TITLE:
Tai Chi and Its Impact on Immune Mechanisms: A Comprehensive Review
AUTHORS:
Yiping Zhou Thelander, Huijun Z. Ring
KEYWORDS:
Tai Chi, Immune Regulation, Fascia, HPA Axis, Epigenetic Modulation, Inflammation, Integrative Medicine, Aging
JOURNAL NAME:
Health,
Vol.17 No.5,
May
22,
2025
ABSTRACT: Tai Chi, a mind-body exercise that combines slow, deliberate movements with meditation, is widely practiced to promote health. Studies indicate that the active stretching inherent in Tai Chi can, through mechanical transmission via the fascia network, modulate immune cell activity by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) and enhancing the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-10, TGF-β). Additionally, Tai Chi may optimize immune balance by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and influencing epigenetic pathways, alleviating chronic inflammatory conditions. Future research should explore its long-term immunological effects and potential applications in precision medicine, ultimately informing its integration into preventive and integrative healthcare strategies [1].