Qi

Everything in the universe, organic and inorganic is composed of it's Qi. Qi is not so much a force added to lifeless matter but the state of being of any phenomena. It is the pulsation of the cosmos.

The thread connecting all being, the common denominator of all things. The potential and actualization of transformation. The cause, process, and outcome of all activity in the cosmos. Qi does not cause change, it is present before, during and after any metamorphoses. Cause is primarily an inner transformation. Qi merely resonates, connects, or elicits a change. If Qi is the link, resonance is the method.

Qi in it's more practical and clinical sense, means the dynamic of engendering, movement, tension and activation Considered a Yang aspect, it's Yin counterpart being Blood.

=Origins= 3 Sources: Original or Prenatal Qi (yuan-qi) - Passed on from parents, responsible for one's inherited constitution Grain Qi (gu-qi)- derived from digestion of foods Natural Air Qi (kong-qi) - Extracted by lungs from the air

=Functions= -The source of all movement and accompanies all movement. -Protects the body -Source of harmonious transformation -Ensures stability and governs retention -Warms the body

=Types of Qi=

Organ Qi
Every organ is conceived of having it's own Qi which differs from the other organs

Meridian Qi
The Qi which flows through the meridian system

Protective Qi
resists and combats External Pernicious Influences when they invade the body. Considered the most Yang manifestation of Qi in the body. Regulates the sweat glands and pores

Ancestral Qi (Qi of the chest)
Gathers in the chest, goes out the throat, connects w/ the heart & vessels, and moves respiration. Aids and regulates the rhythmic movement of respiration and heartbeat. As well as evenness of voice and movement of blood.

=Disharmonies of Qi=

Deficient Qi
Qi is insufficient to perform any of the 5 functions. Often includes lethargy and exhaustion

Collapsed Qi
When Qi is so insufficient that it can no longer hold organs in place. Loss of motivation or commitment may occur.

Stagnant Qi
Normal movement of Qi is impaired, it does not flow through the body in a smooth and orderly fashion.

Rebelious Qi
A form of stagnant Qi in which movement is in the wrong direction.