Try Tai Chi

In a pilot study in Taiwan, adults who completed a 12-week tai chi program showed significant decreases in both systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure. Some participants showed improvements in their “bad” LDL cholesterol and their “good” HDL cholesterol. Researchers point out that tai chi’s low-tech aspect—no equipment required, just the mind and body—makes it easy to practice and potentially beneficial to many participants. To find a class near you, visit the American Tai Chi Association at www.americantaichi.org.