What is chi?

Put simply, it is that which gives life. In terms of the body, chi is that which differentiates a corpse from a live human being. Chi is the basis of acupuncture and all Chinese medicine. A strong life force makes a human being totally alive, alert, and "present." While a weak force results in sluggishness and fatigue. Consequently, the development of chi can make an ill person robust or a weak person vibrant; it can also enhance mental capacity. The concept of "life force" is found in most of the ancient cultures of the world. In India, it is called prana; in China, chi or qi; in Japan, ki; for Native Americans, it is the great spirit.