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News & Updates - Tai chi Integrates Mind and Body at CHOICES Network Midtown Clinic

Every Wednesday morning at CHOICES Midtown Clinic in Phoenix, Edwin Egipiaco, a TERROS Co-occurring Specialist, leads a group in the ancient Chinese practice of Tai chi. It is a graceful form of exercise with slow and continuous movements that has been described as body-mind meditation.  The group is usually held in the peacefully setting of a nearby park. Tai chi is practiced daily by millions of Chinese and its popularity is growing in the US. The Mayo Clinic reports preliminary scientific evidence of its health benefits include:
• Reducing stress.
• Reducing anxiety and depression.
• Improving sleep quality.
• Lowering blood pressure.
• Relieving chronic pain.
• Increasing energy, endurance and agility.
Edwin has been an enthusiastic practitioner of Tai chi for eight years. He learned the art from a master in Puerto Rico. He says the combined mind and body approach of Tai chi is used at Midtown Clinic as an adjunct to other therapies. Participants report they feel more energetic and positive about themselves after a session. They like the physical exercise which isn’t overly demanding but gives a good work out; and, they like the calm feeling they have after the session.