Nursing approach to energy (Qi) flow

에너지 흐름(기(氣))의 간호학적 접근

This paper reviewed the concept of the energy flow in east and west. The differences in the views of the energy flow between oriental and western thought were compaired according to the ontological point of view. Human body take up energy and material on open system which maintains homeostasis. Human and environment are continuously interacting in a state of co-existence. Human has energy field called "aura" and seven chakra in energy outflow moving came as meridian. Qi is an invisible cosmic energy helping the fundamental human activity and changes. The basic action of Qi is helping the human growth and development, maintain the body temperature and preventing the intrusion of microorganism. In the normal healthy organism, all are maintained in balance and in a continuous circulation of Qi, while illness is the result of the disturbed Qi flow in the aspect of Qi-theory. Although there are differences between oriental and western medicine in approaches to clients, the basic point of view and philosophy have many similarities on fundamental level. An understanding of the basic thought of energy flow and oriental concept of energy flow implies a more comprehensive meaning than the perspective of unitary transformation discussed in modern western thought of energy flow. Now we should avoid narrow view of energy concept and regard energy flow as an integrated concept with Korean culture. Regarding Qi-theory which provides a comprehensive and humanistic and ethical foundation for nursing philisophy through this overview, it is hoped that a contribution will be made to the development of nursing intervention which is suitable to Korean context.