This is a question that is rarely asked. However, I know everyone wants to ask it. Can you feel it? What does it feel like? What am I suppose to feel?
First, what is Qi? Qi is the universal energy force that flows through everything. Like water, it flows freely around us, and through our bodies via energy channels or meridians. We can manipulate this energy by practicing qigong, tai chi or yoga. All these energy practices move your energy. For more, read my blog post What is Qi.
Can I feel the Qi? Yes, I feel it. Did I always feel it? No, I did not always feel the qi. What does it feel like? People report different sensations. I can report the following:
After performing some of the 18 Luohan hands I feel the Qi rushing to my hands, it feels like tingling and sometimes the hands feel like they are swelling (but they are not – nothing you can see).
Other times, when I am practicing a step in the 5 step routine called “flowing breeze swaying willow” I feel the Qi spiraling up, and my whole body wants to follow the spiral. Other times it feels like a subtle wave going through my whole body. The thing to remember about qi is it is very subtle, and gentle.
Often I feel qi as heat. Lots of heat. No, it is not a hot flash. Those are very different. The heat from Qi is gradual, and not as intense as a hot flash. No nausea, or sweating.
So how do you learn to feel the Qi? The only way is to practice. Do your very best to enter zen and go with the flow. Once you feel the qi, you will know. Daily practice is very effective and leads to qi sensitivity.
