Nso As a Way to Feed Your Chi

Aug 12

Written By Oma

In Igbo spirituality, the concept of Nso (sacred taboos or prohibitions) plays an important role in maintaining balance and harmony within each person’s life. Nso is typically seen as merely a set of restrictive rules, but in reality, it can serve a much deeper purpose like "feeding" or nourishing your Chi.

Your Chi is the spiritual force that guides your destiny, influences your decisions, and shapes your experiences. It is the most personal and intimate aspect of your spirituality, a connection between you and the cosmic mind of the universe (Etu or Uche Chukwu). To keep your Chi strong, aligned, and receptive to your needs and desires, it is important to adhere to certain taboos, or Nso/Iwu, which are sacred to you and your Chi.

What Does It Mean to "Feed Your Chi"?

Feeding your Chi means nurturing, recharging and empowering your energetic self, to make sure that it remains proactive and beneficial in your life. Just as you would feed your physical body to keep it healthy, feeding your Chi involves maintaining a "spiritual" diet, one that is rich in observance of divine principles in alignment with your cosmic destiny.

When you adhere to your Nso, you are offering spiritual sustenance to your Chi. This act of respect and discipline can keeps your Chi strong, to guide you effectively and protect you from harm.

The Significance of Nso in Feeding Your Chi

Spiritual Discipline: Nso represents the boundaries within which your spiritual discipline must operate. Observing these boundaries is not about restriction but about channeling your spiritual energy in a way that is most beneficial to you. Every Nso you follow is a conscious decision to align with the sacred energy of your Chi, to equip it with positive energy through your discipline and self control.
Energetic Exchange: When you adhere to your Nso, you engage in a reciprocal relationship with your Chi. This is an energetic exchange where your self restraint and discipline feed into your Chi, and in return, your Chi provides you with guidance, protection, and blessings. This exchange keeps your spiritual energy in harmony, it makes sure that your path remains clear and prosperous.
Protection and Guidance: Following your Nso ensures that you stay within the protective sphere of your Chi. Violating these taboos weakens the connection and can lead to spiritual misalignment, opening you up to negative influences. You are effectively feeding your Chi with the energy it needs to safeguard your life and steer you towards your true purpose by keeping your Nso.
Personal Alignment: Nso on a personal level is highly subjective and unique to each person. What might be a taboo for one person may not be for another. This individuality reflects the unique relationship between you and your Chi. When you are aware and mindful of your specific Nso, you are honoring the specific needs and cosmic expressions of your Chi, which in turn, keeps you aligned with your true self and purpose.

How to Keep Your Nso (Iwu) and Feed Your Chi

Know Your Nso: The first step in feeding your Chi is to understand what Nso applies to you. This can be discovered through spiritual divination, or most importantly personal observation of what affects you positively or negatively. Your community, family lineage, and personal experiences will all contribute to what is considered sacred for you.
Conscious Observance: Once you know your Nso, it is important to observe them consciously. This means integrating these practices into your daily life, not out of fear, but out of reverence and a desire to maintain spiritual harmony.
Spiritual Reflection: Regularly reflect on your relationship with your Chi. Are you following your Nso? How does adhering to these taboos make you feel? Use this reflection to deepen your connection with your Chi and adjust your practices as needed to maintain that connection.
Express Gratitude: Regularly express gratitude to your Chi for the guidance and protection it offers. This can be through prayer, offerings, or simply living in a way that honors your Nso.
Seek Spiritual Support: If you find it challenging to adhere to your Nso or feel disconnected from your Chi, seek guidance from a mentor, spiritual leader, or Dibia (traditional healer). They can provide insights and recommendations to help you realign with your Chi and reinforce your spiritual discipline.

In conclusion, Nso beyond being a set of prohibitions can also be seen as a spiritual practice that can energize and nourish your Chi. When you stick to your nso, you can maintain a strong and harmonious relationship with your divine essence, making sure that it continues to guide, protect, and favor you throughout your life.