Fitness Australia Accredited Program (15 CECs) 
[Also known as the Tai Chi for Healthy Body Healthy Mind Program]

Exercise Medicine Australia National and International Accreditation Program 
(17 CPDs for Continuing Education and Professional Development for Health Professionals)

Mental health disorder and dementia have been identified as national and international health priorities. Statistics show that one in five Australians aged between 16 and 85 years experienced one or more of common mental disorders such as depression or anxiety in the past 12 months, and about 45% of the adult population experienced a mental disorder in their lifetime. Globally, depression is estimated to be the number one cause of disability in both developed and developing countries by 2030, according to the World Health Organization. 

As the ageing population expands rapidly, dementia is emerging as one of the fastest growing sources of major disease burden and the leading cause of disability in the elderly population.

A recent systematic review (Wang et al, 2014) of 17 randomised control trials has concluded that Tai Chi is effective in improving mental health and wellbeing, and reducing stress, anxiety and depression. 11 out of the 17 randomized control trials were based on Yang Style Tai Chi, which is the style used for the Tai Chi for Mental Health and Cognitive Improvement Program.

There is also growing evidence that Tai Chi is effective in reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, and contributes to cognitive improvement. A recent systematic review (Wayne et al 2014) of 11 randomized control trials concluded that Tai Chi significantly improved executive function and global cognitive function. Seven out of the 11 randomized control trials were based on Yang Style Tai Chi,  which is the style the Tai Chi for Mental Health and Cognitive Improvement Program is based on.

Based on the compelling research evidence and guided by exercise prescription principles and safety guidelines, the Tai Chi for Mental Health and Cognitive Improvement Program [also known as the Tai Chi for Healthy Body Healthy Mind Program] is designed to achieve mental and physical relaxation; reduce stress, anxiety and depression; facilitate motor skills and motor sequence learning and executive control through specially designed motor task training techniques; prevent cognitive decline and dementia; reduce disability and behavioural and psychological symptoms; and improve balance and postural stability, functional abilitIes and quality of life.The program contains both standing and chair-based modules designed for clients or patients with all levels of balance and mobility.

This is a practical training course involving step-by-step teaching and practice of the program. There is a theoretical component focusing on research evidence underpinning the targeted Tai Chi intervention program for mental health and cognitive improvement.

This course is suitable for health and exercise professionals involved in mental health improvement and dementia prevention and care. The course is also open to physical activity leaders, community health workers, carers, Tai Chi and Qigong instructors, volunteers and the general public. 

Click here for the course schedule

Click here for the course location, date and cost and to register

Click here for evidence on Tai Chi for Mental Health

Click here for evidence on Tai Chi for cognitive improvement and dementia prevention