Ki Energy

By Michael Chojnacki and Maureen O'Day

     In the Japanese language, the word "Ki" is commonly used to refer to universal energy.  It can be found in word compounds such as yuki (courage), genki (health), and kimochi (feeling).  Unfortunately in the English language, there is no word for "Ki."  The best way to define Ki is to say that it is the natural flow of one's life energy.  To be alive and healthy is to have Ki energy flow from within the body and extend outward into the universe.

     When we extend Ki energy, we are naturally strong and positive, relaxed and calm.  As we learn to extend Ki continuously every day, the flow of energy will invigorate all the cells in our bodies, improve blood circulation, and stimulate total body energy.  To hold Ki energy inside, the mind and body would grow stagnate, making the nervous system exhausted and begin to break down.  Just as stagnated water grows stale, Ki energy becomes weak if it does not circulate.  

     Universal Ki energy is the spirit of love and the life force that exists in all things.  Our spirit is unified with the positive energy of Ki that emanates from the infinite depth of our soul.  The Native American Indians depicted this Ki energy as spirit, such as the mountain spirit, the forest spirit, or the spirit of the wind, and it's the same spirit that is within everyone since we are all made out of the same fabric as the universe.  The word inspiration means "in spirit."  When we are inspired, we feel a great surge of energy that flows through us as creative energy, which is always positive and strong.  As William Blake wrote, "Energy is eternal delight."  

     Positive Ki energy creates a peaceful mind and a state of mutual accord, or as O Sensei, the founder of Aikido, said it is a way "to live together in harmony."  It is the perfect balance between body and soul, self and other, humankind and nature.  Ki energy unifies us through infinite love and makes all things possible.