Definition
In Chinese thoughts, a notion of breath, matter-energy or dynamism that participates in the transformations of the cosmos and the body.
In Chinese medicine, qì is part of a network of functions, meridians, organs and polarities. It does not correspond directly to electricity, oxygen, or a physical particle.
To be retained
- Translation with caution
- Distinguish traditional model and anatomy
- Assessing practical practices
- Refusing promises of universal detection
Origin of the term and context
Qì is often Romanized chi. Its traditional character
Why does it matter?
Practices such as taijiquan or qigong can be studied for movement, balance or wellbeing. Their effects do not establish qì as a measurable physical value.
- Translation with caution
- Distinguish traditional model and anatomy
- Assessing practical practices
- Refusing promises of universal detection
How can it be explored or practised?
- Studying the term in a historical source
- Practice gentle movements adapted
- Observe breath and posture without imagining a diagnosis
- Consult a health care professional for symptoms
Misconceptions and points of caution
- Qìn is not a unit of physics.
- A practitioner should not diagnose any disease by "blocking".
- Intensive exercises may have contraindications.
Perspectives from different traditions
- Taoism: transformations of the breath in cosmos and body.
- Chinese medicine: traditional functional model.
- Neoconfucianism: qì in relation to the principle, l
To go further
- The Web That Has No Weaver — Ted Kaptchuk
- The Chinese Medical Body — Historical Studies