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Laguna Hills Today
By the People, for the People
Traditional Chinese Practice Baduanjin Lowers Blood Pressure
Large clinical trial finds ancient mind-body routine as effective as some medications
Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:33am
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An X-ray view of the cardiovascular system reveals the physiological mechanisms behind baduanjin's blood pressure-lowering effects.Laguna Hills TodayA traditional Chinese mind-body practice known as baduanjin effectively lowered blood pressure in people with hypertension, according to a large randomized clinical trial published in February 2026. The findings suggest baduanjin may offer a scalable lifestyle intervention for managing cardiovascular health.
Why it matters
High blood pressure remains one of the leading preventable risk factors for heart disease. While clinical guidelines recommend regular physical activity, maintaining long-term adherence to exercise programs can be challenging. Baduanjin, a low-impact wellness practice originating in China, may provide an accessible alternative that can be easily incorporated into daily routines.
The details
Researchers followed 216 participants across seven communities to determine changes in 24-hour systolic blood pressure from baseline to 12 and 52 weeks. Practicing baduanjin five days a week led to a reduction in systolic blood pressure at a three-month follow-up that was sustained for one year. The results are comparable to some first-line hypertension medications and similar, if not superior, to brisk walking.
- The study was published in February 2026.
- Participants were followed for 12 and 52 weeks.
The players
Jing Li, MD, PhD
The senior author of the study and the Director of the Department of Preventive Medicine at the National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases in Beijing, China.
Cheng-Han Chen, MD
A board certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California.
What they’re saying
“Given its simplicity, safety and ease at which one can maintain long-term adherence, baduanjin can be implemented as an effective, accessible and scalable lifestyle intervention for individuals trying to reduce their blood pressure.”
— Jing Li, MD, PhD, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases
“I advise all of my patients, and especially those with high blood pressure, to avoid stress as much as possible. Mind-body practices such as yoga and meditation can be very useful in helping patients to control their stress.”
— Cheng-Han Chen, MD, MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center
What’s next
Larger studies on the long-term effects of baduanjin and other mind-body practices on blood pressure management are still needed to confirm the findings.
The takeaway
As an accessible, low-impact routine that can be easily incorporated into daily life, baduanjin offers a promising complementary approach to managing hypertension and improving overall cardiovascular health.
