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Physiologic correlates of t'ai chi chuan
Blase Iuliano1, Dennis Grahn, Vinh Cao
1Motion & Gait Analysis Laboratory, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.)
|January 13, 2011
Summary
T'ai chi chuan practice may volitionally activate thermoregulatory mechanisms, increasing blood flow and skin temperature in the hands and face. This suggests a potential relaxation response linked to internal energy manipulation.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Background:
- T'ai chi chuan (TCX) is a popular moderate-intensity exercise with emerging health benefits.
- The underlying physiological mechanisms of TCX, particularly the concept of 'qi' or internal energy, are not well-understood.
Observation:
- This case study investigated physiological responses during basic TCX exercises.
- Measurements included infrared thermography, temperature, and laser Doppler flowmetry.
Findings:
- TCX practice led to significant increases in palmar and facial surface temperatures.
- Blood flow in fingertips doubled, paralleling temperature changes during focus periods.
- Temperature and blood flow decreased during a 'withdraw' period, suggesting volitional control.
Implications:
- TCX may involve volitional activation of vasomotor mechanisms typically associated with autonomic thermoregulation.
- These findings suggest that TCX practice could represent a relaxation response.
- Further research is needed to understand the physiological basis of 'qi' and its impact on health.
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