Six Elements and Chinese Medicine

Creating Life
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Creating Life
The Primordial Mystery within
Both
Chinese Medicine & Western
Astrology
(Here there would be a graphic showing a scene of the primordial sea when life was being created. Sitting in the
primordial soup is the spherical pattern with the character of De, virtue, inside it. Around the sphere and in the soup
are the characters for Yi, intent, and Yuan Qi and placed on a plant growing out of the soup is the character Zhi,
will.
Edward T. Lambert
Introduction
Life was created a long time ago on planet Earth. At that time life was confronted with extreme climates
and hostile environments. The sun blazed through a hot atmosphere. The Earth being barren of plants was
exposed to the harsh elements. But against all odds life took hold and as we see now it entirely covers the
Earth: from sea to land to air.
Since the beginning there has been an unseen power that coalesces life. This power makes life relentless:
nothing can stand in lifes way as it spreads over the Earth.
Throughout history humans have sought power from the forces that destroy life: lightning, thunder,
floods, wind, earthquakes, fire. These forces of nature instill fear and respect in people. Yet the unseen
power that creates life is greater and more powerful, because life has overcome all these destructive forces.
The power that creates life is called Primordial Power. To experience Primordial Power is rejuvenating.
This power does not struggle or fight against the forces of nature, it merely infuses a potent force into life in
its ongoing journey.
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Creating Life
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its ongoing journey.

The secret of the Primordial Power is that it harmonizes all the destructive forces of nature within itself.
The Primordial Power is total harmony. It harmonizes everything it touches. It incorporates every destructive
force within itself in a positive way producing an enduring power.
Each living form will struggle and fight to survive. Some live, some die. But the Primordial Power,
which feeds life, always remains. It is preserved through the diversity of all life, no matter how small or
intelligent. Primordial Power remains constant through the process of adaptation.
To know others is wisdom,
To know oneself is enlightenment,
To dominate others requires force,
To dominate oneself requires power.
One who remains where one is, lasts.

To die but not to perish is to be eternally present.
Tao De Ching, chapter 33
To see the unseen Primordial Power that creates and sustains life requires wisdom and insight. It is
subtle and silent but is always expressing. It takes in everything but remains empty. It dreams in sleep yet
stays conscious. It lives a life that looks like death. It moves through the changes of life neither affirming
nor denying anything. It forgets nothing and yet forgives everything. It is the great mother of life always
giving, always nourishing.
This unseen Primordial Power is itself being relentlessly attacked in the world today. The power is being
infested by economic fevers and fears. Most people have taken Primordial Power for granted and believe
that their personal power can overcome all the destructive forces of nature. The power of technology has
quietly undermined our Primordial Power. People dont realize that their Primordial Power is fading away.
People have put themselves into a very vulnerable position by choosing technological power over
natural harmony. Natural harmony is enhanced with peace and quiet, but the world gets noisier everyday.
New paradigms of disease are becoming epidemic: depression, allergies and fatigue. The great
seriousness of these diseases is recognized when one realizes that Primordial Power itself has become
diseased.
The key to effective medicine is to determine the cause and rectify the imbalance of the
Yuan/primordial Qi of the body.
Yellow Emperors classic, Chapter 77
This ancient passage is true in the modern world. Anything that helps us rectify imbalances of the
Primordial Power is going to be of great use in healing.
The spherical flow, which merges astrology and Chinese medicine, takes metaphysics to an advanced
level of detail. It is extraordinarily comprehensive. Not only has it reawakened an ancient teaching of
Primordial Power, but it also offers a fresh insight into the illusive unified field theory of physics. Even as
the mathematics of the spherical flow are profound, its wisdom is fathomless.
This book will explore progressive understandings and applications of Chinese medicine with the
spherical flow. Yet it is up to the reader to sense the mysteries of Primordial Power. The reader may well
find these mysteries useful in the practice of Chinese medicine, astrology or in the practice of daily life.
Ultimately the idea is to cultivate new insights for treating Primordial Power wherever it is diseased; be it in
an individual, in a relationship, in a family, in a group, in a culture or in a world.
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Creating Life
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an individual, in a relationship, in a family, in a group, in a culture or in a world.

Edward Thomas Lambert, 2005
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Chapter 1 - Primordial Power
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Stand silent in nature and become aware. Listen to the wind. Smell the fertility. Taste the aroma. Touch
the texture of the ground. Look around at the plants, rocks, insects, animals, sunlight, shadows, whatever is
natural. Feel the eternity. Know that many of the things around you were there before life appeared on this
planet, like the sun, mountains, wind, and clouds. And know that many things only appeared after life was
created, like plants and insects.
It is said that life appeared when the Earth was young. But actually the Earth had matured once water
accumulated. It was the abundance of water that stabilized the climate.
Imagine the time when there was no life on this planet. There was only fire, volcanic ash, rocks,
mountains, harsh gases and blazing sunlight. It was very inhospitable. Through time an atmosphere
gathered, which could carry water vapor high into the air. Clouds formed in the cold altitudes of the sky.
The clouds dropped rain. The rain gathered and flowed across the hot dry land. Water changed between ice,
liquid and vapor.
Water flowed and penetrated the land to gather elements, molecules. At first puddles formed and then
evaporated. But water accumulated little by little until permanent lakes and seas formed. Only then did
water generate its own cycle through the atmosphere to replenish its flow in the wells and springs of the
mountains, from which it continued to gather elements off the land.
Life could not begin in the water that flowed across the land. The conditions in this water were too
inconsistent. Life began only when water settled into a low place where it remained calm and steady for an
extended period of time.
This calm water became the primordial soup, the place where life was incubated. There the elements of
Earth were gathered. There the forces of nature would be harmonized. Surrounding the quiet incubation of
life in the primordial soup was the chaos of destructive forces, which could end the formation of life.
A vision permeated the primordial soup; a vision of what life would become. In that meditation were
pictures, sounds, smells, tastes and textures. The vision saw what life would become. Molecules interacted
in accordance with the vision. The primordial vision guided the molecules into life forms. The vision had a
power, a power that resonated with the movement of the molecules. The molecules responded naturally to
this power. The power was patient. Patience generates and accumulates life power.
Who can wait for the mud to settle?
Tao De Ching
The creation of life is the way of nature and is not forced or manipulated. All that is required is that the
elements come together in a relaxed state of peace and quiet. Such conditions allow the Primordial Power to
generate life.
Permanence and calm put things in order in the Universe.
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 45
The primordial soup was like a seed; a seed from which all life would sprout. When one looks at a seed,
can one see the entire plant with roots, leaves, flowers and fruits? No. One takes it on faith that the whole
plant is in the seed somehow. Just add water to a seed and watch it grow. That which is inside the seed will
manifest itself.
If one were to sit at the side of the primordial soup and look at it, it would look like a mud hole or
murky water. Yet within the muddy water is a power nurturing life. That power eventually manifested life
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around the Earth. Without Primordial Power there is no life. Yet the power is so subtle, that it cant be seen
by the naked eye.
The lotus plant and its seeds are considered the most sacred of all Chinese herbs. Even though the lotus
has a beautiful flower and scent, it chooses to grow in the most murky and swampy of waters, like the
primordial soup. The beauty of the lotus is in stark contrast to the murkiness of the water. This contrast
allows one to meditate on the nature of Primordial Power that created the beauty of life in mud.
Ask yourself, would you be able to notice the Primordial Power in the primordial soup with your naked
eye or any of your senses? What would it look like? How could you distinguish it from anything else?
Does it make a sound? No. Does it have a particular smell? No. If you touch it does it move? No. Does
it move at all? No. Does it have a certain color or form? No.
To see Primordial Power one first looks for calmness, because it is only with calmness that the
Primordial Power can exist. Chaos, turbulence and noise drain Primordial Power.
Silence is power, for when we reach the place of silence in mind, we have reached the place of
powerDiffused power is noise. Concentrated power is silence.
Life and Teaching of the Masters of the Far East, Baird Spalding, Vol. 1, Ch. 6
The Primordial Power gets stronger with calmness and silence. Primordial Power sits within silence. The
primordial vision becomes clear in silence.
Over the millennium life has spread over the Earth with great complexity and diversity. Life adapted to
the different climates and geographies of the Earth. Life now permeates the land and mists. Life flourishes
through day and night, summer and winter. Still wherever life has spread to, the inner calmness and silence
of the Primordial Power went with it. If life found itself separated from Primordial Power, it was only a
short matter of time before it began to disintegrate
Realize that every living being can be traced back to the original primordial soup, the original silent
power. Ants as well as humans. Apples and bacteria. Starfish and polar bears. Algae and honeybees. Then
realize that every living being still carries that original Primordial Power within itself.
When you sit and look at nature, you can sense Primordial Power. It is within every living being. It is
the silence that permeates everything.
In healing, a practitioner learns to sense Primordial Power within a person. The practitioner learns to
hear the silence within a person. Clearly every person is a mixture of noise and silence. It is healthy that the
silence generates the noise. Yet, it is unhealthy when the noise disrupts the silence of the Primordial Power.
The practitioner learns to quiet the infectious noise. An obvious sign that noise is weakening the Primordial
Power is when a person no longer wants to live in this world.
The Forces of Nature; Creative and Destructive
The theories of traditional medicine look to nature for guidance and wisdom. It is through following the
forces of nature that the principles of healing are formed. The core of all traditional medicine was a keen
observation of nature. The idea is that as one lives in harmony with nature, one incorporates the powers of
nature, thus living a long healthy life.
In ancient cultures, their medicine reflected their way of life. They lived closer to nature than we do in
the modern world. To them everything from plants to seasons, from stars to colors, from animals to spirits
had meaning; and the meaning had power, which was used in healing. In Tibet, the traditional medicine
doctors say that everything that exists is a medicine if used properly. That is if someone understands the
power within an object they could use it as medicine. Even such things as snake venom, gold and bat feces
heal if used appropriately.
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heal if used appropriately.

It is clear that modern society has removed people from nature to a great extent. The food we eat does
not follow the seasons like it used to. We dont walk as much. We have lights that reduce the darkness of
night. We have air-conditioning when were hot, and heating when were cold. Modern medicines seek to
mimic and improve natural substances.
Even though modern people arent affected as much by the forces of nature anymore, they can still live
healthier lives by incorporating the powers of nature. The key to health for traditional peoples was to
incorporate the powers of nature into their lives. That way they would be in harmony with the powerful
forces surrounding them; forces that destroy as well as grant long life. Being in harmony with nature was
crucial to their way of life and their medicine.
It has been taught that one must first learn to kill before one can heal. This view is based on a fear of the
destructive forces of nature. As one learns to destroy like the destructive forces of nature, one can control
life. This traditional view of healing seeks to emulate the chaotic forces of nature; the view is in sharp
contrast to the view of healing with Primordial Power.
Healing with Primordial Power says that one must first learn to love before one can heal. Primordial
Power only nourishes life. Primordial Power never destroys life or harms it in any way ever.
To learn to heal with Primordial Power, one relinquishes killing all together. Killing has nothing to teach
about the essence of Primordial Power. Primordial Power stays empty in its pulsating silence during killing
and death. All it knows is to nourish and love life incessantly and unconditionally. Because of Primordial
Powers love, life will always continue someway, somehow, somewhere. Primordial Power does more than
heal, it creates life.
The sage never tries to accumulate things.
The more he/she does for others, the more he/she has.
The more he/she gives to others, the greater is his/her abundance.
The way of Heaven is penetrating but does not injure.
The way of Heaven works without effort.
The Primordial Power is a resonating energy that is quiet and formless. The fruits of its work are visible.
The fruits are always life, never death. The power only knows how to create and nourish life. It does not get
caught up in the trials and tribulations of the life it nourishes.
The strong is the root of the light
The calm is the master of excitation
Thus, the sage, journeying all day,
Does not lose sight of his/her possessions
Although there are beautiful things to see
He/she remains unattached and in calm
Healing with Primordial Power is not a healing where a doctor takes control of an illness and focuses
his/her own will to get rid of the pain of another person. It is a healing that respects the lessons of pain, and
the wisdom pain brings. It is a healing that affirms the challenges of life that we all face. It is a healing that
acknowledges the consequences of our actions and experiences. It is a healing of forgiveness that sees the
perfection within another, and then creates a moment to manifest that perfection anew. Being renewed, the
desire to live is revived.
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Primordial love is not a selfish love. It is a love that penetrates yet remains unattached. It is a love which
is actively excited yet remains calm. It is a love, which creates an environment to inspire others. It is love
without judgment, without fear, and without sympathy. It is a love that pays no attention to how ugly or
beautiful you are. It appreciates all living consciousness.
The healing with primordial love frees the soul. Pain and distress are forgiven. Disease is baggage one
can carry around or leave behind. The beautiful freedom of perfect life is affirmed. The soul is cleansed.
One is refreshed and the spirit is lightened.
Be alive.
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Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory
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Snowflakes and honeycomb are natural forms of a six-pointed star. The six branches of snowflake
crystals are infinitely beautiful. The hexagons of honeycomb are a marvel of natural engineering. The basic
symmetry of a six-pointed star is found throughout nature.
Originally there were six elements in Chinese medicine. The sixth element was known as Grain or Seed.
Also there were six Shu-transporting points, instead of five. The sixth Shu-point was the Yuan source point.
Ancient texts talk of six Essences and six Breaths. The very ancient hexagram of the I-Ching is based on six
elements. The dating of all these shows that a tradition of six-elements predated the first written record of
five-element theory, which occurred during the Warring states period (476-221 BC). Around that time, sixelement theory disappeared from the public eye and went into the secret shadows of advanced meridian
teaching.
When I was young I refused to begin studying acupuncture unless I found six-element theory. Deep in
my soul I knew six-element theory had survived somewhere in the world all these long years, even though
there was no trace of it in modern books.
Eventually I found the teachings of Jiro Murai who lived in Japan in the early 1900s. His work included
some basic six-element theory along with five-element theory. Although much of his research was in the
library archives of the Imperial Palace in Japan, I have not been able to ascertain where he learned sixelement theory. Certainly many of those ancient records have roots in China and elsewhere.
The six-element theory taught by Jiro Murai was very basic. It seemed to me a skeleton of its ancient
form. Much of its understanding had faded from lack of use. It is my work to rekindle the fires of the
ancient six-element tradition and to fan its flames into the brighter blaze of the spherical meridian theory,
which is the much more advanced study of six-element theory.
The spherical meridian theory will be presented in a later chapter. Yet before the spherical meridian
theory can be appreciated, it is essential to first shed light on six-element theory.
Yin & Yang of Six-element Theory
Six-element theory is represented by a six-pointed star. Its symmetry is stable and balanced. In order to
create life, a stable design is required. When a structure is built using triangles it is very strong and resilient.
The theory starts off with two separate triangles. One triangle is pulsating the Essence of Yin and the
other is pulsating the Essence of Yang. The Yin triangle of Essence gives us three Yin elements. The Yang
triangle of Essence gives us three elements of Yang.
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In six-element theory there is an interaction between Yin and Yang at every level. This inescapable
interaction permeates the whole theory from start to finish. Any imbalance between Yin & Yang opens the
door to disease.
All Chinese medical physiology, pathology and treatment can, eventually, be reduced to Yin-Yang.
Giovanni Maciocia, Foundations of Chinese Medicine
The Qi of Yin and Yang may be lesser or greater. That is why there are three Yin and three Yang.
Chapter 66 of Plain Questions
In six-element theory, the elements are separated into three Yin elements and three Yang elements. The
three Yin elements are rooted in Yin Essence. The three Yang elements are rooted in Yang Essence.
Yin and Yang elements do not share a common Essence. They each have their own independent
Essence. This is an extremely important principle of six-element theory to grasp.
All Yin substances and expressions in life have their root in the pulsations of the Yin triangle of
Essence. All Yang substances and expressions in life have their root in the pulsations of the Yang triangle of
Essence. Each triangle is an independent unit onto itself.
These two triangles of Essence are rooted in the one Heavenly Essence that feeds them both. Yet Yin
Essence and Yang Essence become unique and independent. They are totally distinct. They behave
differently; one is active, the other is passive. Yet they resemble each other and in this way, Yin and Yang
complement each other perfectly.
The two pulsating triangles of Yin and Yang Essences must come together and embrace. As they do, the
duality of Yin and Yang commingles and life begins.
Certainly, in the creation of life, Yin and Yang must merge. This means that they are separate before life
begins. And that life begins when they merge. It also means that at death Yin and Yang will separate. Thus
Yin & Yang are destined for each other. As long as they remain separate, there will be no life. As long as
they stay together, there will be life.
The Essences, doubled in harmony, are the Yin/Yang.
Huainanzi, Chapter 3
The embrace of the two Essences indicates the Spirits.
Lingshu, Chapter 8, Line 22
The stability of a triangle is inert. But another triangle is able to activate its sleeping energy. Triangles
are more stable and more dynamic as they bond with one another. The successive linking of triangles builds
strong resilient structures. Yin and Yang first take on form as triangles. The infinite dance between Yin and
Yang is ultimately a dance of interconnecting triangles.
Yin Essence manifests as Yin substances. Yang Essence manifests as the Yang functions of
transformation. Therefore the basic relationship between Yin and Yang is the relationship between
substance and the transformation of that substance. Yin substances are inert, passive and must be
transformed by Yang activities. No life can be formed unless Yin substances are given shape. Otherwise Yin
substances will forever sit there and never become anything.
Likewise, the activities of Yang Essence can achieve nothing unless they have Yin substance to work
with. Yang activity is inert unless there is Yin substance accessible.
The Yang wind blows across the ocean and carries water vapors high into the air. The wind by nature is
active and very dry. The wind lifts water vapor to form clouds that drop rain across the dry land. But
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active and very dry. The wind lifts water vapor to form clouds that drop rain across the dry land. But
without oceans there would be no clouds. The Yang wind must have Yin water to form clouds.
So Yin and Yang commingle at every level to transform the cycles of life.
The Yin Triangle
The triangle of the three Yin elements eventually gives all the manifestations of Yin Essence in the body
and mind. Yin substances are calming, cooling, formless, useful, settling downward, supporting, moistening
and nourishing. Yin by nature is relaxed, inert, passive, patient, content and as satisfied as a nail, which
holds up a picture on the wall.
The three elements of the Yin triangle are Earth, Water and Wood. These three Yin elements govern and
express the potential energy of Yin Essence. They are rooted and amalgamated in Yin Essence. Yin Essence
can only be expressed by these elements because they reflect the nature of Yin.
The nature of Earth is to be an uncarved block. It is raw substance that can be molded or used to build
anything. The substance of Earth holds tall trees and keeps them from falling over. The firm nature of Earth
gives it heaviness, resiliency and stubbornness. Earth passively guides the movement of water. Rivers flow
according to the contours of the land. Earth is shaped by exterior forces that erode, dissolve and bind it.
The nature of water is to settle downward and penetrate. It flows wherever the path of least resistance
takes it. Water is passive and takes the shape of any container. Water moistens and cools. Water is
extremely efficient at storing heat. Water dissolves structure and forms. Moving water carries a momentum
to move heavy objects and to erode mountains. Water receives the richness of the land and holds within it
the building blocks for life.
The nature of Wood is to nourish, support and moisten. The sap of a tree, which is raised from the roots,
is a Wood-Yin substance. The element Wood is fuel; fuel is a Yin substance with potential energy. Wood
stores pure energy that can be ignited by fire. Fuel passively holds energy that when harnessed will actively
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stores pure energy that can be ignited by fire. Fuel passively holds energy that when harnessed will actively
drive chemical reactions and the activities of life. Wood is the Yin substance that fuels the growth and
formation of life.
Each of these three elements reflects the passive nature of Yin. They each contain a form of potential
energy. The three Yang elements then have the function of releasing, harnessing and using their potential
energies.
The sequence of the Yin elements in their triangle is from Earth to Water to Wood back to Earth. The
Yin elements support each other in this sequence.
Earth supports and guides Water by containing it. Examples are a glass holding water and a river
flowing across the land. Earth gives a foundation to Water. Without a foundation to contain it, Water would
dissipate and never coalesce. Earth allows the rain to form into rivers, and then gives the ocean a place to
rest.
Water supports Wood by receiving the richness of the land that will be transformed into potential energy
for life. Examples are found in the primordial soup and the plants that grow near an oasis in the middle of
the desert. Water supports lifeblood.
Wood supports Earth by being the raw energetic substance that is transformed into physical objects. The
relationship between Wood and Earth is that of energy and matter. The Yin energy of Wood is the
foundation for the Yin matter of Earth.
For example, the Wood-Yin energy of the sun became the substance-matter of the planets in the solar
system. Likewise, red-hot molten lava is the blood of the Earth. When a volcano erupts, the Earth bleeds.
The lava-blood becomes the land and mountains. Wood is the energetic substance of Yin Essence. Earth is
the solid physical substance of Yin Essence.
The three Yin elements show three manifestations of Yin Essence. Earth is more dense and inert. Water
is more fluid and forgiving. Wood is more creative and energetic. Even though they are all different in
nature, the 3 Yin elements are all nourished by Yin Essence.
Yin Substances
The three Yin elements each originate a Yin substance
Earth originates Ying-Nutritive Qi.
Water originates Body Fluids.
Wood originates Blood.
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The element Earth is related to Ying-Nutritive Qi. Ying-nutritive Qi is the substance used to build the
body tissues and nourish the functions of muscles, organs, skin and all chemical processes. Just as in fertile
soil, the earth holds the minerals to nourish plants. Nutritive Qi is extracted from digested foods by the
Stomach and Spleen/pancreas, the Earth meridians. Nutritive Qi is the Earth substance in a body. Nutritive
Qi forms the landscape of a body. Muscles and tissues have flexibility and strength, because Earth Nutritive
Qi nourishes them.
The element Water is related to Body Fluids. This is seen in how water flows across the land and floats
through the sky. Water permeates everything and so doing blends everything together. Water is the great
mediator of the whole body, because it is the means of communication within the body. Water links and
integrates every aspect of the body by flowing freely throughout it. The Kidney and Bladder work together
to balance the amount of water in the body. These are the Water meridians. Body fluids moisten the dry
areas, like the throat, stomach and intestines. Body fluids carry all kinds of substances around the body like
rivers do on land.
The element Wood relates to Blood. This is like the sap in a tree. Sap and blood are both creative energy
flowing through a living being. The more appropriate term is Lifeblood, which is a substance that animates
life. Lifeblood is the energy and substance to animate a body. Wood and Lifeblood reflect courage and the
free-flow of empowered Qi. These Wood attributes constitute the nature of Blood. Liver is the meridian
most associated with Blood. In six-element theory, the Liver and Gall Bladder are taught to be the primary
source of Blood in the body. They maintain, store and govern the Essence of Blood. These are the Wood
meridians. When Gall Bladder Qi is weak from fear, timidity or indecisiveness, Blood seems weak, even if
ones diet is perfect. Their face will look paler. The Lifeblood is diminished.
Nutritive Qi secretes Body Fluids; these enter the blood vessels and are transformed into Blood.
Spiritual Axis, Chapter 71
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This quote affirms the sequence of these three substances around the Yin triangle. Nutritive Qi, Body
Fluids and Blood are the Yin substances of the body. They support each other to build tissues, organs,
muscles, marrow, bones, and every other tangible structure of the body. They support each other to carry
nutrients and waste materials around the body. They support each other to fuel chemical processes and the
activities of body and mind.
Yin Essence expresses through its three elements of Earth, Water and Wood. Every Yin substance in the
body is rooted in one of these three Yin elements. Nutritive-Ying Qi, body fluids and Blood comprise all the
Yin substances in the body and mind. This is the teaching of six-element theory.
The Yang Triangle
The triangle of the three Yang elements eventually gives all the manifestations of Yang Essence in the
body and mind. Yang Qi activates, stimulates, warms, raises upward, defends, transforms, organizes and
actively builds structures. Yang by nature is active, impatient, ambitious, discontent, energetic and as
restless as a hammer pounding away to build a house.
The three elements of the Yang triangle are Metal, Seed and Fire. These three Yang elements govern and
express the Yang Essence. They are rooted and amalgamated in Yang Essence. Yang Essence can only be
expressed by these elements because they reflect the nature of Yang.
The nature of Metal is to carve an uncarved block. Metal has the function to define the exterior shape
and form of every part of the body, be it a cell, organ or skin. The shape of the eyes, the length of the arms,
the structure of all organs is controlled by the activities of Metal. Metal controls and manages the boundaries
between the internal and external. Metal governs the skin, which is the boundary to the exterior. Metal also
governs the boundaries of organs and the blood-brain barrier. Metal defends against external pathogens, like
the atmosphere protects us against harmful rays from the sun. Metal manages the inflow and outflow across
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the atmosphere protects us against harmful rays from the sun. Metal manages the inflow and outflow across
boundaries. Metal safeguards and secures the internal integrity of a living form.
The nature of the element Seed is to hold the vision of the living being. All the functions and activities
of Yang Qi are then guided by the transformative vision of the element Seed. The vision holds set
parameters within which life can exist. Seed acts to keep life within those parameters. As long as life stays
within those parameters, Yin and Yang stay harmoniously united. Seed seeks to regulate the metabolic
processes and achieve homeostasis. Seed regulates Yin substances by transforming them into a homeostatic
balance. Seed monitors the balance between internal physiology and external conditions.
The nature of Fire is to stimulate and initiate. Every activity in the body is activated by Fire. It is
ambitious and eager to work. Fire produces heat. Fire energizes and drives every metabolic process. Fire
rises upward. Fire brings activity to the mind and muscles. Fire pulsates like a drum. Fire has a strong will to
live and survive. Fire must have Yin substances to fuel its actions and heat. Without Yin substance, Fire is
only an invisible desire. Fire is so energetic that it must be balanced by moderate amounts of Yin substance,
otherwise it tends to get out of control and to upset the homeostatic balance between Yin and Yang.
The nature of these three elements reflects Yang. They are all active elements that transform and harness
the potential energy within Yin substance. Yin substances would never change or amount to anything
specific if it werent for the vision and activity of the Yang elements.
The sequence of the Yang elements is from Metal to Seed to Fire back to Metal. The elements support
their activities in this sequence. One activity will further the activity of the next one in line.
Metal supports Seed by defending against the external forces that seek to disrupt the internal regulation
of Seed. Metal manages the boundaries, which are the foundation within which Seed is then able to
function. The nature of Seed is formless and nebulous. It has function but no form. Without boundaries, the
activity of Seed would soon dissipate and leak away. Seed requires the external form and boundaries
established and managed by Metal in order to focus its permeating nature.
Seed supports Fire by creating the fuel and synergy that Fire requires to ignite the activities of life. Seed
helps Fire by maintaining a state of homeostasis. Fire is then able to function constructively within the
balance of homeostasis. Otherwise Fire would tend to be destructive if it were not regulated within certain
limits of function. The activities of Seed to regulate homeostasis allow Fire to burn slowly and safely. But if
the Fire needs to explode in a fight, it can safely do so for a short period of time, then the body-mind will
return to homeostasis. It is only in this way that Fire can be incorporated into a life form.
Fire supports Metal by generating movement. A primary function of Metal is transference, the
movement of objects from one area to another. Transference describes Metals action of dispersing and
descending body fluids around the interior of the body as well as releasing the exterior with sweat. The heat
and activity initiated by Fire set the foundation for Metals function of transference and dispersion. For
example, the warming of the surface of the Earth is what generates wind patterns in the atmosphere. The
wind relates to Metal. The wind then moves water around the globe.
The three Yang elements show three manifestations of Yang Essence. Metal is more oriented to the
exterior and transference. Seed is more oriented to the interior and regulation of homeostasis. Fire is more
crude, uncultured and aggressive in its ability to initiate actions. Even though they are all different in nature,
the 3 Yang elements are all empowered by Yang Essence.
Yang Functions/Activities
The three Yang elements each originate a Yang substance.
Metal originates Wei-Defensive Qi.
Seed originates Yuan Qi.
Fire originates Fire and heat.
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The element Metal is related to Wei-Defensive Qi through its focus on the exterior. Defensive Qi is
traditionally related to the lungs, skin and all surfaces that contact an exterior environment. Wei-defensive
Qi circulates through the boundaries of the body-mind. The lungs circulate Defensive Qi. The lung also
disperse and descend body fluids around the body and through the pores, just as the atmosphere carries
water across the land. The Lung and Large Intestine meridians regulate the exterior and defend against
external pathogens. These are the Metal meridians.
The element Seed is related to Yuan Qi as the alchemical magic that created life in the original
primordial soup. Yuan Qi is called the source and primordial Qi of the body. The key concept here is that
Yuan Qi is generated by the activity of the element Seed to regulate homeostasis. Homeostasis produces a
synergistic increase in energy through harmony. Homeostasis allows Yuan-primordial Qi to flourish
abundantly. The San Jiao carries Yuan Qi around the whole body. Yuan Qi is the harmonizing force for all
the bodys physiological activities. Pericardium monitors the Yuan Qi of the body. San Jiao and Pericardium
are the Seed meridians.
The element Fire is related to the Fire in the body-mind in the obvious way. Fire is Fire. The heat and
transforming actions of Fire in the body speak for themselves. Fire is used to drive every physiological
activity in the whole body. Energy must be harnessed and directed to achieve this. Fire harnesses and
releases energy, which was originally produced by the homeostasis of the element Seed. The Heart pumps
blood and activates physiology. The Small Intestine meridian channels and focuses Fire activity to specific
areas of the body through vessels and tubes. These are the Fire meridians.
The sequence of the Yang elements is used to understand how external pathogens penetrate the body.
Within the Yang triangle, Metal proceeds to Seed which then proceeds to Fire. An external pathogen will hit
the Wei-Defensive Qi first. If it penetrates further it is most likely to go to the Pericardium meridian of the
Seed element. If it penetrates past the Pericardium it can then reach the Heart meridian of the Fire element.
This process shows the principle that exterior pathogenic factors entering through the Wei Qi are not
directed toward the Heart, but toward the Pericardium first. This principle supports the sequence of the three
Yang elements through the Yang triangle.
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Yang elements through the Yang triangle.

