“Qi” What Does It Mean?

Mon, Feb 12, 2018

Enjoy our weekly wellness tip from Licensed Acupuncturist, Michael Savalli.

Where’s Your Qi?

Qi, (pronounced “chee”),  is a term we use often in Traditional Chinese Medicine.  It’s often translated as “energy”, but how can we work with energy, when we cannot see energy?  We know the condition of qi, because we can see its effects.  We can also feel qi, for example “the qi of nature.”  Close your eyes at the beach, or in a forest, and you will still know where you are.  You can feel the qi of that place.  Qi is also in the air we breath, and the food we eat.  (In fact one Chinese character for qi, is a representation of a cooking bowl of rice.)  So there are many types and forms of qi.

There are different ways to influence your qi.  One way, is by your diet.  Another way, is by exercising.  There’s a saying, “the mind directs the qi, the qi moves the body.”  Feeling stuck?  Try moving around.  Feeling over-anxious?  Try sitting still.

Practitioners of TCM have another tool to help direct the flow of qi.  Using acupuncture needles we can gradually restore proper flow of qi.  They can remove blockages in qi flow, and send more qi to deficient regions.  That includes structural areas, as in muscle pain; and also internal organs, improving their function.  The caveat however is that in cases of serious physical damage, western medicine is usually much better equipped.  A good health treatment plan considers all the options available, and chooses the best course of action for each individual.  Be informed, and may you be in good health.

Meet Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

Michael is a board certified NY State Licensed Acupuncturist, who received his Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine from New York College of Health Professions.  While in this program, he also specialized in Chinese Herbal Medicine. If you or anyone you know is interested in staying healthy this season, schedule your appointment and learn how Acupuncture and herbs can boost your immunity. 

631-601-6491

Click to learn more about Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

Caring For Cancer

Come join us in this beautiful support group and connect with others who have been or are going through treatment. We will be providing a group meditation and mini acupuncture sessions. This event is free and open to the public. Caring for Cancer meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7pm.  Please call to reserve a seat as spaces are limited. 

631-601-6491

In good health,

Elizabeth M. Martin, MSOM, L.Ac, LMT and the Staff at Hands on Acupuncture and Massage Therapy, P.C.