Qi
 According to the Chinese philosophy, all forms
of life are animated by an essential life-force or vital energy called qi
(which also translates as "air" and "breath"). Qi is
invisible, tasteless, formless and odorless, and it permeates the entire
universe. It is transferable and transmutable...digestion extracts qi from food
and drink, and breathing extracts it from the air. Accordingly, these two types
of qi meet together in the bloodstream to form human qi. This is the vital
energy which circulates throughout the body through the vital connections of
the meridians. The health and dynamic energy is determined by the quality,
quantity, and balance of qi in any given individual (or situation for that
matter).
A natural and harmonious balance among the vital energies within the body and
the interaction with the external environment is the key to maintaining optimal
health. Thus, minding the change of seasons is an important part of health and
should be considered in one’s diet, use of herbs, and lifestyle - in winter for
example the body needs extra heat-inducing activities, foods, and herbs to
balance the excess cold from the environment.
The food and drink we consume and the air we breathe are extremely important
factors in the production and circulation of qi. Therefore, Taoists have
emphasized the importance of diet and breathing exercises in their systems of
health and longevity. The condition of the vital organs is based on the proper
absorbtion of qi, as well as its quality and quantity.
Combinations of proper diet, exercise, breathing, and hygiene can usually
correct qi-deficient ailments. The Chinese physician applies curative herbal
medications only when a problem has become so serious that it impairs the
functions of the vital organs. These vital organs are directly stimulated and
powerfully influenced by various herbal medicationswhich send extracted qi
straight to the organ in need of healing. There it acts to restore the natural
functions of the diseased organ, by redressing the imbalances of vital energy.
The functions of the vital organs can be further influenced by breathing and
qi-gong exercises, proper diet, and herbal medicine which increase the quantity
and improve the quality of qi.
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