Yang Essence expresses through its three elements of Metal, Seed and Fire. Every functional activity in
the body is rooted in one of these three Yang elements. Wei Qi, Yuan Qi and Fire express all the Yang
activities in the body and mind. They transform Yin substances to activate the body, build the body, regulate
the body, move the body and secure the boundaries of the body.
The Embrace of Yin and Yang
In six-element theory when the Yin and Yang triangles merge, life begins. They embrace each other
completely through the Jing-Shen axis. (Jing-Water and Shen-Fire). It is essential to see their embrace as
two individual triangles united and bound together. Each triangle is sustained by its own unique Essence,
Yin or Yang, but it is through the interaction of their elements that the Yin and Yang Essences can manifest
the complexities of a living being.
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The purpose of the elements is to organize the proper interaction between Yin and Yang Essences. The
elements allow the Essences of Yin and Yang to mix, in such a way that creates and sustains life.
The embrace of the triangles forms the complete six-element pattern. The overall cycle of elements
around their embrace proceeds as Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water then Seed. This cycle of elements
alternates between Yin and Yang elements. This alternation allows Yang elements to transform Yin
elements in a natural process.
Wood supports Fire by giving fuel to Fire. The heart meridian of Fire receives the Blood of Wood and
pumps it. The muscles are full of potential energy stored there by the blood. Fire releases that energy to
contract a muscle. Most heat in the body is created by muscle contractions.
Fire transforms the potential energy and nutrients of Wood-Blood into tissues and organs. Fire pumps
Blood around the Body to sustain the physical structure. Fire gives heat to the digestive process of Earth.
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Blood around the Body to sustain the physical structure. Fire gives heat to the digestive process of Earth.
The Blood carries Nutritive-Ying Qi, which is used to nourish and sustain the tissues and mass of the body.
Earth receives the warmth from Fire in order to be transformed. The Earth aspect of the body is built
through the actions of Fire, reminiscent of the way that through history molten lava from the Earths core
formed landmasses.
Earth supports Metal by providing substance that can be carved and molded. Earth opens up to Metal.
The breath of Metal penetrates and moves about the substance of Earth. This allows Earth to breathe. There
is an ancient teaching that Mans form is created from the dust of the ground and into this form is breathed
the breath of life. Metal transfers life force into Earth substance through breath. This is how life takes root.
It is similar to aerating soil with a shovel so that the roots of plants can breath. Compacted soil does not
support life, but aerated soil will. As the atmosphere of Metal breathes around the Earth, life will continue
to flourish. As well it is taught that Nutritive-Ying Qi nourishes the Wei Qi of the body.
Metal supports Water by creating an environment in which water will form. This is seen in how clouds
form in the atmosphere and then drop rain across the land. This is the way the atmosphere of Metal supports
Water. The Wei Qi of Metal disperses and descends the fluids of Water around the body. The amount and
quality of Water that circulates in the body is in large part determined by the ability of Metal to carry water
vapor around the body. Metal then allows this water vapor to condense and moisten areas that would be dry
otherwise, like the throat and lungs.
Water supports Seed by nourishing its transformations. Water is the foundation upon which Seed
thrives. Its like when we soak a seed in water, the seed will sprout. Water is the environment in which Seed
is able to perform its transformations. Water contains particles and molecules, which move freely within the
liquid environment. Seed regulates this free movement within water in order to achieve its purpose of
creating life. Seed enters Water and begins the transformations that create life. The harmonizing
transformations of the element Seed are best accomplished in peaceful waters. That is where the incubation
of life best occurs.
The Yuan Qi of Seed regulates homeostasis by way of the various fluids that circulate around the body.
The element Seed originates Yuan Qi and Qi Transformations in the body. The Yuan Qi of Seed is
closely linked to the Fluids of Water and the Blood of Wood. Yuan Qi transforms water into blood.
There is a teaching in Chinese medicine that Yuan Qi transforms fluid essence into Blood. Somewhat
similar to when Jesus turned water into wine.
When all the bodily liquids are in total, perfect harmonious composition there is change and
transformation; it becomes red and thus this is blood.
Essence Spirit Blood and Qi, Larre and Rochat de la Vallee, p. 69
We can see that in pathology an emptiness of Qi can lead little by little to an emptiness of blood due
to this lack of transformation and production of the basic substance of blood.
Essence Spirit Blood and Qi, Larre and Rochat de la Vallee, p. 77
Seed supports Wood by generating the potential energy within Blood. Yuan Qi facilitates the
transformation of Blood. Seed creates the fuel potential in the element of Wood, and then Fire uses that fuel
potential to drive every metabolic process that builds life. The metabolism of the body is heightened from
the homeostatic actions of Seed.
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Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory
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Element Oppositions
There is still one aspect remaining that describes how the elements relate to one another. Each element
has an opposite. There are three opposite pairs of elements around the six-element cycle. Fire is opposite
Water. Earth is opposite Seed. Wood is opposite Metal. In these pairs, one element is always a Yin element
and the other is a Yang element. It is very common that a disease of one element will actually manifest in its
opposite element.
These element pairs are as close as six-element theory comes to the controlling-Ke cycle seen in fiveelement theory. In six-element theory it is not that these elements control each other or keep each other in
balance. They complement each other. They complete each other. In fact, it is always the other elements
surrounding these pairs that keep them balanced indirectly. The surrounding elements form feedback loops
that naturally transform one element into its complementary opposite.
Fire and Water
First, it is a core principle of acupuncture that Fire and Water struggle for control of the body-mind.
Their natures are diametrically opposed to one another. They each sit at extreme spectrums of the cycle. Fire
is not able to transform Water directly. Fire cannot burn Water. Water cannot moisten Fire. Yet every aspect
of the body-mind involves a balance between Fire and Water. Fire and Water purely represent the Yin-Yang
relationship more than any other pair of opposite elements.
Water is transformed into the lifeblood of the element Wood by the element Seed. The element Fire is
then able to activate and ignite the lifeblood. So through the element phases of Seed and Wood, Water is
able to interact with the Fire of the body-mind.
Fire will interact with Water by way of Earth and Metal. Fire heats up the Earth, which produces
movement in the atmosphere of Metal. This movement then allows Water to form. So Fire is able to
stimulate the production of Water thanks to Earth and Metal.
All the elements need to work as a team in order to achieve balance between the complementary
elements. When an element is said to overact upon its opposite, it is only a matter of time for the other
elements to restore balance. When the Earth was young, the Earth was hot. Fire was prevalent. The sun was
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elements to restore balance. When the Earth was young, the Earth was hot. Fire was prevalent. The sun was
blazing. Through time the Earth produced gases that formed an atmosphere. Water vapor was produced in
the hot climate. High in the cold layers of the atmosphere rain eventually formed out of the water vapor.
Water could not have been produced on the hot ground in such abundance. Again through time, water cooled
down the hot temperatures of the Earths climate. Water is now abundant enough to moderate the hot
temperatures of the Earth to within livable limits.
As water became more abundant, life was created by the element phases of Seed and Wood. These
elements instilled the internal fire within a living being, a fire that would balance the over-sufficiency of
water that saturated the creation of life.
In six-element theory, Fire is not said to control or overact upon Water. Relative excess of one over the
other upsets the homeostatic parameters within which life can exist. Relative excesses are brought back into
balance by supporting the element phases between Fire and Water.
Earth and Seed
Earth is diametrically opposed to Seed. Earth is heavy, solid and resistant to change. It is hard for Seed
to work with Earth. Seed requires the free movement within fluid in order to function. Seed cannot function
in a concrete block, where there is no freedom for molecules to interact while they find a homeostatic
balance. In the element Earth, homeostasis is pre-established in the structure and cannot change.
Still Seed has a vision, a blueprint, of the life that it wants to form. Wood and Fire take that vision and
bring it to fruition in Earth. Earth is the completion of Seeds vision. Earth completes Seed in this way. As
well, Metal and Water work upon the Earth to create a place for Seed to thrive. The Earth is what holds the
water in which Seed does its magic of transformation. Seed completes Earth, because Earth gives the needed
substrate to Seed.
It is common that an emotional upset adversely affects ones comfortable routine in life. An emotional
upset affects the Seed element, but the problem will manifest in an area governed by the element Earth, like
a stomachache in the digestive tract for example.
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Metal and Wood

As for the opposite pair of Wood and Metal, we can look at the point combination of the Four Gates,
Lv3 and LI4. These meridian source points belong to the elements of Wood and Metal respectively. This is a
powerful combination to activate the Qi and Blood and ensure their free and smooth passage throughout the
body. In six-element theory, Metal moves things and Wood is lifeblood. These points move and disperse
lifeblood, which leads to the expansion of life. Through inspiration and optimism, the combination eases the
burdens of life. Ones boundaries are expanded. Ones vision expands to the horizon. Ones life is less
closed in upon itself. It is in this way that Wood and Metal complement each other.
Wood is able to flourish to the outermost edges of the planet through the dispersing effect of Metal. Fire
and Earth allow lifeblood to flow to the outermost edges of a being so that it can be dispersed by Metal.
Metal completes the potential of Blood to walk and breath on the surface of the planet.
From Metal the process returns back to rejuvenate Wood. Through the element phases of Water and
Seed, Wood is rejuvenated. Wood then through the actions of Water and Seed completes Metal. From the
outermost edges of a being starts the process to produce the inner lifeblood. As well, the lifeblood then starts
a process to produce the outermost edges, where the Wei Qi of Metal reigns.
The complementary relationship between Wood and Metal is seen in the teaching that blood is the basis
of the Wei-Qi in the skin. Even though blood cannot reach the epidermis layers of the skin directly, many
skin diseases result from problems in the blood.
All the elements together form a complete feedback loop amidst the three opposite element pairs. These
feedback loops function to maintain balance. When these feedback loops become blocked, then it is probable
that one element will become predominant and go into excess, while its opposite becomes weak. Its not that
an element is struggling or acting upon its opposite. Its more that the feedback loops between the opposites
arent functioning well.
The Four Levels of Interactions between Yin & Yang
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The cycle of the six-elements explains all the processes of the body. It explains how individual Yin
substances are transformed by certain Yang elements. It explains for what purposes this is done. When the
interaction between Yin and Yang is harmonious and active, life will flourish. If the interaction breaks down
at any point, the door is opened to disease.
A tradition of harmonizing the embrace of the Yin and Yang triangles and the six elements is found in an
ancient quote.
The General of the Clouds said: The Breaths of Heaven being without harmony, the Breaths of
Earth being smothered, the Six Breaths being in disorder, the order of the Four Seasons being
irregular, I would like to re-make the joining of the Essences of the Six Breaths to insure
maintenance of the numberless numbers of the living. What must I do?
Zhuangzhi, Chapter 11 (400 BC)
This quote affirms the merging of Yin and Yang through six elements. To stay alive it is essential to
keep the Yin/Yang triangles and their six elements joined together in harmony. When Yin and Yang are in a
harmonious embrace, there is life and power. When stress and chaos undo the Yin and Yang triangles and
their six elements, there is death.
The relationship between the Yin and Yang elements within six-element theory is understood by using the
four levels of interaction between Yin and Yang. The four levels of interaction are; 1) opposition, 2)
interdependence, 3) mutual consumption and 4) inter-transformation. These levels are usually applied in a
general way to Yin and Yang, but they also define the interaction between Yin and Yang elements perfectly.
When the Yin/Yang triangles embrace, their unique natures commingle consistent with these four levels of
interaction
Opposition
The Yin/Yang triangles are opposite. They are mutually exclusive of each other. They can exist
independently of each other. They each have their own source of Essence, which powers them.
The Yin elements only express Yin attributes and the Yang elements only express Yang attributes. So to
say that some aspect of the Yin triangle has a Yang function contradicts the first level of opposition.
For example, Spleen is a Yin substance from the Yin element Earth. According to this level of
opposition, Spleen has no Yang function. The Yang functions solely belong to the Yang triangle. So when it
is taught that Spleen has its own function to transform and transport its own substance, this contradicts the
first level of opposition. Spleen Yin substance must be transformed and transported by a Yang element. The
current use of the term Spleen-Yang contradicts this level of opposition. In six-element theory, the term
Spleen-Yang refers to the ability of Yang elements to transform and transport the Yin substances of Spleen.
To say that a Yin substance can transform itself is very much like saying that a womans ovum has the
capacity to fertilize itself. If Spleen could transform its own Yin substance, then Yin and Yang would have
no need for each other in the first place. There would be no need for them to embrace. Yet Yin must be
embraced with Yang in order to be transformed.
Interdependence
With Organ patterns in six-element theory, it is necessary to clearly separate the Yin substances from the
Yang transformations. The second level of interdependence between Yin and Yang further clarifies this.
To follow with the Spleen example, the pattern of Spleen Yang deficiency is a disorder of Yang not
transforming the Yin substance of Spleen. In six-element theory, the Spleen does not have its own Yang
function. Spleen Yang deficiency would not be attributed to a weak Spleen-Yang but to weak Yang
elements, which are not transforming Spleen substance.
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elements, which are not transforming Spleen substance.

Spleen-Yang deficiency is also known as Fire Not Generating Earth, which is the failure of Fire in
providing Heat to the Spleen to transform and transport. This perspective affirms that Spleen-Yang is
actually a function driven by the element of Fire. Spleen-Yang is a term that describes the interdependence
between the Yang elements and the Yin substance of Spleen.
All the Yang elements, Fire as well as Metal and Seed, transform Spleens Ying-Nutritive substance to
warm, nourish and moisten the body. Likewise, Spleen needs the Yang elements to transform its Nutritive
Qi. If the Yang elements are deficient, proper warming and moistening wont happen and then Spleen
substance will accumulate.
Symptoms of Spleen Yang deficiency and Fire Not Generating Earth are chilliness, edema under the
skin, loose stools, cold limbs, heaviness of limbs, bloated abdomen and tiredness. These symptoms show that
Spleen substance, which is cooling, moistening, solidifying and calming, is accumulating. According to sixelement theory, Spleen-Yang deficiency means that Yang elements are not transforming and transporting
Spleen substance. Treatment would be directed at supporting the Yang elements and reducing the
accumulation of Spleens Yin substance.
The 2nd level of interdependence between Yin and Yang elements also clarifies Lung-Yin deficiency.
Lung-Yin deficiency results most often from deficiencies of Stomach and Kidney, which are both from the
Yin elements of Earth and Water. The Lung itself is from a Yang element, Metal. In Lung-Yin deficiency,
the Lung is losing its interdependence with Yin elements. When the Lung functions without the support of
Yin elements, it will develop dryness and empty-heat conditions. Treating Lung-Yin deficiency is done by
supporting the Yin substances of Stomach and Kidney, and of reconnecting Lung Qi to these Yin substances.
Mutual Consumption
The third level of mutual consumption between Yin and Yang is a two way street. An excess of Yin
will consume Yang, while an excess of Yang will also consume Yin. So there needs to be a balance between
them. Yin has to balance Yang as much as Yang has to balance Yin.
The terms Kidney-Yang and Heart-Yin reflect this level of mutual consumption. Kidney-Yang is a
way of describing Kidneys ability to accept and be transformed by the Yang elements. The cold and wet
pathology of Kidney-Yang deficiency shows that Kidney substance is not being consumed by the Yang
elements. The Yang elements are weak and not transforming Kidney substance. Therefore Kidney substance
is accumulating due to weak transformation and consumption by Yang elements.
The Heart meridian is from the Yang element of Fire. The term Heart-Yin describes the Hearts ability to
be moderated by Yin substances. The empty-heat and restless nature of Heart-Yin deficiency shows that the
Heart is losing its dependence on Yin substances, either because they are not sufficient enough to consume
Hearts heat or because they are losing contact with the Heart. Yin substances must be sufficient enough to
calm, cool down and moisten the Heart.
All the Yin substances can settle the Heart one way or another. The Blood of Wood can give the
restlessness of the Heart a place to rest and quiet its Spirit. The Nutritive-Ying substance of Earth can calm
the Heart by nourishing the body. This helps the responsibility of the Heart to push Nutritive Qi around the
body. The Yin fluids of Water cool down and moderate the heat generated from the Heart.
In effect, Yin substances are needed to consume excesses of Yang, while Yang activities are needed to
consume excess Yin.
Inter-transformation
Inter-transformation describes the phases of transformation between the Yin and Yang elements. These
phases follow the element order of Fire, to Earth, to Metal, to Water, to Seed, to Wood and back to Fire. For
example, molten lava spewing from a volcano is represented by the element Fire. But as the lava flies
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through the air and lands, it cools down, hardens, and turns into a rock, which is then represented by the
element Earth.
As the rock cools down, it releases gases that through time produce an atmosphere represented by the
element Metal.
As the atmosphere builds higher and higher into the sky, there appear altitudes where water vapor can
form out of the air. Clouds form and water will fall in the form of rain or snow represented by the element of
Water.
As the water flows and gathers into the low places, it feeds the fertility of the soil and it becomes
absorbed into the seeds in the ground. The water is absorbed into the roots of plants and drunken by animals.
The water supports the homeostatic synergy pulsating within living beings, which is represented by the
element of Seed.
The pulsating homeostatic synergy within life becomes the blood and sap associated with the element
Wood.
The activating and channeling of the life energy in Blood and sap activate a living being. The energy
pouring out of the Blood is now reminiscent of the lava spewing from the volcano, which is represented by
the element of Fire. The Fire of the original volcano is now expressing within a living being. The cycle
begins again but this time the cycle continues within the body and mind.
At each phase an element is transformed into the next element. Lava became the rock. The rock became
the air. The air became the water. The water became the pulsating life. The pulsating life became the blood.
The blood became the fire within the body. The energy of fire becomes the matter of the body. And the cycle
of inter-transformation continues on and on, producing finer and finer details to living creatures.
The level of inter-transformation between Yin and Yang elements simply follows the cycle of the six
elements. As these elements alternate between Yin and Yang around the six-element cycle, Yin transforms
into Yang, and then Yang transforms into Yin. This agrees with the level of inter-transformation.
Treating Yin & Yang
With six-element theory the main objective for treatment is to harmonize the relative excess or deficiency
between the three Yin and the three Yang elements. Harmony between Yin and Yang strengthens the
embrace of the triangles.
Because Yin Essence only exists within the Yin triangle, a Yin deficiency must indicate a deficiency
within the Yin triangle, Likewise, a Yang deficient condition indicates a deficiency within the Yang triangle
of elements.
For example, Empty-Heat results from a deficiency of Yin substances, e.g. body fluids, Blood and
Nutritive Qi. Yin substances are cooling, moistening and calming. So indications of empty heat are feelings
of heat, dryness and restlessness. Treatment would seek to tonify the Yin elements, e.g. Earth, Water and
Wood.
Empty-Cold results from a deficiency of Yang activities, e.g. Wei Qi, Yuan Qi and Fire. Yang activities
are warming, drying and stimulating. So indications of empty cold are feelings of coldness, extra fluids and
tiredness. Treatment would seek to tonify the Yang activities of the Yang elements, e.g. Metal, Seed and
Fire.
In six-element theory Yin elements support each other. Therefore Yin elements can be used to treat other
Yin elements. Nourishing any Yin substance will eventually strengthen all Yin substances. Strong blood will
lead to stronger Nutritive Qi. Strong Nutritive Qi will lead to better body fluids. Balanced body fluids will
support strong blood.
As well Yang elements support each other. Therefore Yang elements can be used to treat other Yang
elements. Strengthening any Yang element will eventually strengthen all Yang elements. Active Wei Qi will
fortify Yuan Qi. Active Yuan Qi will bolster Fire in the body. Active Fire will encourage stronger Wei Qi.
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These treatments are effective ways to strengthen either Yin or Yang.

Many times in order to strengthen an element, whether it is Yin or Yang, the interaction between Yin and
Yang must be encouraged. When the Yin and Yang triangles come together, new bonds are formed between
the Yin and Yang triangles to hold them together. These bonds are ultimately more vulnerable to stress,
because most stress comes from imbalances between Yin and Yang in lifestyle and physiology. Harmonizing
the bonds between Yin and Yang is ultimately more meaningful.
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Chapter 4 - The 6 Shu Points
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Nowadays acupuncturists use 5 Shu-transporting points. These are the Jing-well, Ying-spring, Shustream, Jing-river and He-sea points. However, a long time ago the understanding was that there were 6 Shu
points. The 6th Shu point was said to be the Yuan source point.
When the breaths rise in counter-current, then the Six Shu are no longer in free communication, and
the warming breaths no longer circulate
Lingshu, Chapter 66
Shu points relate to how water flows from a well in the mountains down via streams and rivers to the
ocean. The water is then taken back up to replenish the wells in the mountains.
Gods love is like a pure spring that gushes from the mountain. At its source it is pure but as it flows
on its course it becomes clouded and polluted until it enters the ocean so impure it does not even
resemble that which emerged from the source. As it enters the ocean it begins to drop the mud
and slime to the bottom and again rises to the surface as a part of the glad, free ocean, from
which it again can be taken up to refresh the spring.
So the water has to go all the way to the ocean where it can become pure again. In the ocean, the
impurities settle out and purity rises to the surface. The wind then comes along and carries the pure water
back up to the mountains to refresh the wells and springs.
In 5-element theory the He-sea points precede the Jing-well points. The He-sea points are represented
by a delta or estuary. Deltas and estuaries are places where water is just returning to the ocean.
The Qi of the He-sea pointsruns deep and broad like an estuary flowing into the sea, preparing for
its entry into the deepest levels of the body.
Peter Deadman, Acupuncture Points, p. 31
With its springhead at the fingers and its delta at the elbows
Giovanni Maciocia, Foundations of Chinese medicine, p. 335
However, it is actually from the open ocean that water is taken back up to replenish the springs in the
mountains. The settling out of impurities does not happen in a delta or estuary. The water there is too
turbulent and not yet ready to be taken back up to the mountains. Impurities are still mixed in the water.
Thus He-sea points do not represent the purification process of the ocean. In this regard, the He-sea points
do not directly precede the Jing-well points. Thus, a sixth stage representing the deep open ocean actually
exists between the He-sea and the Jing-well points.
The water in an estuary is too turbulent to support the nature of Yuan Qi. Water entering the ocean is not
at rest. In order for water to return back to the mountains it must have a place to rest and settle out its
impurities. The ocean is the only place where water can be rejuvenated. The deep resting stage of Qi in the
ocean is the sixth stage of the Shu points.
So in the cycle of transporting Qi through the Shu points, the deepest levels of the body must represent a
sixth stage.
http://seedoflife.741.com/Chapter4a.htm
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That sixth stage used to be found in the Yuan source points of the channels. The Yuan source points are
where the Yuan source Qi enters a channel. The San Jiao has the responsibility to bring the Yuan source Qi
to the Yuan source points. So the relationship that San Jiao has with Yuan Qi will shed light on the sixth
stage of the Shu points.
San Jiao is a meridian of the element Seed. The Yang activity that originates from Seed is the Yuanprimordial Qi. Yuan Qi is generated within the peacefulness of the primordial soup, which represents the
glad, free ocean from which pure water can refresh the mountain springs. Yuan Qi created life. Yuan Qi
brings life out of the mud by purifying it.
The primordial soup is just like the ocean in that it is the final resting place of water that flows and
gathers across the land. The He-sea points still refer to water flowing and gathering across the land before it
enters the ocean. Once in the ocean, the water is allowed to relax and take a break in deep repose and peace.
Within this peace is the magic to rejuvenate flowing Qi of life. The mud settles out and life is reborn
through purification.
The sixth element Seed represents the stage where the Qi of the body-mind comes to rest and to
rejuvenate itself. This stage must exist between the deltas and the mountain wells. If this sixth stage is left
out and the water is directly returned to the mountain wells from the estuaries, then the water returned to the
wells still has impurities in it. True healing has not been accomplished until the Qi has gone through the
peaceful and cleansing stage of the sixth element.
In sixth element theory the sixth Shu points can be called deep calm water points. These points allow
the Qi to rest in deep places in the body. A practitioner can use the Yuan-source points as the deep calm
water points if desired, but there are other points available too. The points are located near where the arms
and legs meet the torso of the body. The points are where the tissue under the skin sinks into the body.
These points give rest to the Qi before it is taken up to replenish the mountain wells at the tips of the fingers
and toes.
EARTH META
Shu stream Jing
river
The deep calm water points used in six-element theory are:

Gall Bladder 30
Stomach 30
Bladder 36
Liver 11
Spleen 12
Kidney 11
Small Intestine 9
Large Intestine 16
San Jiao 15
Heart 1
Lung 2
Pericardium 1
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Note: Palpate around each of these points until you find a soft deep depression in the skin tissue. That
will be the spot where the Qi sinks in deeply.
Laying a hand or the tip of the fingers on these points is relaxing and stress reducing. This technique
allows the Qi in the channels to rest and calm down. The result is that the Qi rejuvenates at a deep level.
Many of these deep calm water points are underused in the modern practice of acupuncture, mostly
because they are sensitive to needle. Instead using a light penetrating touch is a good alternative way to use
them.
Many times one will see children in school sitting on their hands. Their hands are actually holding
Bladder 36, which relaxes the mind and calms down hyperness. The Bladder meridian is called upon when
one does a lot of thinking like in school. Bladder 36 has the ability to settle and relax the mind, which
allows the mind to process information that it has gathered.
In times of burden or stress, one often hangs a hand over the shoulder. The fingers will touch San
Jiao 15. Many times a person will place their hands in their armpits. This maneuver touches the Heart and
Small Intestine deep calm water points, Ht1 and SI9. It is a defensive gesture that emphasizes ones own
desires and self-determination. These points calm down ambition over-drive and the feeling of carrying the
weight of the world on ones shoulders.
To combine these deep calm water Shu points with the Jing-well points is a technique to recycle the
circulation in the whole channel. It is best done once the Qi has had time to relax. This point combination
helps someone who is under stress and overburdened by a load of impurities, whether they are emotional,
social or physical.
Another technique is to combine these Shu points with the influential points. The influential points
affect various tissues and functions that actually correspond to the elements.
For examples,
Combining the Seed meridian points of Pc1 and SJ15 with Ren17, the influential point of Qi,
supports the balancing of Yuan Qi when someone is on the verge of exhaustion or collapse. Slow
rhythmical breathing during the use of these points enhances the effect.
Combining the Wood meridian points of Lv11 and GB30 with Bl17, the influential point of
Blood, supports the resting of tired blood. This condition results from someone losing hope and
optimism about life. Courage is lost and timidity follows. Sexual urges weaken. The person
needs to rest the blood.
Combining the Water meridian points of Kd11 and Bl36 with GB39, the influential point of
Marrow and Essence, supports nourishment of the sinews and bones. This condition shows up as
atrophy or pain of the limbs. The pain can be felt in the bones as well. It is waters nature to
penetrate to deep areas. When pain is felt deeply in the body, like at the marrow level, water is
flowing too fast to penetrate deeply. For example, if snow melts too fast in the springtime, the
water runs off the land and wont soak into the ground as well. The water needs to slow down
and rest. Then it will soak deeply into the body.
Combining the Earth meridian points of Sp13 and St 30 with Ren12, the influential point of the
Fu and food assimilation, supports the Nutritive-Ying Qi when a person is stressed over eating
too much or too little. Many times a harmful self-body image is the cause. The stress ends up in
the Stomach and Spleen meridians, which begin to lose the ability to properly assimilate nutrients
around the body. Menstrual functions can be adversely effected.
Combining the Metal meridian points of Lu2 and LI 16 with Bl11, the influential point of bones
and rigidity of the spine and joints, supports the dispersing and free circulation of stuck Qi,
which limits movement and flexibility. This condition results many times from being stressed
over having to be friendly with another person or even being afraid of relationships. These points
allow one to relax and open up. Arthritis can result from stress to the Metal element.
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Combining the Fire meridian points of Ht1 and SI9 with St32, the influential point of arteries and
veins, supports the smooth circulation of Qi and blood from the chest to the periphery of the
extremeties. When someone tries too hard or works too hard, angina or hypertension can
develop. This point combination eases the blood pressure due to excess pressure around the heart.
These give some ideas of how to use the deep calm water Shu points of six-element theory.
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Page 4 of 4
Chapter 5 - Distinguishing 5 and 6 elements
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The distinction between six elements and five elements is found in a quote by Zhang Jiebin.
When the Great Ultimate (Tai ji) begins movement, yang is produced; when it comes to rest, yin is
produced. Each of the two Yin/Yang breaths has its Essences. These Essences are the One of
Heaven and the Six of Earth. Heaven, through the One, produces water. Earth, through the Six,
completes water, and this water is the very first of the Five Elements
Zhang Jiebin
From this quote we see that six Essences precede the five elements. Six-element theory teaches that the
six Essences represent unmanifested Essence. The five elements on the other hand represent life Essence in
its manifested form.
In this light, the six Essences relate to the more subtle underlying structure of unmanifested JingEssence, which is unseen within the body-mind. Jing is not a formless energy. Jing has a structure and
serves as a mold for the physical body. The physical body draws its shape, function and form from the Jing
mold.
The Six Essences represent a template. The five elements use them as their ideal mold to draw out the form of
the body.
The pure and clear Essences are the template for each life.
Little by little the body draws out its form from the work of the Essences.
Rooted in Spirit, Larre and Rochat de la Valle
The structure of Jing is a perfect template and remains unchanged and unscarred by life. This structure is
an invisible body, which is always perfect. This is an advanced understanding of what Jing-Essence is.
The body that manifests from this perfect template of six Essences is the physical body of the five
elements. This body is subject to the ups and downs, illnesses and scars of life. It is the body we all see
everyday. The perfect template unseen within our bodies though remains intact, without a scratch.
As the body of the five elements experiences growth and decay, the template of the Six Essences
remains perfect and pure. As illness appears in the manifested body of the five elements, the template of the
Six Essences can be used to return the body back to its original perfection. This perfection is always
available to rebuild and restore the visible body.
This knowledge is a deep spiritual way of healing that much of oriental medicine and shamanic
medicine is rooted. It involves contacting the perfect template of the Jing and its six Essences, whether
consciously or unconsciously, visualizing the perfection, and then manifesting the perfection in the material
body. The material body then changes back to its original perfection. Blind eyes see again. Paralyzed legs
walk again. Leprosy gives way to beautiful skin.
I visited a mystic in Cyprus, Stylianos Atteshlis, in 1993. He spoke of an etheric double. From the
viewpoint of six-element theory, the etheric double relates to the Jing of the six Essences. The body of the
Etheric double, which exists amidst the physical body, is perfect and unchanging, and cannot separate from
the physical body. When seen the etheric double looks just like the physical body, but perfect in every
aspect. The Etheric Double is the mold or template for the whole body. The physical body should reflect its
wholeness and purity.
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wholeness and purity.

