Can Tai chi help in managing diabetes?

The focus required along with the slow movements, coordinated breathing, and incorporation of some of the tai chi principles turns off the cascade of stress hormones and leads to a sense of calm energy, says Graves. “Stress is at the root of many diseases in our society,” she continues. “Effectively combating stress can create an environment in the body for healing and optimal health. People who never thought it possible actually begin to enjoy being in their bodies.” “You’d use it for the same reason you might go in for acupuncture,” adds Patti Kim, a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist at the Amrit Davaa Wellness Center in Los Angeles, who has recommended tai chi to many of her patients. “Chinese medicine and practices are based on the idea that disease or pain comes from stagnation. Our bodies have channels of energy flow. Since I’m based in L.A., I tell my patients to think of these channels as freeways. If there’s a traffic jam, there’s going to be pain or disease. We need to find avenues that allow our bodies to remain moving, alive, and nourished.”