Researchers These Tai Chi exercises work against sleep problems

Tai Chi relieves treatment-related sleep disorders in breast cancer
American scientists have shown in a study that Tai Chi can relieve therapy-related sleep disorders in breast cancer patients as well as cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Tai Chi is also a good way for older people to keep their body and mind fit. (Image: Paul Hakimata / fotolia.com)

Sleep disorders as a result of chemo in breast cancer should, according to guidelines u.a. be treated with a cognitive behavioral therapy. Now the researchers have investigated whether a simplified Tai Chi variant can help with sleep disorders. The used form "Tai chi chih" consists of 20 simple movements that are relatively easy to learn.

Ninety breast cancer patients who complained of sleep disorders after therapy were randomized into two groups. One group participated in cognitive behavioral therapy with once-weekly sessions over three months. Patients in the other group participated in a "Tai chi chih" course. At the end of one year groups were re-examined.

The sleep quality as well as the concomitant symptoms had improved in both groups. In the "Tai Chi chih" group, 46.7% of women slept better compared to 43.7% of women in the other group. The study can be found here. (Association of German Naturopaths)