Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Hypertension is high blood pressure which can be caused either by too much fluid in the blood vessels or by narrowing of the blood vessels. It can lead to kidney disease, heart disease or stroke. Although prevalence increases with age, a US National Institutes of Health study in 2003 found that hostility and impatience also increase the risk of hypertension.
It is apparent that Tai Chi has certain effects of regulating high blood pressure, as well as strengthening the immune system and reinforcing the respiratory system. A 2003 Taiwanese study found that under well-designed conditions, Tai Chi exercise training could decrease blood pressure and results in favourable lipid profile changes and improve subjects anxiety status. Therefore, Tai Chi could be used as an alternate treatment for mild hypertension, with a promising economic effect.