Qi Deficiency

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qi is regarded as the fundamental life force or vital energy that resides within the kidneys, serving as the foundation for both physical and emotional manifestations. The intricate interplay between our physical and emotional states finds its expression through Qi. Within the body, Qi originates from two principal sources: inherited from parental lineage and derived from essential substances like air, food, and water. Various factors contribute to Qi deficiencies, including inadequate nutrition and digestion, chronic stress, and restricted breathing practices (Liu et al., 2018, Complementary Therapies in Medicine). When Qi becomes deficient, discernible signs may encompass feelings of fatigue and bodily weakness. Jing, another pivotal concept in TCM, represents the essence predominantly stored in the kidneys. Functioning as a cornerstone of one's constitution, Jing actively governs growth, development, and collaborates with Qi to fortify the body's resilience against external adversities (Wang et al., 2019, Journal of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences). Imbalances in Jing essence can arise from factors such as inherent constitution, excessive blood loss, and overindulgence in sexual activity (Zhang et al., 2016, Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience). The symbiotic relationship between Jing and Qi serves as the bedrock for cultivating Shen—the intricate emotional and spiritual realm of human existence—in the holistic framework of TCM.