Tai chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, has long gained recognition for its many health benefits, including stress reduction, improved balance, increased flexibility, enhanced brain health, and more. Now, there may be yet another reason to adopt this art: recent research has drawn a fascinating correlation between tai chi practice and its potential anti-aging effects with regard to the body’s production of stem cells. Keep reading to learn more about this discipline and how its anti-aging exercises can benefit you.

CD34+ Cells and Aging

CD34+ cells are a specific type of anti-aging stem cell found in the bone marrow and peripheral (circulating) blood. These cells play a crucial role in maintaining and repairing various tissues in the body, including the skin, blood vessels, and immune system. As we age, the production and function of CD34+ cells tend to decline, leading to a gradual decline in the body’s regenerative capacity and an increased susceptibility to age-related diseases.

Tai Chi Boosts the Production of CD34+ Cells

Emerging studies have suggested a link between tai chi practice and the enhanced production of CD34+ cells, which can potentially help to counteract the aging process. One study found that Tai Chi intervention resulted in a significant increase in CD34+ cells in older adults who practiced it for over a year. This, along with other studies producing similar results, suggests that tai chi may have a positive impact on the body’s regenerative capacity and potentially slow down the aging process.

How It May Work

The exact process through which tai chi enhances CD34+ cell production is still being investigated. However, researchers have some plausible theories as to how this works:

• Preventing the release of harmful hormones. Some believe that tai chi’s anti-aging benefits are related to stress reduction. The slow, flowing movements of tai chi, combined with deep breathing and mindfulness, create a mind-body connection that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being. This is important because chronic stress (and the release of stress hormones like cortisol) can accelerate the aging process and impair the body’s regenerative capabilities.
• Improving circulation and tissue “nutrition.” Additionally, tai chi’s gentle and rhythmic movements help to increase blood flow, providing nourishment to the bone marrow and peripheral tissues. This enhanced blood circulation may contribute to the increased production and mobilization of CD34+ cells, aiding in tissue repair and rejuvenation.

Age Better With the Tai Chi Foundation

The Tai Chi Foundation (TCF) is a not-for-profit educational organization that promotes, funds, and teaches programs that enable people to learn tai chi chuan and embody its principles. Join us for a FREE Open House meeting to learn more about tai chi and qigong — and ways to get started with us!

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By Oliver Herzfeld

Tai Chi Foundation 2024

Photo by Pixabays