Although Eastern and Western cultures have different ways of expressing themselves, it ultimately boils down to the same thing. Lack of good sleep will deplete Chi, as will a poor diet and lack of a fitness regime. Stressful situations can also deplete Chi.

Where in the West we would say that we are 'run down' and therefore open to illness, in the East it would be said that we are lacking in Chi and so are vulnerable.

Of course, we all know that prevention is better than cure and leading a healthy lifestyle will better safeguard us against illness (we do not need expensive surveys to tell us this!!)

One of the wonderful benefits of practising Chi Kung exercises is that they help to restore our natural internal balance without putting unneccesary strains on the body and even give us energy reserves that we can draw upon when needed. Once balance is restored, we also find it much easier to face and guard against the stresses and strains of everyday life.