T’ai Chi Chih replaces medication

Nellie B. Stahl, student of Barbara Riley

Almost a year ago, I was prescribed medication for leg swelling due to high blood pressure. I took the medication until the end of January and at that time the results were minimal.

I have gone to T’ai Chi Chih classes weekly for five years and practiced sporadically at home. On February 1, I decided to practice daily the full amount as recommended. At the end of February, the blood count had lowered and the medication strength was cut in half.

I continued with the daily practice and added a 10- to 15-minute walk, and after six weeks the blood pressure was slightly less than normal. The medication was cut to one dose every three or four days. T’ai Chi was prescribed on a continuing basis.