Tai Chi - a Prescription for Mental Wellness

Jesse, a group facilitator at Kellyville Private Hospital, has been practising Tai Chi for 20 years and teaching for 14 years. A great advocate of its health benefits, Jesse is thrilled to guide patients through weekly Tai Chi sessions as part of the hospital’s integrated, holistic approach to mental health treatment.  

“It is immensely satisfying to pass on the methods of Tai Chi and to see the positive effect in so many of my patients,” says Jesse.  

“It is common for patients to experience a feeling of relaxation, both physical and emotional during and after a session.

“Patients report a calming of thoughts and emotions and a greater ability to sit quietly in meditation.”

According to Jesse, there is a growing body of research to support not only the physical benefits of Tai Chi, but also its ability to improve mental wellness.

Jesse attributes this to the body’s nervous system being able to enter a deep state of relaxation, both during and after a Tai Chi session.  

“The slow, continuous, spiralling movement of Tai Chi relaxes the connective tissues of the body,” says Jesse.

“This deep relaxation allows our nervous system to return to a state of safety, with an accompanying sense of calmness and peace.

“There is also a calming of the overactive mind and emotional reactivity, described from the perspective of Polyvagal theory, as the body’s nervous system being in a state of ‘social engagement’.

“There is a growing body of research that shows the necessity of this state, to assist in processing past trauma and helping alleviate symptoms of anxiety.”

One of the benefits of practising Tai Chi is that anyone can do it, regardless of age, physical ability, or injury.  

“I have had many patients with severe injuries participate in the class,” says Jesse.  

“We will always tailor the class to suit the individuals present and this can include practicing from a chair.”