The Eight Types of Qi

Qi is not an abstraction. It is neither esoteric nor solely the domain of mystics. While in the US and other Western countries we often perceive Qi as something other-worldly and steeped in new age mythology, Qi is, in fact, a straightforward, almost colloquial term for energy. In traditional Chinese, for example, the word for weather is written as 天氣 (tiān qì). To be angry is to have rising Qi (dú qì). Qi is simply—and profoundly—energy. Qi is ephemeral, yet substantial. Industrial waste gas is merely fèi qì (廢氣), while the courage of one's convictions is lǐ zhí qì zhuàng (理直氣壯).

But what does this mean for us? In considering our own Qi, which I will refer to in its capitalized form, we need to approach Qi in four ways:

• What is the quality of our Qi?
• How is the movement of our Qi?
• Where are the sources and types of our Qi?
• How do we spend our Qi?

The Quality and the Movement of Our Qi

The quality and movement of our Qi are fundamental to both sickness and health. In Chinese medicine, one of the five branches of practice includes internal practices such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi. These movement and meditation-based disciplines refine the quality of our Qi and clear the meridians of the body, allowing Qi to flow freely and unobstructed. It is said that through Qi Gong, we can achieve the "six no worries":

• No worry food;
• No worry toilet;
• No worry sleep;
• No worry energy;
• No worry sexuality;
• No worry emotions.

The "no worries" are achieved through the quality and refined Qi that flows freely and fully through our bodies. While this may seem a bit abstract, we have all experienced days or moments when we feel the "no worries" coursing through our veins—when everything seems perfect, content, and blissful. Why not strive to nurture and harness that state within ourselves on a more permanent basis? That is the aim of Qi Gong.

The Sources and Types of Our Qi

In Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of Qi (氣) encompasses more than a generic notion of energy. It refers to the vital substances and dynamic forces that sustain all life and health. These vital substances represent a shift from the everyday use of the word "qi" (lowercase), describing various forms of energy and air, to the profound use of "Qi" (capitalized), symbolizing the fundamental life force within us and in all living things.

Understanding the sources and types of Qi in our bodies is crucial for comprehending how our vitality and health are maintained and influenced. The following outlines the main types of internal Qi and their sources:

The 8 Types of Qi

Yuán Qi (原气) – Original Qi

Yuán Qi, often referred to as Original Qi, is a fundamental concept in Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Understanding Yuán Qi helps to grasp the intricate workings of Jing (Essence) and its transformation into Qi within the body.

There are two types of Yuán Qi in the body: prenatal and postnatal. Prenatal Yuán Qi is inherited from our biological parents (50% maternal and 50% paternal). This type of Qi cannot be replenished throughout our lives, but its quality can be refined and preserved. Conversely, it can be prematurely depleted through stress, illness, and excessive use of stimulants like coffee. Postnatal Yuán Qi, on the other hand, is like a spending account that can be replenished and expended. It serves as our source of energy and motivation throughout the day.

While Jing is our Essence, Yuán Qi represents the transformation of our Jing into Qi—the application of our Jing in our lives. Yuán Qi is the source of Yin and Yang within us, and the quality of our prenatal Yuán Qi depends on the quality of our biological parents’ Yuán Qi, merging the study of epigenetics with Chinese medicine.

The root of Yuán Qi is in our Kidneys, and it is distributed throughout the meridians and the body via the San Jiao, known in English as the Triple Burner.

Main Sources of Yuán Qi:

• Prenatal Yuán Qi: Inherited from our biological parents (50% maternal and 50% paternal).
• Postnatal Yuán Qi: Derived from the transformation of food (Gu Qi) and air (Zong Qi) after birth.

Main Functions of Yuán Qi:

• The deep source and reserve of vitality: Yuán Qi serves as a fundamental reservoir of life force and vitality.
• The motivation and force behind the activity of our internal organs: It drives the functional activity of the internal organs.
• The dynamic force that drives the functional activity of the internal organs and is the foundation of vitality: Yuán Qi ensures that all organs function properly and efficiently.
• The root of the ever-desired Kidney Qi: Yuán Qi resides between the two Kidneys at a point known as Ming Men—the Gate of Vitality. Yuán Qi emerges and is housed at the twelve source points.
• The catalyst of Qi transformation: Yuán Qi facilitates the conversion of one type of Qi into another (for instance, changing Zong Qi into Zhen Qi).
• Manufacturing Blood: Yuán Qi aids in the transformation of Gu Qi into Blood.

By understanding Yuán Qi, we can better appreciate the importance of nurturing and protecting our foundational energy, making informed choices about lifestyle, nutrition, and stress management to maintain and enhance our vitality.