The etheric vitality of the Etheric Double holds the whole body together, maintains it and coordinates its
growth. Etheric vitality is understood the same way as is the Jing-Essence in Oriental medicine. The
Etheric Double, also called Etheric Template, is constructed from the image contained within what Atteshlis
called the Permanent Atom, which he said is spherical. The Permanent Atom directly relates to the
spherical matrix to be presented later on. The permanent atom is the origin and center for all meridians and
Essences of the whole body.
Illness and problems arise when the etheric double is unable to impart enough etheric vitality to a
location in the body, as a result of fearful, aggressive or stressful lifestyles. The body then fails
to reflect the perfection of the etheric double
The Esoteric Teachings, Stylianos Atteshlis, mystic
From this quote, any type of energetic healing, be it therapeutic touch, Reiki, stones, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tui
Na, etc., can be understood as channeling etheric vitality or Jing-Essence back to locations in the body that
are diseased. The etheric vitality of the Six Essences flows back to the physical body and re-manifests
wholeness and perfection, in effect curing disease.
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Page 2 of 2
Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle
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In six-element theory there are six basic climatic factors; heat, cold, wetness, dryness, lightness and
heaviness. In current element theories these kinds of factors may be seen as pathogenic. It is true that they
can harm life when found in extreme. But at the same time they all naturally express within a healthy living
being.
These six factors come in opposites. Heat counteracts cold. Wetness counteracts dryness. Heaviness
counteracts lightness. In actuality there are only 3 factors, Fire, Water and Heaviness. The amount of Fire
determines whether a condition has hot or cold. The amount of water determines whether a condition is wet
or dry. And the amount of heaviness determines whether a condition is heavy or light.
In space, everything starts out cold, dry and light. Life on Earth gives heat, wetness and heaviness to
everything in various degrees.
The balance between Fire and Water is fundamental to every physiological process. In six-element
theory the Fire of the Yang triangle co-penetrates with the Water of the Yin triangle. Each enters the realm
of the other triangle. This co-penetration is extremely pivotal, because it forms an axis between Fire and
Water through the center of the six-element model. This axis is the manifestation of Jing-Shen. The
embrace of the Yin and Yang triangles revolves around this axis. Thus Fire and Water give heat and
wetness to life. Heaviness results from their co-penetration.
In nature, heavy objects sink below lighter objects. Heavy objects also push lighter objects upward.
Heaviness is the density of an object. Earth and water are both heavier and denser than air. Yet, water is
lighter than Earth. Everything has its own weight and density in comparison to everything else.
Fire and water have light and heavy states. Heat from the sun beats down on the land and sea, which
warms the air. The heat is then carried on the rising thermals into the atmosphere. Water vapor is carried up
into the atmosphere and then becomes heavy enough to drop as rain or light snow. The balance between
heaviness and lightness determines much of the interaction and movement between the elements in nature.
Heat & Cold
Heat is a Yang pathogen. Within the Yang triangle heat is generated between the Seed and Fire
elements. Seed begins the warming up process by generating an activity that creates life. The activity has a
synergy that produces energy. Seed produces potential energy that becomes stored in the element Wood.
The element Fire has the function of releasing the potential energy in Wood that was originally put there
by the element Seed. Thus Fire tends to be the hottest element, but not the one that actually creates the
energy for heat in the first place. Seed creates the energy first. An example is seen in how prostaglandins
produced in the base of the brain control fever and inflammation. The base of the brain is governed by the
meridians of the element Seed.
The element Wood is between Seed and Fire. Therefore Wood ends up being warmer than Water in the
interaction between Yang and Yin elements. The blood of Wood always feels warm. It is natural and
expected for blood to feel warm. Water on the other hand is more natural to feel cold.
The element Water precedes the energy-producing phase of the element Seed. Seed takes the cold Water
and begins infusing energy and heat into it. The heat transforms the water into the substance of blood at the
element Wood.
Cold is a Yin pathogen, so it has an affinity with the Yin triangle. Within the Yin triangle cold is
developed between the Earth and Water elements. Earth begins the cooling process by taking the heat of Fire
and turning it into matter. The Earths crust surrounds a molten lava core. The Earths crust is certainly
cooler than the core.
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cooler than the core.

Earth is a strong element for cooling down Fire. Earth has an intense cooling process even though it is
warm to the touch most of the time. In fact Earth is able to directly cool down the element Fire by
condensing it. When Water comes in contact with Fire, they fight and struggle to dissipate each other. Earth
simply and directly harnesses Fire inside of it. Earth stays intact in the presence of Fire. Earth is warm
because the Fire energy is still fresh inside it, but it is cooler than Fire. Water is the coldest of all the
elements, but not always the most effective for cooling down Fire in the body.
Metal cools down the Earth further by releasing its exterior and carrying away the heat on the Earths
surface. Metal sits between Earth and Water and because of this, Metal is not as warm or hot in nature as
Seed or Fire. Metals Yang function of releasing the exterior is actually cooling in nature.
Water is able to condense in the vaporous activities of the element Metal. Water continues the cooling
down process even further with fluids that absorb all remaining heat. Water absorbs heat better than any
other element. Water grabs heat and carries it away. Water drains heat from the body either through the
urine or perspiration.
In effect Heat is generated in one half of the six-element cycle, namely from Seed to Wood to Fire.
Cold is developed in the other half, namely from Earth to Metal to Water. These two halves oppose and at
the same time complement each other. This relationship gives the body the ability to warm up or cool down
as the need arises.
For example, if cold attacks the body, the body can generate heat to counteract the cold through the
interaction of Seed, Wood and Fire. However, if the cold is too much for the body to counteract, the body
can slow down its circulation and metabolism in order to harmonize with the cold. The body has its options
to survive a cold pathogen.
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to survive a cold pathogen.

If heat attacks the body, the body can release excess heat from the exterior with the aid of the element
Metal. The body can carry away the heat through urine also with the aid of the element Water. The body can
also stabilize the pathogenic Heat with the aid of the element Earth. The body has its options to survive a
heat pathogen as.
Heaviness & Lightness
Heaviness is a pathogen that most modern acupuncturists are familiar with. Heaviness is usually called
dampness. But dampness is a combination of heaviness and wetness. Heaviness though can exist without
wetness. In actuality, heaviness is a state of inertness, weight, sluggishness, blockage, accumulation and
thickness.
Lets take a river that is running smoothly through the land. A landslide suddenly breaks loose from a
mountain and comes down to block the flow of the river. The landslide is heavy and dams up the river. The
water will accumulate behind the landslide dam. This accumulation would be seen as dampness, but in
actuality the real pathogen is the heaviness of the landslide material, which is related to the element Earth.
Most treatments for this condition would seek to drain the accumulation of water, but what is really
needed is a land-mover or many shovels to remove the earth of the landslide. Once this heavy material is
removed, the water will flow smoothly again. If the water is only diverted around the heavy earth, it is likely
that the accumulation of water will persist for some time.
Indications of heaviness in the body are; down-bearing sensation, heavy limbs, heavy muggy feeling in
the head, slowed or blocked circulation, fullness, nodules, masses, welts, numbness, swelling and even the
distension of Qi stagnation. Diseases of heaviness are; food stagnation, urinary stones, scleroderma, uterine
fibroids, Qi obstructions, clogged vessels, plum-pit Qi and muscle weakness.
So it is important in six-element theory to distinguish between heaviness and dampness. Dampness is
most always heavy in the body. But heaviness is not always damp in the body. Damp-heat is a combination
of wetness, heat and heaviness. The main idea is that heaviness is a more basic pathogen than dampness.
Phlegm is also a form of heaviness, because it is heavy. There are various forms of phlegm in the body.
There is dry-phlegm, damp-phlegm, cold-phlegm, hot phlegm, wind-phlegm, Qi phlegm and watery phlegm.
These are all examples of how heaviness combines with other pathogens to effect problems in the body.
Phlegm by its very nature is reminiscent of the landslide example above. Phlegm clogs, blocks and weighs
down circulation.
Just as phlegm can cause wetness to accumulate and lead to dampness, in practice, phlegm can also
generate heat. Heat, like fluids, moves through the body with Fire, blood and normal metabolism. Phlegm
obstructs the circulation of heat. Heat then accumulates in and around the phlegm blockage.
Heaviness is a Yin pathogen, so it has an affinity with the Yin triangle. The solid nature of Earth makes
it the heaviest of all Yin elements. Earth by nature is stubborn and inert. Earth restricts movement by being
immovable and through its own inertia. Earth tends to clump up and form landmasses. In this regard it
relates to the formation of nodules and masses in the body.
Spleen is above all seen as the cause of dampness and phlegm in the body. Stomach 40, Fenglong, is the
primary point for phlegm. These meridians belong to the element Earth and show Earths strong relationship
to heaviness in the body. Whether the heaviness is felt in the limbs, head, lower abdomen, joints, jaw, eyes,
throat, stomach or wherever, the element Earth has an affinity to this climatic factor. Earth feels
comfortable with the feeling of heaviness. The problem is that other elements dont feel comfortable with
excessive heaviness. Heaviness is essential but it must be moderated so that it doesnt interfere with other
activities of the elements in the body.
The body needs some heaviness to sustain itself. For example, there is an animal in the sea, which is
called the sand dollar. It looks like a little plate, which is hollow. When the sand dollar is small, it puts sand
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called the sand dollar. It looks like a little plate, which is hollow. When the sand dollar is small, it puts sand
inside its shell in order to give it weight. That way it wont float away. But as the sand dollar grows and
gets bigger, it becomes heavier. And so the sand dollar gets rid of the sand inside it over time, because it
doesnt need the sand.
Lightness is the opposite pathogen to heaviness. When one thinks of lightness, they usually think of air.
Light things are usually said to be lighter than air. Air is the standard for lightness. Whereas heavy objects
sink and push downward, light objects rise and float upward.
The pathogen that most acupuncturists would say corresponds to lightness is Wind. Wind tends to rise
and float. The lightness of wind allows it to move freely, to come and go. When the wind pathogen floats to
the head, one gets a feeling of being lightheaded. Dizziness is a form of lightness. Just as the limbs can feel
heavy, they can also feel light and spacey.
When a person is said to be ungrounded and spacey, that person is experiencing the pathogen of
lightness, which is unbalancing the body-mind. The person feels the need to ground themselves back in the
body or some kind of task. They actually need a little more heaviness. They are deficient in heaviness.
Lightness is a Yang pathogen, so it has an affinity with the Yang triangle. The lightness of Metal
contrasts the heaviness of the element Earth. Metal corresponds to the air of the atmosphere. There is a great
difference between the heaviness of Earth and lightness of Metals air. And yet, these elements interact so
closely. They infuse each other and transform into each other. Earth breathes in air. Soils have to be aerated
in order to grow plants. The leaves of plants exchange gases with the atmosphere.
Metal initiates the experience of lightness. Without lightness water would not form and life could not be
created. And yet, lightness needs the heaviness of substance to hold it and root it. Only then can lightness
create life.
Water vapor rises on the winds of Metal high into the atmosphere. There it collects into clouds, which
are light and floating in themselves. The Yin nature of Water develops heaviness in order to fall as rain, but
fortunately water has the capacity to allow itself to become light and float upwards. Once the water falls as
rain, it continues to flow effortlessly across the heaviness of the land. As long as the land doesnt
completely obstruct the flow of water, water will continue to flow.
Water reaches a special place where it rests. Here the element Seed infuses into the water with its
transparent vision. Seed is the lightest of all elements. It is the element that has no form, no substance only
function, only presence. Seed is as light as a thought. It has substance but that substance is so ethereal in
nature, that its lightness is profound.
The pathogen of Wind in the body-mind normally attacks the Liver. The Liver Essence circulates gently
and freely in the blood. The blood needs some heaviness to nourish and root the body. If the blood becomes
too light and begins to move like wind, the blood will lose touch with the organs, nervous system, sense
organs and skin. Problems will begin to arise.
The wind easily attacks the Liver when the integrity of the Seed element has been dissipated. The Seeds
lightness leaks into the blood, and the blood begins to float away from the body.
In six-element theory, wind mostly results from a weakness in the element Seed. Seed has an affinity for
lightness, the kind of lightness that penetrates deeply and quietly. So when wind attacks the body, the wind
moves with the lightness of the element Seed. Overtime the wind can progressively dissipate the integrity of
Seed, if one does not firm up the boundaries of their homeostatic comfort zone.
When the element Seed begins to dissipate from the body-mind due to the presence of too much
lightness or wind, this most directly effects the element Wood, which follows Seed in the six-element cycle.
Wood is unable to thicken and incorporate the potential energy of Seed, because Seed has become too
diffused. Some describe this feeling as euphoric, because the Primordial Power of Seed is being dissipated.
But the power is actually being drained by too much lightness.
When the Primordial Power of Seed becomes drained, the blood becomes weak. The same principle is
applied to Yuan Qi. When Yuan Qi becomes weak, the blood is weakened. This leads to tremors and tics,
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applied to Yuan Qi. When Yuan Qi becomes weak, the blood is weakened. This leads to tremors and tics,
mostly noticed around the eye.
Also wind results from blood deficiency. This happens when the element Wood is deficient, thus
meaning that blood is deficient. The power and energy of the element Seed cannot strengthen the blood,
because there is not enough blood to receive it. This excess power from the element Seed is light in nature.
As the excess energy of Seed dissipates away, this excess power feels like wind in the body, because the
presence of Seed is very light and needs to be rooted.
In six-element theory, the lightness of wind will also undermine the element Seed overtime, which then
undermines the integrity of the blood, associated with the element Wood. So in effect blood deficiency and
the pathogen of lightness go hand in hand. One can cause the other.
Heaviness is generated from Wood to Earth. Lightness is developed from Metal to Seed. These two
climatic factors oppose and at the same time complement each other. This relationship gives the body the
ability to accumulate mass or lighten the spirit as the need arises.
The body seeks to maintain a harmonious balance between its heaviness and lightness. Still this balance
can be upset. When the person feels too light, there eventually comes the need to ground oneself. When a
person feels too heavy and stuck in a rut, there eventually comes the need to be free again. It is wonderful to
float away yet still be rooted in the physical body.
Dryness & Wetness
The last pair of pathogenic factors involves the abundance or the absence of fluids. Wetness is a
condition of abundant fluids in the body. Dryness is the absence of fluids in some part of the body.
Wetness is mainly associated with the element Water. Dryness results as the Yang elements express their
activities of warming, drying, dispersing, and stimulating. The Yang elements use up water in the body. In
some respect however, Metal can actually produce water.
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The element most in struggle with Water is Fire. Fire causes dryness in the body. Fire uses up and
evaporates water leaving an area dry. This dryness is seen after a fever. Wetness must return to the area in
order for life to continue there. But without the interaction between Fire and Water, there would be no life.
The struggle between Fire and Water is the most predominant struggle between Yin and Yang in the bodymind.
Dryness is a Yang pathogen, so it has an affinity with the Yang triangle. Within the Yang triangle
dryness develops between the elements of Fire and Metal. Fire most intensely leads to dryness. Fire starts
the consumption of wetness. The heat produced by Fire pulls and pushes fluids out of an area. This is a
necessary consequence of Yang activities. Yang simply consumes Yin substances. Water is the most
fundamental Yin substance. Fire happens to be the most raw and fundamental Yang substance. These two
elements consume each other more than any other.
Fire goes into the viscosity of blood and consumes its fluids. The element after Fire is Earth. Earth is the
driest of the Yin elements as it comes after the intense drying effects of Fire. Earth actually likes to be
moistened by other Yin substances, namely blood and fluids from digesting food and drink.
After Earth comes the element of Metal, which has a further drying effect on wetness. Metal blows
across the surface of an object, which pulls moisture out of it. A strong wind can dry up the soil just as fast
as the hot sun baking it. Sweat is more effective when there is a wind blowing. As the sweat dries off the
skin, the skin cools down. The metal element controls the releasing of the exterior of the body.
Metal has the nature of being the driest element, but it is not the element that most creates dryness; that
element is Fire. Still very dry air may enter through the nose and mouth, which are areas controlled by the
element Metal. The moist tissue and mucous membranes in the breathing passages is damaged by severe
dryness.
Wetness is a Yin pathogen, so it has an affinity with the Yin triangle. Within the Yin triangle wetness is
developed between the elements of Water and Wood. The element Water most strongly creates fluids out of
dryness. The fluids created can be extremely abundant. Just look at how much of the Earths surface is
ocean. We live on a very wet planet. Still there are places that havent seen any moisture for decades. The
sun bakes down on these places and pulls moisture out of the ground.
Eventually the rain must fall. Water will return. It is the cycle of nature in which we live on this planet.
Water has permeated every place on this planet at some time. Which is in stark contrast to the time before
water existed on this planet. At that time, every place on Earth was completely bone dry and hot.
Too much water leads to flooding. In the body this is experienced as edema or even diarrhea and
incontinence. Dampness is a result of too much fluid. This kind of dampness needs to be distinguished from
the dampness caused by heaviness. Flooding can overburden the Yang energies of the body and consume
them. Weakened Yang energies then exacerbate the accumulation of fluids in the body. However weakened
Yang energies will contribute to increased urination, sweating and diarrhea.
Water flows into the element of Seed. Seed is awakened by water, just as a seed sprouts once it is
wetted. Seed is the wettest of all the Yang elements due its position between Water and Wood in the sixelement cycle. Seed has a need for wetness in order to fulfill its function and purpose.
In the physical body, the element Seed functions through the interstitial fluids between cells and in the
blood. This will be discussed in more detail in the chapter on San Jiao and Pericardium.
The element Wood has a thick viscosity. Wood is actually the wettest element in the sense that water is
extremely concentrated within it. Blood is a form of thickened and concentrated water. Blood has increased
potential energy because Yin is concentrated within it. The element Seed performs the function of
concentrating wetness into the blood. Blood is the very special substance. Water by itself cannot support
life. Blood has the unique quality in that it only exists to support life.
Blood is wet. It is taught that Blood and fluids have the same source. If one is low on blood, one should
not be made to sweat. This will aggravate the blood deficiency. The common root that blood and fluids have
is in the Yin triangle of Essence. Blood depends upon an abundant wetness.
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is in the Yin triangle of Essence. Blood depends upon an abundant wetness.

It is good to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning to replenish the fluids in the blood that have
been removed during the night. When we drink water, it goes straight from the digestive tract into the blood.
Some blood deficient symptoms result purely from not enough water in the daily diet. The quantity of blood
decreases causing a blood deficiency. A general rule on how much water to drink daily is 0.3 liters per
Kilogram of body weight. Drinking this much water helps the body cleanse itself, and keeps the blood
tonified.
To sum up, dryness is more found in one half of the six-element cycle, namely from Fire to Metal.
Wetness develops in the other half, namely from Water to Wood. These two halves oppose and at the same
time complement each other. Within the full cycle of the elements, the body has the ability to moisten
tissues and wash away toxins, as well as dry up accumulated wetness.
The body seeks to maintain a harmonious balance between wetness and dryness. The wetness is
moderated by Yang elements. The dryness is moderated by Yin substances.
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Chapter 3 The Meridians of the Element Seed, San Jiao & Pericardium
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Chapter 7 The Meridians of Seed, San Jiao & Pericardium

The meridians, San Jiao and Pericardium, are not completely understood in modern theory of
acupuncture. Six-element theory really develops the understanding of these meridians, because a clear and
definite distinction must be made with the meridians of the Fire element, Heart and Small Intestine. Modern
five-element theory overlaps these four meridians under the one element Fire.
In Chinese Medicine the elements originally referred to phases of transformation in nature. The phases
show how elements transform into each other in a cycle of creation. For example, in the sequence of
elements, Earth comes after Fire. This is seen as molten lava (Fire) shoots out of a volcano as a red-hot
flaming ember. Then as it flies and lands, it cools down turning into a rock (Earth). As the rock cools, it
gives off gases (Metal). And so on.
Once elements are created and exist side by side, then they interact with each other in many various
ways. Lava will flow into the ocean. Sea spray from waves breaking will rise into the atmosphere. The sun
shines into all elements on the Earth. Within barren deserts, we find oases of life.
Of all the elements, Wood is the only one that is organic, meaning that wood represents living tissue; it
symbolizes the appearance of lifeblood. Lifeblood is defined as the blood necessary to life and as the vital
element for animating life.
Fire, Earth, Metal and Water are the four raw elements that existed before life began on Earth. Wood
appeared after life was created. But Wood did not just magically appear amidst these other 4 elements.
There was another phase of transformation that allowed Wood to develop among the 4 raw elements; this
other phase of transformation harmonized and incubated the creation of life. It was from this incubation
that life appeared in the form of the element Wood.
It is essential to realize that life did not just appear out of water. Wood did not just sprout out of the
water flowing across the land. The water had to come to rest and sit for a long period of time. The water
had to go through a maturation process wherein the elements went through a phase of transformation that
allowed them to coalesce into life. The elements had to go through this resting phase in order for Wood to
sprout and for life to start flourishing across the land.
The element phase of maturation that occurred before the appearance of Wood is Seed. The element
Seed symbolizes the powerful yet quiet transformations that took place within the primordial soup.
Understanding this Seed phase is what separates six-element theory from five-element theory.
Seeds are essential to the cycle of life, and represent a distinct phase in the cycle of the elements. There
would be no wood, nor trees, without seeds. There would be no offspring. There would be no evolution.
There would be no life.
Yuan Qi & Seed
I feel that Yuan Qi is not sufficiently understood and appreciated in modern acupuncture. Some regard it
as a sacred Qi that is always perfect; that it is always in a state of grace. In this sense, Yuan Qi has an
enduring potential throughout life.
The Yuan Qi is the seed of true nature that Heaven plants deep within at the moment of conception.
We must nurture the potential of this seed to fulfill our destiny.
Nourishing Destiny, Lonny Jarrett, p. 103
Yet at the same time, others say that Yuan-Qi can be diseased.
Yuan/Primordial Qi of the body.
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Yuan/Primordial Qi of the body.

Yellow Emperors Classic, chapter 77
Yuan Qi is the primordial-Source Qi of the body. It is extremely fundamental to the development and
growth of life. Yuan Qi incubates and develops life from the embryo all the way through old age.
While in the womb, the Yuan Qi guides the entire differentiation of the embryo and fetus. During life,
the Yuan Qi serves as the inner fire that fuels all developmental processes such as making blood,
the growth of bones, emotional psychic development, and the ascent of the spirit.
The embryo of all life was developed in the primordial soup by Yuan-primordial Qi. The nurturing of an
embryo in a woman is the same process that happened in the primordial soup to create life. The protected
stillness of the uterus is the best way to understand the primordial soup. Yuan Qi is extremely strong in the
uterus. When Yuan Qi is not strong, the fetus will suffer.
(Qi has) the role of animating and setting in motion. This is not only for the various kinds of
circulation in an adult, but also the strength leading to the development of the embryo into the
child, and from the child to the adult. This process is also due to the vitality of the Qi, not just the
original-Yuan Qi, but all the expressions of Qi and the real continuity of life through the Yuan Qi
with the cooperation of all the other kinds of Qi and Essences.
Essence, Spirit, Blood and Qi, Larre and Rochat de la Vallee, p. 50
Most acupuncturists would say that birth defects are the result of a problem with the Jing-Essence.
However, since Yuan Qi guides the development of the embryo, many birth defects are caused by problems
with the Yuan-Qi. Yuan-Qi and Jing-Essence work together to develop the embryo.
Yuan Qi is like the main contractor that uses a blueprint to build a building. Other kinds of Qi, like Wei
Qi and Nutritive Qi, are like subcontractors. Yuan Qi manages and organizes the whole construction. Jing,
Essence is the blueprint that is used to guide construction. The mothers blood gives the materials needed to
grow an embryo. If the building does not come out perfect, was it poor construction, an imperfect blueprint
or poor materials? The quality of the materials is important. Ultimately the quality of the building reflects
the quality of the contractor who uses the materials. So for birth defects, Yuan Qi is most often accountable
for the problem.
But the emergence of one thing (Yuan Qi) in the ocean of nothing (Jing-Essence) provoked the
conversion of nothing into something
We see that Yuan Qi plays a major role in creating and forming life. The actions taken by Yuan Qi are
not always perfect from our worldly critical eyes. But it may be that from a spiritual perspective, even
imperfections have a perfect reason as to why they manifest. That is a deep perspective to ponder; one
beyond human reason.
Yuan-original Qi is nothing but Essence in the form of Qi, rather than fluid. It can be described as
Essence transformed into Qi.
Giovanni Maciocia, Foundations of Chinese Medicine, p 41
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Yuan Qi is the Qi produced from total unification. This is the most profound mystery of Yuan Qi. When
all the Essences, Spirits and the visions of life come together in one unified whole and when all the
elements unify into that one whole, a power begins to pulsate and resonate. This power, which is Yuan Qi,
expresses the unification holographically. Essences, Spirits and Yuan Qi make up the 3 treasures of Chinese
Medicine.
The three energies together are unified in the One. There is Essence-Jing, there is Spirit-Shen, and
there is energy-Yuan Qi. These three are originally one. They are founded in Heaven and Earth
and form the root of all human energy. Human beings receive spirit from Heaven, essence from
Earth, and energy from the middle harmony of Heaven and Earth. Joined together they are the
oneThe three support each other and form an integrated whole.
Nourishing Destiny, Lonny Jarrett, p 79
To clarify this quote, the three were not originally one. Yuan-Qi begins once Jing and Spirit unify in the
middle. Before that, only Jing and Spirit exist.
Yuan Qi is the great unifier of Heaven and Earth. The unification of Heaven and Earth in the middle is
where Yuan Qi is. Yuan Qi is the final step that leads to what we would call Qi in all its forms, kinds and
distinctions. Yuan Qi is the original and primordial Qi. With Yuan Qi, life in all its diversity and oneness
begins to express. It is the fundamental Qi that forms life. All other living forms of Qi are rooted in Yuan
Qi.
The element Seed governs the Yuan Qi of the body. Through unification, Seed transforms independent
elements into a synergistic living being.
Yuan Qi is the original force that initiates all activity in the body-mind. Yuan Qi is the fundamental Qi
that awakens all other expressions of Qi. Through the transformations done by Yuan Qi, the body-mind
obtains Qi. This concept is essential to understanding the relationship between Seed and Yuan Qi. The
meridians, San Jiao and Pericardium, govern the expression of Yuan Qi in the body-mind.
Many have come to understand that the element of San Jiao and Pericardium is Fire. But they say that
this Fire is a mixture of Fire and Water. That nuance is used to distinguish them from the normal Fire
meridians of Heart and Small Intestine.
It is inaccurate to say that the Yuan Qi is as a mixture of fire and water. In the above quote Heaven and
Earth join together in the middle where the Yuan Qi is. Heaven can symbolically represent the Fire of Shen.
Earth can symbolically represent the Water of Jing. But Yuan Qi in the middle is not a mixture of Heaven
and Earth. Yuan Qi presides over the meeting of Heaven and Earth. Heaven, Earth and Yuan Qi are three
unique expressions that form an integrated whole. Fire, Water and Yuan-Qi are all distinct and unique in
their own rights.
The nature of Yuan Qi is distinct from any mixture of fire and water. Basically fire and water do not
mix. Yet they must coexist in a living unification of elements. Living unification refers to the complete and
total unification of the elements of nature as a requirement to create a living being. The coexistence of Fire
and Water is maintained by the Primordial Power of Yuan Qi that presides over the living unification of
elements. Yuan Qi is the cohesive and transforming power that creates life out of the dangerous and fragile
joining of Fire and Water.
Homeostatic Synergy
The power of Yuan-Qi expresses with homeostasis. Homeostasis seeks total harmony and then seeks to
maintain that harmony. The more harmony there is, the more Yuan-Qi there is.
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Through the harmony of homeostasis a synergy is produced that drives and activates the Qi of the bodymind. Imagine an orchestra with dozens of musical instruments. If the instruments play off key the sound is
dull, chaotic and resistant. Now imagine the difference when the instruments play in tune. The sound
amplifies and resonates with greater clarity and openness. The sound penetrates and focuses. Glass may
even break with the focused resonance.
Homeostasis creates the same kind of amplified resonance when different parts of the body are brought
into tune. Synergy is increased with unified resonance. This synergy is a power that appears when
independent and discordant sounds are transformed into a harmonic unification of beautiful sounds.
Essentially the different parts of the whole come to resonate with each other. When all parts vibrate
together, a powerful synergy results.
The element Seed is the power to unify and harmonize distinct and discordant parts. Seed brings these
parts into tune so that they resonate with each other. This is the nature of Primordial Power in the primordial
soup. The resonating harmony is called Homeostatic Synergy.
In six-element theory, San Jiao and Pericardium promote homeostatic synergy in the body-mind. The
synergy of Yuan Qi awakens the Qi of all other meridians. This awakening can only happen through the
unification of all Qi within a being. This synergy of unification is the best way to understand the element
Seed and the primordial Yuan-Qi. The homeostatic synergy activates all the Qi of the body.
The element Fire does not have the patience to sit quietly for eons upon eons waiting for harmony while
life is created in water. The Heart meridian does not understand homeostasis. The Heart only knows the will
to live and take action. And yet it was the Yuan Qi in the primordial soup that brought fire safely into the
water by creating lifeblood within the water. Fire then had a home within the water. Yuan Qi oversaw this
process.
The Pericardium is distinct from the Heart meridian because it knows how to care for a child, nurture
and protect that child. The Pericardium meridian oversees the production of mothers milk. The Pericardium
knows the patience required to cultivate the development of life.
The basic idea is that Yuan Qi is generated by the synergy of homeostatic unification.
Homeostasis means that extremes are brought together in harmony and common purpose. Extremes become
one diversified and balanced being. The power that is created in this unification is extreme and possibly
infinite. This power must be regulated or it could destroy itself. The extent to which the extremes can be
harmonized determines how much power will resonate in the unification. This means that as one is more
able to discipline their energies and their way of life, so as to better balance the extremes of Yin and Yang,
then more power will generate from their Yuan Qi. These are steps towards immortality and wisdom.
The ancients knew this. The ancients lived long lives because they developed ways to balance the
extreme transformations of Yin and Yang. Their way of life maintained the balance of original homeostatic
unification. This Universal Truth of how to live is elucidated throughout the first chapter of the Yellow
Emperors Classic of Medicine. A wise and regulated homeostasis in body and mind is key for living a long
healthy life. Homeostasis allows our primordial-original Qi, the Yuan Qi, to flourish abundantly.
Homeostasis in all organisms is continually attacked by stress, internal and external. It is a fact in
physiology that without homeostasis there is disease and death. Stresses to homeostasis weaken Yuan
Qi and threaten life. The ancients lived long healthy lives because they minimized stress and knew how to
cultivate their Yuan Qi by harmonizing Yin and Yang. They knew how to live in harmony with themselves,
with the external environment, and with the other people.
San Jiao
When one looks into the primordial soup, the Primordial Power is not visible to the naked eye. The
power is silent and cant be heard. It is only self-evident through the fruits of its transformative power and
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power is silent and cant be heard. It is only self-evident through the fruits of its transformative power and
presence. The fruits are the life forms that grew out of the primordial soup and now move on the Earth.
There is a wonderful story to illustrate the great function of the Three-Heater (San Jiao) as
spacemaker, peacemaker, homemaker, and caretaker, for all the rest of life. The story is from a
little book called The Sermon on the Mount According to Vedanta by Swami Prabhavananda:
In one of our monasteries there were a number of young postulants, not yet trained, fresh from
school. When they had been together a short time, their old tendencies began to assert
themselves, and the boys formed cliques and quarreled. A senior swami of our order went to
investigate. He questioned everybody and soon discovered the ringleaders. Then he wrote to
Swami Brahmananda, who was the head of our order, that these boys were unfitted for
monastic life and should be expelled. My master answered: Dont do anything about it. I am
coming myself. When he arrived at the monastery, he did not question anyone. He just started
living there. He insisted on only one thing that all the boys should meditate in his presence
regularly every day. The boys soon forgot their quarrels. The whole atmosphere of the place
became uplifted. By the time Swami Brahmananda left, two to three months later, perfect
harmony had been established in the monastery. No one had to be expelled. The minds and
hearts of the postulants were transformed.
All Sickness is Home Sickness, p 154
This story describes the quiet and subtle power of the San Jiao. Just the presence of the San Jiao is
transforming. The story also points out that it is good to regularly meditate on the Primordial Power of the
San Jiao in the body-mind. In this way, ones actions, thoughts and emotions become aligned with the
harmony of a mature wisdom.
Primordial Power itself has no form like the other elements. Even the element Fire can be seen in its
blazing flame. Even Metal can be seen in the exterior image and canopy of the atmosphere.
Primordial Power has no form but only function; it has the function of transformation. But this function
is illusory, because the function has no form. Primordial Power is a presence that cannot be sensed with the
five senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. If one tries to touch it, nothing is felt. If one tries to see
it, nothing is seen. If one tries to define its shape and form, one finds that the Primordial Power dissolves its
own form, always being formless. While it has no form, it has presence. Its presence permeates completely.
Its presence can only be sensed with the sixth sense called resonance. Only by resonating with the
Primordial Power can one sense it.
The five colors blind the sight.
The five sounds deafen the hearing.
The five flavors dull the taste.
The sage is guided by what is sensed within

