The Gallbladder Meridian...

For Courage and Vitality

The Gallbladder Meridian is a yang meridian and is paired with the Liver Meridian. This Meridian's Qi is responsible for decision making and good judgments, as well as providing courage and initiative.

The Gallbladder Meridian Route

This meridian begins just outside the outer corner of the eye, turns down towards the ear and then up to the forehead just within the hair line, then descends behind the ear to the corner of the skull. It then returns to the forehead above the center of the eye and moves down the head to the bottom of the skull. The Gallbladder Meridian continues down the neck to the shoulder, descends the side of the body along the ribs, to the waist and pelvic. It continues down the outside of the leg, to the ankle, ending on the outside of the 4th toe.

Gallbladder Meridian Element: Wood Physical Imbalances: insomnia - waking up suddenly, very early in the morning and not being able to fall asleep again, tendons, tears, nails, Eye diseases, glaucoma, and night blindness, stiff neck, ringing in the ears, dizziness Emotional Imbalances: Timidity, indecision, easily discouraged... and resentment.

When Balanced: courage and initiative, decision making and good judgment, sound sleep, healthy expression and processes of creativity, planning, brainstorming, analysis, and decision-making Peak Hours: 11pm - 1am Gallbladder Meridian Foods: 'Woody foods' - leafy greens, grains... A great habit to take on, is having a green smoothie ( leafy greens + other veggies - juiced or blended ) a day! Amazing!

Gallbladder Acu-Points
GB1 Tongziliao - Tinnitus, deafness, headache, redness swelling and pain of the eye, glaucoma, facial distortion GB2 Tinghui - Tinnitus, deafness GB3 Shangguan and GB4 Migraine, tinnitus, deafness, facial distortion, lockjaw, toothache GB5 Xuanlu - and GB6- Migraine, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, sudden loss of voice GB7 - Qubin - Headache, toothache, lockjaw, sudden loss of voice GB8 - Shuaigu - Migraine, vertigo, vomiting GB9, GB10, and GB11 Headache, deafness, tinnitus

GB12 - Wangu - Headache, stiffness and pain of the neck, toothache, ear problems, facial distortion, epilepsy, malaria

GB13 Headache, dizziness GB14 - Yangbai - Pain of the eyes, blurred vision, twitching of the eye lids, facial distortion, headache and facial pain GB15 - Toulinqi - Headache, vertigo, redness, swelling anmd pain in the eyes, nasal obstruction, tinnitus, deafness GB16 - Blurring of vision, glaucoma, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, headache, nasal congestion, swelling of facial region GB17 and GB18 Headache, dizziness, acute stiffness of the lips, toothache GB19 Headache, dizziness, rigidity and pain of the neck, psychosis, epilepsy GB20 - Fengchi - Common cold, nasal congestion, headache, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, vertigo, tinnitus, deafness, epilepsy, stiffness and pain in the neck

GB21 - Jianjing - Stiffness and pain of neck, shoulder and back, paralysis of upper limbs, breast abscess

GB22 and GB23 Chest congestion, pain in the hypochondrium GB24 Riyue - Jaundice, vomiting, acid regurgitating GB25 Jingmeng - Urinary retention or pain and difficulty with passing urine, kidney problems, edema, lumbar pain, abdominal distension, diarrhea

GB26 Daimai - Abdominal pain, amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, hernia, pain in the lumbar GB27 and GB28 - Abdominal pain, hernia, constipation

GB29 Juliao - Lumbar pain, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities

GB30 - Huantiao - Pain in the loins, obstruction of lower limbs

GB31 - Fengshi - Lumbar pain, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities GB32 - Lumbar pain, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities GB33 Xiyangguan - Coldness and pain of the knees and numbness of shanks

GB34 Yanglingquan - Hypochondriac pain, bitter taste in the mouth, jaundice, vomiting, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, stiffness of neck GB35 - Yangjiao - Distention and fullness of the chest and hypochondria, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, depressive psychosis GB36 - Waiqiu - Distention and fullness of the chest and hypochondria, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, depressive psychosis

GB37 Guangming - Eye pain, night blindness, blurring of vision, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, disternding pain in the breast GB38 Yangfu - Migraine, distending pain in the chest, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, sore throat GB39 - Xuanzhong - Stiffness of the neck, distending pain in the chest, sore throat, numbness and pain of the lower extremities

GB40 Qiuxu - Distention and pain in the chest, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, redness, swelling and pain of eyes, cataract, malaria GB41 Zulinqi - Migraine, redness and pain of the eye, pain in the hypochondrium, spasm, pain and numbness of the foot and toes, irregular menstruation, breast abscess GB42 Headache, eye pain, tinnitus, deafness GB43 Xiaxi - Headache, dizziness, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, tinnitus, deafness, breast abscess GB44 Zuqiaoyin - Migraine, redness, swelling and pain of the eyes, pain in the hypochondria, tinnitus, deafness, insomnia, cough

The Liver Meridian

The Liver Meridian is a yin meridian paired with the Gallbladder Meridian. It is responsible for filtering, detoxifying, nourishing, replenishing, and storing blood. It regulates the amount of blood circulating, withdrawing and storing it when resting or sleeping, and releasing it during exercise.

Meridian Route

The Liver Meridian starts inside of the big toenail, crosses the top of the foot, passes in front of the inside ankle and up the inner aspect of the leg. It continues upwards, passes the knee, continues along the inner thigh to the groin and pubic region, where it circulates the external genitals.

It connects with the conception vessel in the lower abdomen and further up enters both the liver and gallbladder. The meridian then dips into the ribcage, runs up through the throat, opening to the eye, and ends at the crown of the head where it connects with the governing vessel. One meridian branch circles the mouth and another branch, from within the liver, reaches the lungs, which then restarts the cycle of qi. Element: Wood Physical Imbalances: Liver function is reflected externally in the condition of finger- and toenails and by the eyes and vision. Blurry vision is often a result of liver malfunction rather than an eye problem (even Western medicine recognizes the symptomatic yellow eyes of liver jaundice). Emotional Imbalances: The liver governs growth and development, drive and desires, ambitions and creativity. Obstruction of liver energy can cause intense feelings of frustration, rage, and anger... as well as irritability, resentment, jealousy and depression When Balanced: Kindness, benevolence, compassion, and generosity Peak Hours: 1am-3am

Foods: Leafy Greens... try a liver detox ... and an all-around detox diet.

