What Is ‘Qi’?

You may have heard the term “qi” before. Qi is arguably the most important component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Most major cultural traditions identify a “vital energy” that guides someone’s physical and mental processes, says Dr. Jill Blakeway, a doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. In Chinese culture, it is called "qi", the intangible yet measurable way we maintain what is known as homeostasis, or the body’s ability to regulate its internal environment to create good health.

 “Everything is based on qi,” says Dr. Greg Sperber, a doctor of acupuncture and oriental medicine. “Blockages of qi, deficiencies of qi, and too much qi are what cause illness.”

“People with a healthy amount of qi feel as if they have enough energy to meet their body’s needs,” Blakeway says. “They sleep well, wake rested, and are able to complete their daily tasks.”

If you think you are deficient in qi, you can begin to regulate it by:

• ·         Getting sufficient restful sleep - Being tired is a hallmark sign of a qi deficiency.
• ·         Exercising regularly, including a practice that focuses on your breath, like yoga, tai chi or qi gong. Gentle exercise is a crucial component of managing one’s qi. And one way to improve a qi deficiency is through purposeful breathing.
• ·         Maintaining healthy eating habits - A healthy, nutritive diet is a crucial component of having balanced qi. Most of the body’s qi comes from foods, so nourishing your body with healthy foods. Chinese medicine places considerable importance upon an adequate and appropriate diet of fresh, high quality foods, avoiding cold, raw, fried or junk foods and dairy products,  and the opportunity and ability to breathe good, clean air.
• ·         Taking care of your mental health - The mind-body connection is a crucial component of qi.