Can tai chi raise milk yields?

Rob Taverner performs tai chi in front of his cows every morning because he believes it relaxes them and they produce more milk(Photo: news.cn) Photo Gallery>>>

Rob Taverner performs tai chi in front of his cows every morning because he believes it relaxes them and they produce more milk (Photo: news.cn) Photo Gallery>>>

Without question, China's tai chi -- an ancient martial art -- can bring numerous benefits to human health. But in past six months, a British dairy farmer discovered an unusual way to use tai chi to relax his herd and increase milk yields, U.K. media reported this week.

Rob Taverner, in his distinctive overalls and wellies, performs the ancient martial art in front of his 100 cows every morning to get them in the right mood to produce lots of milk.

The 44-year-old organic farmer said: "Tai chi is all about leaving your problems behind and getting into a better zone and my mood definitely transfers to the cows."

He added: "Like all animals, they are very receptive to human emotions and can sense feelings such as relaxation, calmness and happiness."

Taverner, who runs the farm near Exeter, Devon, said: "As any good dairy farmer will tell you, a happy cow is a productive cow."

Tai chi is a Chinese martial art involving a series of slow, controlled movements which can help developing strength, balance, posture and a feeling of calm.