qi
/tʃiː/
NOUN
1. The vital life force in Chinese philosophy
The circulating vital energy traditionally believed in Chinese philosophy and medicine to exist within living beings and the natural world, associated with breath, bodily functions, vitality, and overall well-being.
1.1. Traditional Chinese philosophy and medicine
Refers to the vital energy believed to circulate throughout the body and contribute to health, balance, and the functioning of living organisms.
Synonyms
- chi
- ch'i
- ki
- life force
- vital energy
- vital force
Examples
- She practiced Tai Chi to balance her qi and promote well-being.
- During meditation, he focused on aligning his breath with the flow of qi.
- The ancient art of acupuncture aims to harmonize the body's qi.
- Yoga enthusiasts believe that certain poses help release blocked qi energy.
- Martial artists train to harness and control their qi for strength and agility.
Related Words
- traditional Chinese medicine
- acupuncture
- meridians
- yin and yang
- breath
- circulation
- vitality
- qigong
1.2. Spiritual and universal energy
Used in broader spiritual or metaphysical discussions to describe an underlying energy or life principle believed to connect living beings with the natural world.
Synonyms
Examples
- The practitioner believes that cultivating qi can help restore a sense of inner balance.
- In traditional spiritual practices, qi is understood as an energy connecting people with their surroundings.
- He incorporated breathing exercises into his daily routine to cultivate his qi.