Tai Chi for Seasonal Arthritis

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21 Jun

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Tai Chi for Seasonal Arthritis

Although arthritis can certainly flare up frequently in the wintertime and in cold climates, studies suggest that spring is the worst time of year for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The greater humidity that comes with spring rain, rising temperatures, and changes in atmospheric pressure may be responsible for this. It’s smart to be proactive about counteracting RA symptoms, and Tai Chi exercises are a great way to do this. Here’s what you need to know about Tai Chi for arthritis this spring.
Benefits of Tai Chi for RA and Fall Prevention. Tai Chi exercises can reduce falls by almost 70%, and are now recommended by the CDC for this purpose. They can also significantly lessen RA symptoms, especially in the ankles. Other benefits include improved relaxation, energy, and posture, as well as a stronger immune system. Here’s how you can make spring a time of renewal, not pain, with Tai Chi exercises.
Tai Chi Exercises for Arthritis and Fall Prevention.
Ideally, you should always learn Tai Chi under the supervision of a board-certified instructor, who can lead Tai Chi arthritis movements in the following manner:
  • Adopting a high stance to make movements easier for older adults and those with RA
  • Warm-up and cool-down stretches and exercises
  • 1-2 movements per session
  • Breathing techniques
  • Gentle, pain-free movements that don’t stress the joints and that enhance balance, strength, flexibility, and stamina
You can get started by finding a Tai Chi class near you. In addition to taking classes, it’s helpful to practice lessons at home for about half an hour each day. The more you practice, the better your results will be, and the sooner you can get outside to enjoy the end of winter!
The Tai Chi Foundation (TCF) is a not-for-profit educational organization that promotes, funds, and teaches programs that enable people to learn Tai Chi Chuan and embody its principles.
The Tai Chi Foundation’s mission is to improve health, well-being, and awareness through the study, practice, and teaching of Tai Chi and Qigong by an increasing number of people worldwide. Check out our course offerings for self-healing and balance. Sign up for our newsletter for updates on upcoming classes and events.
There are more than 200 TCF-affiliated instructors teaching Tai Chi classes in 30 cities around the world. Find a class in your area, become a member, and support TCF in making the world a healthier and more mindful place today.
Presented by the TCF External Affairs Committee
© Tai Chi Foundation 2022

Comments ( 2 )

  • GILES SLADE / 19 May 2025

    I live in Oaxaca de Juarez in the winter. I am Canadian but have rheumatoid arthritis and find my joints become too painful to easy navigate the brutal Canadian winters.

    I can’t exercise in most of the familiar ways (running etc) but would like to maintain my mobility and lose some weight for overall health.

    I’ve heard that Tai Chi is useful to forestall the ongoing destruction of Arthritis. I’d like to find classes near me in Barrio Centro.

    Thank you

    Giles Slade
    +1 236 308 5745

    Reply

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