Introduction to Qi: What is it?
What is Qi?
Qi (pronounced chee) is the “vital energy” or “vital life force” within every person. Qi is all manifestations of energy, whether that is material or immaterial. Because it is energy, it is neither created nor destroyed, and is in continuous flux and transformation.
When talking about Qi, the concept of “yin and yang“ are used to understand the manifestations. Yin is Qi that is cold, passive, solid, heavy, descending, moist and dark, the physical side. Yang is Qi that is immaterial, hot, active, dry, rising, and aggressive. In the context of Chinese Medicine, the flow of Qi in the body is used to diagnose conditions. Illness occurs when there is either an excess or deficiency of Qi.
Yin
Structure
Night
Cold
Passive
Solid
Heavy
Moist
Dark
Earth
Moon
Slow
Humid
Ascending
Fluids
Calm
Death
Yang
Function
Day
Hot
Immaterial
Active
Rising
Aggressive
Sky
Sun
Fast
Dry
Descending
Energy
Expressive
Birth
Types of Qi
Parental
The most essential!
Inherited from your parents
Stored in the kidneys
Circulates through the organs, muscles, skin, and meridians
Power for all activities