Why Chi?

Chi, also known as life-force, prana, ki, qi, essence, spirit or life energy, is the basic energy of the universe, existing in all things.

Chi is breath. It is the energy and vitality that sustains and nourishes you and activates your spirit. It is obtained from the food you eat, the water you drink and the air you breathe. Everything you see, touch, think or experience is made up of Chi. Your whole existence is determined by Chi.

All parts of your life, your physical health, mental alertness and emotional stability are all dependent on the flow of Chi in and around your body. The free flow of this vital energy is seen as imperative to your health and well-being. Summoning, conserving and using Chi is an important factor in maintaining a healthy and happy life.

The quality of your Chi is reflected in the way you feel, think and behave.

* Excited about doing something? Your Chi is probably strong.
* Unmotivated? It’s probably weak.
* Angry, frustrated or depressed? It’s probably stuck.

Within your body, Chi flows through blood and along energy channels called meridians. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is believed that when these channels or meridians are blocked and Chi is unable to flow freely, becoming disturbed, stagnant, imbalanced or depleted, dis-ease and illness begin to take form.

Your flow of Chi can be impeded by poor diet, lack of or excessive exercise, poor breathing and posture, scar tissue and psychological stress.

Symptoms of inadequate, blocked or low quality Chi can include feeling tired and listless, sleeping poorly, low creativity and productivity, difficulty coping with illness, poor circulation, feeling unmotivated and irritable.