Much of the basis for traditional Chinese medicine lies in the concept of Chi. (This word is also commonly spelled "Qi" or "ki" -there is no "correct" way since it is just the sounds of the words being transcribed into roman letters). Chi is the energy of life that we all possess and control. Literally, the word translates as "breath" or "energy flow." Similarly, the Chinese symbol used for the word Chi is symbolic of steam rising off of rice while cooking.

Since Chi is the flow of energy throughout your body, illness is thought to occur when this energy cannot flow properly, it's path becomes too narrow or is blocked from flowing all together. Although some may claim to control Chi with their mind, this is not the mainstream idea behind controlling your Chi. Typically, a Chinese healer will use massage, diet, herbs and possibly exercise to help increase the flow of Chi.

As a westerner, we can still control our Chi through similar practices as the Chinese. To begin to understand how to feel your Chi, you can rapidly rub your hands together until they start to become warm. Then slowly separate them until they are about one inch apart. Between your hands you will feel your Chi flowing from hand to hand. Although this little exercise will be fun to show your friends, a much more serious way to begin to actually control your Chi is through meditation. Find a quiet corner where you can begin to focus your mind on your Chi. You must remain calm and concentrate intently on finding the force of life as it flows throughout your body. You may be able to focus in on the energy itself, however, many people are also successful at visualizing it as it travels through the body. As you experiment, you will gain more control over your Chi and be able to direct it throughout your body to help relax and heal you.