Among collegiate Taekwondo athletes (N = 105), mindfulness is linked to higher pre-event self-efficacy by reducing cognitive anxiety. This pathway was especially strong for injured athletes, for whom mindfulness had a greater effect on lowering cognitive anxiety. Injury status did not alter the overall indirect pathway, but it did moderate the direct link between mindfulness and cognitive anxiety. The findings suggest that mindfulness can help combat sports athletes, particularly those injured, feel more confident before competition by easing anxious thoughts.
Tai Chi has become a widely used mind-body practice in complementary therapy, rehabilitation, and public health. An analysis of 2253 publications from 1978 to 2025 shows steady growth, concentrated in the past decade. China leads in publication output, while the United States has the highest number of citations, forming a dual-core pattern. The field is driven by a small group of authors and regional clusters, with limited visibility in mainstream medical journals. Five research themes emerged: motor function (balance and fall prevention), musculoskeletal conditions, chronic disease management, psychological health, and cognitive aging. Future progress requires greater methodological rigor, mechanistic inquiry, long-term studies, and stronger international collaboration.