In a study involving 200 participants over the age of 50 with diagnosed chronic insomnia, participants engaged in either tai chi or CBT-I for three months. The sessions were held twice a week for one hour. After the program concluded and a year later, researchers assessed the participants' conditions, considering factors such as difficulties falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, early rising, and the overall impact of sleep disturbances on quality of life.
The results showed that CBT-I yielded quicker results initially; however, after 15 months, the differences in effectiveness between the groups nearly disappeared. The reduction in the severity of insomnia was comparable, and tai chi was rated as "no worse" than CBT-I on key indicators. Both practices contributed to improvements in sleep quality, emotional state, overall well-being, and physical activity, while not causing any side effects.
Researchers emphasize that tai chi could become an accessible, low-cost, and safe alternative to psychotherapy, especially in regions where access to specialists is limited.
