Tai chi is generally known to help reduce stress. [1]
With stress levels skyrocketing at the moment (coronavirus lockdown), what better time to put tai chi to the test?
Tai Chi to Counteract “Lockdown Cabin Fever”
We are currently (03-April-2020) doing our own little experiment with daily tai chi practice to counteract stress:
- the cabin fever stress caused by the coronavirus lockdown
- plus the stress of worrying over the whole situation
Methodology
Due to lockdown mobility restrictions, the practice is taking place indoors (with an open window and by a window to the outside, if possible) but in virtual companionship with the other members of the group, as we practice together with the help of modern technology.
Intervention
The intervention is a 30 minute session taking place every day at 12 noon. This time was chosen so that it would suit participant (early and late risers, workers and retired or furloughed workers) and take place before lunch (it is not recommended to practice on a full stomach).
Control Group
While we did not have a control group as such:
- my neighbours (who do not practice tai chi) fighting next door provide an interesting counterpoint to our chilled calm;
- our own selves before we started this practice could be considered a “control” (no intervention) group with unprecedented high stress levels.
- withholding tai chi practice from a group to see “how much worse they fare” would be unethical in my opinion
RESULTS – After about 2 weeks:
After about 2 weeks of daily tai chi qigong shibashi practice, this is the situation on 02- April-2020:
- We started this daily collective practice because we were all feeling very high levels of stress and uncertainty – these levels have abated considerably now. Sleep quality seems also to have improved since we started this daily practice.
- My HRV has also improved
This is what other participants said…
Erica C. :
I’m really appreciating these classes as I find them calming and energising which sounds silly but it works! Thank you
Magda S.:
Doing your classes certainly helps having a structure to the days and staying healthy and fit is an important part of this.
It’s also great having a break from the craziness of the situation
Anne:
… Having a structure to the day is so important particularly when you have been used to having busy days. I also enjoy the exercise and seeing everybody each day which is important as well.
Stephanie:
I find the 30 minutes a calming experience; the focus on breathing is especially beneficial in distancing myself from the worries of the day. The fact that it’s a daily habit means my day has some structure too
Updates coming up…
REFERENCES
[1] Benefits of Tai Chi – http://pilatesfitness.co.uk/blog/?p=237
[2] HRV – https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/bitstream/handle/2142/78469/SCHAAFSMA-THESIS-2015.pdf