About
憩 (qì) is an ideogrammic compound that conveys the idea of resting or relaxing. It is formed from an abbreviated version of 恬 (tián, meaning 'tranquil' or 'peaceful'), using the component 舌 (shé, tongue), combined with 息 (xī, 'breath' or 'rest'). The character 息 itself breaks down into 自 (zì, originally a picture of a nose) placed over 心 (xīn, heart or mind). Thus, the arrangement of 舌, 自, and 心 suggests calming one's breathing and settling the mind. 憩 is used in formal or literary contexts for a physical or mental pause, often after exertion or speech, reflecting a direct connection between restoring the breath and achieving peace of mind.
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