Protection
Protection and warming are essential functions of Qi. In TCM, Wei Qi, Ying Qi and Kidney Jing contribute to resistance, while Yang provides the warming force required for physiological activity.
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Containment of bodily substances and organs
The containing function of Qi keeps Blood within the vessels, supports the organs in their proper position and prevents excessive loss of body fluids according to TCM.
Read moreTransformation
Transformation is a fundamental function of Qi: the conversion of food, fluids and air into the subtler substances and forms of energy required by the body within TCM theory.
Read moreZhong Qi (Central Qi)
Zhong Qi is the Central Qi of the Middle Burner and refers to the post-heaven energy produced by the Spleen and Stomach from food and drink.
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Wei Qi (Defensive Qi)
Wei Qi is the Defensive Qi that circulates at the exterior of the body, protects against external pathogenic influences and regulates sweating and temperature in TCM.
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Ying Qi (Nutritive Qi)
Ying Qi is the nutritive aspect of Zhen Qi that circulates deeply through the meridians and blood vessels and is closely related to Blood.
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Zhen Qi (True Qi)
Zhen Qi is the refined True Qi that circulates through the meridians, nourishes the organs and manifests as Ying Qi and Wei Qi.
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Zong Qi (Gathering Qi)
Zong Qi is formed in the Lungs from Gu Qi and inhaled air and supports the Heart, Lungs, voice, respiration and circulation.
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Gu Qi (Food Qi)
Gu Qi is the digestive energy extracted from food and drink by the Spleen and Stomach and forms the basis for Zong Qi, Zhen Qi and Blood.
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Appears at the Yuan-Source points
Yuan Qi spreads from Ming Men through the Triple Burner and, according to TCM, emerges at the Yuan-Source points of the meridians.
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Basis of Kidney Qi
According to TCM, Yuan Qi forms the basis of Kidney Qi and through the Kidneys supports the functional energy of the other organs.
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