Reducing Stress and Enhancing the General Well-Being of Teachers Using T’ai Chi Chih® Movements

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of T’ai Chi Chih® (TCC) discipline on the physical symptoms of stress and the general well-being of 35 teachers. Teachers completed 15 hours of instruction and practice in a two-day format with four additional weeks of practice. The 23 teachers who completed pre-posttests showed significant improvement of their general well-being and reduction in perceived stress symptoms. Qualitative data from the teachers supported these results. Within the limitations of the study design it was concluded that this relatively new, easy to learn method of T’ai Chi has potential to enhance well-being and reduce stress symptoms of teachers. Teachers and other educational professionals may want to learn more about T’ai Chi Chih® discipline for its stress reducing benefits and enhancement of general well-being.