and not by what is seen.
Chinese doctors for centuries have debated whether the San Jiao has a form or not. It is said that the San
Jiao has no form, but only function.
The San Jiao has a name but no form.
Classic of Difficulties, Chapter 66
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The San Jiao is just like Primordial Power; neither has form, they only have function. Still, it is possible
to sense the Primordial Power in a human being because the Primordial Power had to take on a
physiological form in order to function in an individual being.
In the primordial soup, all elements were brought into a special balance. The process of bringing the
elements into balance is overseen by the 6th element, Seed. Outside of that balance was a chaos that would
destroy the life forming there.
Ever since the actual primordial soup, physical bodies could never lose total contact with the power in
the primordial soup. Even as life evolved to move out into the chaos, the primordial soup had to go with it.
If the connection to the original soup were lost, the integrity of an organism would disintegrate.
The main function of the 6th element, Seed, in the physical body is to sustain the original power of the
primordial soup, despite the chaos in nature. The body does this by regulating and adjusting the
concentrations of various substances in the interstitial fluids, lymph and blood plasma. The interstitial fluids
are the key to homeostasis in the body. Essentially, the interstitial fluids are primordial soup, which is still
flowing through us.
In physiology the interstitial fluid is referred to as the "internal environment. This fluid surrounds all
the cells and organs of the body. Interstitial fluid flows outside of all cells. Cells are bathed in this fluid. For
the body's cells and organs to survive, the composition of this fluid must be precisely maintained at all
times. A body has homeostatic balance when its internal environment has the optimum concentrations of
gases, nutrients, ions, salts, hormones and water, and has optimum temperature and volumes. These
concentrations reflect the ancient conditions in the original-primordial soup.
One of the functions of the San Jiao meridian is to transport Yuan Qi, as well as body fluids through the
'Cou' of the body. The oriental medical term Cou refers to all the spaces in between cells and organs.
Obviously the Cou is where interstitial fluid flows. Yuan Qi is transported with the interstitial fluids.
Therefore, the homeostatic control of the interstitial fluids is the power of Yuan Qi. San Jiao and its
connection to Yuan Qi correlate perfectly to the homeostatic fluids that flow through the Cou of the body.
In six-element theory, San Jiao commands the fluids of the internal environment, which surround the
cells and organs and harmonize the 3 Jiaos. The interstitial fluids are the primordial soup in the body.
These distinctions are of great help to understand San Jiao better.
The Hypothalamus & San Jiao

The homeostasis of the internal environment is primarily regulated by the hypothalamus. The
hypothalamus is the main center of control for homeostasis in the body. When one speaks of homeostasis,
one has to speak of the hypothalamus. So there would have to be a connection between the hypothalamus
and the Seed meridians, San Jiao and Pericardium.
The hypothalamus is traversed by the San Jiao channel and the divergent channel of Pericardium. San
Jiao transports primordial Yuan-Qi through the homeostatic concentrations of the interstitial fluids. This is
exactly what the hypothalamus does through its regulations of hormone concentrations in the blood plasma
and interstitial fluids.
In six-element theory the hypothalamus is the corresponding organ to the San Jiao channel. The
hypothalamus has exactly the same functions as San Jiao. These are:
1. To harmonize all three Jiaos and all organs of the body by way of the water passages.
The hypothalamus harmonizes all parts and organs through hormonal control. Primordial Power
harmonizes whatever is permeated by its presence. San Jiao permeates all parts of the body the way
that Primordial Power permeated the primordial soup. With this complete permeation all parts can
be harmonized.
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be harmonized.
2. To perform Qi Transformation around the body.
The homeostatic synergy of Yuan Qi transforms all Qi throughout the body-mind. The synergy of
Yuan Qi transforms and empowers activity in all the meridians. The hypothalamus regulates
metabolism and bodily functions.
3. To transport Yuan Qi and fluids through the Cou of the body.
The hypothalamus makes adjustments to the interstitial fluids, which flow through the Cou spaces
between the cells. The adjustments produce the homeostatic synergy of Yuan Qi. Thus, the
hypothalamus produces the Yuan Qi that flows in the interstitial fluids.
By itself, the hypothalamus monitors and regulates a wide variety of physiological and emotional
activities;
Temperature of blood
Core & peripheral body temperature
Osmotic pressure for thirst
Hunger and satiety
Moving food through the GI tract
Waking and sleep patterns
Rage, aggression and fear
Hormonal concentrations
Secretions of other glands
Heart rate
Emotional states
Sex drive
Contraction of the urinary bladder
Sound, smell and taste receptors
Growth, development and metabolism
Reproductive cycle, menstruation
Gamete production
Modern physiology has revealed that the hypothalamus is at the center of many health problems, like
migraine headaches, depression and weight problems. It is important that the hypothalamus be recognized as
a major organ in Oriental Medicine. The hypothalamus regulates hormones throughout the body. Obviously
regulating hormones is an extremely important function.
Six-element theory completely incorporates hormonal control of homeostasis by the hypothalamus into
the 6th element, Seed, and its meridians, San Jiao and Pericardium. Seed bathes the organs and the other 5
elements in Yuan/primordial Qi. Without the homeostasis of interstitial fluids and without the
transformational phase of the 6th element, there would be no life.
The basic correspondences and principles of six-element theory provide a solid framework for assessing
and treating homeostatic disorders. When Qi flows smoothly in the San Jiao and Pericardium channels,
homeostasis can endure the stresses impacting our health. Treatments unblock and circulate Qi in the San
Jiao and Pericardium channels to secure Yuan Qi.
The ultimate message of six-element theory is Living in homeostatic harmony gives life an enduring
power and serenity.
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Pericardium
Physiological Homeostasis in the body is regulated by numerous feedback loops. A feedback loop has 3
basic parts. First part monitors any changes affecting homeostasis and then sends this information to the
control center. Second part is the control center, which determines what needs to be done to maintain
homeostasis. The main control center in the body is the hypothalamus. Third part, which is any part of the
body, receives a message from the control center to take a specific action that will return the body to
homeostasis.
The first aspect of the feedback loop, monitoring homeostasis, is the job of the Pericardium. If
homeostasis is not quite right or could be better, the Pericardium will relay that message.
Homeostasis is the power of Qi in the body. When the body has perfect and smooth homeostasis, there is
an aliveness to the functions in the physiology; fluids are transported, muscles have tone, the heart beats
with rhythm, the nervous system has responsiveness and breathing is regular.
The San Jiao and Pericardium have been severely under represented in modern acupuncture teachings
and literature. For example, five-element theory teaches that the Pericardium does not have any pattern
syndromes of its own. This lack of understanding about the Pericardium in current theory is a real
weakness. In six-element theory, the Pericardium has its own patterns of pathology.
The following are the basic syndrome patterns of Pericardium.
Deficiency of Pericardium Qi
When Pericardium is weak, there is weak monitoring of homeostasis. Thus regulation of homeostasis
lags behind. Inefficient homeostasis leads to sluggish physiology and wishy-washy mental processes. The
person will readily have an unbalanced homeostasis. They wont know exactly whats wrong with them.
They wont be able to make right decisions. They dont feel as good as they think they should and dont
know why. They are vulnerable to what other people say. They are unable to maintain balance to their
homeostasis.
An example of deficiency of Pericardium Qi is found in Post-partum depression. This condition stems
from the mothers giving of Yuan Qi to develop the embryo and fetus during the months of pregnancy.
Much of the mothers own Yuan Qi goes to the fetus. Once the child is born, the Yuan Qi is in a depleted
state. The best treatment is for the mother to receive help from others not only in taking care of the child,
but also of the mothers needs. This will secure and nurture her own Yuan Qi.
Another manifestation of deficient Pericardium Qi is chronic low-grade fevers. Over the years
physicians have discussed what causes low-grade fevers and how to treat them. These fevers are related to a
weakening of the Pericardium and San Jiao to maintain the homeostatic temperature of the body. By being
weak the temperature floats above the perfect temperature. The fever is caused by deficiency, and the key to
treatment is to tonify the basal-source Qi of the body. Once the source Qi is stabilized and secured, the
temperature will be regulated normally. The temperature floats upward due to two reasons; Seed meridians
arent strong enough to regulate how the Fire element warms the body, and Yin is not transformed by the
actions of the Yang Yuan-source Qi, which leads to empty heat.
Excess of Pericardium Qi
This condition is indicated by one who over-monitors homeostasis. This person over-regulates and
micromanages every condition in life. They try to keep things the same or they try to improve everything.
They hold onto what they have and easily feel threatened. They are hypersensitive to external factors that
affect homeostasis even in a slight way. These people show hypersensitivities to pollutants, and even
perceived pollutants in the environment. They are actually unwilling to change their lives or adapt to
extremes because they set very limited ranges of homeostasis. They dont give themselves room to breath.
An example of excess Pericardium is Obsessive-compulsive disorder. This condition indicates an excess
of Yuan Qi. The person is trying too hard to keep things perfect. Yuan Qi is a natural manager. It oversees
that everything is running smoothly and efficiently. Yet when a person over-manages too many details and
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that everything is running smoothly and efficiently. Yet when a person over-manages too many details and
doesnt allow room to breath, the Yuan Qi is over-powering the functions of other meridians. The Yuan Qi
has to let things go to some extent. When in excess, Pericardium tends to over-protect and over-nurture. Of
course Pericardium means well in its actions, but when it is in excess, it is stifling the free-flow of life to
adapt and interact. When Pericardium is in excess, someone will dominate and control another person,
because they are uncomfortable with the other persons differences. The best means to treat such a condition
is with patience and understanding. It is counter-productive to battle or criticize someone who has
Pericardium in excess.
Scattering of Pericardium Qi
This person has no consistency in their life. There is no routine. They have no guidance from others, and
no clear idea what the path of their life is. They drift never finding a pattern, never finding a way of life.
They are constantly having to adjust to external factors beyond their control. They wait for others to make
decisions for them. Theyve lost a sense of right and wrong. Their homeostatic balance wavers in and out of
synergy. They tend to be lethargic and scattered.
An example of scattered Pericardium Qi is Post-traumatic Stress syndrome. This condition results from
a shock to ones homeostatic boundaries or also from continual stress to ones own homeostatic comfort
zones. Yuan Qi needs to have secure boundaries and set parameters. Once these boundaries are disrupted,
distorted and damaged by violent or stressful events, Yuan Qi leaks and loses its definition. Just like a leg
can be broken, Yuan Qi can break too. The broken Yuan Qi needs to be splinted and secured, and then one
needs to stay off of it for a while as it repairs. Treatment of scattered Pericardium is a process of re-patching
and nurturing the boundaries of the Yuan Qi. Its almost as if the person has become a little child in a
grown-ups world. They lose the ability to make decisions and set things right in their life. It is harmful to
expect someone with this condition to stand on their own two feet and live the right way, because their
Pericardium Yuan Qi has not been nurtured and secured properly. Their spirit has been broken and needs
repair. Some people with Post-traumatic Stress syndrome never find anyone who can nurture them. They
drift along with a broken spirit. It is actually quite hard in this world to find people who nurture and love in
the gentle way of the Pericardium and primordial Qi.
This person is buffeted by forces that disrupt their emotional stability. These people need to be removed
from those forces and allowed to mend. Many need to be taken away from the protocols of modern life to a
place where life is simpler.
Stagnation or Constriction of Pericardium Qi
These people are close-minded and unwilling to monitor external factors. They close themselves off
from the world. This is a coping mechanism when someone loses the ability to adjust to external factors.
They back off in order to give themselves time to understand what is happening. They are unable to monitor
changes in their life without getting upset. The stagnation blocks the whole flow of Qi in the body-mind.
They lock themselves into a limited way of being and when the reality around them contradicts their view
of how things should be, they resist and dont adjust. This resistance blocks the free-flow and flexibility of
Qi. Qi stagnates internally.
The ways that this can manifest range from simple frustration to debilitating phobias, from fear of
intimacy to hopelessness. Stagnation of Yuan Qi is so common in this world, because this world requires so
much conformity from people. People need to be who they are, who they want to be and who they are
meant to be. When a person gives up a personal dream, or a personal love they lose inner fulfillment. Their
Yuan Qi stagnates, because it isnt able to fulfill itself. When a cultural way of life deteriorates under the
pressures of globalization, people lose a sense of right and wrong. They lose a sense of contentment. They
lose a sense of tradition. They lose a sense of who they are and how to live. The current increase in
frustration and depression around the world relates to constriction of Pericardium Qi. Support systems break
down and change. Yuan Qi stagnates because self-determination is not being respected nor supported.
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down and change. Yuan Qi stagnates because self-determination is not being respected nor supported.
People must define the perfection of their own lives, their own culture and their own personalities. Yuan Qi
guides self-determination. When people are blocked from determining their own way of life, Yuan Qi
stagnates. Treatment focuses on supporting self-determination in order to find what really makes the person
happy. Treatment is that simple but may require changes in family and social relationships.
I have found that the Pericardium channel is related to ones feeling of belonging and of feeling at
home. It embodies an instinctive longing to feel connected to ones home environment, which for every
living being on Earth was originally the peaceful power of the primordial soup.
As modern life gets less homeostatic, the desire to go home is getting stronger among people. Home is
a place of personal power, where one is rejuvenated and nurtured. If we could all return to the original
primordial soup just for a moment, we would be rejuvenated by the vast nurturing power there.
Contrasting Pericardium from Spleen
When the radical for plant is added onto the top of the character for Intent, the new character is for the
heart of the lotus seed, which is the most sacred of all Chinese herbs. The lotus plant grows in the muddiest
and swampiest waters and yet produces a most beautiful flower. The lotus grows in water that would be
very similar to the waters of the primordial soup.
. The heart of the lotus seed is one of the few herbs that enter the Pericardium channel, which affirms the
connection of the Pericardium to Intent, Yi. As we see from the character for Intent and its transformation
into the character for the heart of the lotus seed, Intent relates to the resonating seed power of the
Pericardium within the primordial soup
In modern Chinese medicine, Intent,Yi, is taught to be associated with the Spleen. In six-element theory,
Intent is associated with the Pericardium. When one understands Pericardium with the knowledge of
Primordial Power and the element of Seed, many of the associations given to Spleen actually relate better to
Pericardium.
Another example of how Spleen is confused for Pericardium relates to the acupuncture point
Gaohuangshu (Bl43). The name of this point is vital energy point. It is taught that the vital energy of the
Spleen, called Gao, and the vital energy of the Kidney, called Huang, meet at this point. However, just as
Pohu (Bl42) relates to the Lung point of Feishu (Bl13), and Shentang (Bl44) relates to the Heart point of
Xinshu (Bl15), Gaohuangshu (Bl43) relates to the Pericardium point of Jueyinshu (Bl14). Gaohuangshu is
used for Pericardium issues like a broken relationship and phlegm.
Even though Gaohuangshu is taught to be related to Spleen, it is more directly related to Pericardium by
association with Jueyinshu (Bl14), the Pericardium point. The vital energy produced by Gao is related to the
vital energy of the Primordial Power, and the Yuan Qi that circulates in the chest. This is the Qi associated
with the Pericardium in six-element theory.
When the source Qi or basal Qi of the body goes weak, there are symptoms like laconic speech,
tendency to curl up, shortness of breath, intermittent or chronic low-grade fever, aversion to cold and
worsening of symptoms upon exertion. This is currently attributed to Spleen Qi deficiency and weakened
Yang. The Yang is said to have sunken and needs to be raised. All the symptoms point to a deficiency of
Yang activity. Pericardium is Yang in nature. Weak basal Qi actually refers to weak Pericardium and San
Jiao Qi.
When the source Qi is strong as maintained by Pericardium and San Jiao, the transformational processes
from homeostatic synergy are healthy. The body energy is uplifted. The source Qi is a Yang Qi that stokes
the inner fires and builds activity in the body. This function is provided by Pericardium and not Spleen in
six-element theory.
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The herbal treatment of weak Pericardium Qi uses relatively light herbs to raise and strengthen its Qi. The
formula Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang is mostly used. Huang Qi, Chai Hu and Sheng Ma are the relatively light
herbs that raise the Pericardium Qi. Chai Hu enters the Pericardium channel. In the chapter on the six
climatic factors, it was noted that the element Seed is the lightest of all elements. This is why light herbs are
used to support weakened Seed Qi of Pericardium and San Jiao.
These examples show us that Pericardium and Spleen need to be clearly differentiated because modern
teachings are confusing them. Once one understands the true nature of Pericardium, many of the
associations to Spleen will be returned to the Pericardium. Plainly put, Pericardium is not deeply understood
by modern teachings. This is where six-element theory is so invaluable because it is able to clarify the
difference between Pericardium and Spleen.
Contrasting Seed from Earth
Making proper distinctions between the elements of Seed and Earth is important. Most of the concepts
that relate to the element Seed have been relegated to the element Earth in five-element theory.
Seed and Earth are both stabilizing expressions. The element Earth seeks physical stability, which is the
stability of solid, dependable and unchanging ground. Earth seeks a life of comfort and ease. It is happiest
when it is working the least. Earth is resistant to change.
The element Seed seeks metabolic stability, which is the stability of homeostasis amidst the changing
environmental conditions. Seed seeks a life that is comfortable and meaningful. Seed is happiest when it is
doing work it enjoys. Seed stabilizes changes.
The stability of Seed is much more dynamic than the stability of Earth. Seed seeks to activate functions
and processes, whereas Earth seeks to maintain a status quo. The stability of Seed is light and flowing,
whereas the stability of Earth is heavy and anchoring.
When life takes a lot of effort to maintain, then Seed works hard to make things right. Seed seeks to
maintain the homeostatic power. The energies of Seed wear down when life is always a struggle.
Earth will break down, when resources are lost. As long as one has ample food, supplies, money and
resources, the element Earth can deal with any stress. If one is poor and lacking food and the roof is
leaking, their Earth element will be under stress. If one has a loving and supportive family amidst the
poverty, ones Seed element will be strong and able to deal with the challenges. But the discipline and
fortitude to effectively manage the challenges of life depends on a well-developed Earth element.
On the other hand, even when a person has total physical abundance, if they struggle to maintain a
happy and meaningful life, their Seed element will be under stress. In this case, the Earth element is in
excess and is weakening the need to have a strong Seed element. Earth is being over-indulged by having too
much and the need for family support that develops out of hard times has become almost unnecessary. This
is part of the reason why in Christianity the rich are asked to give up their possessions. It is through giving
up the earthly possessions that the Primordial Power within us love and heal is awakened again.
The complementary relationship between Earth and Seed is a key aspect to living. Seed is happy when
life is supportive and harmonious. Earth is happy when life is abundant and prosperous. Seed is more
focused on developing security. Earth is more focused on maintaining security.
Spleen meridian relates to a passive security, which is the Yin type of security. Passive security is where
physical abundance gives one the sense of stability. Spleen will take a rest once the harvest is done.
Pericardium relates to an active security, which is the Yang type of security. Active security is always
seeking to monitor and manage the sense of stability. Pericardium never rests; it is always on the lookout for
stresses and pressures to homeostasis.
Pericardium relates to the nesting instinct in a pregnant woman. Pericardium is interested in finding a
place that provides an emotional safe haven. The woman wants to find a secure spot that feels comfortable
and safe. Spleen is more interested in a place that can provide for physical needs. A place may provide all
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and safe. Spleen is more interested in a place that can provide for physical needs. A place may provide all
the physical needs, but the element Seed wants it to feel safe and secure. Earth and Seed work in a
complementary way to find a safe and secure place that will also provide for ones physical needs. But if a
woman feels that safety and harmony are more important she will forego physical comfort. As well, a
woman may feel that physical comfort, Earth, is more important, and she will forego love and the true desire
of her heart, Seed.
New Modern Disease Paradigms
Modern life is disrupting homeostatic synergy around the world. Forests and animals are being uprooted.
Cultures are being fragmented and replaced through globalization. There is a disconnect being created
between people and their ancestral lands. Economic growth is continually consuming the cultural heritage
and resources around the world.
The modern diseases of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) syndrome and Toxicant-induced Loss of
Tolerance (TILT) represent a new disease paradigm. Theyre associated with increases in asthma, migraine
headaches, depression, allergies, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
The theory of homeostatic synergy explains these diseases in the following way. Chronic stresses
ultimately undermine homeostatic synergy, to the point that eventually there is a breakdown or collapse of
the internal mechanisms that regulate homeostatic synergy. Common symptoms of this disease paradigm
reflect this internal collapse; fatigue, loss of concentration, depression, memory loss, dizziness, headaches
and heat intolerance.
Modern life is getting more and more separated from the harmony of nature. The connections to the
original homeostatic synergy are becoming thinner and thinner. Our modern way of life and technology is
pushing an unhealthy limit. Health can only tolerate so much separation from the primordial source before it
breaks down. Modern society has eroded the connection to that source.
Modern life is not as much a struggle to provide for the physical needs of people as it was in the past.
Now life is more a struggle to find the roots that give us life. The technological abundance that has been
created is out of balance with the simple joys that inspired us to improve the world in the first place. It is
those simple joys that spark creative power. Creative power is a healing power within the body also.
The desire to go home is getting stronger among the native peoples around the world. Home is a
place, where ones spirit is nourished. The original home for all life was the primordial soup. The element
Seed is being severely stressed in the people of the modern age. This is creating new disease paradigms.
The humble power of homeostatic synergy is the most powerful living force in nature; one that modern
people would do good to incorporate back into their way of life.
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Chapter 8 - The Perspective of Spherical Meridian Theory
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Chapter 8 Intro to the Spherical Meridian Theory

The acupuncturists of the past examined the mysteries of the meridians for thousands of years, but even
to this day their work has not been completed,. It is the responsibility of each generation to continue the
work of exploring the mysteries. There is still so much yet to discover.
Each generation builds upon the knowledge of the past. By moving forward with new discoveries we
honor those who have worked before us. They gave us their very best. So we give our best to the future
generations. They are the ones who will know things that we could never imagine.
The Spherical World of Meridians
500 years ago, people thought that the world was flat. They talked about the 4 corners of the Earth like
the 4 corners of a flat tabletop. It was very hard to imagine a spherical world. To think that there were
people living underneath you was a hard concept to grasp.
Eventually it was proven beyond any doubt that the world is a sphere. This is common knowledge now,
but it is very hard for many people to visualize. Are you personally able to visualize the world as a sphere?
Can you see the world as a ball spinning in space around the sun?
Some mathematicians now say that the universe has spherical boundaries, similar to the pentagons
around of a soccer ball. It is interesting because we understand more about the universe everyday.
It all comes down to how deeply you can perceive the true nature of something even when it is not
readily apparent. One has to allow the mind to go beyond the limits of the eyes or what the world states as
truth. The eyes tend to only see the surface of an object. But the mind can penetrate an object through
imagination and consciousness to know its deeper unseen dimensions. The eyes cant readily see that the
world is a sphere, but the mind can imagine it with reason and evidence.
So a theory comes along stating that meridian theory is spherical. To everyone this perspective is
unfamiliar and different, because it is not the way meridian theory has been viewed for 1000s of years. Yet
once meridian theory is perceived as spherical, then the mind has a chance to understand it. The outer world
ended up being spherical, so maybe it will be no surprise that the inner world is spherical too.
The spherical nature of meridian theory is revealed to an open mind. The spherical perspective of
meridians is profound. If you are an acupuncturist, who wants to explore the vast horizons of the meridian
world, then it is useful to know that ultimately your journey will be spherical, just as the Earth is spherical.
This will help you know where you are going and where you have been.
Formation of the Spherical Meridian Flow
We will start by just looking at the spherical meridian flow. As you can see it is spherical in 3
dimensions. The 12 meridians are arranged in 3 dimensions.
The arrows in the graphic show some of
the interactions between the meridians, but
not all. We will explore all the interactions in
the chapters that follow..
The spherical flow shows the total
unification of all meridians. The spherical
flow is extremely symmetrical. We will
explore its intricate symmetries one by one,
but before we do just look at it. Let your own
mind wonder what it is. Sense the quiet power
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mind wonder what it is. Sense the quiet power

that it resonates.
The spherical flow generates a power that
creates life. It is good to sense that power
before you study the detailed intricate
symmetries. You can always return to the
wholeness of the pattern and be guided by its
unified power. The power only exists in
complete unification. If any part is separated
from the whole, the power vanishes. The only
way to know the power of the spherical flow
is to always remember its unified wholeness.
There are abundant pathways through and around the spherical flow. Everything is related. There is a
specific relationship between every single meridian. The many pathways increase its strength and resiliency.
Stress to any part of the flow can be redirected in many ways, balanced in many ways, and restricted in
many ways.
This spherical matrix sits at the center of the entire meridian system. All meridians, even the Ren and
Du, are rooted in this matrix. They flow outward from it. They receive their Essence and lifeblood from
within this matrix. The interactions of all meridians are controlled and organized by this spherical matrix.
The spherical matrix knows the wholeness of meridian dynamics.
The Heart is sovereign and master of the five zang. It regulates and permits the activity of the four
members. Through it the blood and the breaths (Xue Qi) flow and circulate.
The Heart is alive, and it possesses knowledge; it knows and from knowing makes distinctions. To
make distinctions is to know all parts of the whole at once.
Xunzi, Chapter 21, Jiebi
The spherical matrix knows all parts of the meridian system because its own design is the complete
unification of all meridians. To understand this spherical matrix is then the key to understanding all
meridian dynamics.
We must understand that every man is fully alive only through this inner structure of the Heart,
intelligent and willing, capable of determinations and decisions.
Rooted in Spirit, Larre and Rochat de la Vallee, p 51
The best way to know the spherical flow is to see it as a living, breathing organism. It is alive, intelligent
and wise. Its ability to support life is unsurpassed. There is a life-giving love that emanates from the
spherical matrix.
We do what we have to do in order to survive in this world. The spherical matrix does not judge our
actions. Instead it makes the appropriate changes to support our way of life. Yet if we choose a life against
our own nature, the matrix will not support us and we begin to be sick.
The spherical matrix can give infinite power to us. But that power is regulated by our thoughts, feelings
and the choices we make. The secret is to know who you are. What is your nature? What is your destiny?
How can you live that truth?
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When you live according to your own nature, the spherical matrix is the eternal seed that awards you life
Essence.
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Chapter 5 - Spiritual Creation of the Spherical Heart Matrix
10/16/2005 09:56 AM

