ADHD Support Beyond Medication
How Tai Chi Improves Focus and Reduces Symptoms
ADHD can’t be cured, but it can be helped, and there are so many more ways to reduce symptoms of ADHD than just medication. If you’ve read any of my other blogs, this is the third time I’m going to bring up exercise and probably not the last. From what I’ve read and experienced, balanced related exercise does a lot to wake up the brain; to connect the wiring or basically wake it up. Vigorous exercise, such as cardio, is said to give a 30-40 minute stimulant-like effect with attention span/focus.
This blog is going to be about Tai Chi. Since I don’t know much about Tai Chi, I’m going to ask someone who does. That someone is R.J. Trusty. This is a guy whom I’m proud to have called a friend for well over 30 years. We went to the same high school and were in the same classes. He’s been heavily involved in the martial arts for as long as I’ve known him, and I’ve seen the order, calm, and joy it has brought into his life. Perhaps more importantly, I’ve heard from his students and his fellow instructors about his passion, competence, and how it has helped their lives.
So, I had some questions for him about where his martial arts focus is these days and how it can help people with ADHD.
513ADHD: What is Tai Chi?
R. J. Trusty: Tai Chi is a gentle martial art that emphasizes health benefits over self-defense or combat techniques.
513ADHD: How is Tai Chi different than other forms of martial arts?
R. J. Trusty: Tai Chi is now best known for its positive effects on health, with most people practicing it for these reasons. The benefits include better balance, greater strength, improved cardiovascular health like lower blood pressure, and relief from joint pain. From my own experience, I have enjoyed all these advantages through regular practice.
513ADHD: How can Tai Chi help people with ADHD?
R. J. Trusty: Studies have been done on both children and adults with ADHD. In conclusion, Tai Chi is a wonderful adjunct therapy for treating ADHD and helps in areas such as improved ability to regulate hyperactive, impulsive, and inattentive behavior, as well as improved motor skills. These studies were based on 2 classes that are 60 minutes long. However, Tai Chi can start showing improvements in the first 90 days with 1 class a week, 40 to 50 minutes long.
513ADHD: Has Tai Chi helped you?
R. J. Trusty: If so, how? Yes. My Tai Chi journey was twofold. I had already done so much damage to my body that I knew I needed something to help me heal my body, so I would be able to teach into my 90s. The other was to finish the last half of my martial arts career, teaching the wonderful benefits of Tai Chi. I did not expect my ADHD symptoms to be affected; I have been able to experience all the same benefits as the studies have shown. Currently, I take no prescribed medication for any ongoing health issue. I believe this is from my Tai Chi practice over the years.
513ADHD: Have you seen Tai Chi help other people?
R. J. Trusty: I have seen many benefits from improved movement to an overall happier and healthier mindset. The one that sticks out the most is a student who struggled with the moves but still saw benefits. Their doctor asked what they were doing as their numbers had improved greatly. They said Tai Chi, and the doctor told them to keep doing it!
513ADHD: What’s the best way to get started with Tai Chi?
R. J. Trusty: Find a class that works for your schedule, even if it happens or needs to be a private lesson. I personally start all my students with an entry-level form created to help with Arthritis; the movements are small and easy. I offer both classes as well as private lessons in the privacy of your own home if needed. To find a class that fits for you or you just want to set up a lesson for yourself or even your business, you can view my current classes at www.spiralingwillow.com or call 513-518-2381 to learn more.