Qi can be translated to 'life energy'

Qi is the active energetic principle that forms part of every living thing. Though it has no literal translation in English, it is often referred to as “energy flow” or “life force” or “life energy”. Qi regulates a person’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual balance and well-being.

Life energy is also sensed in nature

Qi exists in the universe and on earth, as well as in all living creatures. All of these things are moving, changing, transforming, breathing and alive with qi. If we look at the entire universe, qi is contained in stars and planets, the vast mountains and scenic rivers, as well as in the world of plants and animals. The respective level of qi reflects the type of life force and strength of any object or being.

Humans should be abundant with qi

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body is seen as having various channels or “meridians” through which qi circulates, providing wellness and vitality to all the body’s various muscles, organs, nerves, and other biological systems. When qi is abundant and flowing freely we are healthy and feel good.

When the free and uninterrupted flow of qi is somehow obstructed, disrupted, or imbalanced, however, it can lead to symptoms of illness and disease.

Rivers and streams - AN ANALOGY FOR MERIDIANS

Think of qi, as water, and meridians as the river it flows through. That river supports all types of life, and as long as it’s flowing smoothly and freely, that life will flourish. But if the river dams up, then the river bed will dry up and all the life it supports will start to die. If, on the other hand, the rains come and flood the river, then it may overflow, upsetting the ecosystem supporting that life. In either case, the only way to restore the healthy ecology of that river is to bring its flow of water back into balance. This is essentially how qi and the 12 meridians operate.

All illness and disease can be understood, and therefore remedied or alleviated through working at the level of qi. Plainly put, an imbalance in one’s qi can lead to an imbalance in one’s well-being and this includes fertility issues.

QIGONG IS LIKE THE SELF-CARE VERSION OF ACUPUNCTURE. BOTH CAN CORRECT IMBALANCES.

• With acupuncture, needles are inserted into the rivers and streams (meridians) to correct the imbalances.

• Qigong is the self-care version and uses mindful movement and breath.

• Carefully designed movements are used instead of needles to keep the rivers flowing freely.

• Through qigong the whole is encouraged to work optimally.