| Chi (or Ki) is the life force that permeates the | | | | 4) Focus your attention on your breath. |
| world and runs through your body. It is the | | | | Do this for several breaths at any time during the |
| source of energy, balance and power. The | | | | day. This can be done at home, at the office, or |
| practice of strengthening the "flow" of chi has | | | | virtually anywhere you have a spare moment. It |
| been cultivated for hundreds of years. The | | | | will immediately get you focused, relaxed and |
| benefits of increased Chi flow include: | | | | energized. When done on a consistent basis you |
| - Increased energy and power. | | | | will literally be building up your "Chi reserves." |
| - Better focus and clarity of mind. | | | | Meditation is another effective Chi booster. |
| - Strengthened immune system. | | | | Regular meditation also promotes higher levels of |
| - Improved circulation of the blood and oxygen | | | | peace, lower levels of stress and negativity, and |
| throughout the body. | | | | better overall physical and emotional health. There |
| You don't have to be a martial artist or yoga | | | | are many different ways to meditate, The most |
| master to appreciate the benefits of Chi. Boosting | | | | basic form of meditation is as follows: |
| Chi translates well to working out and bodybuilding. | | | | 1) Find a quiet, relaxing environment. The goal is |
| Improving the flow of Chi will result to the | | | | to have the least distractions possible. |
| following benefits in the gym: | | | | 2) Sit in a comfortable position with your back |
| - Better pre-workout visualization. | | | | straight. Sitting on a cushion helps. If you find it |
| - Increased intensity in the gym. | | | | difficult to sit on the ground, sit on a chair. |
| - Better pump and stronger lifts. | | | | 3) Practice deep, conscious breathing. |
| - Faster recovery between workouts. | | | | 4) Silence your mind. If thoughts persist, do not |
| - Less injuries. | | | | resist them. Instead, refocus on your breathing. |
| The easiest way to increase the flow of Chi is | | | | 5) Do this for 5-10 minutes to start. Work you |
| through deep, conscious breathing. This simple yet | | | | way up to 15-30 minutes on a daily basis. |
| effective practice consists of the following: | | | | Combining deep breathing with controlled |
| 1) Take a deep, slow breath until your lungs are | | | | movements another effective way for boosting |
| completely filled. | | | | Chi. Tai Chi and Chi Kung are the best examples |
| 2) Hold your breath for several counts. | | | | of this. Not only are they effective for increasing |
| 3) Slowly exhale until you can no longer squeeze | | | | the flow of chi, they also improve coordination, |
| any more air out of your lungs. | | | | flexibility and strength. |