What is Qi?
Updated: Sep 6, 2018
If you google Qi, you will probably first come across reruns of the hit comedy quiz QI starring Alan Davis among others... Although always good for a laugh, this isn't where we got our name from!
Qi teas are inspired by the ancient teachings of the Chinese.
The concept of Qi energy comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine, which is the oldest medical system in the history of humanity. Chinese people have for centuries used natural plants and herbs for healthy living. They taught that “ Qi ” is the life-force - the natural energy of life.
The Ancient Chinese believed it permeated everything and linked their surroundings together. Qi is linked to the flow of energy around and through the body, forming a fully functioning unit - our bodies. By understanding the rhythm and the flow of Qi, they believed they could guide exercises and treatments to provide a longer healthier and happier life. This is where we lend our name from - this powerful energy that is said to run through the very fabric of our lives and can aid us physically, mentally and emotionally, who wouldn't love receiving all that from their morning cuppa! Fairly early on, some Chinese thinkers began to believe that there were different sections, so to speak, of Qi—the thickest and heaviest parts formed solids, lighter parts formed liquids, and the most ethereal and magical parts were the "life-breath" that animated living beings. Qi, is primarily linked to breathing - so closely that it is sometimes difficult to quantify the difference.
Qi enters and exits the body, like the air does in breathing. Both directions are just as necessary. Old Qi must exit in order for new Qi to enter. According to the Chinese, Qi energy moves all aspects of life - the environment and community we live in, the food we eat, and the exercise we take all make up our Qi. Qi energy drives our thoughts and our mental well being. A bit like we say “you are what you eat”, in this case, you are your Qi.
Qi energy is strongest when all aspects of life are well balanced and in harmony with each other -this is the inspiration for our teas and the inspiration behind the various different blends we have created and continue to make. We hope you enjoy them and that they aid your Qi Energy.