The Meridians
In Traditional Chinese medicine meridians refer to pathways in the body through which qi (energy) flows. These meridians are linked to the body's organs and influence physical and mental health.
The body has 12 primary meridians, each connected to an organ system.
Yin Meridians
The Yin meridians are primarily concerned with nourishing, cooling, and maintaining the body’s internal balance. They are associated with the Zang organs (solid organs that store essential substances) in TCM, which are considered more Yin in nature.
Lung (LU) – Governs respiration and the body's defense system.
Spleen (SP) – Responsible for digestion, transformation, and absorption of food.
Heart (HT) – Governs the blood and houses the mind (Shen).
Kidney (KD) – Stores essence, governs growth, reproduction, and development.
Liver (LV) – Ensures smooth flow of Qi and blood, supports emotional balance.
Pericardium (PC) – Protects the heart and influences the emotional state.
These meridians are generally related to functions that are internal, nourishing, or stabilizing the body.
Yang Meridians
The Yang meridians, in contrast, are more associated with the body's external, more active, and functional aspects. They correspond to the Fu organs (hollow organs that transport and process substances), which are considered more Yang in nature.
Large Intestine (LI) – Responsible for the elimination of waste.
Stomach (ST) – Involved in digestion and food absorption.
Small Intestine (SI) – Processes food and absorbs nutrients.
Bladder (BL) – Stores and eliminates urine.
Gallbladder (GB) – Stores bile, aids digestion, and supports decision-making.
Triple Warmer (SJ) – Regulates the body’s water metabolism and balances internal systems.
These Yang meridians are related to movement, transformation, and external functions that sustain the body's daily activities.
Along these pathways there are specific points that can be stimulated with acupressure to promote the flow of qi and target physical and emotional balance.
