Meridians Are Energetic Channels Within the Body

Qi Pathways

Female Acupuncture Model with flowers in background.
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Meridians are the pathways of qi (chi) and blood flow through the body. Qi flows continuously from one meridian to another. Any break in the flow is an indication of imbalance. If a person's vitality or energy is recognizably diminished it is an indication that the body's organs or tissues are functioning poorly, therefore the qi flow is inadequate.

Meridian Healing System

Originating in Chinese Medicine, the meridian healing system is based on the concept that an insufficient supply of qi makes a person vulnerable to disease. Restoring the qi to its optimal flow is the ultimate goal in restoring overall health and well being to the individual. Acupuncturists, Chinese herbalists, massage therapists, and other holistic health practitioners assist clients in repairing dysfunctional areas within their meridian systems as a means to restore a natural balance by utilizing various healing methods.

Jing luo is the Chinese term for meridians or energy channels. Jing meridians are the vertical interior channels within the meridian system. Luo are the horizontal connecting lines. Jing and lou work in concert, creating a seamless and healthful flow throughout the body. Unless of course, there is a break which indicates imbalance.

The meridian system is used in herbal therapies, massage, acupuncture, acupressure, meridian tapping, and Shiatsu.

Twelve Major Meridians

The twelve major meridians correspond to specific human organs. Yin meridians flow upwards while Yang meridians flow downwards. Pathways corresponding to the Yang organ are often used to treat disorders of its related Yin organ.

Chinese Names of the Major Meridians

Lung Meridian Arm Tai Yin Lu1 - Lu11
Stomach Meridian Leg Yang Ming St1 - St45
Heart Meridian Arm Shao Yin Ht1 - Ht9
Small Intestine Meridian Arm Tai Yang Si1 - Si19
Bladder Meridian Leg Tai Yang Kidney Bl1 - Bl67
Kidney Meridian Leg Shao Yin Kidney K1 - K19
Pericardium Meridian Arm Jue Yin Pc1 - Pc9
Triple Burner Meridian Arm Shao Yang Sj1 - Sj23
Gall Bladder Meridian Leg Shao Yang Gb1 1 Gb44
Spleen Meridian Leg Tai Yin Sp1 - Sp21
Liver Meridian Leg Jue Yin Lr1 - Lr14
Large Intestine Meridian Arm Yang Ming Li1 - Li20

Sources

  • The Fifteen Luo (Connecting) Points / Excerpts from the book: Acupuncture, Meridian Theory and Acupuncture Points
  • Buddha Body / The Master Meridian Check
  • The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Natural Remedies by C. Norman Shealy M.D., Ph.D.
  • The Complete Guide to Natural Healing by Tom Monte and the Editors of National Health Magazine
  • Watsu and the Meridians

Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.

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Desy, Phylameana lila. "Meridians Are Energetic Channels Within the Body." Learn Religions, Aug. 26, 2020, learnreligions.com/what-are-meridians-1724844. Desy, Phylameana lila. (2020, August 26). Meridians Are Energetic Channels Within the Body. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/what-are-meridians-1724844 Desy, Phylameana lila. "Meridians Are Energetic Channels Within the Body." Learn Religions. https://www.learnreligions.com/what-are-meridians-1724844 (accessed March 29, 2024).