The Liver Meridian Acu-Points

LR14 - Qimen - Hypochondriac pain, bitter taste in the mouth, vomiting, hiccup LR13 - Zhangmen - Abdominal pain, distension and mass, diarrhea, vomiting, pain in the loins and spine

LR12 - Hernia, abdominal pain, pain in the external genitalia LR11 - Irregular menstruation LR10 - Lower abdominal pain

LR9 - Lower abdominal pain LR8 - Ququan - Irregular menstruation, unsmooth urination, swelling and pain in the knee

LR7 - Xiguan - Swelling and pain of the knee, obstruction syndromes of lower limbs LR6 - Zhongdu - Hypochondriac pain, abdominal pain and distension, diarrhea, hernia LR5 - Ligou - Irregular menstruation, prolapse of the uterus, hernia, lower abdominal pain

LR4 - Zhongfeng - Hernia, dysuria, abdominal pain, jaundice LR3 - Taichong - Headache, vertigo, redness and swelling pain of eyes, glaucoma, nearsightedness, facial paralysis, epilepsy, vomiting, hiccup, stomachache LR2 - Xingjian - Headache, vertigo, travel sickness, swelling and pain of the eye, glaucoma, insomnia, painful urination, facial paralysis, hypochondriac pain, bitter taste in the mouth, jaundice, swelling and pain in the dorsum of the foot and numbness of toes LR1 - Dadun - Headache, coma, hernia, epilepsy, contraction of the genitalia, unsmooth urination, irregular menstruation

The Lung Meridian

The Lung Meridian is a yin meridian and controls breath and energy. It is paired with the Large Intestine Meridian.

Together with the Heart Meridian it assists with circulation of the blood. Breathing also directly controls the autonomous nervous system, which is why it is basis for meditation and chi exercises (Tai Chi, Chi Gong, Yoga...) Breathing hence forms a bridge between body and mind.

Meridian Route

The lung meridian begins deep in the solar plexus region (middle burner) and descends to meet the large intestine. Winding up past the stomach, it crosses the diaphragm, divides, and enters the lungs. It then reunites, passes up the middle of the windpipe to the throat and divides again, surfacing in the hollow region near the front of the shoulder (LU-1). From here it passes over the shoulder and down the front of the arm along the outer border of the biceps muscle. It continues down the forearm to the wrist

just above the base of the thumb (LU-9). The channel crosses the height of the thumb muscle to finish at the corner of the thumbnail.

Element: Metal Physical Imbalances: Disorders of the chest, lung, throat and nose Emotional Imbalances: The Lungs are responsible for establishing the foundation of Qi for the entire body. The Lungs house the body's Seven Emotions and are responsible for self-protection and self-preservation. Their negative attributes are disappointment, sadness, grief, despair, anxiety, shame and sorrow.

When Balanced: Righteousness, dignity, integrity and high self-esteem Peak Hours: 3am-5am Foods: Air

The Lung Meridian Acu-Points

LU1 - Zhongfu - Cough, asthma, distending fullness of lung, supression in the chest, pain in chest, shoulder and back LU2 - Yunmen - Cough, asthma, pain in chest, shoulder and back

LU3 - Tianfu - Dyspnea, epistaxis, pain in the medial portion of the upper arm. LU4 - Xiabai - Cough, irritable and distending sensation in the chest, pain in the medial portion or the upper arm. LU5 - Chize - Cough, dyspnea, afternoon fever, sore throat, dryness of the tongue, fullness in the chest, pain of the elbow and arm, vomiting

LU6 - Kongzui - Cough, dyspnea, sore throat, aphonia, headache

LU7 - Lieque - Cough, asthma, migraine, stiff neck, sore throat, toothache, distorted face, feverish urination, feverish sensation in the palms

LU8 - Jinqu - Cough, asthma, sore throat, pain in the chest, back and wrist LU9 - Taiyuan - Cough, asthma, sore throat, pain in the chest and back, feverish sensation in the palms, weakness and pain of the wrist LU10 - Yuji - Cough, aphonia, sore throat, feverish sensation in the palms LU11 - Shaoshang - Cough, asthma, sore throat, abdominal fullness, mania

The Large Intestine Meridian - Minister of Transportation

The Large Intestine Meridian is a Yang meridian and Paired with the Lung Meridian. It controls the transformation of digestive wastes from liquid to solid state and transports the solids outwards for excretion through the rectum. It plays a major role in the balance and purity of bodily fluids and assists the lungs in controlling the skin's pores and perspiration.

The Large Intestine Meridian Route

The large intestine meridian begins by the outside corner of the index fingernail. It runs along the edge of the finger, between the two tendons of the thumb at the wrist joint and along the outer edge of the arm to the elbow. It continues to the outside of the shoulder muscle, then crosses the shoulder blade and travels upward over the muscle at the side of the neck to the cheek, passing through the lower gums, then over the top lip. It ends beside the nostril.

