Qi, The Life Energy That Flows Through All Living Things
What is Qi and where does it come from
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it is believed that there is the system of life energy, known as Qi (pronounced "chee"). In TCM, Qi is a term that refers to the life energy that flows through all living things. Qi is believed to be the animating force behind all living things, and it is thought to circulate through the body in a network of channels known as meridians. Qi is believed to be responsible for health and vitality, and according to classical Chinese medical theory, when Qi flows smoothly through the body, we enjoy good health, but when it becomes blocked or imbalanced, illness can occur.
What are the benefits of having a high Qi level
A high Qi level is said to promote good health, while a low Qi level is associated with poor health. Having a high Qi can bring many physical, mental and spiritual benefits. Physically, having a high Qi can help improve digestion, increase energy levels, and improve immunity. Mentally, having a high Qi can help increase clarity, focus, and mental acuity while spiritually, having a high Qi can help increase the connection to inner peace, intuition, and creativity. These benefits can help bring balance and harmony to all aspects of life.
How to increase your Qi level
China has a long tradition of using Qi, or life energy, to promote health and wellbeing. There are numerous ways to promote the flow of Qi through the body, including acupuncture, exercise, and relaxation. Furthermore, Tai Chi and Qigong are ancient Chinese exercises that are designed to balance and cultivate the flow of Qi in the body. Particularly, Qigong, a modality of TCM is believed to be over 5000 years old. Qigong aims to achieve a harmonious flow of such energy in the body through regulated breathing, mindful meditation, and gentle movements. These exercises involve gentle, flowing movements that help bring the body into a state of harmony and balance. Practicing Qigong or Tai Chi can help to increase the flow of Qi throughout your body and improve your overall health.
There is also a growing interest in the West in exploring how this ancient practice can be used to improve our modern lives. For example, regular moderate exercise can help to increase one’s Qi level by improving circulation and boosting our energy levels. Similarly, deep breathing exercises can also help to improve our Qi by increasing oxygen flow to the cells. Finally, eating a healthy diet is important for maintaining a balanced Qi. Fresh fruits and vegetables are thought to be particularly beneficial as they provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that help to protect the body from disease. By following these simple tips, one may all enjoy the benefits of increased Qi.
How to measure Qi
Researchers continue to have different conceptualization in ways to measure Qi. TCM holds that the Qi itself cannot be seen and is intangible, whereas the effects of Qi may be seen in the changes of the meridians in western science. There are many questions surrounding Qi, such as what it is, how it works, and whether or not it can be scientifically proven. While there is still much mystery surrounding Qi, there is some evidence that suggests it may be real and measurable. In the science of Qi, there are many ways to measure this life force energy.
One way is to use an instrument called an electrodermal conductivity meter. In 1947, a Japanese doctor Yoshio Nakatani M.D., Ph.D. was measuring the electrical resistance of the skin in his kidney patients, when he found a series of points at which increased electrical conductance was measured on the surface of the skin. He later realised that these points made a line, which was almost identical to the kidney meridian of acupuncture in TCM. He named this line, the kidney “ryodoraku” (English translation: good electrical pathway). Upon further research, Dr. Nakatani found other ryodoraku lines, corresponding to organ disorders, and these lines also followed the classical Chinese meridian pathways which are also used for acupuncture to unblock Qi. These methods are still popular today in Japan and other countries such as America are slowly integrating these practices into their health care system.
Another way to measure Qi is through measuring the temperature of the body while one performs Qigong. One study showed that not only does the skin’s electrical conductivity changed during Qigong, but also the skin temperature. Importantly, this increase in skin temperature is only shown when the Qigong practicioner intentionally attempts to warm up their hands, and is not observed in people that do not intend to do so. While there is no one definitive way to measure Qi, these methods can provide helpful insights into this life force energy. More research is needed to better understand Qi and its role in health and healing. However, there is promising evidence that suggests Qi may be a real phenomenon with potential health benefits.
Summary
Ultimately, understanding how to measure and quantify Qi energy can lead to powerful insights into our overall health and wellness. By gaining an understanding of how this energy operates, we can begin to unlock its healing potential for ourselves and others. With further research and development, this could lead to treatments that are uniquely tailored to the individual, allowing us to achieve a higher level of health and wellbeing.
Quote for the Institute for Compassion’s view on Qi:
“With the help of technological advances, Qi science has become increasingly accessible - allowing us to gain unprecedented insight into our body's energy systems. As our Institute continues to explore this field, it is important that we remain dedicated to researching its potential applications in both healing and preventative medicine. By doing so, we can unlock the power of Qi energy and use it as a tool for self-care and wellness promotion in our society. With open mindsets and an ever-growing understanding of this ancient practice, we will have the opportunity to truly benefit from all Qi science has to offer.”