Naturally neutral: The neutral nature of chi can be viewed as similar to the inherently neutral nature of the human voice. Without the voice neither a blessing nor a curse would find a vocal expression. Like chi, the voice has no pre-set intention, and so has no inherent negative or positive expression aside from the intent and nature of the speaker. Chi, again like the voice, is seen as having an independent existence that is only distinguished or defined by the "intent" or nature of the source emitting that chi.

Inherent in the body: Chi is the force that animates living beings - if there is no chi in the body, there is no life in the body. Chi flows throughout the body along a network of channels known as "meridians" which, as a whole, function like a responsive distribution system providing energy to each of the various organ systems whenever it is called for by those systems. Within this body network we can characterize different forms of chi: for example, we can distinguish "liver chi" or "heart chi" from "lung chi" or "spleen chi". In terms of chi, a healthy body is one in which all organ systems have ready access to optimum levels of chi. (See Shiatsu)

Inherent in the home, office or larger environment: Chi can also be defined or distinguished by the form and function it manifests in nature. To begin to understand or distinguish different types of chi in the environment, we can compare a mountain to a small hill. Here we find different quantities of a similar form and "function": Whereas the hill of sand might offer protection from a light sea breeze, a mountain range could provide protection from the powerful winds of a major hurricane. If we change the balance of the "equation" around, we find that the "chi strength" of a hill is insufficient to help us against that of a hurricane, and a mountain will completely block the fresh sea air. (See Yin and Yang) The differing qualities of chi in the "system" of our environment can be also distinguished - as in the body - in such a way that useful "equations" or functional relationships can seen. Ultimately, we can distinguish "wind chi" from "mountain chi" or "water chi from "fire chi". (See Five Elements) With correct understanding, we can establish "equations" of chi that serve our particular purpose, whether, for example, it be enjoying a fresh sea breeze or finding protection from an excess of it. (See Feng Shui)

All things emit and/or absorb chi in keeping with their manifest nature. Whether chi emanates from an inspiring rock formation, a beautifully rendered statue, or an abandoned strip mine is an important part of what determines its quality or "weight" in the "sum" of chi emitted at a given site. It is important to note here that the human intentions behind a given environmental change can have a powerful impact on the expression or "sum" of the chi that results or is emitted with in the effected environment. Hence, in Feng Shui, Shiatsu, Tai Chi, Chi Kung and even Taoist Meditation, the sum of conscious and unconscious intentions is of paramount importance.