Element: Metal Physical Imbalances:

Paired with the lungs, the large intestine depends on the lungs for movement via the expansion and contraction of the diaphragm, which works like a pump to give impetus to peristalsis by regulating abdominal pressure. Sluggish bowels may be stimulated by deep diaphragmic breathing and by tonifying lung energy. Congested lungs and clogged bronchial passages may be cleared by purging the bowels. Symptoms of abdominal pain, intestinal cramping, diarrhea, constipation and dysentery as well as disorders of the mouth, teeth, nose and throat.
Emotional Imbalances: The Large Intestine is affected by the emotions of sadness, grief, and worry. An energetic imbalance in the Large Intestine can result in physical weakness and provoke emotional introversion, accompanied by feelings of depression, irritability, discouragement, distress and apathy. Low self-esteem Peak Hours: 5am-7am

Large Intestine Acu-Points

LI1 - Shangyang - Apoplexy, coma, toothache, deafness, numbness of the fingers, high fever LI2 - Erjian - Toothache, facial paralysis, dry mouth, sore throat, numbness of the fingers LI3 - Sanjian - Toothache, epistaxis, sore throat, swelling and pain of the dorsum of the hand, numbness of the fingers, somnolence

LI4 - Hegu - Redness, swelling and pain of the eyes, facial paralysis, toothache, swelling and pain of the throat, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, dysentry, common cold, cough, function of sweating LI5 - Yangxi - Headache, toothache, tinnitus, deafness, mania, epilepsy, pain in the wrist

LI6 - Pianli - Tinnitus, deafness, toothache, facial paralysis, pain in forearm LI7 - Wenliu - Headache, sore throat, abdominal pain and aching pain in shoulder and arm LI10 - Shousanli - Toothache, swelling of cheeks, abdominal pain, diarrhea, numbness of the upper limbs LI11 - Quchi - Toothache, redness, swelling and pain of the eyes, sore throat, abdominal pain, diarrhea, hypertension

LI12 - Zhouliao - Pain in elbow and arm, numbness of upper limbs LI13 - Shouwuli - Pain in elbow and arm, somnolence LI14 - Binao - Pain in shoulder and arm, stiff neck, shortsightedness, night blindness LI15 - Jianyu - Pain in shoulder and arm, scrofula (tuberculous infection of the lymph nodes in the neck)

LI17 - Tianding - Sore throat, loss of voice, sensation of something "stuck" in the throat LI18 - Futu - Cough, asthma, sore throat, scofula, goiter

LI19 - Kouheliao - Toothach, facial paralysis, nose bleeds, nasal polyps LI20 - Yingxiang - Nasal obstruction, Loss of smell or taste, nasal discharge, nasal polyps, rhinitis, sinusitis, allergies.

The Stomach Meridian

Physical and Emotional Nourishment
The stomach meridian is a yang meridian and is paired with the Spleen yin meridian. It functions with the Spleen Meridian in the assimilation of Qi from food through digestion and absorption.

The Stomach Meridian Route

The stomach meridian starts at ST1, between the lower eyelid and the eye socket, and runs down the face and loops up to the forehead. At ST8, it backtracks down across the shoulder, down the ribs, along the stomach, and then down the leg ending at ST45, the outside edge of the second toe.

Stomach Meridian Element: Earth element with strong nurturing qualities. Physical Imbalances: Digestive and stomach problems - abdominal pain, distension, edema, vomiting, sore throat, facial paralysis, upper gum toothache, nose bleeding. Emotional Imbalances: Anxiety, worry, skepticism, poor confidence, feelings of suspicion or mistrust. When Balanced: Fairness, openness and nurturance. Peak Hours: 7-9 am Chakra: Root Chakra

Foods: Root Vegatables such as Carrots, parsnip, turnips, and all the other types of food that come from the earth.

Stomach Meridian Acu-Points

ST1 Chengqi - Redness, swelling and pain of the eye, night blindness, twitching of the eyelids ST2 Sibai - Myopia, corneal opacity, redness, itching and pain of the eye, twitching of the eyelids, facial paralysis, headache, vertigo ST3 Juliao - Facial paralysis, twitching of the eyelids, epistaxis, toothache, swelling of the lips and cheeks ST4 Dicang - Twitching of the eyelids, twitching of the corner of the mouth, facial distortion, drooling

ST5 Swelling of the cheek, toothache ST6 Jiache - Lockjaw, Swelling of the cheek, toothache and swelling of cheeks ST7 Xiaguan - Deafness, tinnitus, nasal congestion, toothache, lockjaw, facial distortion and swelling and pain of the cheeks ST8 Touwei - Headache, vertigo, twitching of the eyelids

ST9 Renying - Sore throat, scrofula, goiter, asthma, hypertension ST10 Sore throat, cough and asthma ST11 Chest congestion, cough and asthma, dyspnea ST12 ST16 Cough, asthma, sore throat ST18 Rugen - Chest pain, cough and asthma, hiccup

ST19 ST21 Stomach ache, Gastric pain, vomiting, poor appetite, abdominal distention, diarrhea

ST22 Abdominal distention and pain, borborygmus, diarrhea ST23 Psychosis, irritability, protruding tongue ST24 Manic psychosis, vomiting, protruding tongue, stiff tongue ST25 Tianshu - Abdominal distention, borborygmus, pain around the umbilicus, constipation, diarrhea, dysentery, irregular menstruation ST26 Abdominal pain, hernia ST27 Lower abdominal distention and pain ST28 Shuidao - Lower abdominal distention, infertility, hernia ST29 Guilai - Irregular menstruation, hernia, abdominal pain, hernia, prolapse of the uterus ST30 Qichong - Hernia, irregular menstruation, irritability, impotence

ST31 Muscular atrophy, weakness, numbness and pain of lower extremities, coldness and pain of the lower back and knee ST32 Futu - Paralysis or weakness of the lower extremities, coldness and pain of the lower back and knee ST33 Coldness and pain of the lower extremities and knee, limitation of the lower extremities, hernia, abdominal distention and pain ST34 Liangqiu - Stomach ache, Acute gastric pain, swelling and pain of the knee joint, weakness of the lower extremities

ST35 Dubi - Swelling and pain of the knee joint ST36 Gastric pain, vomiting, dysphagia, abdominal distention, borborygmus, diarrhea, indigestion, dysentery, constipation, abdominal pain, palpitation, shortness of breath, poor appetite, lassitude, dizziness, insomnia, cough and asthma, pain in the knee joint ST37 Shangjuxu - Abdominal pain, borborygmus, constipation, diarrhea, muscular atrophy, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities ST38 Tiaokou - Coldness, pain, and weakness of the shoulder, muscular atrophy, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, swelling of the foot, spasm ST39 Xiajuxu - Lower abdominal pain, pain in the lower back referring to pain in the testicles, diarrhea, dysentery, muscular atrophy, weakness, numbness and pain of the lower extremities

