Research

Core groundwork

Prior to coming to the U.S., Yang was healed from a serious childhood heart condition through t’ai chi (taiji) practice. He learned from legendary t’ai chi and qigong masters and earned a martial art championship in China. His interest in the health benefits of this ancient art led him to earn a doctorate in kinesiology at the University of Illinois. This combination of deep traditional instruction and advanced scientific training establishes a unique and deep foundation for Dr. Yang and his team’s research.

Knowledge of the benefits of ancient Eastern practices has increased exponentially over the past twenty years. No longer simply testimonial, benefits have now been documented scientifically in the areas of pain relief, anxiety, sleep, immune function, balance and fall prevention, and cognition. We believe that stronger findings yet will be shown as investigators strive to refine their research by deepening their knowledge of traditional practices. 

Back pain study

Dr. Yang and colleagues conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects of an integrated t’ai chi, qigong, and meditation program for adults with back pain, specifically on pain related disability, pain intensity, sleep, and quality of life. 

Watch a recorded sample class from this research program HERE

Previous research by Dr. Yang’s team

Additional investigations into t’ai Chi and qigong conducted over nearly 20 years have documented improvements in a variety of health areas. These range from functional balance, strength, sleep, cognition, and mood to immune function. READ MORE