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KI*
* (Pronounced “kee”) (terms also used Chi, Qi, Qigong, Chigong)
Through proper training, breath control, and spirit, the martial artist sets in touch with and develops i inner energy that radiates throughout the entire body and can be tapped at any time. The degree that one can develop this energy is unlimited; through proper cultivation, one can draw on boundless strength.
At a high level, Ki can be projected through the eyes and spirit to instill fear in or drain the energy from an opponent. In its highest form, it can be used in a silent attack referred to as “Dim Mock”; it attacks the nervous system of an opponent and is thought to be fatal. (An interesting rumor: in martial arts circles, Bruce Lee is thought to have died from a Dim Mock attack!)
Most commonly, Ki is physically expressed and cultivated as a loud, sharp yell, the” Ke-I”.
There are 5 basic uses of Kl:
1) Power (believed to center in the lower abdomen);
2) Focus (of one’s mind and technique);
3) Breathing (properly, from the diaphragm);
4) Paralysis (temporary immobility of an opponent, by fear);
5) Invulnerability (of the body to attack).
In class, a loud, deep yell (from the diaphragm, not the throat) is the most appropriate Ke-I, but sounds can range from a high squeak to a growling noise.
To practice correctly:
Take a deep breath, exhale, then exhale again with a Ke-I. The extra breath released on the second exhale is held deeper in the lungs and is forced out by the diaphragm.