Tai chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion." There is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems.

And you can get started even if you aren't in top shape or the best of health.

Extensive research indicates that Tai Chi appears to be associated with improvements in psychological well-being including reduced stress, anxiety, depression and mood disturbance, and increased self-esteem.

Tai Chi and Qigong may also be able to improve sleep quality, with corresponding impact on mental health.

Researched over a long period of time, results show that Tai Chi strengthens the lower body, improves posture, promotes flexibility, increases a person’s awareness of where the body is in space and improves one’s ability to navigate obstacles while walking. Even if you do fall, tai chi, as a weight-bearing but low-stress exercise, can reduce your chances of breaking a bone and it can be an entry point for doing more vigorous physical activities like swimming and hiking, or biking and walking.

OK, so your aim might not be to become a Twister champion, but studies have shown tai chi improves balance. Tai chi combines the physical components needed to stay upright—leg strength, flexibility, range of motion, and reflexes—all of which tend to decline with age. The slow, deliberate footwork brings more awareness to the soles of the feet, and awareness to changes in the ankle angle and weight distribution.