What is built first is the matrix, which is also known as the permanent atom. The permanent atom,
which is spherical, contains the shape of the human form, just as a seed contains the form of the
tree or the plant to which it gives rise.
(The permanent atom) is situated in our etheric Heart, whose position in the bodies is exactly the
same as that of our material heart.
(The Heart Center is) not simply the physical organ but the spiritual center of Mankinds being.
Man made in the image of Absolute Beingness as reason and love, our truest self, our inner
sanctum, through which the mystery of the union between the Divine and mundane is
consummated. Heart has thus an all-embracing significance. Prayer of the heart means prayer
not just in the emotions and affections, but of the whole person. We should strive to purify this
Heart.
The Esoteric Teachings, Stylianos Atteshlis, mystic, 1992
This point of light or central nucleus is the central spark or son, The Christ of humanity around
which all humanity revolves. This is determined Spirit force. This Law prevails throughout all
units of humanity. The central spark is a point of pure white light, the Christ which penetrated
the first cell. Then it expands, divides, and gives off that light to another cell, which is born of its
division but held together by a co-existing and cohesive force which is called LOVE.
A spherical matrix of Heavenly Essence and Light resides near our physical hearts but it is unseen to our
physical eyes. It exists in an unseen dimension of the soul. Our lives and bodies form around this spherical
matrix of light. This Heavenly Heart is not the heart organ (zang), nor is it the heart official or meridian. It
is much deeper and more comprehensive. It exists in its own right, with its own structure made of Heavenly
Essence (Jing).
Mystics have talked about this matrix for 1000s of years. Long ago, in the time of Osiris, it was called
the Seed of Life. It is the Heart center of the kabala. It is the Sacred Heart of Christianity. In the tradition of
Chinese medicine, it is known as Xin, the Heart; which is the pivot point of all Chinese spirituality.
The Essencesflow into the space of Heaven and Earth and we call this the Spirits of Earth and of
Heaven. When they are stored in the middle of the chest, we call the person who stores them a
holy man.
Guanzi, Chapter 49 (400-100 BC)
In the sacred Heart matrix, the union of the divine of Heaven and the mundane of Earth is consummated.
This is the center of our whole being. The Heavenly Heart being made of pure Essence is eternally perfect
and divine in form, image and function. It is the eternal core of our beings. To consciously know the Heart
and express its truth and power with absolute wisdom is enlightenment.
Jesus never allowed himself to dwell in the external after his illumination. He always kept his
thoughts at the central part of his being, which is the Christ. In Jesus, the Christ or Central
Spark, which is God in us all, living in everyone today, was drawn forth to show itself perfectly
ruling the material body or flesh man. It is in this way that he did all his mighty works, not
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because he was in some way different from you. He had no greater power than all have today.
He was not in some way a Son of God and we only servants of God. He did these works because
this same Divine Spark, which the Father has implanted in every child born, was fanned into a
brighter flame by his own efforts in holding himself in conscious communion with God, the
source of all Life, Love, and Power.
Chapter 8 of the Lingshu

The mysteries of the Heavenly Heart are mentioned within chapter 8 of the Lingshu: lines 18-30. The
Lingshu was part of the Yellow Emperors Classic of Internal Medicine, which is the fundamental text of
Chinese medicine. The Lingshu presented esoteric understandings and is usually excluded from translations
that seek to give a scientific image to Chinese medicine. We now go through these lines to gain insight into
the Heart center.
Lines 18-20
Heaven within me is Virtue.
Earth within me is the Breaths.
Virtue flows down, the Breaths expand, and there is life.
As life comes into being, Heaven and Earth merge.
The Virtue of Heaven is a moving and conscious awareness. It is the intelligence that guides and forms
the expression of life. The Breaths of Earth are the power and substance, which manifest the awareness and
intelligence of Virtue.
In a physical body, Virtue flows down from the upper Dan Tian in the center of the head. The Breaths
expand from the lower Dan Tian below the umbilicus. They meet in the Heart center in the middle of the
chest where the spherical Heart matrix unifies them.
The Heavenly Heart is where we find our original Virtue (De).
Our body can be produced only by the Tao, and life can shine only through Virtue, De.
Zhuangzhi, Chapter 12
Line 21
The coming forth of living beings indicates the Essences.
As life comes forth, the Essences appear. The Essences determine the form of the living being that will
eventually be manifested from the spherical Heart matrix. Just like within a seed one will find the design of
the tree or plant that will grow from it. The Essences establish the perfect shape of the form.
The Essences may define a turtle, or an elephant, or a honeysuckle bush or a human. The great wisdom
and intelligence that defines the Essences is beyond description here. It is a very deep mystery of life.
Line 22
The embrace of the two Essences indicates the Spirits.
The two Essences are one Essence that embraces itself. The one Essence becomes two Essences through
reflection. Thus, these two Essences complement each other perfectly. The two Essences come to be known
as Yin and Yang.
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The Essences, doubled in harmony, are the Yin/Yang.

When the Heavenly Essence moves and rises upward, Yang Essence is produced. When it settles
downward and comes to rest, Yin Essence is produced.
When the great ultimate (Tai Ji) begins movement, Yang is produced; when it comes to rest, Yin is
produced. Each of the two Yin/yang Breaths has its Essences. These Essences are the One of
Heaven and the six of Earth.
Zhang Jiebin
This passage affirms that the One Essence of Heaven becomes the two Yin/Yang Essences. It also
affirms the six elements.
Once the Yin/Yang Essences embrace, a structure is produced, which is the beginning of the spherical
Heavenly Heart matrix. The 12 Spirits now come into this structure and take up residence. The 12 Spirits fit
into the structure perfectly according to their Heavenly harmony.
The Spirits guarantee the rotation that assures
life, and the effectiveness of its subtle
mechanism. To maintain the Spirits is to
arrange their stay in a Heart that is peaceable
and empty.
Rooted in Spirit, Larre and Rochat de la Vallee,
pp. 31, 33
In their nature, the Spirits are separate and
distinct from the Yin/Yang Essences. This is
a very important concept to grasp. The
Yin/Yang Essences create the structure that
the 12 Spirits will move into. The 12 Spirits
each have an individual nature. Each of the 12
meridians of acupuncture is rooted in one of
the 12 Spirits.
The Spirits bring to the matrix what the
Yin/Yang Essences could not; the many
flavors, colors and perceptions of life. The
Yin/Yang Essences are substance, while the
Spirits are expression. The Essences
determine the form of the living being like a blueprint that is used to be a building. But in the building each
apartment is decorated differently: different colors, textures, and styles. The 12 Spirits guide this decoration.
They determine the nature of ones personality.
The Spirits are required so that our consciousness can make sense of all the things we experience in life.
Without the Spirits, the world would be garbled noises and splashes of color. As well there would be no
means by which we could express ourselves. In a way, the Spirits limit ones personality by defining it. In
another way, they give create the diversity of the world.
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The Spirits radiate out from the Heart to the smallest nooks and crannies of a being. They are
everywhere, in the zang, in the mind, wherever the life force shows.
Rooted in Spirit, Larre and Rochat de la Vallee, p. 32
From the spherical Heart matrix, the Yin/Yang Essences united with the 12 Spirits flow out into a living
being. The Essences and Spirits radiate out to fill the body completely. Meridians are the pathways of
animation (Mai) upon which the Essences and Spirits radiate outward.
The immortal ideal must always include a portion or spark of the Central Fire of that which brought
or projected it into existence. This projection was the first cell that finally became mans body
and is the spark of life that always endures and never dies. This cell is, in name, the Christ. This
cell, although divided and repeated many millions of times, retains the image of the Divine Spirit
projected and implanted in it and cannot be perverted by mans thinking. Thus Man is always
divine.
This cell projects its divinity into every cell created by the multiplication of itself, unless perverted
by mans thinking. The collection of these cells finally assumes unto itself a container or cover,
which is called the human body. The spirit or essence, still in unmodified form, has the
intelligence to see all changes going on around it. By always standing in high dominion, people
are Spirit and Spirit is God.
Once the spherical matrix is built from Essences and inhabited by Spirits, it is ready to create life.
Within the matrix are; the Virtue of Heaven with its consciousness and intelligence, the Breaths of Earth that
provide power and substance, the Yin/Yang Essences that define a specific harmonious duality of the living
being and the Spirits that radiate and organize life experience.
Line 23
That which follows the Spirits faithfully in their coming and going indicates the Hun.
The Hun describes a specific expression from the Heart matrix.
Traditionally there are 3 Hun. They relate to the three bodies that many Mystics talk about and describe
in teachings.
The human form, in order to manifest itself, requires 3 bodies; (noetical, psychic and material) ...
What is built first is the matrix
A mystic, Stylianos Atteshlis, names the 3 bodies as the material, psychic and noetical bodies. These
bodies can be individually experienced with deepened awareness. These 3 bodies project from the Heart
matrix. They allow us to experience thought, emotions and physical sensations; everything we require to
live and experience life as an individual. It is taught that in astral projection, the bodies become separated,
and ones consciousness follows the more ethereal bodies.
The 3 Hun bodies follow the Spirits as they move and experience life. They are vehicles with which the
Spirits can travel through the many dimensions of life. The 3 Hun bodies allow the 12 Spirits to organize
perceptions and experiences.
Line 24
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That which associates with the Essences in their exiting and entering indicates the Po.
Traditionally there are 7 Po. To understand these one must understand how Essences flow from the
Heart matrix. The Essences are a precious and powerful substance. They can be used to manifest anything.
If the Essences flow more strongly than what one is capable of handling, one stands the risk of insanity.
Essences are that powerful. The Essences carry visions that can blow ones mind apart if not controlled
properly.
The Essences are allotted according to ones consciousness. Therefore the state of ones consciousness
restricts or frees up the flow of Essences as the case may be.
Mystics traditionally teach about the 7 sub-planes of existence in the non-material dimensions of life.
Each sub-plane is a world onto itself with buildings, landscapes and other people. A person with a limited
consciousness will find him/herself in one of the lower sub-planes. The light that shines in the lower subplanes is dull and subdued, because the flow of Essences is severely limited. Troubled souls migrate to the
lowest planes.
In the higher planes, the light shines brighter and more radiant. There the Essences flow much more
freely. Souls with less emotional blocks and unencumbered Hearts migrate to these higher planes.
As the 7 Po determine the exiting and entering of the Essences, they control the flow of Essences into
and out of ones life experience. As one frees the Mind and Heart, forgives sins and purifies the body, the 7
Po increase the healing balm of the Essences that flows throughout ones being.
The 7 Po are crucial in allowing a soul to progress safely from the corporeal mundane experience of life
to states of enlightened consciousness. They do this by regulating the flow of Essences.
Line 25
When something takes charge of the beings, we speak of the Heart.
The Heart is the center of everything in Chinese medicine. The Heart takes charge of the whole being
from the Spirits to the Essences, Hun and Po.
Traditionally in Chinese medicine the Heart is given dominion over all the other functions of the body.
Yet, it is not the heart meridian or zang organ that is being referred to. It is the Heavenly Heart that is
unseen; the one that holy men store in the middle of the chest, the one that is the spiritual center of
mankinds being. The Heart that is spoken of in the Lingshu is the spherical Heart matrix, which unifies all
the Essences, Spirits, Breaths and the expressions of life.
The Heart of Heaven and Earth Where is it stored? Yin and Yang stimulate it to manifest a sphere
of light.
Li Daoqin
Chinese medicine developed from mystical experiences. The Heavenly Heart becomes known through
mystical states of awareness. The Heavenly Heart has an all-embracing significance according to the
mystic Stylianos Atteshlis. The original mystics of Chinese medicine knew about the Heavenly Heart and
described it deeply and appropriately. They communicated with it and observed it.
The Heavenly Heart (Xin) is the great pivot upon which all of Chinese medicine and spirituality turns.
The Heavenly Heart takes charge of a living being and becomes the center of life. Heaven and Earth
embrace in the Heart. The Essences embrace in the Heart. The Spirits come to reside in the Heart. The Heart
has the all-embracing significance.
The Primordial Power is known in Chinese medicine as Yuan Qi, original-primordial Qi. Deep within
each living being the power of Yuan Qi resonates with the spiritual Heart. This Heart has a describable
structure and form. Spirit moving through the Heart gives rise to Yuan Qi, the Primordial Power. The
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structure and form. Spirit moving through the Heart gives rise to Yuan Qi, the Primordial Power. The
Hearts structure resonates the Primordial Power as an instrument vibrates to produce music. This resonating
power then creates life.
The Heart is alive, and it possesses knowledge; it knows, and from knowing makes distinctions. To
make distinctions is to know all parts of the whole at once.
In every case where the Heart is encumbered by formalized knowledge, life is lost.
Guanzi, Chapter 37, Xinshu, The Art of the Heart
These passages teach that if any knowledge isnt holistic by not seeing all parts of the whole or simply
contradicts the Hearts free and unifying potential, such knowledge will encumber the Primordial Power
resonating from the Heart. Formalized knowledge can be noisy with chatter or quiet in its hidden bondage
of the mind and heart. Such knowledge will keep one from knowing the Heart. As well, such knowledge
will keep one from knowing Tao.
How can a person know the Tao?
By the Heart.
How can the Heart know?
By emptiness, the pure attention that unifies being and quietude.
Still, the Primordial Power becomes weakened and vulnerable when fear, worry, anger and other
upsetting emotions creep in. How we experience life affects the Hearts Primordial Power. We can become
the destructive force in our own lives. This teaching runs through many of the ancient Chinese texts.
In the case of preoccupation and oppression, all the Hearts connections (Xin xi) tighten (ji); The
Hearts system being tight, the ways of the Breaths (Qi dao) are closed off; and being closed
off, there is no more ease (Bu li).
Lingshu, Chapter 28
Yuan/primordial Qi of the body.
Yellow Emperors Classic, Chapter 77
So living life in a way that keeps the Hearts system from being closed off is wise and healthy. Such a
life is powered by Yuan-Primordial Power. Such a life flourishes in uncomfortable situations
Palmistry developed from the understanding that the palm and the Heart are closely connected. When
something resonates in our palm, its power is true to our hearts original vision. True healing power of the
heart is expressed through the palms. Palmistry is the art of seeing the original vision of our heart-seed in
the palm, the place where the original vision is held by the 6th element. The Pericardium meridian traverses
the palm.
The Heavenly Heart is a seed, just like any seed holds the original vision of an entire plant within it. A
seed holds and protects that original vision. As a plant grows, the seeds vision guides its growth. In the
same way, the Heavenly Heart holds and nourishes the original vision of a living being.
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Line 26
When the Heart applies itself, we speak of Intent.
In meditating upon the spherical Heart matrix, one can sense the Primordial Power that creates and
sustains life. In the Chinese character for Intent (Yi), there is the Heavenly harmonizing note, Yin, over the
heart radical. The musical note shows a resonating music from the Heavenly Heart. This is the music that
creates life. It is the music that organized the molecules in the primordial soup to form living beings.
When the radical for plant is added onto the top of the Intent character, the character becomes the heart
of the lotus seed, which is the most sacred of all Chinese herbs. Intent is the resonating seed power of the
primordial soup that creates life.
Primordial Power is a quiet pulsating rhythm and hum. Its music is as harmonious as the perfect
symmetry of the spherical Heart itself. Primordial Power is the Heart applying itself. To sense the music of
the spherical Heart is to sense Primordial Power. Intent is the power resonating from the spherical Heart
matrix.
When something resonates with the original vision in the Heavenly Heart, it becomes our Hearts intent.
It is completely and wholly our Hearts Intent to create and nourish our lives.
In acupuncture needling many practitioners will say that intent is everything; what your intention is
determines the effects of the treatment. In the Heart there is only one intention; to create and nourish life. In
the mind there can be numerous intentions, like to move Qi in a certain direction, to call upon various forces
of nature, to drain excess, to tonify deficiency, cool down or warm up a channel.
Many acupuncturists will point to their head when they say that intent is everything in acupuncture.
They say what you think determines the results. But true intent comes from the Heart, and true thought
comes from the Heart also. There is no true thought which is separate from the true intention of the Heart in
the spiritual practice of acupuncture.
One of the major principles of Primordial Power is that the creation of life is not forced or manipulated.
The creation happens naturally. Healing with Primordial Power is the same. There is no specific intention
other than nourishing and loving life. There is no specific manipulation of life forces. The healing happens
naturally.
Man follows the Earth.
Earth follows Heaven.
Heaven follows the Tao.
The Tao follows what is natural.
The character for Intent is based on the radical for Heart. Therefore true Intent comes from the Heart.
Intent from the mind manipulates life and is not true Intent. Intent from the Heart nourishes life towards its
own original harmony.
Intent is the power to take right action according to the Heart. When the action is in harmony with the
Hearts Intent, the Spirits move with more ease, the Essences flow more abundantly, the Hun are thrilled
with harmony and the Po breath better. Life is being created and liberated.
Line 27
When Intent becomes permanent, we speak of Will.
As the power of Intent builds and stabilizes, it becomes the foundation of Will (Zhi). The Chinese
character for Will shows a plant over the Heart radical. Will is life beginning to grow and flourish from the
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character for Will shows a plant over the Heart radical. Will is life beginning to grow and flourish from the
Primordial Power resonating around the Heavenly Heart. The Intent of Primordial Power generates a surging
of life.
Line 28
When the persevering Will changes, we speak of Thought.
Thought is adaptation. The Chinese character shows the brain over the Heart ( ). Thought is the ability
to use the brain in order to maintain the Hearts Intent. If Will were so stubborn that it would never alter its
course, a living being would die. The persevering Will must be able to change. Thought leads to adaptation
and figuring out how to overcome obstacles to the Will. Through adaptation Primordial Power preserves its
strength and survives.
The Will changes to sustain the Intent of the Heart. In other words, when the Will cannot express
because conditions in the world are antagonistic, the resonance of Intent will diminish.
Line 29
When Thought extends itself powerfully and far, we speak of Reflection.
The character of Reflection (Lu) shows tiger stripes over the character of Thought (Si). The tiger is
maybe the most observant of all animals as it can watch without blinking for hours. The ability to observe
and concentrate allows a living being to reflect upon life and itself. Through Reflection a living being can
come to know its own Heart and the Spirit within it.
Our first concern in looking within must be the progressive formation of a comprehensive
understanding of what we are. It is not enough only to work out a theoretical comprehension of
this matter, but we must primarily choose to undergo experiences, which will be of sufficient
significance to lead us into the worlds of truth.
Line 30
When reflection can have all beings at its disposal, we speak of knowing-how.
The Chinese character for Knowing-how (Zhi) shows knowledge and awareness above the radical for
sun. When knowledge allows ones light to shine forth, that one has conquered the world. That one will
persevere, because they know how to adapt, observe and live in a way that fulfills the destiny of their
Hearts Intent.
Knowing-how is the ability to gather and preserve Primordial Power within any situation, no matter how
challenging. Total natural harmony between the outside environment and the internal Hearts Intent is
maintained. Knowing-how allows one to walk through fire, walk on water and stay warm in freezing
temperatures. Knowing-how allows a total harmony with the forces of nature, but the key is found in
knowing how to preserve the Primordial Power of the Heart, mind, emotions and physical body.
In Knowing-how, one lives Primordial Power. Ones Heart is at peace and empty, and full of resonating
power. Ones Heart is calm in movement. Ones Heart is open and unencumbered. One has mastered the
accumulation and adaptation of Primordial Power. One goes where one wants to and no longer competes for
anything. One holds no grudges and forgives everything. Ones Heart perfectly radiates the Spirits and
Essences. Yin and Yang are balanced. Ones Heart is at total peace, the point of total Primordial Power.
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(About Knowing-how) When one has considered everything profoundly and intelligently, and when
each thing and each being has been appreciated at its true value and is in its place in thought
and in the plan, the Heart is at ease. It can express itself and radiate its light.
When one really knows, one knows what to do and how to do it. One makes a just decision and acts
efficaciously, and life is powerful.
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Chapter 10 - Astrological Roots of the Spherical Meridian Theory
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The spherical meridian theory is a breakthrough in the evolution of meridian theory. Many centuries have passed since such an
advancement has occurred. Acupuncturists still refer back to texts 2000 years old in order to define modern theory.
Current meridian theory reflects the same understanding that existed over 1000 years ago. Yet even back then physicians were
still learning and debating. Knowledge was a developing process. Still there were basic insights that are still timeless. These
fundamental truths of life will always form the core of all acupuncture knowledge into eternity. Any new insights must always
respect them.
The president of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Zheng Shou Zeng, told me that nobody in China researches actual
meridian theory anymore. He gave no reason, but it is likely that actual clinical practice takes precedence over theory.
In situations when theory doesnt adequately explain what is observed in clinical practice, the physician learns by experience.
Thus the experience from years of clinical practice becomes hidden theory that can only be understood with experience. So theory
has been researched and advanced but it has been in the secret recesses of the minds of experienced physicians. Yet this theory has
never been adequately formulated, because no advances in theory have happened for well over 1000 years. There is no place to put
new clinical advances in the framework of element theories that are still outdated.
The experiences of actual clinical practice are outside the box of theory. This shows a weakness in theory. For a freethinker any
weakness in theory gives cause to think and question. A freethinker is one who forms opinions independently of tradition, authority
or established belief. A freethinker steps out of the box of conventional perception in order to follow a new idea, wherever it leads,
while respecting the work of past generations.
A theory has an important advantage if its basic concepts and fundamental hypotheses are close to experience, and
greater confidence in such a theory is certainly justified. There is less danger of going astray, particularly since it takes
so much less time and effort to disprove such theories by experience. Yet more and more, as the depth of our knowledge
increases, we must give up this advantage in our quest for logical simplicity and uniformity in the foundations of
physical theory.
Albert Einstein, Scientific American, 1950
The spherical meridian theory did not originate within a study of acupuncture theory. The spherical meridian theory could never
have been seen in five-element theory. The 5-element correspondences simply would never take one there. It was essential to
completely step out of the box of conventional acupuncture theory.
Real scientific breakthroughs come from the combining of 4 unrelated fields of study.
Nobel prize winner for work on transistor.
The spherical meridian theory originated out of an exploration into the symbolism of western astrology. This may be confusing
to some and astonishing to others, but many breakthroughs throughout history came by applying principles from other fields to a
subject matter.
Western astrology comes from a different part of the world and has different ways of describing the world. Ancient peoples all
around the world had a wide variety of ways to describe the patterns of life. There are common threads in the differences. For
example, western astrology uses 12 signs of the zodiac. Acupuncture uses 12 main meridians. There is a common factor of 12.
Western astrology uses 4 elements, while meridian theory uses 6 elements. Here one finds a stark difference. Many would think
that it is not possible to combine or blend such a difference. Yet it was possible. The 4 elements of astrology each have 3 different
ways to express; cardinal, fixed and mutable. This makes for 12 total. The 6 elements of meridian theory each have 2 different ways
to express; Yin and Yang meridians. This also makes 12 total.
Each is looking at the fundamental expression of 12 characteristics and arriving at two different ways to understand them. Can
they both be right? If it can be shown that they are both right, then we have a powerful insight into the true nature of these 12
fundamental characteristics. Both these traditions are outside of each others box. Combining their views would be a breakthrough
in understanding the true nature of the 12 fundamental symbols.
Western astrology and acupuncture are like two eyeballs. Each eyeball is looking at the same thing, but each has its own
perspective. A person can look at an object with one eye closed and the other open. This will give a 2-dimensional and partial
perspective of an object. But when the eyeballs are both open and brought into a common focus on an object, they reveal a 3dimensional depth and clarity.
Western astrology and meridian theory both observed the same world and the same human nature. The people who constructed
these traditions watched nature and peoples interaction with nature. They both looked deeply into the spiritual energies and
patterns of living beings. They both developed theories to explain the ways of life. Their theories both ended up describing the
manifestations of life, but their true goal was to describe the fundamental and universal structure from which all life expresses.
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In treating illness, mai (meridians) and medicines have a primary importance that must not be neglected; but he who seeks
to grasp the deep natural structure (Li) must, little by little, succeed in understanding the changes (Yi).
Zhang Jiebin
There is a universal structure behind all of life. The structure is real and exists. It can be mystically seen and described. We can
only hope to perceive it and describe it the best we can for others. Knowledge of it can be helpful for some and irrelevant for
others. Still knowledge of the universal structure exists. It is as profound, in as much as it is basic.
Western astrology and meridian theory seek to explain the deep natural structure underlying the manifestations of life. They
both see it. Yet they both present 2-dimensional views of it. The zodiac is a 2-dimensional circle. Element theory is a 2dimensional hexagon. Since both of these views are distinct, they are not integrated. Therefore they are not complete. Only when
these two views can be brought into a common focus and combined, will the deep natural structure underlying life become clearer.
The structure itself must be complex enough to allow the possibility of both views.
The spherical meridian theory has the perfect complexity to validate both views. The spherical geometry represents the one
unified structure underlying the manifestations of life. The deep natural structure of the spherical Heart matrix unifies the 12 Spirits.
Western astrology views this structure with four elements. Meridian theory views it with six elements. And yet they are both right
in the limited perspectives they choose. The whole and integrated truth is greater than the partial truths. The whole truth is outside
the box of each theory.
Astrological Perspective
Western astrology is based on two things, tracking the movement of the planets and observing the changes seen in the world.
The more important one is that of observing the changes in the world. The movement of the planets is then noted to reflect changes
in the world. Yet it is primarily the understanding of life that is the basis for interpreting the planets.
Basically astrologers saw the changes in life in the movement of the planets. As one comes to understand these changes, the
deep natural structure underlying life becomes clearer and clearer. Therefore astrology was not originally a science of planetary
influences, but of self-knowledge. The symbolism given to the planets reflects the knowledge of the self and the knowledge of the
universal structure within the self.
So to really understand astrology one needs to focus on the spherical Heart matrix within a living being. That Heart is what the
symbolism of the planets is made to explain. The symbolism of the planets reflected the inner reality and truth.
When we look at the symbolism of the planets and of the zodiac we see it as a way of describing the spherical Heart matrix.
The matrix allows a system of universal laws and patterns that are consistent. Life becomes organizable and definable. Symbolism
seeks to emulate that fundamental matrix, which by nature seems to have infinite complexity.
The deep natural structure of life is way beyond the symbolisms that seek to emulate it. Its colors, vibrations, radiations and
energetics may some day be approached by very advanced mathematics and physics. But until that day, ancient symbolisms
preserve our connection to the Heart matrix.
The Astrological Permutation
The symbolism of astrology is based on the 3 qualities of the 4 elements. The 3 qualities are cardinal, fixed and mutable. The
four elements are Fire, Earth, Air and Water.
If a person has a preponderance of the Cardinal quality in their personality, they will tend to initiate activities. They will tend to
be direct and consistently busy. Cardinal quality associates with the Hand-Yin meridians, Heart, Lung and Pericardium, and the
Small Intestine meridian.
If a person has a preponderance of the Fixed quality, they will tend to resist change. They will tend to fortify, protect and
accumulate what already exists. This quality associates with most of the Yang meridians, Stomach, Gall Bladder, Large Intestine
and San Jiao.
If a person has a preponderance of the Mutable quality, they will tend to seek change and new experiences. They are more
forgiving, flexible and adaptive. This quality associates with the Foot-Yin meridians, Kidney, Liver and Spleen, and the Bladder
meridian.
If a person has a preponderance of Fire, they will tend to creative, energetic, willful, enthusiastic and passionate. They like to
express their dreams, feelings and desires. The meridians that associate with Fire are Heart, Gall Bladder and Liver.
If a person has a preponderance of Earth in their personality, they will tend to be practical, traditional, constructive, and
productive. Achieving something substantial is important to them. The meridians that associate with the element Earth are Spleen,
Stomach and Small Intestine.
If a person has a preponderance of Air, they will tend to be intellectual, sociable, communicative and concerned with
friendships. They live by social principles and the laws that govern social interaction. The meridians that associate with Air are
Lung, Large Intestine and Bladder.
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If a person has a preponderance of Water, they will tend to be emotional, sympathetic, caring loving and sensitive. They seek
what is relevant, real and personal. They also seek harmony. The meridians that associate with Water are Kidney, San Jiao and
Pericardium.
The qualities and elements combine to give the 12 unique expressions of astrology; for example, Cardinal-Fire and MutableWater.
Cardinal
Fixed
Mutable
Fire
Cardinal-fire
Fixed-fire
Mutable-fire
Earth
Cardinal-earth
Fixed-earth
Mutable-earth
Air
Cardinal-air
Fixed-air
Mutable-air
Water
Cardinal-water
Fixed-water
Mutable-water
These basic expressions then correspond to all 12 signs and the 12 planets. For example, Cardinal-Fire relates to the sign of
Aries and the planet Mars. When one understands what Cardinal-Fire symbolizes then one can extrapolate the meanings of the sign
Aries and the planet Mars.
The 4 elements of western astrology have the same nature as the corresponding elements in meridian theory. For example, the
Fire element in meridian theory has the same understanding as the element Fire in western astrology, except astrology expands the
expression of Fire with the 3 qualities. Western astrology has a more diverse explanation of how each element expresses. The
element Air in western astrology corresponds to the element of Metal in meridian theory.
The 3 qualities describe the way that the 4 elements express. Cardinal describes the moving and activating of an element. Fixed
describes the storing and preserving of an element. Mutable describes the distribution and adaptation of an element.
All existence, including our bodies, is constructed within a mould of ether. We speak of four conditions of ether: creative,
sensate, kinetic and imprint. (note: These relate to the elements of Fire, Earth, Air and Water, respectively.)
The Esoteric Teachings, Stylianos Atteshlis, p 190
Within the gross material body of a living existence there exist currents of energy, which we call ether. The flow,
distribution and storing of this energy takes place within a field which surrounds the body.
The mystic, Stylianos Atteshlis did not believe in the preoccupation of modern astrology upon the influences of the planets. He
focused on the more subtle inner realities of a living being. The fact that those inner realities reflect the symbolism of astrology
indicates the original mystic roots that formed astrology.
The zodiac cycle is a 2-dimensional circle. The symbols progress from Aries to Pisces, namely cardinal-fire to mutable-water.
The progression of the elements through the cycle is always Fire, Earth, Air then Water. The progression of the 3 qualities is always
cardinal, fixed then mutable. The zodiac cycle looks like this.
Zodiac Sign
Aries
Taurus
Gemini
Cancer
Leo
Virgo
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
Quality
Cardinal
Fixed
Mutable
Cardinal
Fixed
Mutable
Cardinal
Fixed
Mutable
Cardinal
Fixed
Mutable
Element
Fire
Earth
Air
Water
Fire
Earth
Air
Water
Fire
Earth
Air
Water
In 1983, my original discovery in western astrology was a unique order for the planets. The progression of the elements through
the order is a variation of the sequence of Fire, Earth, Air then Water. The progression of the 3 qualities has an overlapping
symmetry with cardinal, fixed and mutable. The order of the planets looks like this.
Planet
Quality
Element
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Sun
Mars
Earth
Venus
Mercury
Moon
Jupiter
Saturn
Chiron
Uranus
Neptune
Pluto
Fixed
Cardinal
Fixed
Cardinal
Mutable
Cardinal
Mutable
Cardinal
Mutable
Fixed
Mutable
Fixed
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Fire
Fire
Earth
Air
Air
Water
Fire
Earth
Earth
Air
Water
Water
When this order is laid next to the cycle of the zodiac a permutation appears. A permutation shows a pattern for how an order
gets rearranged to form another order. The arrows between the orders show how the symbols are rearranged.
When this permutation is continued, two new orders appear before returning to the original order of the Planets.
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Thus there are four distinct orders connected by a specific pattern of permutation. These orders form an endless cycle of
transformation. The diversity of life is found developing within and from these four orders.
In 1992, I discovered that the four orders could all be condensed down into one simple pattern. That pattern is the six-element
theory. I realized that the permutation pattern had been hiding the code for six-element theory. Thus, even though astrology uses
four elements, contained within its system is the expression of 6 elements. Within western astrology is the six-element theory of
Chinese medicine. The ramifications of that are freeing, such that western astrology and Chinese medicine can truly be combined
as one system, without compromising the integrity of either one.
In the fall of 1992, I then discovered that the four orders held an even deeper secret. In a flash of insight, I saw that the whole
pattern of the four orders could be condensed down even further to a spherical flow.
Amazingly, the four orders held a hidden spherical code, which turned out to contain all
the vast diversity of Chinese meridian theory.
The rest of this book explains the inner symmetries and dynamics of the spherical flow
as it relates to acupuncture. Even though the symbolism of astrology opened the door to
the spherical flow, it is the meridian theory of China that thoroughly confirms it. How the
spherical flow can be applied to western astrology is a very different subject matter,
because western astrologers dont have the theoretical background to understand the
spherical flow. On the other hand, Chinese medicine has all the theoretical principles to
already understand and apply the spherical flow.
Ultimately it would be easier for meridian theory to incorporate the insights of western
astrology into its theoretical framework, whereas, the field of astrology would have to
incorporate the theoretical principles of meridian theory, which are complex. The field of
astrology would have to rewrite much of its basic understanding. Chinese medicine only has to expand its view of meridian theory.
The 12 meridians match up to the 12 expressions of astrology. From this correspondence, an acupuncturist can begin to expand
his/her application of acupuncture using astrology. We will explore this correspondence in the next chapter.
Astrology
Fixed Fire
Mutable Fire
Cardinal Fire
Cardinal Earth
Fixed Earth
Mutable Earth
Fixed Air
Cardinal Air
Mutable Air
Meridians
Gall Bladder
Liver
Heart
Small Intestine
Stomach
Spleen
Large Intestine
Lung
Bladder
Elements
Wood
Wood
Fire
Fire
Earth
Earth
Metal
Metal
Water
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Mutable Water
Fixed Water
Cardinal Water
Kidney
San Jiao
Pericardium
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Water
Seed
Seed
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Chapter 11 - Approaching the Mind with Meridian Theory
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The spherical meridian flow came from the symbols of western astrology. Thus, a strong connection has
been made between western astrology and meridian theory. This connection could advance both
philosophies.
Meridian theory is advanced because the 12 personality traits of astrology can now describe the
meridians. The meridians are normally described with Constitutional Types in modern acupuncture. There
are 5 Constitutional Types, which relate to the 5-element system that predominates nowadays. But now the
Constitutional Types can be expanded to 12 Types and can incorporate the insights of astrology, which fill
in many psychological gaps that Chinese medicine has not developed.
It is a widely held understanding that each of the 12 meridians has its own personality and consequently
its own job to play in the body-mind.
The twelve officials may be conceived as constituting a family of interrelated functions. So long as
each family member does his or her assigned job efficiently, harmony in the personal household
of being is maintained.
Western astrology has an ancient history of defining 12 personality types and has even made a lot of
progress recently with the development of humanistic psychology. So to merge the astrological tradition
with the 12 meridians would greatly expand our understanding of the 12 meridians and their various disease
patterns. The spherical meridian flow is the link that makes that merge possible.
One of the most powerful aspects of acupuncture treatments is counseling.
The fourth failing (of a physician) occurs in counseling. When a physician lacks compassion and
sincerity, when a physician is hasty in counseling and does not make the effort to guide the
patients mind and moods in a positive way, that physician has robbed the opportunity to achieve
a cure. So much of all illness begins in the mind and the ability to persuade the patient to change
the course of perception and feeling to aid in the healing process is a requirement of a good
physician.
Constitutional Types are used to guide the counseling in much of modern acupuncture.
The patients constitutional type offers a framework for making suggestions that are particularly
effective and meaningful.
To treat the mind of a person is to treat them at a deep level, because so much of an illness begins in the
mind. The mind organizes life according to the predominant personality traits, which express from the mind.
Those predominant personality traits then determine the course of a disease, because they control the
reactions to the disease.
only a constitutional approach allows the practitioner to diagnose and revive the innate influences,
which are the foundation of life itself. Without assessing the qualities of a patients constitutional
type, it is impossible to arrive at an integrated diagnosis that empowers the discernment of what
aspect of being is most important to address in a given patient at a given time. An assessment of
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aspect of being is most important to address in a given patient at a given time. An assessment of
the patients constitutional type allows the practitioner comprehension of what constitutes truth
in the patients life. Truth, in a therapeutic context, is that which empowers the presence of ones
virtue and thus the fulfillment of destiny.
Western astrology seeks to apply the same principle in its counseling. By having a way to distinguish
the prevalent innate nature of a person, a deep healing of the mind and emotions is more attainable. If a fish
complains about not being able to fly in the sky, it may be harmful to try to convince the fish that with
positive thinking it can fly. By knowing the limits and nature of a fish, one knows that a fish simply is not
made to fly. Once the fish understands its own limitations, then flying can be put into perspective, and the
fish can then live more true to its nature. The fish will relax and stop struggling to attain the frustratingly
impossible.
The practice of astrology has an important place in the clinical setting of an acupuncturist. Some
diseases respond better to herbs. Some diseases respond better to needling and meridian massage. And then
other diseases simply respond better to astrological insights and counseling. Herbs work for weaknesses in
the physiology of the body. Needles work for blocked Qi movement in the meridians, the Mai-pathways of
animation.
Astrology works for natural periods of change in ones personality. These periods are normal just like
the changes in seasons and weather. Yet many people are unprepared to handle or understand the normal
changes within their own mind. So they become stressed or confused.
When a storm passes overhead, one may decide to stay in the house. The storm brings essential rain. But
when a storm passes through ones personality, the power is inescapable. The person becomes the storm.
The question is whether one can handle its power constructively?
In the counseling of astrology, the idea is not to get rid of the storm as if it were some sort of disease,
but rather to help the patient integrate the storm as an opportunity to replenish and renew life experience.
Because after a storm passes and the sun comes out, the freshness is wonderful.
Just as the six elements have their phases of transformation, a personality and its meridians have their
cycles of change and transformation. Astrology watches these natural changes. People will continue to stress
over natural powers that bubble up out of their soul. Yet people can learn to prepare for these powers
constructively. That is the goal of astrological counseling.
It is healthy to follow our own nature. But to know what our nature is can be challenging. One may find
oneself to be so different than everyone else that it is very hard to clearly define and then openly express
ones true nature. If a person sticks out like a sore thumb, they may be self-conscious. Diseases can then
result from troubled emotions. Stagnation of Qi and disturbed Shen are two common pathologies. The key to
healing is to reintegrate this person with his/her own true nature and then empower its expression.
It is the concept of constitutional type that empowers the practitioner to hit the mark of original
nature with every therapeutic suggestion made.
The art of counseling to reach a persons true nature is sophisticated, intuitive and intricate. There is a
long tradition in the orient with martial arts, which defend against physical attack, as well as build internal
Qi. However martial arts do not emphasize the powers of the personality, which can be used to disarm and
persuade through interpersonal communication.
By training your own personality to express various forms, rhythms, styles and moods, you develop
personality arts, which are like martial arts. You may have noticed that many practitioners of martial arts
dont have a wide range of emotional expression. Many are tight and restrict their own emotional
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dont have a wide range of emotional expression. Many are tight and restrict their own emotional
expression. They have focused more on control of the physical body and have not developed their
personality. Then look at an actor who has developed the ability to express many moods. They are able to
function much more freely in the modern age of communication.
The monks of ancient China meditated in silence and developed fighting arts to protect themselves
against periodic attacks. They had very little need to develop interpersonal communication. The world has
changed. Monks arent attacked like they used to by. But they have become more involved in political
movements and counseling. Interpersonal communication is now more important than physical fighting.
There are many ways to physically battle someone. Yet there are as many ways if not more to battle
another through a force of the personality. One can insult, cry, scream, criticize, flatter, lie, manipulate,
twist words, condescend, disrespect, whine, nag and intimidate. This is only a short list. And yet each
person has a unique way to do each one. Some people are better at nagging, and others are better at
flattering.
To know the nature of what another is saying and why they are saying it is important in human
communication. It takes skill to protect oneself and disarm the attack through words, thoughts and actions.
But now put yourself in the position of a healer who penetrates the defenses of a patient in order to explore
the root cause behind a patients behavior. Not only do you defend yourself, but you also assist the patient to
overcome thoughts, emotions and behaviors that are harmful to their well-being. You must do this without
hurting them or yourself. And your main tools are words, facial expressions, and body movements.
The more you know about different personalities and the ways they express, the more ways you can
communicate with a patient. The more you develop different ways to express your own personality, the
more tools and skills you have available to reach anothers mind. When you can reach anothers mind
without having hurt them, thats when the trust comes. Trust allows you and the patient to work together
from then on, as long as the trust is not broken.
Meridians and Personalities
Not all meridians respond to needling in the same way, because each meridian has its own personality. It
is taught by some teachers that the Kidney and Pericardium meridians do not like to be needled. Astrology
would agree with this because they both relate to the element water, mutable-water and cardinal-water
respectively. Some schools teach that the Liver meridian should not be moxaed. Astrology explains this as
the Liver corresponds to mutable-fire, which already exhibits a fire tendency.
When you needle a meridian, you are needling an archetype, a unique expression of personality.
Therefore how you approach that archetype will determine the results of your interaction. You can expect
certain reactions from each meridian. The Small Intestine meridian has its own way of looking at things and
is not easily persuaded to change its point of view. Whereas the Kidney meridian is so comprehensive and
open to anything that it is not easily confined by your intention. These meridians respond in two completely
different ways to needling. The Pericardium meridian is so sensitive that some doctors teach not to needle it.
When you become familiar with the personality of each meridian, you will be able to see changes in the
overall personality that correspond to the treatments. The overall personality is a unique mix of all 12
archetypal personalities. Blending and harmonizing the 12 archetypes is a spiritual and magical process in
itself. A personality that has internal conflict will seem edgy, rough, fragmented, nervous and anxious.
When the treatments harmonize the personality, the personality becomes smoother, fuller, softer, more
radiant, more comfortable, more at ease, more unified and more whole.
In the treatment of multiple personality disorders, the goal is to integrate the different personalities one
by one into each other. Each personality begins with its own brain wave pattern. When two personalities
integrate into one, the brain wave pattern will be a mix of the original two separate wave patterns. The
resulting personality is a mix of the previous two. With a perceptive eye, one can see the mysterious way
that two personalities can mix.
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that two personalities can mix.

