In Good Health // Tai Chi Lowers Blood Pressure Finds Study

A new study has found Tai Chi, yoga, meditation and breathing control exercises all help reduce high blood pressure.

Just over a quarter of adults in the UK – equating to around 14.4 million people – are thought to have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

The condition is very common, especially in older people, and it is often described as a ‘silent killer’, as it increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

The new research is via a team from the universities of Exeter and Bristol who examined results from 54 existing studies.

They found that, at short-term follow-up (three months or less), most relaxation interventions appeared to have a beneficial effect on blood pressure.

Tina Faulkner, leading UK Tai Chi instructor and spokesperson for the Tai Chi and Internal Arts (TCIA) Union of Great Britain said: “The health benefits of tai chi and the other internal arts, such as Qigong and meditation, have long been recognised.

“For thousands of years, people of all ages and with various medical challenges, have experienced remarkable improvements to their overall physical and mental health.

She adds: “We welcome this joint study and would encourage any individuals who wish to learn more about Tai Chi and how this ancient and gentle practice can improve their health to contact us to find local classes and support.”

For more information go to: https://www.taichiunion.com/

The study can be found here: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/news/2025/april/blood-pressure-study.html