Zheng Qi

Zheng Qi (simplified Chinese: 正气; traditional Chinese: 正氣; pinyin: zhèng qì), often translated as "righteous qi", "upright qi", or "correct qi", is a concept central to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Chinese culture. It refers to the body's vital energy and its ability to resist pathogenic factors or external influences (xie qi).

In TCM theory, zheng qi represents the combined strength of a person's defensive qi (wei qi), nutritive qi (ying qi), and ancestral qi (yuan qi). It is the foundation of health and resilience. A strong zheng qi is believed to protect the body from illness and promote overall well-being. Weak zheng qi, on the other hand, leaves the body vulnerable to disease.

The concept extends beyond mere physical health to encompass moral uprightness and integrity. In a broader cultural context, zheng qi represents a person's adherence to ethical principles, moral values, and justice. A person with "zheng qi" is considered to be virtuous, principled, and capable of resisting corruption and negative influences. It embodies a sense of righteousness and moral strength.

Maintaining and strengthening zheng qi is a primary goal in TCM. This is achieved through various methods, including a balanced diet, regular exercise (such as tai chi and qigong), sufficient rest, stress management, and herbal remedies designed to tonify qi and blood. Lifestyle choices that align with virtuous principles are also considered essential for cultivating and preserving zheng qi.