Approximately 2% of the population suffers from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). However, some form of fatigue is experienced by 10% of the population or more. As expected, there are different severity levels. Symptoms can be prolonged and chronic, with tiredness so severe that some people need to use a wheelchair and some are even bed-bound. Some suffers also experience brain fog, memory disturbances, and sleep and digestive problems.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctors identify CFS as an energy imbalance in your body; a disease caused by a deficiency of Qi. They may prescribe herbs, acupuncture and/or alternative therapies such as Qigong and/or Tai Chi. These mind-body exercises can restore your energy, manage your symptoms, and alleviate your pain. They are also very effective for reducing stress, which helps with to improve both your sleep and your quality of life.
Qigong is taught in Chinese hospitals and all over the world. Many experts maintain that Qigong is the best exercise for CFS because it is slow, gentle, integrative, and is suitable for everyone, including the sick and elderly. Others feel that Tai Chi is best for CFS. Mindfulness and gentle movements have been shown to reduce fatigue and depression. If you chose one or both, be sure that movements are slow, even, continuous, and controlled and that you stay within your comfort zone and limits.
Research has been conducted on CFS over the years, but, unfortunately, the studies were not significantly large, and/or not definitive because of poor controls and documentation.
One study appearing in the British Medical Journal (February 2001) showed 84 percent of patients who added exercise to their usual CFS standard care, got "very much" or "much" better. Only 12 percent of patients receiving only standard care enjoyed the same benefit. CFS patients have limitations because of their pain which makes Tai Chi and Qigong's gentle motions and deep breathing (with its pain management benefits) an optimum exercise for them.
In 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013 studies, researchers found that Qigong improved sleep, vitality, mobility, mental functioning, and well-being. It also decreased pain, depression, and physical fatigue, and to a lesser amount, mental fatigue.
An April 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis reported in Research News determined that Tai Chi was found to improve fatigue and vitality more than conventional therapy, As well, it had a positive effect on cancer-related fatigue. The researchers determined that Tai Chi could be an effective alternative and/complementary therapy for those with fatigue.
If you have been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or are just feeling tired and worn down, Qigong or Tai Chi can help restore your energy, vitality, and quality of life!
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