Being part of the Chinese experience was enlightening on so many levels. I wasn’t there just to teach; I also had the opportunity to learn more deeply about qi (气) through conversations with local teachers. In traditional Chinese culture, qi is often described as the life force or energy that flows within the body. In the context of movement and exercise, though, qi represents something even more profound—it’s the breath, yes, but also the vitality that fuels each movement.
When Chinese teachers speak of qi, they’re not only referring to the simple act of breathing. It’s a dynamic principle that connects the body and mind, harmonising physical effort with mental intention. For Pilates teachers, this view resonates strongly with our own principles of centering, concentration, and control. Rather than merely a controlled inhale and exhale, breath here becomes a fuel for movement with purpose and presence.
Discussing qi with these teachers, I discovered how they often visualise breath as a form of nourishment for movement. It unlocks potential within the body, softens tension, creates rhythm, and sharpens focus. When we bring this concept into our Pilates practice, we can approach each inhale and exhale as more than functional—it becomes expressive, cultivating qi as the energy behind our movements.
As Pilates teachers, we might consider adopting this mindset with clients. Encourage them to view breath as an active participant, infusing each movement with purpose. Through this approach, qi or breath is not merely oxygen intake; it becomes the essence of the exercise, adding depth and bringing the mind fully into the practice.
Embracing the idea of qi allows us to expand the Pilates experience, using breath not just for power, but for balance, energy, and connection. It’s a reminder of how different traditions can cross borders, enriching and enhancing our approach to teaching.
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