In this blog, I want to bring you a little closer to what energy means because energy is everything in and around us. It's a very profound topic when you delve into it deeply. Energy defines how we feel, today and throughout life. How we feel. What we attract or don't attract in life. Our health. Our radiance. Even money is energy - it's reflected in language too (e.g., cash flow). So, it's about everything in life. And when energy leaves the body, life is over.
I am an expert in energy through Shiatsu and Holistic Life Coaching. I have been exploring energy for at least 24 years, and there is something new to learn every day, which is the beauty of it. Here, I would like to provide a glimpse into a few aspects of energy and the Eastern concept of life energy.
From physics, we know that everything, down to the smallest atom, is energy. In physics, energy is defined as a fundamental quantity that is the ability of a system to perform work or transfer heat. There are various forms of energy, and the total of all energy forms in a closed system remains constant according to the law of conservation of energy, meaning that energy cannot be created or destroyed but can only be converted from one form to another. The definition of energy may vary depending on the context, but generally, it refers to the ability of an object or a system to effect changes in its surroundings. And that's exactly what happens in our body, constantly.
"Ki", "Qi", or "Chi" are terms used in various Asian cultures, referring to a vital energy or life force present throughout the universe and within the human body. These concepts are widely prevalent in various forms of traditional medicine, philosophy, and martial arts, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Taoism, Buddhism, and the Japanese concept of "Ki" as seen in Shiatsu.
IIn general, Ki/Qi/Chi is considered as an energy that animates, permeates, and connects everything. It flows through channels in the body called meridians, supplying organs, tissues, and cells with energy. A harmonious flow of Ki/Qi/Chi is seen as crucial for health, well-being, and vitality, while an imbalance or blockage of this energy flow can lead to illness and discomfort. In TCM, Qi is a central concept and is viewed as the life energy or life force that regulates and sustains the functions of the body. There are various types of Qi, including Yuan Qi (original essence), Gu Qi (nutrient Qi), Zong Qi (chest Qi), and Zhen Qi (functional Qi).
In Japanese culture, Ki is understood similarly to in TCM as vital energy that permeates and influences the body. It is a central concept in Shiatsu as well as in martial arts such as Aikido and Karate, where it is used to develop strength, endurance, and mental focus. In practice, various techniques and practices are used to promote and balance the flow of Ki in the body, including breathing exercises (e.g., Qigong), movement exercises (e.g., Tai Chi), acupuncture, acupressure, herbal medicine, and meditation. These techniques aim to harmonize the flow of energy, release blockages, and promote health and well-being.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Shiatsu, "Jing" refers to the essence or life force stored in the body, playing a significant role in health, development, and aging. Jing is often considered one of the three treasures of the body, alongside Qi (life energy) and Shen (spirit). There are two types of Jing: prenatal Jing (Yuan Jing) and postnatal Jing (Hou Jing).
1. Prenatal Jing (Yuan Jing): This Jing is brought at birth and represents the genetic essence inherited from parents. It forms the basis for an individual's physical and mental development, influencing lifespan and quality of life. Prenatal Jing is finite and slowly depleted throughout life.
2. Postnatal Jing (Hou Jing): This Jing is acquired through food, water, breathing, and the environment. It is responsible for growth, repair, and maintenance of the body. Through a healthy lifestyle and protection from harmful influences, postnatal Jing can be preserved and strengthened.
The quality and quantity of Jing in the body are often considered indicators of overall health and well-being. An imbalance or weakness in Jing can lead to various health issues, including premature aging, infertility, hormonal imbalances, and a weakened immune system. To protect and strengthen Jing, I recommend in Shiatsu and Holistic Life Coaching a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, regular exercise, adequate rest and sleep, as well as protection from excessive stress and harmful environmental influences. The use of herbs, supplements, and specific treatments such as acupuncture can also help strengthen and preserve Jing.
Energy work involves aiming to achieve a smooth flow of Ki. This means identifying and ideally resolving blockages or imbalances. Blockages can be physical and mental, often manifesting on both levels. And resolution can occur on both levels as well. With Shiatsu, we primarily work on the physical level, which directly impacts the mental level. That's why Shiatsu is also a holistic practice. In Holistic Life Coaching, we primarily address the mental level but have the knowledge and tools to address the body directly.
These energy works are an exciting journey with you and to yourself, and it can also be really fun, even if the starting point is a crisis. Growing as a person is the drive of life, isn't it?