What is Qi?

At the core of the ancient medicine called acupuncture is the philosophy that Qi, (pronounced "chee") or Life Energy, flows throughout the body. Qi animates the body and protects it from illness, pain and disease. A person's health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.

How does Qi move?

Qi flows through specific pathways called Meridians. There are 14 main meridians inside the body. Each of these are connected to specific organs and glands.

Meridian pathways are like rivers flowing inside the body. Where a river flows it transports life-giving water that provides nourishment to the land, plants and people. Like rivers, where meridian pathways flow, they bring life-giving Qi that provides nourishment to every cell, organ, gland, tissue and muscle in the body.

An obstruction to the flow of Qi is like a dam. When it becomes "backed up" in one part of the body, the flow becomes restricted in other parts. Hindering the flow of Qi can be detrimental to a person's health, cutting off vital nourishment to the body, organs and glands.

What causes Qi to get stuck?

Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, poor diet, accidents, or excessive activity are among the many things that can influence the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Normally, when a blockage or imbalance occur, the body easily bounces back, returning to a state of health and well-being. When this disruption is prolonged, excessive, or if the body is in a weakened state, illness, pain, or disease can set in.

This article was provided by Acupuncture Media Works

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DAVID N. BOLE, Ph.D., A.P. is director of the Traditional Acupuncture Center, a holistic health care facility offering a multi-dimensional approach to health and healing. Read more about Dr. Bole...