Tai chi, the traditional Chinese mind-body exercise, is as effective as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for treating chronic insomnia in older adults, a new study has found.
Published in the British Medical Journal, the research involved 200 Chinese adults aged over 50 who were randomly assigned to either tai chi or CBT, a goal-oriented talk therapy designed to help manage depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Participants completed 24 sessions over a three-month period.
Chronic insomnia is a common sleep disorder among middle-aged and older adults, and can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, mental health issues, and cognitive decline, the study notes.
After three months, CBT showed slightly better results in reducing insomnia severity. However, a year after the study, participants who practised tai chi achieved outcomes comparable to those who underwent CBT.
The study also found that tai chi and CBT had similar benefits for subjective sleep quality, mental health, physical activity, and overall quality of life. Researchers suggest that tai chi offers a practical, low-cost alternative for long-term management of insomnia, particularly for adults who may not have access to or prefer not to engage in traditional therapy.
“Our study supports tai chi as an alternative treatment approach for the long-term management of chronic insomnia in middle-aged and older adults,” the research team stated.
The authors noted that participants may have continued practising tai chi after the formal study period, potentially enhancing its benefits. They also highlighted the need for further research to assess whether tai chi could produce similar results in different populations, including younger adults and individuals in other countries.
Sleep experts say the findings could have important implications, especially as demand for non-pharmaceutical approaches to insomnia continues to grow. Tai chi, which combines gentle physical movement, meditation, and breathing exercises, is widely practiced in China and is gaining popularity globally. Its accessibility, minimal side effects, and focus on holistic wellness make it an appealing option for adults struggling with chronic sleep problems.
The research adds to growing evidence that mind-body exercises such as tai chi, yoga, and meditation can have measurable health benefits beyond flexibility and balance. By supporting both mental and physical well-being, these practices may serve as effective complements or alternatives to conventional therapies for chronic health conditions.
As insomnia continues to affect millions worldwide, tai chi offers a promising, low-risk approach for improving sleep and overall health, particularly for older adults who face higher risks of chronic sleep disturbances.