Gǔ Qi (谷气) – Food Qi

Gǔ Qi, or Food Qi, is the vital energy derived from the food we consume. It allows us to obtain Qi from the foods we eat, integrating the incredible Qi contained within the earth (Earth Qi) into our bodies. Through Gǔ Qi, we literally become one with the Earth's Qi by transforming it into a form usable by our bodies.

As food is transformed within us—digested, absorbed, and circulated to our cells—Gǔ Qi represents the first stage of this transformation. In Chinese medicine, the process of food digestion begins with the "rotting and ripening" in the body. This term refers to how the muscles and enzymes in the body work together to prepare food for absorption in the small intestine. The Stomach (as a Chinese organ) performs the rotting and ripening, then sends the partially transformed food to the Spleen, where it is converted into Gǔ Qi.

Gǔ Qi is then transported from the Spleen and Stomach (both housed within the Middle Burner) to the Lungs and Heart (housed in the Upper Burner). Here, Gǔ Qi combines with air to form Zong Qi, with the assistance of the transformational power of Yuán Qi—without Yuán Qi, this transformation cannot occur. Some of the Gǔ Qi also passes through the Lungs to the Heart, where it is transformed into Blood.

Main Sources of Gǔ Qi:

• Food and Drink: The primary sources of Gǔ Qi are the foods and beverages we consume, which are transformed by the digestive processes in the Stomach and Spleen.

Main Functions of Gǔ Qi:

• Foundation of Qi Production: Derived from the food we eat, Gǔ Qi is the basis for all the Qi in the body.
• Nutrient and Energy Provider: It supplies the fundamental nutrients and energy needed for the body's daily activities.
• Transformation in the Middle Burner: Transformed in the Stomach and Spleen, Gǔ Qi is sent to the Lungs and Heart for further refinement and conversion into other forms of Qi.
• Production of Zong Qi: Gǔ Qi is crucial for the production of Zong Qi when combined with Air Qi in the Lungs.
• Blood Production: A portion of Gǔ Qi passes through the Lungs to the Heart, where it is transformed into Blood, contributing to the nourishment and vitality of the body.

By understanding Gǔ Qi, we can see the direct impact of our dietary choices on our overall energy and health, emphasizing the importance of consuming nutrient-rich foods to support our body's energy production and vitality.

Zōng Qi (宗气) – Gathering Qi

Zōng Qi, or Gathering Qi, is an essential form of Qi derived from the combination of Gu Qi (Food Qi) and Air Qi. As discussed earlier, Gu Qi combines with air in the Lungs to produce Zōng Qi. This vital energy plays a crucial role in nourishing the Heart and Lungs, fundamental to the body's involuntary processes such as heartbeat and respiration.

Zōng Qi not only assists the Lungs in controlling respiration but also aids the Heart in overseeing the Blood and Blood Vessels. There is a reciprocal relationship between Zōng Qi and Yuán Qi: Zōng Qi flows downward to the Kidneys, while Yuán Qi flows upward to support respiration and the formation of Zōng Qi from Gu Qi.

When Zōng Qi is deficient, blood circulation is impaired, leading to cold and weak extremities. Due to its governance over the Lungs, a symptom of poor Zōng Qi is a weak voice. Additionally, Zōng Qi is sensitive to our emotional state. Practices such as meditation, Qi Gong, and regular exercise can significantly enhance emotional well-being and, consequently, the quality of Zōng Qi.

Main Sources of Zōng Qi:

• Gu Qi (Food Qi): Derived from the food we eat, transformed by the Stomach and Spleen.
• Air Qi: Obtained from respiration, combined with Gu Qi in the Lungs.
• Yuán Qi: Assists in the transformation and refinement of Zōng Qi in the Lungs.

Main Functions of Zōng Qi:

• Nourishment of the Heart and Lungs: Supports the primary functions of these vital organs.
• Regulation of Heartbeat and Breathing: Controls the rhythm and strength of involuntary heartbeat and respiration.
• Assistance in Respiration: Helps the Lungs in controlling Qi and breathing processes.
• Support of Blood and Blood Vessels: Aids the Heart in managing blood circulation.
• Energy Distribution: Distributes energy throughout the body, contributing to overall vitality.
• Influence of Emotional States: Reflects and is affected by emotional health, highlighting the connection between mind and body.

By understanding Zōng Qi, we gain insight into the critical role of breath and nutrition in our overall health, highlighting practices like deep breathing, proper diet, and stress management to enhance the quality of our Gathering Qi.

