BMJ

Tai chi may rival CBT-I for long-term insomnia relief

December 4, 2025

A Hong Kong randomized non-inferiority trial of 200 adults aged ≥50 with chronic insomnia found that tai chi was less effective than cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) after a 3-month intervention but achieved non-inferior results at 12-month follow-up. Both interventions improved sleep quality, mental health, and quality of life, with no adverse events reported. Tai chi’s accessibility and low cost make it a promising option for patients who cannot access CBT-I.

Clinical takeaway: Tai chi may be a safe, accessible alternative for long-term insomnia management in middle-aged and older adults when CBT-I is unavailable.

Source:

Siu PM, et al. (2025, November 26). BMJ. Tai chi or cognitive behavioural therapy for treating insomnia in middle aged and older adults: randomised non-inferiority trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41297969/