A new study suggests that practicing Tai Chi can help breast cancer survivors improve their sleep, which in turn can reduce inflammation and strengthen their immune systems. The ancient Chinese martial arts practice involves slow and precise movements while focusing on deep breathing and the body.

Researchers recently reported in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity that this mind-body practice is just as effective, if not better, than cognitive behavioral therapy in helping breast cancer survivors cope with the aftermath of their disease.

Background notes from the researchers indicate that about 30% of breast cancer survivors experience insomnia, which is twice the rate of the general population.

A new study has found that Tai Chi can help improve sleep and boost the immune systems of breast cancer survivors by reducing inflammation. The ancient Chinese martial arts practice involves slow, precise movements and deep breathing, which can have benefits similar to cognitive behavioral therapy.

Researchers discovered that about 30% of breast cancer survivors experience insomnia, which is twice the rate of the general population. In the study, 90 Los Angeles breast cancer survivors participated in weekly Tai Chi or cognitive behavioral therapy sessions for three months. Both methods were effective in reducing insomnia among the participants.

Both Tai Chi and cognitive behavioral therapy helped reduce insomnia in participants. However, blood samples collected over 15 months showed that Tai Chi resulted in lasting decreases in inflammation, unlike cognitive behavioral therapy.

Tai Chi also boosted antiviral activity in the immune system, while cognitive behavioral therapy showed greater overall improvement.

Researchers believe these findings could lower the chances of breast cancer returning in survivors. Dr.Michael Irwin, the lead researcher at UCLA Health’s Mindful Awareness Research Center, emphasized the powerful effects of treating insomnia on the immune system.

Researchers argue that Tai Chi can effectively assist breast cancer survivors in maintaining their health, without putting a significant burden on the healthcare system.

In a news release from UCLA, Irwin mentioned that Tai Chi can easily be offered in community settings at a low cost and has the potential to help adults, older adults, and cancer survivors with insomnia.

Irwin also stated that further research is necessary to determine if combining these two therapies could offer even more relief for insomnia.

“According to Irwin, Tai Chi is better at reducing inflammation than cognitive behavioral therapy. On the other hand, cognitive behavioral therapy is better at improving resistance to infectious diseases. More studies are needed to explore the benefits of combining Tai Chi and cognitive behavioral therapy, especially for cancer survivors who are at risk for inflammatory disorders and infectious diseases.”