A new analysis of 690 stroke survivors suggests that traditional Chinese exercises, such as Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and Liuzijue, may improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety and depression. These mind-body practices involve slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing, which may help calm the mind and body.
The analysis combined results from multiple studies, comparing people who did these exercises with those who received usual care or other active treatments. Overall, sleep quality scores improved significantly more in the exercise groups. Anxiety and depression symptoms also decreased more with the exercises.
When compared directly to other active treatments, the exercises still showed a benefit for sleep. The improvements were consistent, though the strength of the evidence was moderate for sleep and low for anxiety and depression, meaning more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these effects.
No serious safety concerns were reported in the included studies, but the analysis did not detail side effects. For stroke survivors, adding gentle exercises like Tai Chi to rehabilitation might be a helpful way to support better sleep and emotional well-being. However, anyone considering these exercises should talk to their healthcare team first.
