As I began searching for explanations as to what Chi is, I discovered something unexpected.
Many different cultures around the world actually have their own versions of Chi and Chi Kung. Most well known are in Japan, where this life energy is known as ‘Ki’ and in India, where it is called ‘Prana’. However, looking further afield there are many variations on this same belief.
In both African and Northern American traditions it is well known that there are ancient customs of using meditation, herbs and the power of ‘healing hands’. In each country, these natural healers come under many names – in Malaysia it is Bomoh, in Latin America it is Curandero, in Africa it is Sangoma or Nganga, in Native American tribes it is Shamen.
Although in the West a lot of this tradition has been lost in favour of modern medical science, we still have prayer and talk about ‘Holy Spirit’ which reflects the use of meditation and talk of ‘Life Essence’ found in these other cultures. And in many American churches, religion and faith healing are joined.
These beliefs permeate our entire race and each has the same end goal – to restore balance and harmony for good health.
Of course, with Chi Master training, we learn health maintenance from day one but can also venture into other areas of training, such as the use of Chi Kung for increased strength, power and stamina when used in martial arts.
Please check our website for the first of our free resources, a video clip of an exercise called ‘The Six Healing Sounds’. I’ll talk a little about the benefits of this exercise in a future blog.
