As people live longer, concerns about memory loss and cognitive decline are becoming more common. While there is still no cure for Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias, researchers are increasingly interested in everyday practices that may help support brain health as we age.
A major scientific review published in Brain Sciences in 2025 examined whether spiritual and mind–body practices—including Tai Chi, Qigong, and yoga—are linked to better cognitive health in adults. Rather than focusing on belief systems, the researchers analyzed measurable outcomes such as memory, attention, stress, sleep, inflammation, and brain-related biological markers.
The findings are cautious but encouraging.
What the Research Looked At
The review analyzed 34 studies from around the world, many of them randomized controlled trials. Tai Chi, Qigong, and yoga were treated as integrated mind–body practices, combining movement, breath regulation, focused attention, and meaning-making.
Across the strongest studies, about 73% of randomized trials found better cognitive outcomes among participants who regularly engaged in spiritual or mind–body practices. These practices are not cures, but they appear to support brain health through several well-established pathways.
How These Practices May Support the Brain
Reduced stress and emotional strain: Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression are risk factors for cognitive decline. Many Tai Chi, Qigong, and yoga studies showed reductions in perceived stress and depressive symptoms.
Positive emotional states and meaning: A sense of meaning and purpose is associated with slower cognitive decline. Mind–body practices often cultivate calmness, emotional balance, and reflective awareness.
Gentle physical activity: Regular movement supports cardiovascular health and blood flow to the brain. These practices are low-impact and accessible, supporting long-term participation.
Improved sleep: Several studies linked mind–body practices with better sleep quality, which is essential for memory and brain repair.
Biological effects: Some studies found reduced inflammation, better immune regulation, and early evidence of healthier brain connectivity, all relevant to brain aging.
What This Means for Practice
Current research does not suggest that Tai Chi, Qigong, or yoga prevent or cure dementia. What it does suggest is that regular, realistic practice may support conditions known to protect brain health.
Consistency appears to matter more than intensity. Practices that combine movement with focused attention and breath regulation may help regulate stress and support cognitive engagement. Group practice may offer added benefit through social connection, and gentle or adapted forms remain meaningful for brain health.
How Yoga Teachers Can Integrate Tai Chi to Support Brain Health
Research suggests that mind–body practices support brain health through stress regulation, gentle movement, focused attention, and sustained participation. Tai Chi aligns closely with yoga in these areas and can complement existing teaching approaches.
For yoga teachers, integrating Tai Chi—such as slow, continuous standing movements, weight shifting, upright posture, and sustained mental focus—can address brain-health–related needs that are not always emphasized in mat-based practice. These elements are especially relevant for aging students, students with balance concerns, or those seeking cognitive resilience rather than physical intensity.
From a brain-health perspective, Tai Chi–inspired movement may help by:
- Adding upright, weight-shifting movement that complements mat-based postures and engages balance, coordination, and attention
- Extending mindful movement into continuous standing flow, reinforcing cognitive engagement beyond static poses
- Supporting gentle cardiovascular activity without high physical strain
- Reducing cognitive and emotional load through slower transitions
- Encouraging long-term participation, which is important for cognitive health
Even brief integrations—such as Tai Chi-style warm-ups or standing transitions with weight awareness—can align classes more closely with what current research suggests supports healthy brain aging.
The Bottom Line
Tai Chi, Qigong, and yoga are not medical treatments, but current research suggests they may support brain health by reducing stress, improving sleep, encouraging gentle movement, and supporting emotional and biological balance. As part of a broader approach to healthy aging, they offer a low-risk, accessible way to support cognitive resilience—grounded in evidence, not exaggeration.