Zhēn Qi (真气) – True Qi

Zhēn Qi, or True Qi, is the ultimate refined form of Qi in the body. It is also known as Normal Qi due to its fundamental role in sustaining life and health. As Yuán Qi assists in the transformation of Gu Qi into Zong Qi, it also plays a crucial role in converting Zong Qi into Zhēn Qi. This transformation marks the final stage of Qi refinement. Zhēn Qi circulates throughout the body, nourishing and energizing the organs via the meridians and vessels.

Zhēn Qi is further divided into two essential subcategories: Ying Qi and Wei Qi. Ying Qi, or Nutritive Qi, provides nourishment to the internal organs, while Wei Qi, or Protective Qi, defends the body against external pathogens.

Main Sources of Zhēn Qi:

• Zong Qi: Transformed and refined with the assistance of Yuán Qi.
• Yuán Qi: Activates and aids in the refinement of Zong Qi into Zhēn Qi.

Main Functions of Zhēn Qi:

• Circulation and Nourishment: Zhēn Qi circulates through the meridians and vessels, providing essential nourishment to all organs.
• Manifestation as Ying Qi and Wei Qi:
  • Ying Qi (Nutritive Qi): Nourishes the internal organs and circulates alongside Blood in the meridians, channels, and vessels.
  • Wei Qi (Protective Qi): Protects the body from external pathogens, regulates body temperature, and provides an emotional shield.
• Overall Vitality and Health: Zhēn Qi regulates the body's overall vitality, ensuring that all organs receive the necessary energy to function optimally.
• Support of Organ Function: Ensures that the dynamic functions of the organs are sustained, promoting overall health and well-being.

By understanding Zhēn Qi, we recognize the importance of maintaining balanced and refined energy within our bodies, emphasizing practices that support the continuous transformation and flow of Qi for optimal health and vitality.

Yíng qi (营气) – Nutritive Qi

Ying Qì, or Nutritive Qì, is responsible for nourishing the internal organs and the entire body. It plays a vital role in sustaining health and vitality by circulating alongside Blood within the meridians, channels, and vessels of the body. Ying Qì is intimately connected with Blood and works synergistically to ensure the proper nourishment of tissues and organs.

When acupuncture, acupressure, or Tui Na (therapeutic Chinese massage) is performed, it is the Ying Qì that is being influenced and activated. The twelve channels, also known as the twelve rivers, house Ying Qì. It spends two hours in each channel, completing a full circulation through all twelve channels every twenty-four hours. This cyclic movement ensures that specific organs are nourished during their respective two-hour periods when Ying Qì is circulating within their channel.

Main Sources of Yíng Qì:

• Transformation of Zhēn Qì: Ying Qì is derived from the transformation and refinement of Zhēn Qì within the body.
• Gu Qì: The initial stage of nourishment comes from Gu Qì, which is then transformed into Zhēn Qì and further refined into Ying Qì.

Main Functions of Yíng Qì:

• Nourishment: Ying Qì nourishes the internal organs and the entire body, ensuring that all tissues receive the necessary nutrients for optimal function.
• Circulation with Blood: Ying Qì circulates alongside Blood within the meridians, channels, and vessels, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health of these pathways.
• Activation in Therapies: Ying Qì is essential for the efficacy of acupuncture, acupressure, and Tui Na, as these practices directly influence and activate Ying Qì to promote healing and balance.
• Organ Nourishment: During its cyclic circulation through the twelve channels, Ying Qì spends two hours in each channel, providing specific nourishment to the connected organs and maintaining their health and vitality.

By understanding the critical role of Ying Qì, we can better appreciate the importance of practices that support its flow and balance, ensuring the nourishment and well-being of the entire body.

Wèi qi (卫气) – Protective Qi

Wei Qì, or Protective Qì, functions as the body's first line of defense, akin to the immune system in allopathic medicine. It forms a protective barrier that shields the body from external pathogens. While Ying Qì is more Yin and circulates internally, Wei Qì is more Yang, moving swiftly and dynamically to provide immediate protection. It is characterized by its fast movement and slippery nature, enabling it to respond quickly to threats.

Wei Qì primarily resides on the surface of the body, in the skin and muscles, and even extends just beyond the physical body. It travels through both the superficial layers and the twelve channels, ensuring comprehensive protection. The Lungs play a crucial role in controlling Wei Qì.

Main Sources of Wèi Qì:

• Transformation of Zhēn Qì: Wei Qì originates from the transformation and refinement of Zhēn Qì within the body.
• Lung Qì Influence: The Lungs significantly influence the production and movement of Wei Qì.

