Dahn Yoga: Ki, The Life Energy

Ki, also commonly spelled chi or qu, is a fundamental concept embraced by Asian philosophy, arts, medicine, and mind-body traditions. Ki is the word for the vital energy that is the true essence of every creation in the cosmos. Most people begin their understanding of Ki by experiencing it as bioenergy, or the basic life force in the body.

Dahn means energy, and yoga means union. Ki is the bridge linking the body and mind; it is the essential medium of life, moving and flowing freely. The continuous joining together and drifting apart of Ki composes the rhythm of the phenomenon of life. Everything in existence undergoes constant change. Everything around us, as well as each of our very lives, is a temporary manifestation of ki.

Although immersed in this grand flow of energy every moment of our lives, we are unable to sense its currents without properly attuned senses. Our overdependence on rational thought and language has obscured our natural ability to sense the flow of energy. however, we can regain our innate ability to feel the slight but pervasive vibrations that define our existence.