In Chinese medicine, the flow of Qi must be balanced for an individual to be healthy. Qi flows like water through channels called meridians to carry out its functions throughout the body. The major meridians are named after internal organs, and are typically related to the functions that those organs perform. For example, the Liver meridian is related to the liver and its role in detoxification, and the Heart meridian affects the blood vessels and circulation. There are some exceptions to this – the Spleen meridian is most closely associated with the pancreas and digestive function. And the triple heater – where is that?
There are twelve major meridians in the body, and they are organized into pairs within the Five Elements. (Future articles will address Chinese Five Element Theory.) Points along the meridians may be needled in acupuncture or pressed with thumbs and fingertips in acupressure and shiatsu. Pointwork affects the flow of Qi in the meridian, or its relationship to another meridian or area of the body. This is why working on a person’s feet and ankles can help ease lower back pain.
Over the next few months, I will be posting an article about one of the meridians each week. Please check in regularly to learn about them all.