Tai Chi, or T'ai Chi Ch'uan, is also called "moving meditation." It's considered a gentle form of exercise and a way to relax your body and reduce stress. While it's a Chinese practice that dates back to the 13th century or earlier, it's become very common in the U.S. in the last decade.
Tai Chi hasn't been clinically studied for people with fibromyalgia (FMS) or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ME/CFS), but it's widely recommended for people with those conditions or other disorders that limit movement or energy.
Tai Chi is a no-impact form of exercise. It contains no strenuous movements, no jumps, no running and no aerobics. Instead, you move your body fluidly through a sequence of deliberate movements that sometimes are described as physical poetry.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), chi means life energy. TCM teaches that chi moves through your body, keeping you vital and healthy. Problems with the flow of chi are linked to disease, and TCM practitioners believe that restoring its proper flow will bring about good health. Acupuncture and Tai Chi are both believed to promote the circulation of chi.
For people with FMS and ME/CFS, Tai Chi can be a way to get your body moving, increase your energy, and promote flexibility and strength. Even though it is gentle exercise, remember to start slowly and lengthen your workouts gradually or add a second short session to your day. Instructors say that everyone can do Tai Chi, in spite of movement limitations, because there's no "right way" to do it.
Much of Tai Chi keeps your feet rooted firmly on the ground, which is especially good for people who may have balance problems associated with FMS or ME/CFS. When you're getting started, avoid movements that could make your body unstable and in risk of falling. Be sure to check with your doctor about any other things you may need to take into consideration when starting Tai Chi.
Tai Chi classes are quite common across the country. To find one, check with your local YMCA - YWCA, fitness centers, rehab facilities and hospitals. Working with an instructor or personal trainer can help you learn the forms properly and get the most benefit from them.
Learn More About Tai Chi
- Tai Chi Basics and Tai Chi Forms from About.com Holistic Healing Guide Phylameana Lila Desy
- Tai Chi for Fibromyalgia, from Lynne Matallana (President, National Fibromyalgia Association)