ST40 Fenglong - Vomiting, constipation, cough, excessive phlegm, asthma, psychosis, headache, dizziness, paralysis or weakness of the lower extremities ST41 Jiexi - Pain of the ankle joint, weakness and muscular atrophy, numbness and pain of the lower extremities, headache, dizziness, manic psychosis, abdominal distention, constipation ST42 Chongyang - Gastric pain, abdominal distention, swelling and pain of the dorsum of the foot, swelling of the face, toothache, deviation of the mouth and eye ST43 Xiangu - Myasthenia of the upper eyelid and difficulty opening the eyes, facial and general edema, swelling and pain of the dorsum of the foot, abdominal pain ST44 Neiting - Toothache, sore throat, dry mouth, epistaxis, abdominal distention, constipation, gastric pain, swelling and pain of the dorsum of the foot, dysentry, diarrhea ST45 Lidui - Swelling of the face, toothache, sore throat, epistaxis, nightmare, manic psychosis

The Spleen Meridian

The Spleen Meridian Route
The spleen meridian starts at the tip of the great toe. From there it runs along the medial aspect of the foot at the junction of the red and white skin. It continues up the inner leg, up across the groin, the stomach, through the diaphragm. It connects with the stomach and heart meridian.

Boost Your Self-esteem...

This meridian is a yin meridian and is paired with the stomach yang meridian.

Element: Earth element with strong nurturing qualities. Physical Imbalances: Digestive and stomach problems.

Emotional Imbalances: Worry, poor concentration, forgetful-ness, cloudy thought process, addiction, attachment, obsession, gluttony, jealousy, self-pity, strong concern about opinions of others, stubbornness, low self-esteem, poor self image. When Balanced: Fairness, openness, deep thinking and reminiscence

Peak Hours: 9-11 am

Spleen Meridian Acu-Points

SP21 Dabao - Chest pain, cough, asthma, aching and weakness of the limbs SP20 Cough SP19 and SP 18 - Pain in the chest SP17 Pain in the chest, hypochondrium, nausea, vomiting, jaundice

SP16 Abdominal pain SP15 Daheng - Diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain SP14 and SP13 Diarrhea, constipation, hernia SP12 Chongmen - Lower abdominal pain, hernia, irregular menstruation

SP11 Inguinal region pain SP10 Xuehai - Gynecological problems, menstruation problems, eczema

SP9 Xinlingquan - Abdominal pain, abdominal distention, incontinence of urine, diarrhea, jaundice SP8 Diji - Abdominal pain, diarrhea, dysuria, edema, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, spermatorrhea, impotence, lumbar pain SP7 Lougu - Abdominal distention, numbness of the lower extremities SP6 Sanyinjiao - Irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, premature ejaculation, pain in the penis, hernia, testicular atrophy, abdominal distention, diarrhea, paralysis of the foot, muscular pain, diseases of the skin, urticaria, insomnia, headache, dizziness SP5 Shangqiu - Abdominal distention, pain in the foot and ankle, hemorrhoids, diarrhea, constipation, jaundice

SP4 Gongsun - Abdominal distention, acute and chronic stomachache, vomiting, insomnia SP3 Taibai - Gastric pain, abdominal pain, diarrhea, heavyness of the body, pain of joints SP2 Dadu - Gastric pain, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting

SP1 Yinbai - Unconsciousness, convulsion, menorrhagia, bloody stools, psychosis, nightmares

The Kidney Meridian - Root of Life

Reservoir of Energy - the seat of courage and willpower

The kidney meridian is a yin meridian (flows upward), controls the growth and development of bones and nourishes the marrow, which is the body's source of red and white blood cells. A weak kidney meridian is therefore a prime cause of anemia and immune deficiency. In traditional Chinese medicine, the spinal cord and the brain are forms of marrow, and therefore poor memory, inability to think clearly, and backache are all regarded as indicators of impaired kidney function and deficient kidney energy.

Kidney vitality is reflected externally by the condition of head and body hair and is associated with the entrance hole of the ears. Tinnitus (ringing ears) is thus a sign of kidney dysfunction. The kidneys are the seat of courage and willpower, and therefore any impairment in kidney energy results in feelings of fear and paranoia. Intense fear can cause involuntary urination, a phenomenon also known to Western medicine. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste metabolites from the blood and moving them onwards to the bladder for excretion in urine. Along with the large intestine, the kidneys control the balance of fluids in the body. In addition, they regulate the body's acid-alkaline balance (pH) by selectively filtering out or retaining various minerals.
Paired with: The Bladder Meridian Element: Water Physical Imbalances: Chest pain, asthma, abdominal pain, irregular menstruation, impotence, hernia Emotional Imbalances: Hysteria, paranoia, Depression, fear, loneliness, insecurity and shock When Balanced: Wisdom, rationality, clear perception, gentleness and self-understanding. Peak Hours: 5-7 pm

Foods: Water... Juice fasting and water fasting are great ways get your kidneys back into shape... including a kidney cleanse...

Kidney Acu-Points

KI27 - Shufu - Cough, asthma, chest pain, vomiting and anorexia KI26 - Yuzhong - Cough with dyspnea, accumulation of phlegm, distention of the chest and hypochondriac region.

KI25 - Shengcang - Cough with dyspnea, chest pain.

KI24 - Lingxu - Cough with dyspnea, distention of the chest and hypochondriac region, masritis.

KI23 - Shenfeng - Cough with dyspnea, distention of the chest and hypochondriac region, mastitis.

KI22 - Bulang - Cough with dyspnea, distention of the chest and hypochondriac region, vomiting, anorexia.

KI21 - KI14 - Abdominal pain and distention, vomiting, diarrhea KI16 - Huangshu - Abdominal pain around the umbilicus, diarrhea, dysentry, constipation, hernia, pain in the loins and spine KI13 - Irregular menstruation, diarrhea KI12 - Dahe - Lower abdominal pain, hernia, impotence KI11 - Henggu - Lower abdominal pain, hernia

KI10 Yingu - Impotence, hernia, irregular menstruation, retention of urine

KI9 Zhubin - Depressive psychosis, epilepsy, abdominal pain and distension, vomiting KI8 Jiaoxin - Irregular menstruation, hernia, diarrhea, constipation

KI7 Fulio - Abdominal pain and distention, diarrhea, night sweating, stiffness and pain in loins and spine.

