A sharper mind: tai chi can improve cognitive function

Until roughly two decades ago, scientists believed the brain produced new cells only early in life. Research has since shown that the brain keeps changing across the entire life span - growing new cells, forming new connections, and even increasing in size. These changes can improve cognitive function, and various forms of exercise, tai chi among them, can help.

A meta-analysis of 20 studies on tai chi and cognition found that the practice appears to improve executive function - the ability to multitask, manage time, and make decisions - in people with no cognitive decline. Among those with mild cognitive impairment, tai chi slowed the progression to dementia more than other forms of exercise, while improving cognitive function about as much as other exercise or cognitive training did.

In one study, researchers assigned nearly 400 Chinese men and women with some cognitive impairment to either tai chi or a stretching-and-toning program, three times a week. After a year, the tai chi group improved more, and only 2% of its members progressed to dementia, compared with 11% of the traditional-exercise group.

Another study found tai chi outperformed walking. After 40 weeks of tai chi, walking, social interaction, or no intervention, MRI comparisons showed the greatest increase in brain volume in the tai chi group - and that group also scored better on cognitive tests.