Qi (pronounced "chee" like cheese), is usually translated as life-force or vital energy. It can be really hard to describe qi and put it into words...but as human beings, we easily recognize it when we see it-or the lack of it.

Ok...so I'll use a really extreme example we can all relate to. We all know what it feels like to be totally energized and ready to go. Your body feels light, and there's even a bit of pep in your step. And we all know how it feels to be completely exhausted. When your qi is really depleted your body feels heavy and everything is difficult (mentally, physically and emotionally). Look at the difference between toddlers (lots of qi) and an elder preparing to transition out of this life (not a lot of qi). In the extremes, it's easy to identify.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) we need to understand all of the more subtle nuances. This way we can intervene and support the body in health as much as possible. Using acupuncture, herbs and other traditional treatment modalities, practitioners manipulate qi in order to return the body to its natural balance and promote its ability to heal itself. Pretty cool, right?

TCM recognizes several different types of qi and we identify where the qi is out of balance. One person may have areas of the body that are not getting enough qi and at the same time areas where the qi is stagnating and not flowing properly. It can get pretty complicated.

Anyway...it's really hard for us to feel (and be!) our best when our qi is all discombobulated. So... having "the qi to be me" is about having the energy to step up and shine in your life!

Practice feeling your own qi. Here's how...have you ever rubbed your hands together and then very slowly moved them away from each other? If you slowly move them back and forth, you will likely feel some warmth, maybe some tingling and some resistance...almost like there's a fluffy cloud between your palms 🙂 I know it sounds strange...but try it.

This field that you are feeling is qi, vital energy. As you practice feeling for it you will get much better at it.