Initial capital

We are born with an investment of Qi from our parents. This capital funds our growth and development from birth until death. The size of the initial investment (some are born with more than others) and how well it is maintained determines our fitness, health, and longevity.

What spends this resource? Mental and physical activity, growth, development, healing, and repair.

What retains it? Mental and physical rest and avoiding harm.

To some degree, it can be replenished by eating nutritious food, drinking unsullied water, and breathing clean air, as long as revenue surpasses expenditures.

Somebody who is born with a pittance but spends judiciously will fare much better than someone who is born with a windfall and spends lavishly.