When two meridians that have been at odds with each other for a period of time blend and make peace,
there is a change in the overall personality of the person, which is not unlike blending two distinct
personalities in a multiple personality disorder. It is one of the most beautiful and mysterious things to
experience in giving acupuncture treatments.
Reintegrating a person back into their wholeness is a great goal of acupuncture. An acupuncturist does
not only use needles and herbs to treat, but also counseling and sociopsychological skills. In this way the
healing is holistic.
When the sages practiced medicine, they were certain to have understood the laws of nature and
principles of disease, to have mastered diagnosis, to have accomplished techniques of
acupuncture and moxibustion, to have been well learned in herbal medicine, and to have attained
insights into human relationships and individual temperament. As a result, they delivered their
medicine in a thoroughly holistic way.
Blending Meridians & Astrological Symbols
This section will briefly cover the symbols of western astrology and how they relate to the meridians.
The knowledge and insights of western astrology could fill a small library. An acupuncturist who would like
to study the symbols of astrology more will have ample books available. The important thing in this section
is to just get some basic ideas that can be applied in practice.
Harmonizing our emotions with the opportunities and challenges of life is a day-to-day and year-toyear process. Life is ongoing. Even though a planetary transit is seen to happen a year into the future, the
changes and preparations that one makes beforehand determine everything about how that transit will be
experienced.
How astrology works will be debated forever and ever. One thing is clear; its use can truly help a
person to understand their life and illnesses. Astrology can precisely explain an illness. For example, at the
end of this chapter are some case examples. Case example #3 describes a woman who experienced a
dramatic month in her life, where she could no longer function mentally in the world. Nobody could explain
why. The experience nearly destroyed her, because she was not prepared for it. Astrology pinpointed and
explained the crisis years later by knowing how the particular planets involved related to the affected
meridians. With the proper preparation and support, she could have integrated the power of that month into a
much more positive experience. Instead she suffered through it in a state of despair.
The key to using astrology properly is to have insight into a persons fears and desires. The person must
move through the fears and nurture their desires. There is a process to doing that. Astrology can help set a
timeline for that process. It is important to go through the day-to-day process of releasing fears and
affirming desires no matter when transits are said to happen. Transits will happen when they happen, but
what you sow is what you reap. The sowing is the day-to-day preparation for the crisis periods in ones life.
The reaping is the fulfillment and accomplishment of being well prepared.
Astrology
Fixed Fire
Mutable Fire
Cardinal Fire
Cardinal Earth
Fixed Earth
Meridians
Gall Bladder
Liver
Heart
Small Intestine
Stomach
Elements
Wood
Wood
Fire
Fire
Earth
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Mutable Earth
Fixed Air
Cardinal Air
Mutable Air
Mutable Water
Fixed Water
Cardinal Water
Spleen
Large Intestine
Lung
Bladder
Kidney
San Jiao
Pericardium
10/16/2005 09:57 AM
Earth
Metal
Metal
Water
Water
Seed
Seed
We now explore the individual temperaments of the meridians as related to the insights of western
astrology. The purpose is to clarify and elucidate the meridians so that they take on a more definite
personality. They become more real and familiar.
Heart Meridian & Cardinal-Fire
(Zodiac Sign: Aries
Planet: Mars)
Some common attributes of Heart meridian and Cardinal-Fire are:
Both initiate action.
Both relate to the beating of a drum like a heartbeat.
Both relate to the spark that ignites transformations in the body-mind.
Both relate to the initial moment of self-awareness. This is the realization of I am.
Both relate to passion.
Both relate to the color red. (Red face, red hair, red eyes, etc.)
Both fight against obstacles and threats.
The key word for Cardinal-Fire is passion. Cardinal-Fire is the basic force that initiates the soul. The
soul cries out, I am, I exist, I am a point of light, alive. The individual as individual has begun.
Cardinal-Fire is the desire to exist as a separate entity. If anything threatens the integrity of that
separateness, Cardinal-Fire will fight back. This is the will to be an individual. It is also the will to express
as an individual. The expression is simple and direct, just like a heart that beats continuously. The heart is
the most independent organ in the body because it has its own electrical regulation.
Passion and zeal represent Cardinal-Fire in the personality. When one is motivated and is taking action,
Cardinal-Fire is strong. When one is lethargic, passive, unmotivated or introverted, Cardinal-Fire is weak or
lacking support.
Passion drives every emotion, whether it is hate, love, rage, fury, enthusiasm, lust, sexual desire, or
ambition. Passion is the will of the self to express itself in any way it can. Passion is the will to survive and
keep on living at all costs.
Anger is the most direct and excessive emotion of Cardinal-Fire. Anger shows that the self is battling
for survival. The self has the right to live and the right to ensure itself. Anger is formed around a battle of
personal wills. Anger can also simply be that one person enforces their will upon another in an angry way.
It is actually quite easy to see the expression of Cardinal-Fire in a personality. One is spirited, selfdetermined, independent and outgoing. One likes to meet people. One acts upon their desires. They feel free
to express themselves.
Cardinal-Fire is childish and nave in many ways. It simply wants to act and doesnt think about
consequences or the overall wisdom of the actions. It simply wants to do something, and doesnt really care
what it is, as long as the self is recognized and expressed. Its actions can seem impulsive and spontaneous.
Its actions can seem random like popcorn popping. When the energy wants to express, there is the force to
express.
On the sun, solar flares burst forth from the reservoir of the suns energy. These flares extend many
miles away from the sun. They explode outward and then fall back into the sun. The explosive nature of
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miles away from the sun. They explode outward and then fall back into the sun. The explosive nature of
these flares portrays how Cardinal-Fire expresses from the reservoir of creative energy within a person. The
reservoir just sits there and nothing is ever done unless something definite can express from it. Cardinal-Fire
is the definite word and action that creates something unique and with a definite form.
All these things might have been thought of by God, infinite power. God might have wished during
an indefinite time that they were formed and made visible. Had not the definite spoken word been
put forth into the formless ether, nothing would have been created or brought into visible form.
In order to establish in visible results the thought and desires of even an infinite omnipotent
creator and bring orderly forms out of actuality, it took the definite, positive Let there be.
Cardinal-Fire represents that definite word and action that brings self-expression out of formless
substance.
Gall Bladder Meridian & Fixed-Fire
(Zodiac Sign: Leo
Planet: Sun)
Some common attributes of Gall Bladder meridian and Fixed-Fire are:
Both relate to the mane of a lion. The meridian flows over the head and shoulders like a lions
mane. The lion is the zodiac animal for Fixed-Fire.
Both relate to courage and gallantry.
Both relate to the radiating of light and spirit.
Both relate to the essence of blood.
The key words for Fixed-Fire are courage and self-sufficiency. Fixed-Fire relates to the grand reservoir
of life energy within us. When this reservoir is healthy and abundant, one feels eternal. Ones inner light
shines from this reservoir. It is a feeling of having the life energy to live forever. When one feels the life
energy within them, one feels self-sufficient. One has all that they need right within themselves.
The sun is a massive body that generates its own energy and light. The sun is the ultimate reservoir of
light energy. The sun is the reason why our grouping of planets is called a solar system. Everything in the
solar system revolves around the sun. The suns light and weight is the center of our solar system. Equally,
within us is the reservoir of light energy around which our whole being revolves. Without the reservoir of
Fixed-Fire, there is no life.
The life energy in the reservoir of Fixed-Fire is undefined, formless. It is raw energy that has not yet
been defined. As we saw in the previous section on Cardinal-Fire, Cardinal-Fire is the definite expression
from the formless. On the spherical meridian flow, Fixed-Fire feeds and supports Cardinal-Fire. So it can be
seen that the formless energy of Fixed-Fire allows for the definite expression of an individualized and
definite expression in Cardinal-Fire.
When Fixed-Fire recognizes its importance, one tends to feel pride in their self-sufficiency. Pride is an
emotion that feeds the self-ego. Pride is not necessarily bad in this sense as the self-ego is the definite
expression from the indefinite, formless reservoir of Fixed-Fire. Pride is a natural part of forming an
individual being. The problem with pride only comes when others are debased or put down for being
somehow less regal than oneself. A healthy Fixed-Fire recognizes that every other being has this abundant
light within them, which gives them the rights and powers to live life as destiny sees fit.
Recognizing ones self-importance is healthy. Confidence is instilled. Generosity and inspiration follow.
When one starts to compare ones own self-importance with the importance of others, a problem arises.
Primarily we are all equal as living beings. Yet some get lucky or seem more deserving of praise, while
others struggle in despair and poverty. These differences only come about in the definite manifestations of
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others struggle in despair and poverty. These differences only come about in the definite manifestations of
the formless life energy. Yet our inner reservoirs of life energy all have the same formless potential. There
is no difference between anyones reservoir and anothers, because there is no definite form to compare.
The key to enhancing a weakened Fixed-Fire in a personality is to arrive at a recognition that first one
has within oneself all the potential powers of life. Then second is to recognize that all other living beings
have within them all the same potential powers of life. A gentle smile of confidence in this truth awakens
the potential of Fixed-Fire again in a personality.
Many people lack self-esteem, which is so critical to a healthy personality. Without self-esteem one
cannot generate ones own unique personality. Self-esteem is rooted in the formless reservoir of Fixed-Fire.
Self-esteem feeds and supports the unique qualities of ones personality. Self-esteem is probably the best
indicator of how healthy Fixed-Fire is in a personality.
Actors have to have a strong Fixed-Fire reservoir within them in order to go out on stage and project a
personality to an audience. The projection must be large enough for everyone to see and feel the character
being played. Now it is clear that not all actors have healthy self-esteems. Playing a role on stage is
different than living ones own life. An actor can have tremendous self-esteem while projecting a fictitious
character, but have no self-esteem when they go back to the dressing room and look themselves in the
mirror. The root of this problem is not in Fixed-Fire, but in the personal parts of the personality that seek a
definite expression; parts like Cardinal-Fire, Cardinal-Air and Cardinal-Water. These parts can feel sorry
for themselves that they are not grand enough to due justice to the enormous reservoir of life energy that
feeds them.
Many actors know how much they are really capable of, and simply cant find a way to express this
greatness in their own limited personality. The way to resolve the inner conflict is to recognize that
personalities have inherent limitations. Personalities are limited and simply cannot radiate all the light from
the great reservoir that feeds them. Then one can forgive oneself for falling short of expectations. Its the
same as looking at the sun. The sun is too bright to look at directly. One becomes content to look at all the
little individual things, which reflect the grandeur of the suns light.
Liver Meridian & Mutable-Fire
(Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Some common attributes of Liver meridian and Mutable-Fire are:
Both relate to a free-flowing spirited nature.
Both have an urge to expand ones horizons.
Both have an exuberance for life.
Both enjoy visiting and sharing with new cultures.
Planet: Jupiter)
Some key words for Mutable-Fire are adventurous, enthusiastic and inspiring. The creative potential of
Mutable-Fire expands and promotes life. This personality loves philosophy because it opens up horizons of
life and creates room to breathe. The healthy expression is friendly and outgoing.
Mutable-Fire is carefree and does not like to be fenced in. This personality trait does not like to be
pinned down either. There must always be a sense of freedom and opportunity. Avery common herbal
formula used to encourage and strengthen the free-flow of Liver Qi is Xiao Yao San, Free and Easy
Rambling without a destination. The name of this formula describes the nature of Liver and Mutable-Fire
perfectly. The formula enhances open-mindedness and the freedom to breathe, as well as relieve stagnated
Liver Qi.
In relationships, Mutable-Fire enjoys the freedom to love anyone. Mutable-Fire opens up to other people
outside of a marriage, because it looks at everyone as a unique and beautiful expression of life. Liver-blood
has the desire to enrich every part of the body, and does not select which parts will be nourished more and
less. Mutable-Fire does not live life according to traditions and societal rules, but rather by openness and
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less. Mutable-Fire does not live life according to traditions and societal rules, but rather by openness and
generosity to all.
The problems that Mutable-Fire faces in society are the rules and expectations placed on individuals to
behave certain ways. The freedom of Mutable-Fire gets constrained by rules. The freedom of Liver is
naturally restricted so that it does not over-expand and weaken. Yet the nature of Liver is to keep on
expanding and giving, and can reach a point where it resists constraint. Mutable-Fire becomes irritated.
Honesty is one of the special traits of Mutable-Fire. Honesty is based on openness and an appreciation
of truth. Honesty supports life and appreciates its diversity. To allow social freedom is to allow diversity.
Mutable-Fire fights for social freedoms, because an open and free society promotes the fulfillment of
different destinies in each person. Everyone has a different purpose and destiny. Different destinies can only
be fulfilled when a society allows diversity.
Mutable-Fire is the expression of a gypsy or nomad traveler that crosses borders. These people link
places and cultures through diverse contact.
The negative expression of Mutable-Fire is arrogance. When freedom is stifled and the ego becomes
involved, Mutable-Fire sits on a high horse to defy and rebel against the dominating forces of the
authorities. Arrogance is an emotion of rising above the mundane constraints and limitations that the masses
have to deal with. Mutable-Fire rises above the downtrodden and looks down on them, because they have
lost their freedoms and potential. Arrogance looks down on those who have lost control of their own
destinies.
Mutable-Fire will fight for freedoms and rights in order to insure that life can expand and grow.
Mutable-Fire is the freethinker and visionary who see a more fulfilling future.
Small Intestine Meridian & Cardinal-Earth
(Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Planet: Saturn)
Some common attribute between Small Intestine and Cardinal-Earth are:
Channeling and concentrating of fire energy. This channeling is done by the intestines, the blood
vessels and the bones.
Both are related to swelling.
Both associate with skin growths like warts.
Both patrol borders like the intestinal lining during digestion.
Both establish order and enforce the laws.
The key word for Cardinal-Earth is discernment. Discernment is the ability to recognize differences in
things. Discernment leads to judgment, because judgment must know what the differences are between two
or more things, and then have a way of placing value on the things.
Discernment requires authority, because one must have authority to fulfill their destiny. The path of life
requires decisions and judgment calls. The best path must be chosen. If a wrong path is chosen then destiny
may not be fulfilled. Discernment is the critical step of choosing the right path.
Purpose is a large aspect of the Cardinal-Earth personality, because with purpose ones drive and
ambition can be directed to a specific goal. That is the most common trait of Cardinal-Earth. This
personality strives to be the best and attain authority. Purpose is the concentration of will and energy that
moves one toward authority.
Cardinal-Earth needs to have integrity in order to validate and rationalize its decisions. Integrity allows
Cardinal-Earth to move towards its ambitions and authority. Cardinal-Earth most often conforms to societal
expectations because it understands the need for order. Therefore Cardinal-Earth can climb the ladder of
success quite readily. Cardinal-Earth seeks conformity and tradition. It is the authority that lays down rules
and regulations so that there will be order in society.
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Two negative expressions of Cardinal-Earth are criticism and discrimination. Criticism seeks to discern
the weaknesses in someone else. Stating anothers weaknesses affirms ones authority and righteousness.
Criticism shows that Cardinal-Earth is able to discern and make the right choices. Yet criticism most often
involves placing ones own values and beliefs upon another person or group. Each person and group needs
to make their own judgment calls in order to fulfill their own destinies in life. Therefore it is natural that
people will be different. Criticism does not value differences but rather says that another is not meeting the
accepted and prevalent set of standards by which all should meet.
Cardinal-Earth needs respect. Underlying much of the behavior of Cardinal-Earth is a fear of
inadequacy. Without respect Cardinal-Earth feels as though its decisions have been called into question. Its
authority relies upon respect. Many times we hear people state they need to be respected. This is the
Cardinal-Earth part of the personality talking.
Cardinal-Earth is patient and practical. It follows a plan diligently. In many ways it is the patience of
Cardinal-Earth that stagnates the freedom and looseness of Liver Qi. Still in order to accomplish something,
a thorough plan must be followed step by step. Cardinal-Earth is associated with the mountain goat that can
take very careful steps to reach the top of the mountain. This shows the ability to reach goals and fulfill
ambition.
Cardinal-Earth is also prudent and cautious by exercising sound judgment in practical matters. CardinalEarth takes care of business in a conservative way. This is an aspect of the integrity of Cardinal-Earth.
Stomach Meridian & Fixed-Earth
(Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Planet: Earth)
Some common attributes between Stomach meridian and Fixed-Earth are:
Both are concerned with body mass and weight.
Both relate to food intake, digestion and assimilation.
Both are stable and dependable.
Both are resistant to change.
Both seek ample storage of reserves.
Both aid in producing mothers milk
Some key words for Fixed-Earth are firmness and stability. Fixed-Earth associates with solid ground,
and there cant be anything more firm and stable as the ground we walk on. Fixed-Earth appreciates
anything of value. Status and financial wealth are valued by Fixed-Earth because there is power in having
more things than someone else.
Fixed-Earth is concerned with maintaining a stable place for a fetus to sit during pregnancy. The Fixed
aspect wants to root the fetus in place. The Stomach meridian plays an important role in the development
and nourishment of a fetus just like Fixed-Earth.
The negative expression of Fixed-Earth is possessiveness. It is very important for Fixed-Earth to have
ample resources and things in order to feel comfortably secure. At times the need for things will turn into
possessiveness. Fixed-Earth will be reluctant to let go of something or another person if their security
depends on them.
Fixed-Earth is closely associated with the senses, especially smell and touch. Senses keep a person in
constant contact with the physical world. Fixed-Earth is usually a good cook and has an extraordinary sense
of smell. They know how to blends tastes when cooking.
The fixed nature of Fixed-Earth leads to stubbornness. Fixed-Earth can be very adamant about its ideas,
emotions and opinions. There is a real inflexibility and a resistance to change. The stubbornness is rooted in
the desire for stability. Some things in life have to change but some things have to stay the same. Otherwise
life would drown in not knowing what will happen next. Routine and regular habits keep life constant,
which requires less energy. Adapting to change requires a lot of energy. Fixed-Earth is interested in
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which requires less energy. Adapting to change requires a lot of energy. Fixed-Earth is interested in
conserving energy.
Many times Fixed-Earth can live a boring life with little change. It settles into a set pattern, which
doesnt change. It is like a tall tree that fixes deep roots in the soil. The stability of the roots allows the tree
to grow tall and not fall over. So when people have a very constant and stable life, they are many times the
foundations upon which others can depend. The stability allows others to reach for the sky.
Spleen Meridian & Mutable-Earth
(Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Planet: Chiron)
Some common attributes of Spleen meridian and Mutable-Earth are:
Both are resourceful.
Both aid the thinking process of thought.
Both develop resiliency and flexibility with strength.
Both guide the flow of water. This attribute relates to Spleens ability to move water.
The key word for Mutable-Earth is purity. Purity presents cleanliness and refinement. In order to obtain
pure substance elements must go through a process of refinement. Spleen Nutritive-substance is pure and
refined, the pure substance to build the body. Mutable-Earth in western astrology associates with the virgin
who is chaste and pure.
Mutable-Earth seeks perfection. This is a result of purity. Perfection shows refinement at a high level.
The purest most fertile substance must be refined. Fertile soil is cultured and matured over many years.
Once the soil is perfect, crops can be grown abundantly.
Mutable-Earth seeks strength, because strength is the goal of purified substance. The best quality
materials should produce the highest quality products.
A personality trait of Mutable-Earth is that of being of service to others. When others are weak,
Mutable-Earth knows the techniques and methods to repair and heal. Mutable-Earth wants others to be
strong. Mutable-Earth wants to nourish and strengthen others.
Mutable-Earth uses logic to a high degree. Logic is a tool for assessing strengths and weaknesses,
whereby the mind can understand and systematically arrive at higher levels of refinement in the thinking
process. One of the more salient traits of Mutable-Earth is that of testing for strengths and weaknesses. It
measures and compares one thing against another.
Mutable-Earth is very focused on techniques and methods. The small details of how something is
accomplished are important. Paying attention to the small details keeps mistakes from occurring, which
would undermine the overall stability. The detailed work of Mutable-Earth magnifies the physical stability
of anything.
The negative expression of Mutable-Earth is perfectionism. In the search for perfection and purity,
Mutable-Earth can sometimes develop a very high standard. Mutable-Earth can become obsessed with
perfection, because life depends on things being clean, ordered and refined. Sloppy and dirty materials
wont support the body being healthy. When things fall below perfection, then waste and dirtiness
undermine the overall strength.
One dysfunctional trait of Mutable-Earth is that of enabling weakness. Mutable-Earth tends to cover-up
for others who are weak and going through a tough time. The hope is that the weaknesses wont
overshadow the strengths, which would make the other person vulnerable.
Lung Meridian & Cardinal-Air
(Zodiac Sign: Libra
Some common attributes of Lung meridian and Cardinal-Air are:
Both initiate the act of breathing.
Planet: Venus)
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Both
Both
Both
Both
Both
10/16/2005 09:57 AM
relate to the beauty and health of skin and hair.