Main Functions of Wèi Qì:

• Immune Defense: Wei Qì acts as the body's immune system in Chinese medicine, protecting against pathogens from exogenous influences such as Wind, Cold, Heat, and Dampness.
• Surface Circulation: It circulates on the body's surface, within the skin and muscles, and even extends just beyond the physical body, creating a protective shield.
• Nourishment and Moisture: Wei Qì nourishes and moistens the skin and muscles, keeping them young and supple.
• Pore Regulation: It assists in the opening and closing of pores, helping to regulate body temperature and sweat production.
• Emotional Protection: Unlike the allopathic immune system, Wei Qì also provides emotional protection, shielding us from the pathogenic negative energy of others. This is a vital, often underappreciated function of Wei Qì.

Understanding the role of Wei Qì helps us appreciate its importance in maintaining both physical and emotional health, highlighting the need to support and strengthen this vital protective force.

Zhōng qi (中气) – Central Qi

Zhōng Qì, also known as Central Qì, plays a crucial role in the digestive processes and the overall maintenance of internal organ function. Zhōng Qì is produced by the transformation of Gu Qì in the Stomach and Spleen, with significant support from Yuán Qì. It is essentially the Qì of the Middle Jiao, or the central region of the body, and is often referred to as Stomach and Spleen Qì.

When the Spleen Qì is deficient, it can lead to conditions such as prolapse of internal organs, which is described as a deficiency of Center Qì. Understanding and supporting Zhōng Qì is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and ensuring the stability of internal organs.

Main Sources of Zhōng Qì:

• Transformation of Gu Qì: Zhōng Qì is derived from the transformation of Gu Qì (Food Qì) in the Stomach and Spleen.
• Support from Yuán Qì: Yuán Qì assists in the production and refinement of Zhōng Qì.

Main Functions of Zhōng Qì:

• Central Qì: Zhōng Qì is known as Central Qì, essential for the proper functioning of the Middle Jiao (the central region of the body).
• Digestive Support: It supports the effective transformation and transportation of nutrients within the digestive system, ensuring that the body receives necessary nourishment.
• Organ Stability: Zhōng Qì helps maintain the position of internal organs, preventing prolapse and ensuring their proper function.
• Stomach and Spleen Qì: Zhōng Qì is another term for Stomach and Spleen Qì, highlighting its vital role in digestive health and nutrient absorption.

By understanding the importance of Zhōng Qì and its functions, we can better appreciate the need to support digestive health and overall vitality through proper diet, lifestyle, and potentially through the use of appropriate herbal therapies.

Zhèng qi (正气) – Upright Qi

Zhèng Qì, or Upright Qì, serves as the body's overall defensive Qì, encompassing various forms of Qì that protect against external threats and pathogens. It is similar to Wèi Qì (Protective Qì) but broader in scope, reflecting the collective strength and balance of all Qì within the body. Zhèng Qì is often referenced when discussing the body's ability to protect against specific pathogens, indicating the robustness of the body's immune response.

Main Sources of Zhèng Qì:

• Collective Strength of Qì: Zhèng Qì is derived from the overall balance and strength of various types of Qì within the body, particularly Wèi Qì (Protective Qì) and Yuán Qì (Original Qì).
• Support from Yuán Qì and Wei Qì: These primary sources of Qì contribute to the body's overall resistance and defensive capabilities.

Main Functions of Zhèng Qì:

• Defensive Qì: Zhèng Qì acts as the body's overarching defensive mechanism, protecting against external pathogens and threats.
• Disease Resistance: It plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's resistance to diseases and external harmful influences.
• Immune Response: Zhèng Qì reflects the overall strength and balance of the body's immune system, indicating its capacity to fend off specific pathogens.
• Comparative Health Indicator: In practice, Zhèng Qì is often referenced when assessing the body's ability to combat specific health challenges, comparing the strength of Zhèng Qì against the severity of the pathogen.

By understanding the concept and functions of Zhèng Qì, we gain insight into the body's comprehensive defense system, highlighting the importance of maintaining balanced and robust Qì through healthy living, proper nutrition, and supportive practices like Qi Gong and herbal therapies.

Concluding Thoughts: How We Manage, Spend, and Preserve our Qi

Finally, we must all ask ourselves the difficult question: How do I want to spend my Qì? How do I want to spend my attention, focus, energy, care, compassion, health, longevity, vitality? Alongside internal practices like Qi Gong, understanding and acting upon this question is the difficult work of Qì.

Coffee is a perfect example of this. Coffee borrows from our Prenatal Yuán Qì, and once we borrow from our Prenatal Yuán Qì, we can never get that bit of it back. It is gone forever. Coffee will always have this function in the body, each and every time. But does that mean you never, ever want to drink coffee again? That’s a personal question only you can answer. Sometimes you may want to. Sometimes the benefit will outweigh the cost. That is how we must think about our Qì; we must decide, quite consciously, what we want to spend it on and where we would rather conserve it.