What is the Vital Force or Qi
At the core of the ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine is the philosophy that Qi, (pronounced “chee”) or Life Energy, flows throughout the body. The movement of QI in the body is much similar to the blood circulation. While the blood circulates in the body through arteries and veins, the Qi moves in conduits. Incidentally, like the Qi, the Chinese describe these conduits according to their respective functions. Qi originates in the digestive system or the lungs and is said to move in the body through channels, also are known Meridians or high points in the Western medicine, to reach each and every organ and cell. There are 14 main meridians inside the body. Each of these are connected to specific organs and glands. Qi protects the body from illness, pain and disease. A person’s health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.
Apart from being responsible for the proper functioning of all the voluntary and involuntary muscles in the human body, the Qi is also reported to sustain all our mental actions. In fact, all our mental functions such as ruminating, memorising and even the development of the mind depends on the Qi. We are mentally alert and intelligent when there is a healthy flow of the chi in the body, but insufficient or deficiency of the Qi leads to a dull and stupid mind.
When the flow of Qi becomes blocked in one part, it 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 and excessive consumption of cold food or drinks, 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.
Cupping is the fastest way to break up congestion and stagnation of Qi and to detoxify the body.