relate to the exterior portion of the body where the Wei Qi circulates.
are concerned with social relationships and forming bonds with other people.
relate to the shared breaths between people.
are concerned with ones image.
The key word for Cardinal-Air is congeniality. Any relationship with another person is initiated at some
point. We say Hi, how are you? My name is so and so, and the conversation starts. We first seek to find
some common interest with the other person in order to build a bond. Once the bond is made, then the
relationship can grow and develop. Cardinal-Air has the function of initiating relationships.
Cardinal-Air is related to beauty and being attractive. It is important to attract new people into ones life.
The key to attracting others is that we want to attract others that agree with our way of life. This strengthens
our position in the world. Therefore when Cardinal-Air puts on an exterior image, as many do with makeup, clothes and style of speech, the image is designed to attract certain people. The image is very critical to
finding the right person.
The connection between Cardinal-Air and the exterior body image is close. This is just like the
relationship between Lung meridian and Wei Qi. The exterior of the body is the image we present.
Cardinal-Air does not only relate to the Wei Qi of the body, but also the clothes, make-up, hairstyle,
jewelry, and accessories that adorn the body. They are also part of the Wei Qi of the body. Many people feel
more powerful and less vulnerable when they where the right clothing for a particular occasion. The wrong
clothing makes one feel almost naked and vulnerable. Defending against external pathogenic forces is
connected not only to the strength of Wei Qi, but also adorning the body appropriately.
One aspect of Cardinal-Air is that it tends to be shallow. It is only surface oriented. Once a relationship
is found, then the people can go further into exploring who they are and what kinds of things they can really
accomplish with each other. The shallowness is necessary because it is dangerous to let someone in too fast.
When Cardinal-Air is weak, a person becomes alienated. They feel like they cant bond with anyone
else. Breathing becomes constricted. They cant move freely and confidently in the world. They lack the
ability to engage others. As one feels more and more alone, ones power wanes. One feels less supported
and understood. They withdraw into a shell that protects them from the outside world.
The key to having a healthy Cardinal-Air expression is to feel that you have something to share with
others and that you want to experience what others have to share with you. Cardinal-Air will simply make
the connection so that the sharing can begin.
Large Intestine Meridian & Fixed-Air
(Zodiac Sign: Aquarius Planet: Uranus)
Some common attributes of Large Intestine meridian and Fixed-Air are:
Both relate to the integrity of the exterior portion of the body where the Wei Qi circulates.
Both are concerned with letting go of things no longer needed. They dispose of unwanted and
outdated materials.
Both are concerned with incorporating the changes brought on by evolution.
Both oversee the boundaries that protect ones being.
The key word for Fixed-Air is conduct. Everyone has a code of conduct, by which they establish their
morals, beliefs and notions of right and wrong. The code makes it possible for people to interact socially.
On a larger scale, codes of conduct become the laws of the land that hold society together. People then
agree in general on what the laws are, because the laws reflect their own codes of conduct.
Fixed-Air can then be the expression of the lawyer who upholds the laws or the criminal that chooses to
live by his/her own laws. When Fixed-Air is strong in a personality, there is a strong sense of moral code,
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live by his/her own laws. When Fixed-Air is strong in a personality, there is a strong sense of moral code,
even in anti-social behavior.
Fixed-Air relates to the atmosphere that surrounds the Earth. As humans we live in the air more than any
other element. We dont live in water, we dont live in the soil like worms and we dont live in fire. Air
represents relationships between people and things. The exterior form of anything relates to Fixed-Air.
A strong expression of Fixed-Air can be seen in uniforms. Many professions wear uniforms, police,
soldiers and healthcare professionals. Even politicians, lawyers and business people wear appropriate suits
for the work they do. The clothes worn in Cardinal-Air are meant to attract another. But the clothes worn in
Fixed-Air are meant to express the role and function someone has in society. Fixed-Air clothes show a
more permanent social niche for the person. After work the person may put on their Cardinal-Air clothes
and go dancing. Cardinal-Air clothes have a more personal significance. Fixed-Air clothes have a broader
social significance.
Fixed-Air seeks to stabilize social behavior. It would like everyone to live by the same rules, but FixedAir likes to set the rules. Thus Fixed-Air enjoys the privilege of having everyone else live by its own rules.
The criminal type anti-social behavior seen in Fixed-Air stems from the individual wanting to establish their
own set of rules and codes of conduct. They want the privilege of living by their own rules. They feel they
have the right to live they way they best see fit. Since society is not perfect and fair for everyone, discontent
is a natural result. Fixed-Air can have strong opinions on the way things should be.
Fixed-Air has a little know expression. It likes to test people to see what metal they are made of. Most
of the tests are indirect and subtle. The other person does not realize that they are being tested and in a sense
judged on whether they can be trusted to live by the rules. Fixed-Air wants to trust others, and that depends
on whether they can play by the rules of the game. The testing of another persons ability to know and
understand the rules is designed to stabilize social relationships. Fixed-Air observes and takes note of
anothers behavior.
Fixed-Air tries its best to stabilize its own social behavior, but there are other personal expressions
within a personality, like Cardinal-Fire and Cardinal-Water. These expressions drive one to behave in ways
that arent socially acceptable, but they satisfy emotional and egotistical needs. Fixed-Air balances the more
personal and egotistical needs with a broader sense of social responsibility. So there is always a dance
between the personal and the broader social relationships. Fixed-Air regulates the broader social behavior
the best it can.
The social perspective supports the link between Fixed-Air and the exterior Wei Qi of acupuncture. The
Wei Qi is where the individual comes into contact with the external world. On this note, Fixed-Air relates
also to being on the frontier of social movements and change. Fixed-Air lives on the cutting edge of
knowledge and technology. The frontier of knowledge in a sense is the Wei Qi of society, in that it is the
boundary beyond which we havent gone yet as a people. So Fixed-Air expresses inventiveness and
ingenuity. The frontiers of knowledge are expanded through Fixed-Air.
Another expression of Fixed-Air is eccentricity, which blend the individual needs of personal expression
into a broader social role. One becomes known for their eccentricity. Certainly the eccentric is outside the
regularly accepted norms of society, but they exist within a subculture, which has its own set of rules. The
eccentric has a broader role and purpose in society. The eccentric is only dangerous in the sense that they
challenge and test the norms of society. This is a strong expression of Fixed-Air. The eccentric makes
others question their own reality and social beliefs. This questioning brought on by eccentricity can
undermine the stable fabric of society, but it serves to enhance the understanding of what it means to live in
a society and still fulfill ones own personal needs and dreams. Society needs to have the ability to evolve
spontaneously. There must be room for change as circumstances in the world change. Eccentricity keeps
alive the awareness that the forces of evolution can appear at any moment. As they say in France, Vive la
difference!
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Bladder Meridian & Mutable-Air

(Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Some common attributes of Bladder meridian and Mutable-Air are:
Both are concerned with a free-flow of communication.
Both interconnect systems of the body-mind.
Both are related to the nervous system of the body.
Both are related to coordination and balance.
Both are related to mental processing.
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Planet: Mercury)
Some key words for Mutable-Air are communication and intelligence. Mutable-Air is the ability to
think and transfer data. Thinking is quick and adaptable. Information flows like a river. Mutable-Air
commands the flow of information.
Thinking, observing and talking all represent the action of Mutable-Air. It loves to ask questions and
has a great curiosity to gather information and even the slightest trivial piece of data. Mutable-Air simply
loves information. It loves also to small talk and chit-chat. Mutable-Air can be quite superficial and shallow,
because it is more mental than emotional. Water symbols are more emotional. Air symbols are more mental.
Mutable-Air controls coordination, balance and dexterity. These all give free movement to the bodymind comes. The mutable aspect gives flexibility and quickness to coordination. The body uses reflexes and
quick muscle movements to coordinate balance and body positioning. Much of the movement of the body is
unconscious. Mutable-Air controls these instantaneous movements.
One aspect of Mutable-Air is that it enhances mindfulness. An active and alert mind is able to be more
aware of the surroundings and probe the inner depths of the soul. The power of the mind and thought are
able to develop higher states of spiritual consciousness.
There are many who teach that the mind must be quieted in meditation in order for the inner powers to
awaken. There is a fine balance between having an alert and open mind, and having a mind that is quiet. As
the mind enters the subconscious in meditation, huge amounts of information begin to be contacted. The
mind can respond by displaying images, scenes, memories, concerns and general psychodramas. These
scenes disrupt the pleasantness of meditation, causing stress and more effort to relax.
It is destructive to try to deny the subconscious during meditation. The key is to enter the subconscious
with a quiet mind and observe. Mutable-Air can penetrate the subconscious to gather useful information. So
when one tries to stop thinking during mediation, one is denying the process of entering the subconscious
with the mind. The stress one feels over the images from the subconscious comes from emotionally reacting
to what is there. Calming down the mind during meditation is more a process of calming down the
emotional reactions.
It is through the power of our own mind or thought action that we are able to bring forth or
realize(higher states of consciousness). Through the power of process of thought we can
transmute and evolve our bodies, or our outer conditions and surroundings
It is not wise to rush things
Controlling breath produces effort
If one uses too much energy, exhaustion will follow.
The key to entering the subconscious in meditation is to quietly observe all that appears. Allow
revelations to form on their own accord. The emotions are controlled. The mind is open. The breath is not
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revelations to form on their own accord. The emotions are controlled. The mind is open. The breath is not
controlled but flows on its own accord. Energy is expended but not so much that stress ensues.
I have seen many, many people who have weakened their Water element meridians, Kidney and
Bladder, by years of meditation. They thought they were quieting their mind and relaxing their souls, when
in actuality they were constraining and struggling against their Water nature. Water wants to flow
everywhere freely. Water wants to encompass all that is unseen. By constraining the mind and fighting
against any thought that pops into the mind, the Water meridians are stressed and blocked. Most meditators
I have seen really dont know how to meditate effortlessly. Most seem to damage their Water meridians to
some degree.
The improvement of our subconscious, our character and our personality starts when we become
masters of our own thoughts and gain control over our emotions and desires.
Effortless meditation is like a sugar cube dissolving in a glass of water. The meditator is the sugar cube
being dissolved. The water that dissolves the meditator is the power of the Water meridians to free the
constraints of ones Heart and soul. When a meditator resists the dissolution of the mind and its separate
integrity, a battle ensues. The key is to allow oneself to become dissolved and then become the glass of
water.
The reason most people resist being dissolved is because they have a concern that once the mind is
dissolved, it wont be able to re-coalesce and then be able to function again in the world. The mind works
very hard to stay in contact with everything, organize everything and make sense of the world. They think
that if the mind dissolves, one becomes a confused mass of blubbering ramble. Yet there is a center within
the mind that always anchors the mind. That center is the spherical Heart matrix.
The space between Heaven and Earth
is like a bellows
The shape changes but not the form
The more it moves, the more it remains
More words detract.
Hold onto the center.
When Mutable-Air gathers too much information that one cannot handle it all, one becomes confused.
Words and thoughts race in circles and dont reach any conclusions. The mind spins and babbles
disconnected thoughts. Mutable-Air does not have the function of assessing and logically analyzing
information. It simply gathers and transmits data. Mutable-Air is very open-minded by nature.
Pericardium Meridian & Cardinal-Water
(Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Planet: Moon)
Some common attributes of Pericardium meridian and Cardinal-Water are:
Both are concerned with keeping close relationships. Pc7 is the main point for when one has
ended a close relationship.
Both are concerned with a sense of belonging and feeling at home.
Both have emotional sensitivities.
Both relate to the nesting instinct.
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Both relate to the establishing of harmony and comfort.
The key word for Cardinal-Water is intimacy. We all have personal needs that need to be met. We come
to depend on people and places that meet are needs. We become intimate with them in order to maintain a
close relationship, which insures that are needs will continue to be met. Cardinal-Water seeks to establish
bonds of intimacy and dependency.
The most intimate and dependent relationship is that between mother and child. Cardinal-Water is the
expression of motherhood. The child receives sustenance and care from the mother in every aspect of its
life. The bonds formed are strong and deeply emotional. The cardinal aspect of Cardinal-Water initiates and
forms bonds. The Water aspect develops emotional closeness.
Cardinal-Water shows up in all the things that we feel familiar. We all have a need to belong to
something, some place or some people. We feel a special affinity for these things. We gravitate to these
people and places because they resonate with our style of living. We feel comfortable with them. CardinalWater seeks to establish comfort zones. We truly feel ourselves when inside a comfort zone. We are in our
element and feel empowered by familiar forces.
Cardinal-Water forms habit patterns in the personality, since it seeks to develop familiar patterns of
behavior. The goal is to create consistent patterns of behavior that make it easier to meet our needs on a
daily basis. Habits are comfort zones onto themselves.
Cardinal-Water becomes extremely energized when one feels lost. One looks around and nothing is
familiar. Cardinal-Water freaks out and begins to look for anything vaguely familiar in order to find its way
back again. Cardinal-Water has a strong ability to bond and maintain closeness to the familiar. When close
relationships are broken, Pericardium points are mainly used because they help us heal the trauma to the
Pericardium, which needs close, intimate and supporting relationships.
Cardinal-Water also has a tendency to micro-manage the environment. It has its own idea on the way
things should be, and expects others to have the same ideas. So when others do things that dont agree with
the expectations of Cardinal-Water, there is an attempt to change the behavior of the other person. The goal
is to keep things from changing and developing too fast, which might cause Cardinal-Water to lose
familiarity with the way things should be.
Emotional upsets strongly affect the Cardinal-Water nature of ourselves. Cardinal-Water expresses like
those snow bubble toys, the ones that when you turn them upside down, the snow begins to fall. That slow
motion falling of snow as it settles down is the movement of Cardinal-Water. Cardinal-Water wants things
to settle down and relax into comfortable patterns. When it is agitated, it wants to calm down again.
Cardinal-Water does not like to be agitated. When it is calm, we have more power.
Who can wait for the mud to settle in water?
Let it alone and you will see how
upon calming down, by itself,
it will become transparent little by little.
Observers of the Tao dont look for fulfillment,
By not looking for fulfillment you will not be influenced
by the desire for changesand you will change.
A healthy Cardinal-Water calmly brings a person to the realization of their desires. It is through calming
down that clarity of vision is created. Cardinal-Water took the first step in creating life in the primordial
soup by bringing calmness to the forces of nature. It is through that calmness that changes were made.
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Cardinal-Water seeks calm within agitation. It is not that Cardinal-Water itself is agitated, but that it
responds to the agitation by calming it down. When a person is not able to calm down their emotions,
Cardinal-Water is weak or confused. The action of Cardinal-Water is always to calm things down. It is the
force to create homeostasis in the body mind. Homeostasis is the result of Cardinal-Water finding comfort
zones of familiarity. When the comfort zone is healthy, life is powerful.
San Jiao Meridian & Fixed-Water
(Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Planet: Pluto)
Some common attributes of San Jiao meridian and Fixed-Water are:
Both influence balance and harmony from behind the scenes. They are unseen influences on
power.
Both harmonize the other elements.
Both seek homeostasis of the body-mind.
Both are concerned with putting things in the appropriate place.
The key word for Fixed-Water is relevance. Relevance is the path to fulfill and realize truth. When a
prayer is answered, it is because the prayer is relevant to the progress of the soul. Many of our prayers are
subconscious. They reside in the deep mystery of the mind and emotions. They affect and influence the
decisions we make and the reactions we take in circumstances.
Many people look at their lives and dont understand how they got to where they are. Their lives seem
irrelevant. Yet when you look into their subconscious, you see the desires that led them to where they are.
Once the desires are fulfilled, they are no longer relevant. It is at this point that the person sees their life as
irrelevant. New desires take shape and begin to guide the soul into the future.
Fixed-Water meets others with a stare that penetrates to the subconscious. When you communicate with
Fixed-Water, you feel like it doesnt hear what you are saying. In reality it is hearing what you are praying
deep within you. Fixed-Water in a sense disregards your words and thoughts as a dance around the truth.
Fixed-Water is more concerned with the truth at the core of your words and complaints. Fixed-Water is
strong in psychotherapists.
Fulfillment of truth is the goal of Fixed-Water. Fixed-Water penetrates to the core of your life where the
vision of your life sits. Fulfillment of that vision is the goal. Once the vision is fulfilled, Fixed-Water is
satisfied. People who have Fixed-Water strong in their personalities tend to work and influence power
behind the scenes. They maintain a connection to the core vision, while others speak and act in various
ways that dont seem to connect to the core vision. They are there to always remind others of the purpose
behind their actions, so that the mission is not lost.
Fixed-Water keeps people strongly focused on a common path. A good leader is one who does the will
of the people. This leader must penetrate to the heart and soul of the people and cherish what is found there.
Many of the problems in society are subliminal. If there are problems in the heart and soul, then the leader
must work to rectify them. A wise leader knows how to recognize illness in society and to rectify those
illnesses without creating new ones. Most leaders have someone close to them who keeps their hand on the
pulse of the people. This person then communicates with the leader.
The most dangerous leaders are the ones who champion the illnesses of society, and then manipulate
policy to their own self-interests and desires. This is a desperate situation where the people are in desperate
need of some kind of help. It is relatively easy for a leader to take advantage of such a situation. The
collective subconscious of society is unhealthy and allows such leaders. The society will only experience
more pain before their subconscious ills are cured.
When the health of Fixed-Water becomes disrupted, one experiences the feeling of guilt. Guilt comes
about when something happens that is not according to plan. Someone messed up and they are being
blamed. Something happened that was wrong. It is only wrong because it does not agree with the original
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blamed. Something happened that was wrong. It is only wrong because it does not agree with the original
vision. If someone says that they will never do something again for whatever reason, and they end up doing
the same thing over, they feel guilty because they were not able to stick to their convictions. The desires in
the subconscious are more powerful than the convictions of the mind. This is hard for many to grasp. To
really heal the Fixed-Water part of a person, you have to get into their subconscious, and rectify their
desires.
Many desires can never be fulfilled because they are addictive in nature. These desires can never be
permanently satisfied because they require the experience over and over. To rectify a subconscious
addiction is one of the most powerful healings possible. Self-destructive behavior stops. Many times
acupuncture can calm down a subconscious desire and mitigate its effect on a person, but the addictive
desire returns to bring the person back to square one.
The subconscious addictive desire must be brought out into the light of day and recognized for what it
is. When people are said to be confronting their demons, they are struggling to bring their subconscious
desires to the light of day.
Illness, be it physical or psychic, arises within a personality when an uneasy subconscious mentalemotional climate fosters an environment that will nurture and proliferate a destructive energy.
Conversely, an illness can be eradicated, or cured, when the elementals that fostered the
problems have been resolved and removed. Illness is instructive in this light, because it requires
that we address unhealthy subconscious forces (elementals) that plague the personality.
To look for the subconscious Fixed-Water in a personality, look for the subliminal patterns of behavior.
Many call this behavior Karmic. The patterns are habitual and uncontrollable. Its like when a woman says
she keeps ending up with the same kind of dysfunctional man. Fixed-Water is controlling her actions from a
subliminal area of the mind. Fixed-Water is focused on the purpose and closeness of relationships. It is
through relationships that desires are fulfilled. Yet it is through cleaning up the subconscious that the desires
are made healthy.
Kidney Meridian & Mutable-Water
(Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Planet: Neptune)
Some common attributes of Kidney meridian and Mutable-Water are:
Both relate to the water of life. The water that sets the foundation for life to be created.
Both are passive by nature.
Both flow to the most humble spot no matter wealth, status or circumstance. Water flows
everywhere.
Both relate to the power that overcomes fear.
Both dissolve separateness, which leads one to see the unity of all things.
The key word for Mutable-Water is faith. Faith is the ability to go wherever life takes you without
hesitation. The movement of water through the land shows the essence of faith. Water flows everywhere. It
soaks into the low places and comes from the high places. Water fears nothing and touches to everything.
The highest good is like water.
Water gives life to everything and does not struggle.
It flows through places that humans reject
And in this way is like the Tao.
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Faith is to accept and forgive everything and everyone. Faith washes sins clean. There is no part of the
world in the eyes of Mutable-Water that is outside the scope of life. Water sees everything as together.
Water freely flows within the one universe. Nothing is rejected. Nothing is scorned. Mutable-Water
embraces every part of a person.
When Mutable-Water is strong in people, they see the needs and deep desires of others. Mutable-Water
flows into the subconscious of others. The fears of others become known. Mutable-Water awakens the
collective unity of life experience in everything.
Mutable-Water dissolves the personal ego. One becomes more concerned about the interests of others.
The desires of others are more important than ones own desires. Ones ego wants to be defined by the
desires of others. Yet when ones own personal desires are denied for too long, the ego will react in an
effort to create balance. An example of this is seen in priests who live secret lives of sexual promiscuity.
A blockage of Mutable-Water leads to fear. When the personal ego is threatened, fear arises. However, a
healthy Mutable-Water is able to supersede the fears of the personal ego by accepting the threat. This
acceptance returns one to the all-inclusive whole of life, thus neutralizing the concerns of the personal ego.
There is no death. There is no loss. There is only change in manifestation. Mutable-Water knows this
truth. It balances the fears of death and loss of the personal ego.
The separation from unity is the descent of the angels on the ladder of consciousness. The return to
unity is the ascent of the angels upon the ladder. The descent is good, for unity then becomes
expressed in diversity, but in diversity there need be no concept of separation. That which is
diversity has been misconceived from the personal, or external viewpoint, to be separation. The
great work for each soul is to lift the personal viewpoint to such heights in consciousness that it
becomes one with the whole.
Kidney meridian has a special and powerful role in the tradition of acupuncture. Kidney is the ability to
reconnect to the source of life power. When we disconnect from that power in consciousness, we weaken
over time. Take a drop of water out of the ocean, and it becomes a drop of water, vulnerable to the forces of
nature. Return that drop to the ocean, and it becomes as powerful as the ocean again. A healthy and free
Kidney meridian allows us to live in the ocean of life and to still think that we are a drop separate from that
ocean. This keeps us connected to the power that sustains our personal living experience.
When discrimination, prejudice and intolerance separate us from others, the Kidney meridian weakens
and we lose life power. Many of the reasons why the Kidney meridian gets weak as one ages, is because
one has taken on so many judgments, fears and discriminations through life. The key to growing old and to
maintaining a healthy Kidney meridian is to follow the nature of Mutable-Water. Accept and forgive
everything. Embrace all people, their beliefs, their transgressions, and their differences. To return to unity is
the power behind Mutable-Water. It is this power that keeps us young as we age.
Case Studies of Astrology
The use of astrology in oriental medicine goes back 1000s of years. The following case studies, from
my personal experience, will give a general sense of how astrology is used in a clinical setting.
#1
I had a patient who had been trying to get pregnant for at least 3 years using many kinds of medicine,
including transplantation of fertilized eggs, hormone therapy, acupuncture, herbs and many other forms of
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including transplantation of fertilized eggs, hormone therapy, acupuncture, herbs and many other forms of
alternative medicine. She had had allergies all her life. The medical reason given to her was that her body
was attacking the fertilized egg in an allergic response. This caused the egg to be expelled from her body.
She was told that her chances of having a baby were very slim. She also had eczema as a symptom of the
allergies. The eczema related to how the uterine lining would become irritated and reject the embryo.
I began to treat her in late summer with herbs and acupuncture to support the retention of Essence in her
body and to contain the Yin fluids that seemed to be leaking out of her body-mind. I looked at her
astrological chart and saw that the best time for her to conceive a baby was going to be in the following
winter or early spring. So I did not expect her to get pregnant in the fall even though she kept on trying to
get pregnant.
I advised her to bath herself in her own Essence, because her Essence was leaking out as shown by the
allergies. She also seemed to allow other people to infiltrate her energies. Her protective Wei Qi was
vulnerable from the allergies. She also started to drink colostrum, which is new mothers milk from cows.
Colostrum helps with asthma and certain allergies.
The result was that she became pregnant through normal sex with her husband in the winter of the next
year, exactly at the time her astrological chart indicated. In this case, astrology helped to clarify when she
might get pregnant. That was a big help in determining the success or failure of the treatments. It was also a
big help in allowing a time frame of 6 months or so in which she could properly prepare herself for a
pregnancy. She prepared her mind and body during those 6 months with good results.
Now whether it was the movement of the planets, the perception of her mind or the accumulation of
medicine that allowed her to become pregnant is always up for debate.
#2
A woman came to see me because she was anxious and upset. She did not tell me why. I looked at her
astrological chart and saw that transiting Mars was opposing her natal Sun. As I looked at her chart I
mentioned that this would make her feel aggressive, restless and irritated, and that she might have an
argument with somebody. She looked at me and said that she had just had a huge argument with her new
husband. They had never argued before and this really upset her. I counseled her that the effects of the
transiting Mars would only last a week and that she should not see this as a long-term problem, but only a
glitch in time. Once Mars moved on, the feeling of restlessness would dissipate and they could get back to
normal.
One week later everything was back to normal. They had had great make-up sex. She was smiling and
the restlessness was gone.
I could have treated her irritability and restlessness directly with acupuncture, but I knew the affect was
only going to last a few days anyway. It was more advantageous to counsel her that the energies were going
to dissipate. When they did, she understood why and found it easier to get back to a normal relationship.
Astrology told me there really wasnt a problem. It was a natural rhythm of the emotional cycle. More
that anything, the doubt she carried about the argument was healed through the counseling.
#3
A woman came to ask me about her life. I looked at her chart and saw that a few years ago in a fall
season, transiting Neptune had stopped in the sky right exactly on top of her natal Mercury for a complete
month. This is a very powerful transit and indicated that something big had happened. I simply asker her
what happened that month. Her eyes rolled and said that was the most stressful month she had ever lived.
She could not function. There was this pressure pushing down upon her head from above that was driving
her into insanity. She had to leave and go away for a month to meditate. She separated from her husband
and family that month. They eventually divorced. Nobody understood what was going on with her.
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Mercury related to her Bladder meridian. The alignment of Neptune over her Bladder meridian
(Mercury) indicated the pressure that she was feeling on top of her Bladder meridian. Her Bladder meridian
was under great stress from Neptune. She could not think, because the pressure was so great. So she went
into a deep meditation until the feeling somewhat subsided.
It was a relief for her to finally know that there was an explanation for why she stepped on the edge of
insanity.
During the crisis, acupuncture and herbs could have helped to relive the stress upon her Bladder
meridian. She did not have to suffer so much. Actually she ended up getting a sort of post-traumatic stress
syndrome from the problem. The energy of the transit was too strong for her. Treatment could have
minimized the confusion and make it easier for the pressure to be incorporated into her psyche. The process
that she was going through needed to be supported, not denied. Her family withdrew their support, which
caused her to eventually separate from them.
Astrology would have offered a useful perspective to treat the illness at the time of the crisis. As well,
astrology would have guided the treatment to harmonize her Bladder meridian. The big lesson from
astrology is that illness and healing are a process of time and circumstance. To have a grasp of the process
of time and circumstance is powerful when combined with acupuncture needling and herbs.
#4
Once I was researching how to assess health and illness in an astrological chart on an internet discussion
group. A person would post their birth data and give no additional information. I would analyze the chart
according to the principles of the spherical meridian flow, which blends the principles of astrology and
Chinese meridian theory. I would then reply on the discussion group with what I thought would be their
health problems. The idea was to test the capacity of spherical meridian flow to pinpoint illnesses, and to
test if western astrology could really be blended with Chinese meridian theory.
On one occasion, the person posted their birth data and asked if anything was apparent in the next few
months. I saw in their chart that their heartbeat was fast. Mars relates to the Heart meridian and Mars was in
a fast type connection because of Quintile aspects to other planets. I saw a natal stress between Mars and
Moon. Natal means the person was born with the stress. This stress was going to be transited soon there
after. I suggested this looked like heart trouble and even when so far as to mention a possible operation.
They replied that they had had tachycardia for many years and may have to go back into surgery soon.
The person had had surgeries for this before. The astrological chart showed that the surgery was probably
going to need to happen again. In this case, astrology not only confirmed the illness, but also was able to
determine the aggravation of the illness using only the chart, without prior knowledge of the illness.
These tests on the internet discussion group confirmed the strength of blending western astrology and
Chinese meridian theory through the spherical meridian flow.
#5
On another occasion on the internet discussion group, a woman posted her birth data and said she had
had an illness for 7 years that the doctors could not determine. That is all she told me. I looked very
carefully at her astrological chart for days and eventually decided that the illness must be between the Gall
Bladder and the Liver. There was a conflicting connection between the Sun/Gall Bladder, Jupiter/Liver and
Saturn/Small Intestine. It seemed as though the Liver was too loose and the Gall Bladder was too tight. I
posted this opinion and waited for a reply. She finally replied a month later and apologized for replying so
late. She said she had been in the hospital to undergo surgery to have her gall bladder organ removed.
Astrology had pinpointed the illness without prior knowledge.
However, one can ponder that even though she had her gall bladder removed, the stress still existed in
her personality and her meridians. Obviously, the surgery did not remove the Gall Bladder meridian, nor the
Liver meridian, nor the innate stresses in her astrological chart. Through time those stresses will show up
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Liver meridian, nor the innate stresses in her astrological chart. Through time those stresses will show up
somewhere else in her body. Due to the surgery she will have to take nutritional supplements for the rest of
her life and she wont have proper control of her digestion. It could be that the stress of that is how the
innate stress in the chart would then manifest.
#6
A woman, 31, came because of abdominal pain around ovulation that would last for almost 2 weeks. In
the first visit, she said that she had never had sex before and as she said, she needed a man to validate her.
She really wanted to have sex but had developed a big fear around it. She would visit pornography sites on
the Internet to learn about sex. She had been sexually frustrated for a long time. Her abdominal pain was
similar to the kind in Irritable Bowel syndrome.
Acupuncture and herbs helped calm down the pain, but only a little. Instead she needed to resolve the
fear of having a sexual experience. Her birth chart indicated a week that it looked as though she would have
her first sexual experience. Transiting Chiron was going to retrograde over her natal Mars. The week of this
transit was still over a month away and she had no man in her life. I could not see how she was going to
have sex when she didnt have a man in her life. Still her astrological chart was indicating it would happen.
About two weeks before the transit, she met a man out of the blue. Two weeks later they had sex in
perfect alignment with the planetary transit. It was one of those mysterious moments that make one wonder
if life is fated from the stars. Then I realized how much effort and work she had put into herself in the past
year. She had fought her way back and found supportive friends so that she could attract a man into her life.
She had also invested a lot of thought power into manifesting it. When the moment came she had already
prepared herself. In a sense, she had earned her own destiny.
The sexual experience though was very traumatic. She felt tremendously guilty. She felt as though she
had let her parents down and compromised the relationship with a future husband, whoever he might be.
She felt that she had given away her sexual virginity to someone, who didnt deserve it.
As well, she was very relieved and proud of herself for having had sex. She would smile when thinking
about it. She said it was important for her to have sex. She was experiencing the extremes of happiness and
despair at the same time. It was a very powerful moment in her life: one that would take some time to totally
make sense.
All of her reactions were consistent with retrograding Chiron over natal Mars. She was impulsive and
driven sexually. Her sense of reason and modesty were undermined. There was no stopping her once that
man came into her life. He said the right things to interest her sexually. The only hope was to ease her
frustration with counseling and support.
#7
A woman came to see me specifically for astrological advice. I saw in her chart that in the year before
she had had some stress. There was a transit over her ascendant of Neptune. I said it was in the months of
September and October. She said yes that there had been a problem at her job. She asked me if I could
specify the date. She wanted to know if the chart could specify the date on which the problem took place. I
looked at the chart, and the only indication I could find was the date that the Moon crossed the ascendant,
the same spot where Neptune was. So I said that the date was October 21, because that was the date that the
Moon crossed her ascendant. She said that was the date, but she never specified what happened on that date.
Return to the Homepage
Page 21 of 21
Chapter 12 - The Spherical Meridian Flow and the Yin-Yang Symbol
10/16/2005 09:57 AM

