middle solar term; spleen-stomach qi; singing breath control
Meanings
3 senses · 11 examplesnoun
middle qi; one of the 12 middle solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar
technicalIn the traditional 24 solar terms system, the 12 'middle' terms (中气) alternate with the 12 'section' terms (节气). These mark the sun's position every 30° along the ecliptic.
The traditional lunar calendar divides the year into two categories: jieqi and zhongqi.
The Spring Equinox is one of the middle solar terms among the 24 solar terms.
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If a lunar month lacks a middle solar term, it is designated as a leap month.
noun
middle qi; the qi of the middle burner (spleen and stomach) in Traditional Chinese Medicine
technicalRefers to the functional energy of the spleen and stomach, responsible for transforming food into nutrients and qi/blood. Deficiency or sinking of middle qi (中气不足/中气下陷) is a common TCM pattern characterized by fatigue, prolapsed organs, or digestive weakness.
Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that insufficient middle qi leads to indigestion.
Buzhong Yiqi Tang is a classic formula for treating sinking middle qi.
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He has weak spleen and stomach, insufficient middle qi, and tires easily.
People with abundant middle qi have a rosy complexion and abundant energy.
noun
breath control; breathing capacity and support in opera singing
technicalRefers specifically to a singer's ability to control their breath, maintain vocal power and resonance, and sustain long notes without strain. 'Full middle qi' (中气足) indicates strong breath support from the diaphragm, which is essential for traditional Chinese opera singing styles.
This performer has excellent breath control, singing for three hours straight without getting tired.
Peking opera requires strong breath support to sing high notes with fullness and power.
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He's getting old; his breath control isn't what it used to be, so he can't perform martial roles anymore.
Vocal exercises can strengthen breath control and improve singing stamina.