This page provides information about Exercise, Yoga, Tai Chi, and Qigong. Each of these practices supports your body in a different way. To find the right fit for your unique needs, please consult with a member of your Osher integrative health team.
These resources are provided for educational purposes and as a supplement to your integrative health plan. Please discuss any questions or changes regarding your health, treatment plan, or medications with your healthcare provider.
Exercise & Physical Activity
Regular physical activity is an essential component of long-term health and functional vitality. Engaging in consistent movement helps strengthen the cardiovascular system, maintain joint mobility, and improve metabolic health, while also acting as a powerful tool for stress reduction and mood stability.
CDC - Steps for Getting Started With Physical Activity
American College of Sports Medicine - Exercise is Medicine: A series on today’s most common chronic conditions and their exercise prescriptions
CDC - Chronic Conditions & Disabilities Activity
NIH - Exercising with Chronic Conditions
Yoga
Yoga is a traditional practice originating from India that bridges mindful movement, breathwork, and focused attention to support the whole person. By combining physical postures with intentional breathing, it helps improve flexibility, build core strength, and enhance body awareness while actively calming the nervous system. This integrative approach makes it an excellent tool for reducing physical tension, managing stress, and fostering a deeper sense of mental clarity and emotional balance.
NIH - Yoga: Effectiveness and Safety
American Viniyoga Institute - YouTube Practice Videos
Yoga Well Institute - Free Weekly Live Community Breathing and Meditation
Tai Chi & Qigong
Tai Chi and Qigong are traditional mind-body practices originating from China that combine gentle, flowing movements with deep breathing and focused meditation. Often described as "moving meditation," these low-impact practices help improve balance, flexibility, and core strength while supporting cardiovascular health and joint mobility.
NIH - Tai Chi: What You Need To Know
NIH - Qigong: What You Need To Know
Tai Chi Foundation, Inc. - Free Tai Chi videos
Additional Resources
- Empowering Your Life with Yoga by Bliss Wood
- The Heart of Yoga by T.K.V. Desikachar
- Yoga for Wellness by Gary Kraftsow