People of all ages can benefit from the stress-relieving and mood-enhancing effects of martial arts like taekwondo, tai chi, and qigong. Research published in the journal Advances in Physical Education indicated that college students who practiced tai chi for 16 weeks, once a week for 90 minutes, were better able to control their anxiety and stress levels and get a better night’s sleep. Tai chi is a traditional Chinese martial art that emphasizes slow, gentle movements and deep breathing.