Qi (Part 2): The Human Body

Part 1 in this series explained how qi is the building block of all phenomena. It is the most refined substance which cannot be further broken down. For further and more detailed explanation, refer to the blog titled “Qi (Part 1): The Unseen Building Blocks”. In contracts to the external world, this blog will address qi with context of the human body.

In Chines Medicine theory, Qi is the most refined ingredient which makes up the human body. We are born with a constitution, which is poetically called “pre-heaven essence” in Chinese Medicine. Like all phenomena, this pre-heaven essence is made up of qi. Following our conception, we require further nourishment to grow. This supplementation of our bodies with done with what is called “post-heaven essence”. Chinese medical theory (along with common sense) states that post-heaven essence is made from the combination of Food Qi (which we receive from the food we eat) and air. Combined Food Qi and air is also known as Gathering Qi.

Qi can move in all directions within the body. The direction in which it flows, is determined by the organs (as they are understood in Chinese Medicine). Each of the organs moves qi in a manner characteristic to the function which it performs. Qi plays a number of physiological functions in the body such as: transporting and transforming; holding and raising; and protecting and warming.

The next blog will be the concluding instalment on qi. It will discuss qi specifically from the perspective of acupuncture theory and practice.