Do you have trouble getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep? Are you drowsy during the day? Do you often lack the ability to concentrate? There must be lots of us, because there sure are a lot of T.V. commercials trying to sell prescription sleep aids!
Many people receive sleeping pills from their doctors when they complain of sleep problems, but these drugs can be habit-forming if used regularly, and can cause daytime drowsiness and confusion that leads to accidents and falls, just like lack of sleep!
Vigorous exercise helps most people sleep better, but not everyone can exercise that way. Even though I walk regularly, I find it’s the vigorous yard work or swimming that helps me fall asleep and stay asleep. But there is another alternative.
UCLA researchers studied effects of tai chi chih, a westernized version of tai chi chuan minus the martial art moves, on older adults with moderate sleep complaints. Tai chi chih consists of 19 movements and one pose.
In the study, 112 adults, aged 59 to 86 were assigned to either a tai chi group or health education classes on stress management, diet and healthy sleep habits.
The tai chi group showed improvement in self-rated sleep quality, reduced drowsiness and better concentration. Other studies have shown a boost in immunity, lowered blood pressure and relief from tension headaches.
This is gentle exercise, accessible to everyone. You can learn it from a teacher or from DVDs. For more information, to find a teacher, or to purchase DVDs go to www.taichichih.org
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Sleep quality can wane as we age. And lack of sleep affects the quality of our lives and can be dangerous---especially when driving. Make every effort to practice good sleep habits and look for alternatives like tai chi or other regular exercise before resorting to addictive sleeping pills.
QUICK TIP: Tai chi has also been shown to boost immunity in senoirs. Learn More
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