Depending on who you ask, chi is a phenomenon somewhere between phenomenal cosmic power and the intentional manipulation of neurochemicals and hormones. A traditional approach toward personal energy, proponents of chi claim that it can give you control over body functions ranging from strength to longevity.
About Chi
Chi is energy, according to Eastern tradition. The inspiration for "The Force" from Star Wars, it's thought to surround and flow through living beings. Traditions such as qigong, reiki, tai chi, feng shui and acupuncture all operate on the idea of manipulating how chi flows in order to create specific results.
Chi and Body Control
According to traditional Eastern medicine, chi flows through your body in a set pattern. If that pattern is blocked or interrupted, it can result in chronic illnesses, organ failure, mental illness and even death. Intentional manipulation of the chi in your body can help you heal from injuries or prevent illnesses, according to proponents of chi healing, because it can restore a natural and healthy flow to the chi flow through your body. The combat art of dim mak claims to be able to harm people through intentionally causing problems in another's chi flow.
Controversy
Chi is a highly esoteric concept with no proven links to modern science. Proponents firmly believe in its power and efficacy, while others consider it superstition. It occupies a place similar to that of faith healing or praying for a friend's recovery. Studies haven't shown that it helps, but at worst it's unlikely to cause harm.
Visualization
One simple chi exercise is visualization. If you have a mild headache or other pain, imagine filling the afflicted area with light of a soothing color, such as gold or light blue. You might find that it relieves the pain. This is a classic chi healing technique, and also illustrates how the results could be just as easily attributed to focused attention on body processes as some kind of mystic power.
Learning More
Chi is a complicated concept with thousands of years of tradition behind it. If you're interested in learning more, classes in yoga, tai chi and qigong that are available at most health clubs can introduce you to the basics of this topic.
References
- "Bushido Martial Arts Brown Belt Handbook"; Bushido Martial Arts; 2005
- "Yoga For a New Age", Bob Smith; 1986
- "Tai Chi For Busy People"; Dr. Keith Jeffreys; 2004
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