Qigong practice linked to decreased blood pressure

Source: Journal of Hypertension

A recent randomized controlled trial tested the use of qigong in the treatment of pre- and mild hypertension. Forty participants with either pre- or mild hypertension were assigned to one of two groups: one group that conducted qigong exercises five times a week for eight weeks, and another group that maintained their current lifestyle.

The results showed that participants who received the qigong treatment experienced a “significant” decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after four weeks.

The authors concluded that qigong is safe and has a “positive effect on blood pressure and health status” in patients with pre- and mild hypertension.