The energy ball in the earlier scene is just a threat for Shen Wei's benefit.

You're probably right, but the way he wields it and the timing of it make it look like it's the energy ball that's making Zhao Yunlan choke himself. Eh.

(Btw, presumably that means many/most powered Dixingren can make energy balls, on top of their specific powers. The mirror girl can make them, too, but I'd always assumed her ability was, you know, being the mirror girl.)