KI6 Zhaohai - Insomnia, dry mouth, sore throat, constipation, retention of urine, irregular menstruation KI5 - Shuiquan - Irregular menstruation, unsmooth urination

KI4 Dazhong - Cough, asthma, retention of urine, frequent urination, pain in the heel.

KI3 Taixi - Impotence, ankle pain, frequent need to urinate, deafness, tinnitus, irregular menstruation, lumbar pain, headache, dizziness, blurring of vision, cough, asthma, diabetes, insomnia, pain in the heel

KI2 - Rangu - Headache, dizziness, sore throat, diabeted, irregular menstruation

KI1 Yongquan - Kidney disorders, loss of consciousness, headache, pain of the neck, dizziness, infantile convulsion, manic psychosis, nausea, vomiting, hysteria

The Urinary Bladder Meridian

The Urinary Bladder Meridian is a Yang Meridian and is paired with the Yin Kidney Meridian.

Bladder Meridian - Flow

This meridian is the longest and most complex meridian. It starts at the inner portion of the eyelid and travels across the front of the head to the back of the head. It then forms two branches that travel down the back to the sacrum along the spine. It then goes along the middle of the butt, and then to the back of the thigh. The two branches then meet behind the knee and travel between the calf along the Achilles tendon to the outside of the foot. The Urinary Bladder Meridian ends at the outside of the baby toe.

Element: Water element Physical Imbalances: headaches, back problems, or urinary problems including excessive urination and incontinence, pain in the eyes, tearing, colds. Emotional Imbalances: Lack of energy, being inflexible, fearful - Resisting change and basic negative attitude are further expressions of Bladder Meridian imbalance. When Balanced: Hopeful, looking forward, calmness, peaceful Peak Hours: 3 pm -5 pm Foods:

Water

Bladder Meridian Acu-Points

BL1 - Jingming Blurred vision, dizziness, nearsightness, night blindness, color blindness BL2 Cuanzhu - Facial distortion, blurred vision, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, twitching of eyelids, prolapse of eyelids, headache BL3 Headache, vertigo, nasal congestion BL4 Headache, nasal congestion, epistaxis, blurring of vision BL5 Headache, dizziness BL6 Blurring of vision, dizziness BL7 Nasal congestion, nasal polyps, nasal ulcers, rhinorrhea, epistaxis, headache, dizziness

BL8 Luoque - Blurring of vision, tinnitus BL9 Yuzhen - Headache and neck pain, blurring of vision, nasal congestion BL10 Tianzhu - Headache, stiff neck, dizziness, headache, pain in the shoulder and back, depressive psychosis, epilepsy

BL11 - Dazhu - Stiff neck, pain in the shoulder and back, headache, nasal obstruction, sore throat, cough and fever BL12 Fendmen - Common cold, cough, fever, headache, neck stiffness, pain in the chest and back BL13 Feishu - Fever, cough, hemoptysis, night sweating, nasal congestion BL14 Jueyinshu - Angina pectoris, palpitation, vomiting, cough, chest congestion BL15 Xinshu - Angina pectoris, palpitation, chest congestion, shortness of breath, insomnia, cough and night sweating BL16 Dushu - Angina pectoris, chest congestion, gastric pain, abdominal pain, cough, asthma BL17 Geshu - Vomiting, Acute epigastric pain, hiccup, dysphagia, blood in the stools, cough, asthma BL18 Ganshu - Jaundice, dizziness, eye diseases, vomiting, back pain, epilepsy BL19 Danshu - Jaundice, bitter taste in mouth, fever BL20 Pishu - Abdominal distention, jaundice, vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery, blood in the stools BL21 Weishu - Vomiting, abdominal distention, pain in the chest and back BL22 Sanjiaoshu - Abdominal distention, vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery, stiffness and pain in the loins and back BL23 Shenshu - Impotence, lower back pain, irregular menstruation, deafness, tinnitus, cough, asthma

BL24 Qihaishu - Abdominal distention, hemorrhoids BL25 Dachangshu - Abdominal distention, diarrhea, constipation, bleeding hemorrhoids, lumbar pain BL26 Guanyuanshu - Pain in the lumbosacral region, abdominal distention, diarrhea, frequent urination BL27 Xianochangshu - Diarrhea, urinary problems, lower abdominal distention and pain, irregular menstruation BL28 Pangguangshu - Dysuria, retention of urine, Stiffness and pain in loins and spine, leg pain, diarrhea, constipation BL29 Zhonglushu - Diarrhea, hernia, lower back pain and stiffness BL30 Baihuanshu - Irregular menstruation, hernia BL31 Shhangliao - Dysuria, seminal emission, impotence, irregular menstruation, prolapse of uterus BL32 Ciliao - Irregular menstruation, pain, weakness, and numbness of the lower extremities, hernia, dysuria, impotence BL33 Zhongliao - Irregular menstruation, constipation, diarrhea, unsmooth urination BL34 Xialiao - Lower abdominal pain, constipation, unsmooth urination, irregular menstruation BL35 Huiyang - Diarrhea, blood in the stools, hemorrhoids, impotence

BL36 Chengfu - Pain in the waist, hemorrhoids BL37 Yinmen - Lumbar pain, pain, numbness and weakness of the lower extremities BL39 Weiyang - Stiffness and pain of waist and spine, lower abdominal distention, spasmodic pain in foot and legs

