When considering these differences between cultures, it is safe to assume we do have a word for Ki in western medicine, bioelectrical energy. This realization removes much of the world of martial arts out of the unknown and into proper perspective. There isn't any magic to what we are doing, it is scientifically sound, and can therefore be understood, developed and implemented by anyone willing to commit to the necessary discipline. This assertion will no doubt irritate those too lazy to exercise or train with a realistic mindset, and also those who make their living on mysticism and secret selling. We don't understand everything.
Life is about change and growth.
We are all part of nature, and everything from a human cell to a car battery redirects energy. Solar panels don't create energy, but they do harness and re-direct it. The practice of Sanchin can be viewed as a solar panel, by helping to harness, control, and re-direct our internal energy, Ki, or Chinkuchi. M.W. Lawson is a Navy Corpsman. He has a B.A. in Behavioral Science and is working towards a Physics degree.