So what exactly is Qi?  In some ways, Qi is merely a philosophical concept open to interpretation.  And in other ways, Qi is a very real, and a very measurable thing.  In scientific terms, every human being conducts electricity, which is measurable with modern scientific devices.  These devices are able to measure the various electrical frequencies that the human body resonates within.  From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective (TCM),

it is this same energy, or Qi, that animates the body and protects it from illness, pain and disease.  According to Chinese Medicine, a person’s health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi within and surrounding their body.  

How does Qi move?  Qi flows through specific pathways called meridians or channels.  There are 14 primary meridians inside the body with several additional ones branching off of those main 14.  Each of these is connected to specific organs and glands within the body.  Although there are hundreds of additional points, the primary and most frequently used acupuncture points are found along these 14 meridians. 

Meridian pathways are like rivers flowing inside the body distributing vital life fluids, nourishment and energy throughout the body. Chinese Medical theory suggests that it is through these meridians that Qi is circulated to all of the body’s cells, organs, glands, tissues and muscles throughout the body. An obstruction to the flow of Qi is like a dam to one of these pathways.  When Qi becomes backed up in one part of the body, the flow becomes restricted in other parts.  This blockage of flow of Qi can be detrimental to a person’s health, cutting off vital nourishment to the body, organs and glands.  This can be summed up by the Chinese saying that, “There is no pain if there is free flow; if there is pain, there is no free flow.” 

The goal of all Chinese Medicine modalities is to establish a balanced state of Qi that is free-flowing and void of obstruction thereby helping the body to reestablish a state of homeostatic equilibrium."