BL40 Weizhong - Lumbar pain, spasm and weakness of the lower extremities, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea BL41 Rigidity and pain of the neck, spasm of the shoulder and back, numbness of the elbow and arm BL42 Cough, asthma, pulmonary tuberculosis, neck stiffness, pain in the shoulder and back BL43 Gaohuang - Pulmonary tuberculosis, cough, asthma, poor appetite, loose stools, emaciation and weakness, aching pain in the shoulder and back BL44 Cardiac pain, palpitations, insomnia, chest congestion, cough, asthma BL45 Cough, asthma, pain of the shoulder and back BL46 Geguan - Vomiting, belching, hiccup, stiffness and pain of the back and spine BL47 Chest congestion and hypochondrium, vomiting, diarrhea, back pain BL48 Yanggang - Jaundice, abdominal pain, borborygmus, diarrhea, diabetes BL49 Abdominal distention, borborygmus, vomiting, diarrhea BL50 Abdominal distention, infantile dyspepsia, edema BL51 Abdominal pain, constipation, abdominal mass, breast disease BL52 Zhishi - Impotence, lumbar stiffness and pain

BL53 - Lumbar pain, abdominal distention

BL54 Zhibian - Dysuria, constipation, muscular atrophy, pain, numbness and motor impairment of the lower extremities, hemorrhoids BL55 Lumbar stiffness and pain, pain, numbness and weakness of the lower extremities, hernia BL56 - Hemorrhoids

BL58 Feiyang - Headache, dizziness, pain and weakness of the lumbar and leg, hemorrhoids BL59 Fuyang - Headache, heavy sensation of the head, pain, numbness and weakness of the lower extremities BL60 Kunlun - Acute lumbar pain, swelling and pain of the heel, difficult labor, headache, neck stiffness, dizziness

BL61 Pucan - Pain, numbness and weakness of the lower extremities

BL62 Epilepsy, manic psychosis, insomnia, headache, neck rigidity, pain of the lumbar and leg BL63 Jinmen - Headache, Manic psychosis, epilepsy, infantile convulsion, lumbar pain, pain, numbness and weakness of the lower extremities, pain in the external malleolus BL64 Jinggu - Headache, neck rigidity, cataract

BL65 - Shugu - Headache, neck rigidity, pain of the lumbar and the leg, dizziness BL66 Zutonggu - Headache, neck rigidity, dizziness, psychosis BL67 - Zhiyin - Headache, eye pain, nasal congestion, difficult labor

Bladder meridian top

The Small Intestine Meridian

Sorting of the Pure and Impure...

The small intestine meridian is a yang meridian and is paired with the heart yin meridian. It receives and transforms food by separating the Pure from the Impure, with the Pure becoming bodily fluids and the Impure becoming urine - this function also operates on emotional, mental and spiritual levels. This meridian is responsible for digestion, water absorbtion, nutrient absorption and bowel functions.

The Small Intestine Meridian Route

The Small Intestine Meridian starts from the tip of the little finger and crosses the wrist. It runs upwards along the posterior side of the forearm until it reaches the back of shoulder where it ends at the uppermost part of the back (the bottom of the neck). At this position, it travels externally across the neck and cheek until it reaches the outer corner of the eye and then ends in the ear.

Element: Fire Physical Imbalances: Signs include bluish lips with white border, emaciation, profuse sweating, swellings of nodules, hemicrania, tinnitus, pain around the ear, and pain depressing the abdomen. Emotional Imbalances: A feeling of mental deficiency due to inability to assimilate ideas, and insecurity. Forgetfulness, indecision, unclear thought process. Restlessness and difficulty in expressing emotions. When Balanced: Healthy expressions are love, joy, warmth, vitality, excitement, memory, ability in making decisions, clarity of thought.

Peak Hours: 1-3 pm Chakra: Root Chakra - Base Chakra Foods: Root Vegetables such as turnips and celery. Bitter greens (spinach, kale...).

The Small Intestine Acu-Points

SI19 - Tinggong - Tinnitus, deafness, otorrhea (discharge from the ear), Toothache, dysfunction of the maxillary joint SI18 - Quanliao - Twitching of eyelids, facial paralysis, tooth ache, swelling of the cheek

SI17 - Tianrong - Tinnitus, deafness, sore throat, swelling and pain of the neck SI16 - Sore throat, sudden loss of voice, pain and rigidity of the neck, tinnitus, deafness

SI15 - Jianzhongshu - Cough, asthma, pain in the shoulder and back SI14 - Jianwaishu - Pain or stiffness in the shoulder and back, cough, asthma SI13 - Quyuan - Pain in the shoulder and scapular region SI12 - Bingfeng - Pain in the shoulder and scapular region, aching and numbness of the upper extremities SI11 - Tianzong - Pain in the shoulder and arm, asthma, cough, brest abscess SI10 - Naoshu - Pain in the shoulder and arm SI9 - Jianzhen - Pain in the shoulder and arm, tinnitus, deafness

SI8 - Xiaohai - Pain in the elbow and arm, epilepsy SI7 - Zhizheng - Headache, dizziness, depressive, stiff neck, weakness of the joints, aching and dysfunction of the elbow, warts SI6 - Yanglao - Blurred vision, aching of the shoulder, back, elbow and arm, acute lumbar pain

SI5 - Yanggu - Neck pain, headache, redness, swelling and pain in the eyes, tinnitus, deafness, mania, epilepsy, pain of the hand and wrist SI4 - Wangu - Jaundice, cataract, tinnitus, deafness, pain in the lumbar and leg, contracture of the fingers, pain in the wrist, weakness to hold things in the hand, pain and rigidity of the head and neck SI3 - Houxi - Pain and rigidity of the head and neck, redness, swelling and pain in the eyes, sore throat, mania, pain in the lumbar and sacrum, acute spasm in the finger, elbow and arm, epilepsy, deafness SI2 - Qiangu - Numbness of the fingers, fever, headache, tinnitus, deafness SI1 - Shaoze - Apoplexy, loss of consciousness, insufficient lactation, sore throat

The Heart Meridian

The Heart Meridian Route

The heart meridian is a yin meridian and is paired with the Small Intestine meridian. It reveals itself through the brightness in the eyes, governs Fire and Heat, rules the blood and its vessels and directs circulation - it is the House of the Spirit. It originates from the heart, emerges and spreads over the heart system, passes through the diaphragm to connect with the small intestine. The exteriorly (surface) running part runs to the lung, then turns downward along the arm. It ends in the inner tip of the little finger.

