Chi – Flows, Permeates, Moves, and drives us and our universe.
Photo by Andrew Branch on Unsplash
Chi, The Invisible Life Force
In eastern mysticism (Taoism, Buddhism, and Hinduism), there’s a belief that in all of us and all around us is an unseen, universal life force of energy called chi or qi in Chinese, also known as ki in Japanese and prana in Indian culture. This energy flows, permeates, moves and drives our whole being and remains an enigma to many. Can we unveil this mystery and tap into it?
In ancient Chinese medicine, balance is integral to health and well being. Chi exists in each part of our body, and for chi to flow correctly in all these parts, we must be in balance. “The balance between all these parts is maintained by a continuous flow of chi, or vital energy, along a system of ‘meridians’ which contain the acupuncture points.” (Capra 108)
Chi is a Mystery
Martial arts is an avenue where many have experienced chi first hand. Joe Hyams, an American columnist who rubbed elbows with stars like Steve McQueen, Marilyn Monroe, and Bruce Lee, studied a form of martial arts called Aikido, which is known as “the gentle art.” While he practiced, he wanted to know more about ki. He asked his instructor, and she explained to him that no one can really define it, “but you can experience it.” (Hyams 53)