Reader Question:
Hello Master Sang H Kim,
My name is Sohail from Scotland. I have most of your DVDs. You have done great work. First i want to say to all the students here the Complete Taekwondo Kicking is essential for every one doing Martial Arts.
I want to ask how can we feel ki in body? If someone uses ki force in breaking, will he hit the target with the same force as the person without ki concept? Is it true people say ki and techniques together have different results as compared to only techniques alone. Thanks in advance.
Sohail, Scotland
Answer from Sang H. Kim, author of Mindful Movement:
Dear Sohail,
Regarding Ki concept, Ki (also called Chi or Qi) is thought to be the essential elements out of which the universe is made. According to ancient philosophers, the movement and change of Ki produces everything in the cosmos. This concept is still believed and practiced by many martial artists.
Ki is translated as vital energy. It is invisible yet acts as the primary force for all life forms. In the human body, Ki flows along the 12 meridians that are connected to five major organs and six other organs in the body. The five organs are the heart, the lungs, the spleen, the liver, the kidneys. The six other organs are the gallbladder, the stomach, the small intestine, the large intestine, the bladder, the triple energizer.
I list all these organs because they are the sources and transmitters of Ki in the body. Without the strength and healthy function of them, your Ki level will be low.
When you practice martial arts, breathe and yell with good synchronization with your techniques. Relax and focus your power at the last moment of the impact on the target. Align your body properly so that you can prevent injury and maximize your force. Eat healthy food and exercise regularly.
Along the way, you'll discover your own ways of cultivating Ki. With it, you'll feel strong and confident. With well-cultivated Ki and properly mastered technique, your techniques will be powerful, in either sparring or breaking.
Wishing you all the best in your training!
Sincerely,
Sang H. Kim