It rules: blood, tongue, throat, sweat, facial complexion, adrenals, thyroid, prostate and pituitary

It opens into the tongue and controls speech.

Ruler of Emotions - revealed in the brightness of the eyes...

Element: Belonging to the element Fire, the Heart Meridian is associated with warmth, laughter and enthusiasm. Just as the summer season, associated with the Fire element, brings blossoming and maturing - the flowering of all the seeds planted in the spring - love is the blossoming of a human being. It is indeed who we are in full "bloom." Nowhere is such love felt more deeply than the Heart. Physical Imbalances: shortness of breath, cold feeling in the chest and limbs, palpitations, cold sweat, inability to speak, memory failure, nocturnal emissions and restless sleep. Emotional Imbalances: The heart is the ruler of all emotions. Signs of imbalance include sadness, absence of laughter, depression, fear, anxiety, hysteria, erratic behaviour, alternating joy and melancholy, dullness, yearning for love, jealousy and sorrow. When balanced: Tranquillity, gentleness, emotional balance, spirit, love, integrity, optimism, emotional and spiritual growth, zest for life, control of thoughts and senses, conscience and wisdom. Peak Hours: 11am-1pm Chakra: Heart Chakra Foods: Leafy green vegetables and grains

The Heart Meridian Acu-Points

HT1 Jiquan - Chest congestion, shortness of breath, emotional problems, dry mouth, terrible thirst, yellowish eyes HT2 Cardiac pain, sudden loss of voice

HT3 - Shaohai - Angina pectoris, amnesia, susceptility to laugh, mania, epilepsy, numbness of arm, tremor of hand, headache, dizziness

HT4 - Lingdao - Angina pectoris, palpitation, susceptility to laugh, sorrow and fright, stiffness of the tongue HT5 Tongli - Palpitation, Sudden loss of voice, stiffness of the tongue, HT6 Yinxi - Cardiac pain, palpitation due to fright, sudden loss of voice, fever and night sweat HT7 Shenmen - Amnesia, cardiac pain, palpitations, irritability, chest pain, insomnia, mania, finger numbness

HT8 Shaofu - Palpitation, chest pain, spasmodic pain of little finger

HT9 Shaochong - Palpitation, pain in the chest, mania, coma

The Triple Warmer Meridian - Ambassador of the Body's Qi

The Triple Warmer Meridian is responsible for the movement and transformation of various solids and fluids throughout the system, as well as for the production and circulation of nourishing and protective energy.

It is a functional energy system, involved in regulating the activities of other organs, composed of three parts, known as 'burners', located in thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. The Upper Burner controls intake, the Middle Burner controls transformation, the Lower Burner controls elimination.

The Triple Warmer Meridian

The Triple Warmer Meridian (also known as Sanjiao/Triple Burner/Heater/Energizer) is a yang meridian and paired with the Pericardium Meridian Element: Fire Physical Imbalances: Disorders of the side of the head, ears, eyes and throat as well as diseases involving the regions through which the meridian runs (gallbladder meridian, pericardium meridian, small intestine meridian) When balanced: When the Triple Burners, which regulate the consciousness, are full, the consciousness becomes stable and the Mind's intent is benevolent and kindhearted. Emotion of joy. Peak Hours: 9 pm - 11 pm

Triple Warmer Meridian Route

The Triple Warmer Meridian originates from the tip of the ring finger, by the outside corner of the nail, passes between the knuckles of the fourth and fifth fingers, on to the wrist. From here it ascends between the two bones of the forearm (radius and ulna), through the tip of the elbow, and up the back of the arm to the shoulder. It moves forward into the chest to connect with the pericardium, the upper burner, the abdomen and the middle and lower burners. Re-emerging from the chest at the collarbone, the meridian ascends the side of the neck and around the back of the ear. One branch rises internally to meet the gallbladder meridian on the forehead, then descends to join the small intestine meridian on the cheek. The superficial branch continues to the front of the ear and crosses to the outer corner of the eyebrow, where it again joins the gallbladder meridian.

Triple Warmer Meridian Acu-Points

TW23 Sizhukong - Headache, dizziness, redness and swelling and pain of the eye, twitching of the eyelid, toothache, epilepsy

TW22 Headache, tinnitus

TW21 Ermen - Tinnitus, deafness, toothache and swelling of cheeks

TW20 Jiaosun - Migraine, mumps, neck rigidity, tinnitus, deafness, cataract, toothache TW 19 and TW18 - Headache, tinnitus, deafness TW17 - Yifeng - Facial paralysis, tinnitus, deafness, toothache, hiccup

TW14 Jianliao - Pain and limitation of the shoulder and arm TW13 Naohui - Spasm and pain of the shoulder and arm TW12 Headache, neck rigidity, pain of the shoulder and back TW11 Headache, yellowness of the eyes, pain of the upper extremities

TW10 Tianjing - Migraine, deafness, spasmonic pain in elbow and arm, epilepsy

TW9 Migraine, deafness TW8 - Sanyangluo - Deafness, toothache, sore throat, sudden loss of voice and pain in upper limbs TW7 - Huizong - Deafness and pain in upper limbs TW6 - Zhigou - Sudden loss of voice, tinnitus, deafness, aching pain in shoulder and back, constipation TW5 - Waiguan - Migraine, facial paralysis, tinnitus, deafness, common cold TW4 - Yangchi - Tinnitus, deafness, sore throat, pain of wrist joint

TW3 Zhongzhu - Headache, dizziness, redness of the eye, tinnitus, deafness, sore throat, pain in the shoulder, back, elbow and arm, fingers unable to extend TW2 Yemen - Headache, malaria, sore throat, headache, redness of the eye, deafness, numbness of the fingers TW1 Guanchong - Sore throat, headache, redness of the eye, deafness, tinnitus, high fever

The Pericardium Meridian Guardian of the Heart

The Pericardium Meridian (also called 'Heart Constrictor' or 'Circulation-Sex' Meridian) is a yin meridian and is paired with the Triple Energizer Meridian (also known as the Triple Warmer/Burner Meridian).

