What is the elusive concept of energy? What does it really mean? What does it look like? How do we harness it? Where can we find it?
So many questions filled with endless possibilities!
Energy is described as a universal Force that cannot be created nor destroyed, only transformed. As has been quoted in the famous STAR WARS series, “May the Force be with you”. Without a doubt, energy can transform us in both positive and negative ways.
Science fundamentally distinguishes between two main types of energy: kinetic and potential. Kinetic energy refers to energy in motion, as with a moving body or object, while potential energy is energy stored waiting for release. Potential energy is like the pebble in your hand, while kinetic energy creates the ripple of waves when the pebble is tossed across the water.
Ten subtypes of energies are further categorized within these main types: chemical energy (stored in molecules, food, biomass), mechanical energy (stored energy in relation to motion or position), nuclear energy (energy stored in atomic nuclei released through fission or fusion), gravitational energy (energy due to a position of an object in a gravitational field), light energy (a form of electromagnetic radiation visible to the human eye), radiant energy (includes all forms of electromagnetic radiation such as X-rays and radio waves), sound energy (energy carried by sound waves), electrical energy (energy created by electrical charges), thermal energy (particles of energy released due to changes in temperature), magnetic energy (energy stored in magnetic fields).
Do these energies come into play during our Tai Chi practice? What about Qi energy?
Energy that comes into play within our Tai Chi practice can indeed encompass many of the universal energies outlined above. When we move, we use stored mechanical energy to perform our various positions in space. This, in turn, releases kinetic energy in order for the actual movement to occur (like the pebble effect). Our brain uses electrical energy to transmit electrical signals (EEG) across the circuits needed to create the specific movements we are choosing, while our hearts’ electrical circuits (ECG) generate the pumping action of the heart muscle needed for our blood to flow. This electricity in our body is what creates a magnetic field around each of us, helping us to move in sync with one another during the set.
Further energies can be experienced in our practice. Gravitational forces from the field are what we work with when doing our dan-yus. And after several dan-yus, the warmth from improved circulation then releases thermal energy, allowing us to relax more. And, finally, stored chemical energy from foods we have eaten gives us the energy to continue with several consecutive sets in a row. Some believe that all of these energies are essential elements of our Qi, or ‘Life Energy’. Others, however, believe that Qi is a distinct Force of its own.
How is the Eastern perspective of Qi different, especially with respect to our Tai Chi practice?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are three important energy centers called the ‘dantians’, similar to the concept of ‘chakras’ in Ayurvedic Medicine. Dantians are considered essential gateways for the development of the mind, body and spirit. Each of our dantians (upper, middle and lower) is activated during our Tai Chi practice, with Qi energy generated and stored within them. The lower dantian (‘Jing’), accessed frequently in our practice, is considered to hold the essence of one’s life and is closely linked to both our physical and spiritual power.
Qi energy during in our Tai Chi practice is believed to flow across four primary elements: Ward Off (Peng) is outward energy that protects and stabilizes, Roll Back (Lu) redirects incoming energy and conserves it, Press (Ji) focuses energy inward to concentrate power, Push (An) channels energy outward for controlled release. The goal of these four energies combined is to create a balance between the contraction and expansion of the body as we move, balancing the Yin and Yang forces they represent.
How do we connect to our dantians in Tai Chi?
It is understood that all movements during the practice of Tai Chi originate from these dantians. As a result, the first principle of practice lies in rooting and centering. Rooting allows us to be grounded to the Earth as we step and push down into our feet. The transferring of ‘Life Energy ‘or Qi from the Earth can then travel from our feet throughout the body via the dantians. Maintaining an aligned posture during these movements is essential for this Qi to flow unobstructed across the dantians. The repeated spiraling motions we perform are said to increase the natural flow of Qi, causing a progressive augmentation of its power each time we spiral up. The element of relaxation is also key in order to keep the dantians open. If our tissues and muscles are held too tightly during our Tai Chi practice, we create resistance, impeding this important flow. All of these elements require focus and intention with a co-ordination between mind and body. In the end, any existing internal blockages can be addressed and we are made ready to receive a unique connection to our ‘Life Energy’ or Qi; leading us to improved physical, mental and spiritual health.
Energy appears to encompass both the Internal and External Forces of Life. Yet, on deeper reflection, perhaps it is all just One. Something to ponder.
As always, we thank Master Moy for guiding us on the path forward!
https://solarschools.net/knowledge-bank/energy/types
https://gwongzaukungfu.com/en/the-eight-energies-of-tai-ji-quan/
https://www.healthline.com/health/dantian
Copyright ©️ 2025 Lila Zitouni
Translation by Jordi Awarita, Cathy Filion
Lovely article. thanks for your work that keeps us grounded on our journey.
That was very informative 🙏🏻
Thank you for this excellent explanation of Qi and Tai Chi energy.
In Gratutude
Mo
Merci beaucoup, excellent article.🙏🙏🙏
André