气

Qi

Chinese Philosophy · concept

Part of Taoism

Vital energy, life force, breath. The fundamental substance that flows through all living things in Chinese philosophy. Qi animates the body, circulates through energy channels (meridians), and connects the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of existence. Central to Chinese medicine, martial arts, and meditation. In Chinese medicine, free flow of qi through the body's meridians is essential for health. Practices like qigong, taiji, and acupuncture are designed to regulate qi.

Within the vast Chinese philosophical tradition, from the Hundred Schools of Thought to the classical texts that shaped East Asian civilization, Qi represents a key concept that continues to inform philosophical thought and practice today.

2 wisdom cards explore this concept
4 related philosophical concepts
0 in-depth guides
7 search questions answered

What Are the Key Facts About Qi?

  • Tradition: Chinese Philosophy
  • Chinese: 气
  • Category: Concept
  • Definition: Vital energy, life force, breath.

What Cards Are Related to Qi?

The Valley Spirit Never Dies

The mysterious female, the root of heaven and earth

Alive and Soft, Dead and Rigid

The soft are companions of life

What Concepts Are Related to Qi?

Tao 道
Manifests as
Qi is the dynamic manifestation of the Tao in living beings
 Yin Yang 阴阳
Related to
Qi flows and transforms through the interaction of yin and yang
 Stillness 静
Practice of
Stillness practices cultivate and balance qi
 Zuowang 坐忘
Practice of
Zuowang meditation harmonizes the flow of qi

Common Questions

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Further Reading and Sources

For authoritative academic perspectives on Qi, consult these external sources:

Further Reading