According to its Asian developer and proponents, it can also restore balance to the body's Chi, enhancing oxygenation and restoring robust health.
The CHI MACHINE'S DEVELOPMENT
"Chi" (also rendered as "Qi") is a Chinese term referring to the basic component of energy and matter, often called "Life Force" or "Life Energy".
Dr. Shizuo Inoue, of Japan, an expert in oxygenating exercise, designed the original Chi Machine. He wanted to give a simple side-to-side fishtail-like movement to the body. In this way, Dr. Inoue had come to conclude that cellular absorption of oxygen can be improved. With his vast experience in alternate health practices, he saw yoga, Tai Chi, breathing methods, jogging, aerobic exercise, swimming, etc., as different approaches to alleviating oxygen deficiency. His Chi Machine was to do that too, and also improve oxygenation for those unable to be so active.
Dr. Inouye's Chi Machine was originally marketed world-wide by Sun Ancon, and bought by many thousands.
Since the Chi Machine was invented, other companies have decided to make similar devices, often at a much lower cost. The purpose has remained the same, but later Chi devices have many design advances, such as allowing control of the speed of the swinging, enhancements to the movement pattern, re-engineering, and electronic timing.
WHAT DO CHI MACHINE DEVICES DO
Chi Health Devices work in a very simple way. They swing the body gently side-to-side from the ankle support (some models add a slight up-and-down movement). As this motion is on the axis of the spine, it results in a full body massage, which also involves internal organs and other systems.
EFFECTS OF THE SWAYING MOTION
The gentle, simple side-to-side fishtail-like movement envisioned by Dr. Inoue encourages the blood to circulate more efficiently from a caudal to anterior direction throughout the body. The body's systems all undergo massage in a steady, undulating motion, but without high impacts. A great many users say they can feel the strengthening of the Chi and a general sense of well-being. Afterwards, many experience a tingling, rushing sensation, gradually diminishing to a deep relaxation—not unlike what runners call a "natural" or "runner's high". That is a sign of the Chi device's effect on the body. These benefits are delivered by most Chi Health Devices, including of course the original Sun Ancon Chi Machine. Even people whose illness or age restricts their activity can benefit from the motion a Chi device imparts.
In the table at the bottom you can compare the differences of each of the Chi devices from the Original Chi Machine. For more on Chi devices click the links at right.
HOW IT IMPACTS HEALTH
The undulating motion has a holistic impact on the health. The functioning of internal organs is enhanced, detoxification is promoted. The back benefits from the gentle flexing and aligning of the spine. Motion is introduced to muscles, relaxing the one using it. And as nerves and muscles relax, so does the mind. The benefits of motion for muscles that might otherwise stay inactive are clear, and these benefits of passive exercise can come to those who cannot move easily on their own, without reducing energy levels