The Pericardium Meridian Flow

This begins in the middle of the chest at the pericardium. A branch descends internally through the diaphragm to the upper, middle, and lower burners. From the starting point a branch of the main channel crosses the chest to emerge just outside the nipple. It then ascends on the surface around the front of the armpit and flows down the arm, through the biceps muscle. At the elbow crease it passes just to the inside of the biceps tendon, then down the middle of the front of the forearm, between the heart and lung channels to the wrist. It crosses the middle of the palm to PC8 where it divides. The main channel continues to the outer corner of the middle fingernail.

Known as the 'King's Bodyguard' (in this case... the 'king' is the heart), the pericardium is the heart's protector. It is regarded as a Fire-energy organ. The pericardium provides the heart with physical protection, its energy also protects the heart from damage and disruption by excessive emotional energies generated by the other organs, such as anger from the liver, fear from the kidneys, and grief from the lungs. Extreme outbursts of the Seven Emotions are regarded as powerful disruptors of energy balance and major causes of disease. Without the pericardium to protect it, the heart would be subject to damage from the strong fluctuations in energy caused by emotional ups and downs of the day.

Paired with: Triple Warmer Meridian Element: Fire Physical Imbalances: Disorders of the heart, chest, stomach and mind Emotional Imbalances: Difficulty feeling and expressing emotions, depression, sexual perversion, aversions, and phobias When Balanced: Joy, happiness and healthy relationships Peak Hours: 7 pm-9 pm

Foods: Sunlight! (yes, I know... not considered food...)

The Pericardium Meridian Acu-Points

PC1 Tianchi - Laryngitis, mastitis, breast feeding problems, cough, chest congestion, asthma

PC2 - Tianquan - Distention of the hypochondriac region, cough, PC3 - Quze - Angina pectoris, palpitation, stomach ache, vomiting, diarrhea

PC4 - Ximen - Angina pectoris, palpitation, epilepsy, chest pain PC5 - Jianshi - Angina pectoris, palpitation, stomache ache, mania, malaria PC6 - Neiguan - Angina pectoris, palpitation, stomache ache, vomiting, hiccup, insomnia, dizziness, epilepsy, vertigo due to loss of blood, migraine

PC7 - Daling - Angina pectoris, palpitation, stomache ache, vomiting, mania

PC8 - Laogong - Angina pectoris, palpitation, vomiting, foul breath, oral ulcer, sunstroke, mania, epilepsy, toothache PC9 - Zhongchong - Angina pectoris, coma, sunstroke, infantile convulsion, stiffness and swelling of the tongue

Conception Vessel Meridian ... or Ren Mai the 'Sea of Yin'

The Conception Vessel Meridian, has a major role in Qi circulation, monitoring and directing all of the Yin channels (plus the stomach channel). It forms a circular entity with the Governing Vessel Meridian. In Qigong society, the Conception Vessel and the Governing Vessel are considered the most important among the Qi channels and vessels, and must be trained first. Whereas the Governing meridian runs from the tailbone upwards along the midline of the back through the vertebrae to the head, the Conception Vessel Meridian runs up the anterior (front) of the body, from the pubic area to the mouth.

Conception Vessel Acu-Points

CV1 - Huiyin - This Acu-point has particular and special qualities but because of its location is not much used. Other points share some of its qualities, such as CV2. CV2 - Qugu - Irregular menstruation, unsmooth urination, seminal emission, impotence. CV3 - Zhongji - Irregular menstruation, unsmooth urination, seminal emission, impotence, prolapse of the uterus.

CV4 - Guanyuan - Diarrhea, irregular menstruation, sterility, frequent urination, anuria, seminal emission, impotence, hernia. CV5 - Shimen - Abdominal pain, edema, unsmooth urination, diarrhea, hernia. CV6 - Qihai - Abdominal pain, edema, unsmooth urination, diarrhea, constipation, hernia. Powerful revitalising and reinvigorating point. CV7 - Yinjiao - Lower back pain, knee pain, constipation, irregular menstruation, menstrual cramps, infertility.

CV8 - Shenque - Abdominal pain, diarrhea, prolapse of rectum, edema and prostration. CV9 - Shuifen - Abdominal pain, regurgitation, vomiting, diarrhea, anuria and edema. CV10 - Xiawan - Abdominal pain and distension, dyspepsia, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal mass. CV11 - Jianli - Stomachache, abdominal distension, vomiting, poor appetite and edema. CV12 - Zhongwan - Stomachache, abdominal distension, vomiting, hiccup, acid regurgitation, jaundice, diarrhea, edema, anorexia, dyspepsia, depressive and manic psychosis, postpartum syndrome, insomnia and asthma. CV13 - Shangwan - Stomachache, abdominal distension, vomiting and epilepy. CV14 - Juque - Angina pectoris, palpitation, amnesia, vomiting, acid regurgitation, hiccup, jaundice, depressive and manic psychosis and epilepsy. CV15 - Juiwei - Angina pectoris, palpitation, vomiting, cough, asthma, chest pain, abdominal distension, diarrhea, hiccup, jaundice, depressive and manic psychosis and epilepsy.

CV16 - Zhong Ting - Chest and intercostal distention and pain, hiccups, nausea, anorexia and difficulty ingesting. CV17 - Tanzhong - Cough, asthma, chest pain, angina pectoris, palpitations, insomnia, insufficiency of lactation, vomiting. CV18 - Yutang - Cough, asthma, chest pain and vomiting. CV19 - Zi Gong - chest issues - pain, cough, asthma, vomiting and difficulty ingesting. CV20 - Hui Gai - chest issues - pain, asthma, wheezing, cough and difficulty ingesting CV21 - Xuanji - Cough, asthma, chest pain and sore throat.

CV22 - Tiantu - Cough, asthma, chest pain, sore throat, sudden loss of voice, goiter, obstructive sensation in throat. CV23 - Lianquan - Sublingual swelling and pain, sluggish movement of tongue, drooling, sudden loss of voice and difficulty swallowing. CV24 - Chengjiang - Facial distortion, swelling and pain of gums, drooling and