One study found that participants in a 3-month Tai Chi intervention had lower scores on five depressive symptoms measures even when the the study adjusted for age, gender and education.1
Another study found that 66 participants reported less tension, anger, fatigue, confusion, anxiety and general depression as well as felt more vigorous and less moody after practicing Tai Chi.2
Additionally, Tai Chi has been shown to physiologically improve participants' health. One study found that after 12 months of practicing Tai Chi, participating seniors increased muscle strength and flexibility.3 Even without the moving meditation component, the physical fitness aspect of Tai Chi can beneficially effect depressed individuals as simply a form of exercise.
Read more on Depression and Exercise
More funding for the research of Tai Chi as an effective treatment to depression is needed, but clearly warranted.
