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Ancient Chinese practice lowers blood pressure, just like drugs

2026-02-20 07:54:00, Shëndeti CNA

Ancient Chinese practice lowers blood pressure, just like drugs

An ancient Chinese practice that combines slow movements, deep breathing and mental focus can lower blood pressure comparable to medication and brisk walking, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

It's about Baduanjin, a traditional form of Qigong, practiced in China for more than 800 years. The practice consists of eight structured movements that last about 10 to 15 minutes and require no special equipment or preparation.

One-year study

The study involved 216 people over 40 with high blood pressure. The participants were divided into three groups: one group practiced Baduanji twice a day for 15 minutes, at least five days a week; the second group walked briskly for 30 minutes a day; and the third group performed physical activities of their choice, aiming for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.

After a year of monitoring, the researchers found that Baduanjin lowered average 24-hour systolic blood pressure by about 3 points and clinic-measured blood pressure by about 5 points. The results were comparable to those of the walking group and to the effects of some first-line hypertension drugs.

Director of preventive medicine at the National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases in Beijing, Jing Li, said that because of its simplicity and safety, Baduanjin could serve as an effective and affordable lifestyle intervention for people looking to lower their blood pressure.

Yale University cardiologist and journal editor Harlan Krumholz, who was not involved in the study, also noted that the effect size was similar to that seen in clinical drug trials, but achieved without the drugs, cost, or side effects.

Researchers estimate that the practice, similar to Tai Chi movements, could be a simple and accessible alternative for long-term blood pressure control, especially for people who prefer natural methods./ CNA





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