For many of us, the thought of losing our memory is more frightening than losing our balance. Forgetting names, repeating stories, or struggling to follow a conversation can chip away at confidence and independence.
But here’s the hopeful news: a new study suggests that tai chi—yes, the gentle, flowing movement you’ve probably seen practiced in parks—may actually help protect your memory and sharpen your mind.
The Science of “Medicine in Motion”
Researchers followed adults over 65 who had mild memory concerns. Some practiced standard tai chi, while another group combined tai chi with mental challenges like recall and sequencing. A third group just did stretching.
The results?
Enhanced Tai Chi group: showed the biggest jump in memory and thinking skills
Standard Tai Chi group: still had meaningful improvements
Stretching group: no change
Even better, the benefits lasted nearly a year. In other words, tai chi isn’t just movement for your body—it’s a workout for your brain.
Why It Works
Tai chi blends three powerful elements:
Gentle exercise that supports balance, flexibility, and circulation
Mind-body connection that calms stress and improves focus
Cognitive challenge from learning and remembering sequences
That’s why researchers call it “medicine in motion.” It’s physical therapy, meditation, and brain training rolled into one.
How to Get Started
The best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or long workouts. Just a few minutes a day can help protect your independence and give your brain the stimulation it craves.
That’s exactly why I created my book, Tai Chi & Qigong – Balancing Exercises for Seniors: Regain Strength and Balance, Reduce Your Risk of Falls, Decrease Pain and Stress, & Improve Cognitive Health!
Inside, you’ll find:
Easy-to-follow, illustrated movements designed for older adults
Chair modifications for every posture
Short daily flows that build balance and memory
Routines that fit your energy level and lifestyle
Hey Alison! This really caught my attention. I’ve noticed how easy it is to take memory for granted until little slips start happening, and it can be frustrating. I love the idea that something as gentle as tai chi could help both body and mind. It makes sense too, moving with focus always leaves me feeling clearer. Definitely something I could see myself trying.
This is such interesting timing on my part. It had been recommended to me to investigate the benefits of this activity. I had no idea it may help in the area of memory loss. Thank you for always providing valuable information!
Hi Alison,
Some posts seem to come in at the opportune moment. I had done Tai Chi in my younger days. Things being what they are, I stopped but had always that thought in the back of my head that said that “I shouldn’t have stopped, this is good for my body and my mind”.
Thanks for the reminder!