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In martial arts, there is the popular notion of ‘chi’ (also qi or ki). This is often described as being a kind of life energy and often it is treated as quite esoteric – even being mystical. This is the same ‘energy’ that we see characters in
Street Fighter and Dragon Ball Z ring from their hands.
So of course, many people view chi with scepticism. Others will describe it as being simply a way to visualize kinetic energy.
But the reality is something di erent altogether. While you’re free to form your own interpretations, the one that I prefer is to look at chi as being will power. Chi is the ability to call upon your strength in everyday tasks. It is your energy and your vitality.
And in fact, the roots of the word are strongly connected to health. If you ask someone how their chi is, this can be interpreted as asking if they feel strong and energetic.
In martial arts, a good demonstration of using chi is the ‘spirit shout’ or ‘kiai’. Here, you yell at the top of your lungs while delivering a blow in order to stun the opponent and to deliver more strength in your blows.
What’s really happening here is that the shout is releasing a surge or adrenaline. This is allowing you to call upon reserves of strength and increasing your metabolism. Studies show us that simply shouting in the gym can actually increase strength by as much as 30%!
So, in other words, chi here is strengthening the connection between body and mind. It is putting your very will behind the blows you are delivering.
Another example of chi can be seen by focusing on the ‘dan tien’. In martial arts, this is the center of gravity (just below the navel) and is supposed to be the ‘source’ of chi. What’s interesting is that focussing on this area actually
grounds you and if someone tries to push you over while you focus there, they nd it harder.
So, whatever you call it, chi, health, will… it’s all about the unity between your mind and body. It’s when your body supports your mind and vice versa. It is when you are excited and passionate, it’s when you believe what you’re doing and it’s when you wake up with tons of energy because you’re inspired and well rested.
Develop your will and you can develop your goal.
