2024 respectively, reveal ten key things to know about the similarities and differences in using Tai Chi and Qigong for these two age groups.
Here is a matrix comparing the commonalities and differences in using Tai Chi and Qigong to help young people and older adults:
| Aspect | Commonalities (Both Young People & Older Adults) | Young People (Adolescents) | Older Adults (Seniors) |
| Mental Health Benefits | – Both Tai Chi and Qigong reduce depressive symptoms and improve emotional well-being. | – Helps regulate emotions and reduce stress and anxiety. | – Alleviates depression and anxiety by promoting relaxation and calm. |
| Physical Health Benefits | – Both practices improve flexibility, balance, and physical coordination. | – Enhances flexibility, coordination, and strength, improving fitness. | – Focuses on improving mobility, balance, and reducing fall risk. |
| Emotional Control & Regulation | – Both practices help manage emotional stress and promote calmness. | – Tai Chi particularly effective for emotional control during adolescence. | – Qigong helps manage emotions and reduce stress without physical strain. |
| Cognitive Benefits | – Boosts cognitive function, improving mental clarity and focus. | – Improves focus and academic performance through mental clarity. | – Helps preserve cognitive function and slows cognitive decline. |
| Social vs. Independent Practice | – Both practices can be performed in group settings or independently at home. | – Social interaction in group settings boosts motivation and engagement. | – Exercises are more often done independently for self-paced wellness. |
| Physical Barriers & Limitations | – Can be adapted to suit varying physical capabilities. | – Less likely to encounter physical limitations, but social pressures may deter participation. | – Physical limitations like joint pain may present barriers for Tai Chi but not Qigong. |
| Focus on Breathing and Meditation | – Both practices incorporate deep breathing and meditative movements. | – Focus on breath control helps with emotional management and reducing stress. | – Deep breathing and slow movements promote relaxation and improve mental health. |
| Type of Movements | – Movements are slow, controlled, and meditative. | – Tai Chi emphasizes flowing, strength-building movements. | – Qigong’s simple, gentle movements are ideal for maintaining physical health. |
| Motivational Factors | – Both groups need encouragement to engage consistently in these exercises. | – Motivated by physical and social benefits (e.g., fitness, peer interaction). | – Motivated by maintaining independence, reducing pain, and improving mental clarity. |
| Long-Term Benefits | – Regular practice leads to long-term mental and physical health benefits. | – Builds emotional resilience and reduces recurrence of depression. | – Helps maintain physical function and mental health in the long term. |
Understanding the common effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on both age groups, as well as the distinct differences in how these practices are utilized can help Tai Chi and Qigong instructors tailor their services to each group.