In six-element theory we see how two triangles merge to form the overall pattern of six elements. This is the convergence of
Yin and Yang in the Heart center.
The spherical meridian flow is a 3-dimensional form, in fact, the spherical flow is simply six-element theory unfolded into 3dimensional space. It is not surprising that we will now see Yin and Yang merge in 3 dimensional space. This unfolding reveals
the deeper complexity of meridian theory and of how Yin and Yang merge.
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We see that the two cones are actually separate before they unify in the spherical model. A cone is a 3-dimensional triangle.
Each cone is a representation of the two Yin and Yang triangles in six-element theory. One cone only consists of meridians
from the Yin elements. The other cone only consists of meridians from the Yang elements.
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When one looks closely at the merging of the two cones into the spherical flow, one begins to see a great resemblance to the
well-known Yin-Yang symbol. The spherical flow is actually a much more detailed view of the Yin-Yang symbol.
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The Heart meridian is at the point of one cone. The Kidney meridian is at the point of the other. These are the only two
meridians that enter the space of the other cone. They become the Yin within the Yang, and the Yang within the Yin.
The two dots of the Yin-Yang symbol correspond to the Heart and Kidney meridians. These correspond perfectly to the
Heart and Kidney meridians at the points of the two cones.
The spherical meridian flow is the Yin-Yang symbol in 3-dimensional detail. The spherical flow reveals a deeper mystery of
the Yin-Yang symbol.
Take a moment to realize that the Yin-Yang symbol is encoded into the permutations of the four orders of western astrology,
because those permutations become the spherical flow. Its a powerful connection between Chinese medicine and western
astrology.
It has been hypothesized by current mathematicians that the universe actually has the shape of the dodecahedron. So the
universe is looking to have the same shape as the inner Heart matrix of life. This comes as no surprise when one understands the
deep truth of the spherical matrix flow. It would be no surprise if someday the unified field theory of physics conforms to the
spherical mathematics of the spherical flow.
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Page 4 of 4
Chapter 8 - The Four Triangles
10/16/2005 09:59 AM

Lets remember that in six-element theory two triangles merge together. One triangle is rooted in Yin
Essence and the other in Yang Essence. As the triangles merge Yin and Yang intermingle. Life begins.
To form the spherical meridian flow, four triangles merge together. Thats right, four. Because of this,
the spherical meridian flow is very stable and very dynamic, much more so than six-element theory. The
four triangles are very basic, such that all acupuncturists are very well acquainted with them already.
The four triangles correspond to:
1. The 3 HAND-YIN meridians.
Heart of Hand-Shaoyin
Lung of Hand-Taiyin
Pericardium of Hand-Jueyin
2. The 3 HAND-YANG meridians.
Small Intestine of Hand-Taiyang
Large Intestine of Hand-Yangming
San Jiao of Hand-Shaoyang
3. The 3 FOOT-YIN meridians.
Kidney of Foot-Shaoyin
Liver of Foot-Jueyin
Spleen of Foot-Taiyin
4. The 3 FOOT-YANG meridians.
Bladder of Foot-Taiyang
Gall Bladder of Foot-Shaoyang
Stomach of Foot-Yangming
Each of these well-known groups of meridians forms a basic triangle. In the spherical flow, each is
considered a basic building block. These four groups merge with each other to form the complete spherical
meridian flow.
They are, in an abstract sense, analogous to the 4 bases which make-up DNA, adenine, guanine, cytosine
and thymine. When these four bases are combined and strung together, the genetic foundation of life is laid.
Each triangle reflects one of the two triangles of six-element theory; that is the Yin triangle of Essence,
or the Yang triangle of Essence.
The Foot-Yin triangle represents the Yin meridians of the Yin triangle of Essence.
The Foot-Yang triangle represents the Yin meridians of the Yin triangle of Essence.
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The Hand-Yin triangle represents the Yin meridians of the Yang triangle of Essence.
The Hand-Yang triangle represents the Yang meridians of the Yang triangle of Essence.
This is one of the beauties of the spherical flow;
in that it absolutely recognizes the difference
between the Yin and Yang meridians. Neither sixelement nor five-element theory does that. For
example, take a moment and realize that the Yin
triangle of Essence in six-element theory is made up
of three elements, Earth, Water and Wood. Each of
these elements has two meridians. Therefore there
are six meridians in the Yin triangle, yet the triangle
doesnt show distinguish them. In actuality, there are
two triangles within the Yin triangle of Essence of
six-element theory; one is Yin and one is Yang in
nature.
The same can be said for the Yang triangle of
Essence of six-element theory. The triangle
represents three elements, Metal, Seed and Fire, but
each element has a Yin and a Yang meridian.
Therefore there are actually two triangles within this
triangle too; one is Yin and one is Yang in nature.

Once you separate out all these four distinct triangles, the door opens to the much more sophisticated
theory of the spherical flow. And more depth of meridian theory is revealed. The discovery of the spherical
meridian flow is a hefty quantum leap in understanding.
Fundamentally, Yin and Yang must embrace for there to be life. That is a fundamental truth of meridian
theory. The spherical meridian flow is a complete and intimate embrace between the four manifestations of
Yin and Yang, as represented by the four triangles above.
All these four triangles will merge with each other, just as in basic six-element theory. The next six
chapters will explore the ways that these four basic triangles merge. The merging of these basic four
triangles will define every single relationship between every individual meridian.
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Authors notes and comments:

The point combinations that are given in this book come primarily from the work of Peter Deadman,
Manual of Acupuncture, and many are from my own experience in the practice of acupuncture. The
point combinations from Deadmans book are interpreted and explained in this book using the
understanding that results from blending western astrology and meridian theory in the spherical flow.
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10/16/2005 09:59 AM
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Page 4 of 4
Chapter 14 - The HAND-YIN Triangle
10/16/2005 10:00 AM

The 3 Yin meridians of the hand are Pericardium, Heart and Lung. Each corresponds to one of the three
Yin divisions, Jueyin, Shaoyin and Taiyin respectively. Therefore Pericardium is meridian of Hand-Jueyin.
Heart is meridian of Hand-Shaoyin. Lung is meridian of Hand-Taiyin. They are all Yin meridians whose
channels connect with the hands.
These three meridians form one
of the four core triangles. These
three meridians support and generate
each other.
Two more ways to look at this
triangle is by element and division.
Seeing how the elements flow
through the triangles shows the
connection to six-element theory.
Also it is very useful to see how the
divisions correlate to the triangles.
Pericardium is a meridian of the
Seed element. Heart is a meridian of
the Fire element. Lung is a meridian
of the Metal element.
The sequence of elements
through the triangle exactly
corresponds to the Yang triangle of
six-element theory. Seed supports
Fire, Fire supports Metal, and then
Metal supports Seed. Since these 3
meridians are from the Yang
elements, they all activate and
transform Yin substances. These Yin
meridians of the Yang elements are
the most actively transforming of all meridians. They are the engines behind all physiological activity.
However, the Yang meridians of the Yang elements seek to stabilize and maintain the activity of these Yin
meridians.
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Panic attacks, also called anxiety disorders, are a clear pathology of this triangle. Emotional stress,
internal or external, precipitates an attack. Symptoms include a sense of fright and impending doom. The
body experiences tachycardia, hyperventilation, palpitations, sweating, dizziness, nausea and stomach
queasiness. The symptoms all affect the normal function of Heart, Lung and Pericardium. Normal rhythms
are lost. Homeostasis collapses.
In a panic attack, this triangle goes into hyper-drive, and loses its balance with the other triangles. The
body gears up for a confrontation, which never comes. The other triangles usually calm down and guide the
reactive meridians of this triangle, but that relationship is lost in a panic attack.
A panic attack shows how this triangle would react in any given stressful situation if it were not
balanced by the other triangles. These meridians are assertive, reactive, energetic, instinctual, quick, habitual
and automatic. They react before they think. Thinking is a function of the Yang meridians. In panic attacks,
the Yang meridians fail to guide these meridians with reason and mindfulness. The goal of treatment is
directed at Heart, Lung and Pericardium to calm them down and bring back a sense of harmony. Then the
Yang meridians, Large Intestine, Small Intestine, Bladder and San Jiao are strengthened to manage the raw
and seemingly nave energies of the meridians of this triangle.
Each of these meridians relate to Cardinal energies in western astrology. Cardinal energies activate,
initiate, and pulsate like the beat of the heart, the inhalation-exhalation of the lungs, and the rhythms of low
tide and high tide in the Pericardium ocean.
When this triangle collapses, there arises a major Yang deficiency in the body-mind. Circulation and
active Yang transformations decrease. It is a serious condition. The heart rate decreases, breathing slows
down, body temperature decreases, unconsciousness looms and organ systems begin to shut down. Death
becomes imminent. This triangle keeps fluids, energies and blood moving around the body. When
circulation slows down, there is stagnation, and eventual shut down of organs.
When this triangle is weak, Yang deficiencies are still indicated, but not so severely. There is lethargy,
palpitations, shortness of breath, weak voice, paleness, edema and cold limbs. Heaviness and sluggishness
develops in the body because fluids arent circulating smoothly. Fluids pool and accumulate around the
body. Homeostasis loses its ability to keep the body running efficiently. Energy wanes. Passivity sets in. The
person becomes introverted and less spontaneous.
This triangle of Heart, Lung and Pericardium is the motive force to activate the body-mind. It gives the
ability to assert ones will and take on life. This is the triangle of vital signs: pulse, breath, blood pressure
and temperature. These signs are necessary to life and show that the body-mind still has the will to live.
Heart supports Lung
The Yang activity of the Heart propels the body into life. The heart of a fetus pumps early on in
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pregnancy and when the heart stops beating death is indicated. The Heart meridian asserts its eagerness to
live from the beginning to the end. The heart organ pumps blood.
The Lung also has Yang activity. In the way that the heart pumps blood, the lungs inhale and exhale air.
The Heart circulates blood internally. The Lungs circulate air and Wei Qi externally. Together they circulate
all Yin substances like blood, interstitial fluids and Nutritive Qi.
The beating of the Heart sets the foundation for the Lung to gather a rhythm and breath. When the heart
beats stronger, the breathing increases. When the heart slows down, the breathing slows down. It is very
common to see Heart and Lung deficient at the same time. They go hand in hand.
The Gathering Qi, Zong Qi, of the chest is closely related to the relationship between Heart and Lung.
The Zong Qi nourishes the rhythm and activity of both Heart and Lung, so that they both circulate Yin
substance. Zong Qi is treated by needling the Heart and Lung meridians. The intimate bond between Heart
and Lung is the Zong Qi.
The key factor of Heart supporting Lung is the activation of dispersing fluids and Qi in the body. This
gives impetus to the body-mind.
Point combinations:
Lu7 & Ht7 to release desires and make ones dreams known to others.
Lu9 & Ht7 for belching due to weakness in circulating Zong Qi.
Lu10 & Ht7 for sadness and fear that affect the Zong Qi.
Lung supports Pericardium
Whereas the Lung circulates fluids, the Pericardium transforms fluids by perfecting them. The
Pericardium has a rhythm in adjusting the fluids of the body in its function of establishing homeostasis. The
sensation of homeostasis has a rhythm. It is a quiet and subtle rhythm, like the tides of the ocean. Many
forms of meditation seek to achieve a slow and almost imperceptible breath. This type of breathing
harmonizes the conscious mind to the rhythms of the Pericardium.
The way a person breathes sets the foundation for the rhythm of the Pericardium. The Pericardium is
calm when the breath is slow, calm, comfortably deep and consistent. When breathing is shallow or
restricted, the Pericardium will feel edgy, irritable, nervous and stressed. The Lung must properly circulate
fluids and Qi around the body-mind so that the Pericardium can do its job of harmonizing the body-mind.
The breath is so important in meditation because it is the most direct way of influencing the Primordial
Power of Yuan Qi, since Yuan Qi is related to the Pericardium. The beating of the heart will eventually
coordinate with the breath because the Pericardium and Lung form a triangle with the Heart.
Point combinations:
Lu7 & Pc6 to lift mood. Helps a person express emotions and tune into sadness and grief.
Lu9 & Pc8 to calm and regulate breathing in meditation.
Lu7 & Pc7 for frequent laughter due to nervousness and not feeling comfortable.
Lu11 & Pc7 for coughing and difficult breathing due to emotional stress or the loss of an intimate
relationship.
Lu5 & Pc7 for shortness of breath due to weak Yuan Qi. The person may feel as though he/she is
out of sync with life and doesnt belong. The person may feel turned off by the world and
unmotivated to continue living.
Pericardium supports Heart
The Pericardium also has a rhythm like the beating of the heart and the breathing of the lungs. The
Pericardiums rhythm is slow and consistent. When one feels a sense of peace and harmony, the heart beats
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Pericardiums rhythm is slow and consistent. When one feels a sense of peace and harmony, the heart beats
slowly and the breathing is calm. When one loses peace, the heart and lungs become erratic.
The Pericardium produces Yuan Qi, which is the energy to sustain life. Heart feeds off Yuan Qi to keep
on beating. Pericardium works with the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems to regulate the
heart rate. The Pericardium determines heart rate by regulating hormones like norepinephrine and
acetylcholine, in response to stress or the lack of stress respectively.
The heart organ is very independent in the body, because it produces its own electrical impulse to
stimulate its heartbeat. This impulse is regulated by the Pericardium though, which balances the heart rate
with the level of metabolism in the rest of the body. The Pericardium is thus responsible for a regular and
consistent heart rhythm.
The Pericardium assists the Zong Qi to circulate Qi in the chest. The Pericardium creates an environment
that induces the Zong Qi to circulate more freely by feeding Yuan Qi into the Zong Qi. It is a principle of
meridian theory that Zong Qi descends to assist the Yuan Qi, and that Yuan Qi ascends to assist heart
rhythm and respiration. The relationship between Yuan Qi and Zong Qi is found in the triangle of
Pericardium, Heart and Lung.
Point combinations:
Pc9 & Ht6 for heart pain and agitation.
Pc5, Ht6, LI2 & St45 for excessive fright and panic attack due to Yang meridians not guiding the
impulsive and reactive nature of Heart and Pericardium.
Pc6, Ht5, Bl14 & Bl15 for irregular heart rhythm due to Pericardium not regulating the
homeostasis of the heart rhythm.
Ht1 & Pc4 for heart pain and agitation due to Qi blockage in chest.
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Page 4 of 4
Chapter 15 - The HAND-YANG Triangle
10/16/2005 10:00 AM

The 3 Yang meridians of the hand are San Jiao, Small Intestine and Large Intestine. Each corresponds to
one of the three Yang divisions, Shaoyang, Taiyang and Yangming respectively. Therefore San Jiao is
meridian of Hand-Shaoyang. Small Intestine is meridian of Hand-Taiyang. Large Intestine is meridian of
Hand-Yangming. They are all Yang
meridians whose channels connect
with the hands.
three meridians support and
generate each other.
San Jiao is a meridian of the
Seed element. Small Intestine is a
meridian of the Fire element. Large
Intestine is a meridian of the Metal
element.
The sequence of elements through the triangle exactly corresponds to the Yang triangle of six-element
theory. Seed supports Fire, Fire supports Metal, and then Metal supports Seed.
The meridians of this triangle oversee the activities of all

other meridians. They are the politicians, governors and heads of state. They are the ones with knowledge,
reason and direction. They strategize and organize. They lay down laws and rules of conduct. They establish
principles by which the meridians should live by. They are the authorities and managers.
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Structure is necessary in life. Imagine driving across a high bridge that has no railings. As you look over
the side, you know that there is nothing to keep you from sliding off the bridge. One normally feels an
uneasy feeling in the stomach. Having boundaries and safeguards help one handle the realities of life. The
meridians of this triangle are the railings of the bridge. They provide safeguards and a framework in which
one knows who they are and what their role in life is. They provide security.
These Yang meridians have the action of channeling Yin meridians much like plumbing channels water
through a city to where it is needed. The meridians of this triangle are like architects in the way they design
the systems of the body. These meridians organize the flow of vital activities and substances around the
body via the cardiovascular system, nervous system, endocrine system, respiratory system, skeletal structure
and immune system. The heart organ dutifully pumps blood but has no idea where that blood is going or
why. The meridians of this triangle determine where the blood goes and why. These meridians have the
knowledge to organize the structure and network of all the bodys systems.
These meridians are mature and businesslike. They are dependable but stern. They set high standards of
conduct and expect the other meridians to follow those standards. If the other meridians and vital activities
of the body dont follow the rules, there may be chaos and anarchy leading to a breakdown of functional
activity.
On the other hand, these meridians at times can restrict and contain the other meridians too much, which
creates stagnation and obstruction. An example is when a person has a driving ambition and works very
hard and long hours trying to achieve a goal. This person channels all their energies in a very strict and
disciplined way. They are more likely to achieve their goal because of the focus and diligence in doing what
is necessary, but the person runs the risk of shutting out the bigger picture of his/her life. They miss the
beauty and travails of people and things outside of what he/she is focused on. The person narrows and
directs their energies at the expense of enjoying life. They dont become fulfilled unless they achieve their
goal.
There are many people in the modern world that have to work very hard to keep things together, and to
make ends meet. The meridians of this triangle get overused because there are so many rules and
requirements to meet, which seem to multiply as the years go on. When these meridians overplay their hand
and set too many limits on the other meridians, even though their intention of taking care of business is
necessary, the other meridians tend to rebel, resist and at times explode. The other meridians can be so
restricted and contained that they build up pressure internally; a pressure that can explode in due time.
The key to keeping these meridians healthy and in balance with the other meridians is to set realistic
goals and to include time off while working to attain those goals. Working 40+ hours per week is unhealthy
for most people. Having only 2 weeks off for vacations per year from work is also unhealthy. Be smart,
work in a relaxed manner, take time off and let things blossom as a natural consequence of the work you do.
Plants dont have to work hard to make flowers bloom. It is a natural process that they are designed for.
Small Intestine supports Large Intestine
The Small Intestine concentrates energy. If energy is scattered and has no direction, Small Intestine
gives it direction. When the heart organ pumps blood, the Small Intestine directs the blood through the
system of arteries and veins of the cardiovascular system. The Large Intestine is the architect that designs
the best system for delivering blood to the body. The Small Intestine is the channeling system but the Large
Intestine is the force that defines the channeling. These meridians direct the action of pumping the blood by
the heart.
The Large Intestine is associated with the integrity of the Wei Qi, which covers and circulates around
every organ and structure in the body. The Large Intestine oversees the boundaries and surfaces. When
substances enter or leave a structure, the Large Intestine oversees the exchange. This is how the Large
Intestine meridian is associated with the excretion of wastes from the body, but it is also associated with
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Intestine meridian is associated with the excretion of wastes from the body, but it is also associated with
proper assimilation.
The Large Intestine governs the boundaries of the body. Everything has its place in the body where it
belongs. If something gets out of place, some process will be disrupted. The boundaries help to keep things
in their place.
The relationship between Small Intestine and Large Intestine is analogous to a border station of a
country. In a border station there are border guards, which check passports and belongings and then decide
if a person can enter the country or not. There are guidelines and requirements for someone to enter. The
person must meet those requirements to pass the border. The intestines decide which food enters and which
food should be excreted. It is as though there are border guards along the lining of the intestines. The
borders are there for protection and security of the countrys populace and assets.
Emotional defense mechanisms are closely associated with the relationship between Small Intestine and
Large Intestine. These meridians want to protect the vulnerabilities of the emotions. They will allow only
certain emotions to be expressed and then allow only certain emotions to be felt in other people. These
meridians establish the parameters of a comfort zone in order to protect homeostasis. Yet they can set
unrealistic and unfulfilling parameters that keep a person from experiencing life to its fullest.
These meridians can be hard to change because they have to understand the change or be faced with a
situation that makes them change. The first instinct of these meridians is to doubt and mistrust what is
exterior to the body-mind. They are good at simply resisting the change that comes with healing by
protecting the status quo. Yet they can change with patience and perseverance, once trust and respect are
garnered.
Point combinations:
LI4 & SI5 to help one focus on a direction and ambition. Helps one set a standard to live by.
LI4, SI6 & Bl4 for dimness of vision due to narrowing field of vision and loss of peripheral
vision.
LI4, SI3 & Pc5 for sudden mania and acute anxiety disorder due to unrealistic reaction to a false
threat, which temporarily subdues rational thinking.
LI1, LI10 & SI8 for agitation of the heart due to hardening of the arteries.
Large Intestine supports San Jiao
The Large Intestine maintains the integrity of the Wei Qi, which protects the exterior of the body. A
strong and healthy Wei Qi is a primary defense against attack of pathogenic forces. Once the interior of the
body can be guarded and protected, the interior can then stabilize itself. The San Jiao has the function of
stabilizing the interior energies of the body so that the body-mind functions at the most optimum level. The
synergy of homeostasis empowers the body.
If the Large Intestine can establish definite parameters for ones comfort zones, that will insure that
optimum homeostasis can be achieved. This is because San Jiao functions within the limits set by the Large
Intestine. Just as the atmosphere (Large Intestine) pulls the vapors of the ocean (San Jiao) upward to form
clouds, the Wei Qi helps the cycle of Yuan-Qi around the landscape of the body.
Point combinations:
SJ5, SJ10 & LI11 for numbness and atrophy of arm due to weakness in the Wei Qi and lack of
integrity to the circulating of external Qi.
LI4 & SJ3 for changing the parameters of a comfort zone in order to allow an improvement in
homeostatic levels.
San Jiao supports Small Intestine
San Jiao produces the highest level of homeostasis possible in the body-mind. The synergistic energy
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created goes into the blood and all organs. The body lives at a stronger and healthier level. Yet the energy
produced by San Jiao must be preserved and conserved in order that the energy is not squandered and that it
is channeled properly around the body-mind. The Small Intestine seeks to maintain the power achieved by
San Jiaos homeostatic harmony.
The relationship is analogous to the rise to power by a leader of a country. The San Jiao garners and
attracts power that can be used to ones political advantage. By forging alliances, agreements and common
interests, a leader becomes more powerful. Power builds in the hidden conversations out of the public eye.
This is how San Jiao works, behind the scenes. Yet that is where power builds that can catapult a person
into being the leader of a country.
The Small Intestine uses the power of San Jiao to achieve goals and physiological functions. Small
Intestine must have a power base in order to exert its authority. The power base gives Small Intestine the
license and authority to lead the country.
The Small Intestine seeks to do the will of the people. But just as the Small Intestine is like plumbing,
which directs water to every household, or like blood vessels, which deliver blood to every area of the body,
the Small Intestine must serve the needs of the people. It is disastrous if the agenda of the Small Intestine is
at odds with the agenda to insure the prosperity of the people. This is a misuse of power and can happen
even in a person. The person can use their body to achieve things which will in the long term destabilize
homeostasis and eventually cause disease. This is very common. Many people do things, which really are
not in the best interest of their health, but that they do just because it garners them power, prestige or
financial wealth. This behavior destabilizes the overall harmony of the total meridian system in the long
term. Greed is a common symptom of such a condition.
Overall the San Jiao produces power that tempts the Small Intestine to achieve larger goals than is
healthy. That is a common fault and temptation of modern society. The key to balancing San Jiao and Small
Intestine is found in the gentle and generous flow of the Liver meridian. The Liver seeks freedom and the
Small Intestine seeks security. When true freedom and security are balanced, there is a good chance that the
will of the people will be done and that homeostasis can be maintained.
Point combinations:
SJ5 & SI3 for pain in head and eyes due to Small Intestine stagnating homeostasis and the ability
to adapt to changes in the environment.
SJ5 & SI16 for deafness and tinnitus due to stagnation of Yuan Qi and stress on homeostasis.
Unblocks Small Intestine from controlling homeostasis.
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Page 4 of 4
Chapter 16 - The FOOT-YIN Triangle
10/16/2005 10:01 AM

The 3 Yin meridians of the foot are Liver, Spleen and Kidney. Each corresponds to one of the three Yin
divisions, Jueyin, Taiyin and Shaoyin respectively. Therefore Liver is meridian of Foot-Jueyin. Spleen is
meridian of Foot-Taiyin. Kidney is meridian of Foot-Shaoyin. They are all Yin meridians whose channels
connect with the feet.
each other.
Liver is a meridian of the Wood
element. Spleen is a meridian of the
Earth element. Kidney is a meridian
of the Water element.
corresponds to the Yin triangle of
six-element theory. Wood supports
Earth, Earth supports Water, and
then Water supports Wood.
Many people are not designed
for the modern and rigorous world.
They become artists of one sort or
another living on the fringe of society. They are free of many societal expectations. They may not seem to
accomplish as much as more mainstream people, but they are living a kind of freedom that Yin meridians
love. As humans we are designed to live either way, focused on security or moving with freedom. Freedom
struggles in a world of prejudice and expectations. As well security struggles in a world of openness and
lightness of being where one cant cope unless there are railings on the bridge.
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The meridians of this triangle are free and unencumbered by

nature. They are the artists, which love to create and let the mind and spirit wonder. They need to be
unfettered in order to be healthy, because they flow freely.
These meridians all correspond to mutable energies of western astrology, which are changeable in
nature. They adapt extremely well and easily. They are easy going and carefree. They are like the sap rising
from the roots of a tree flowing upward to nourish and experience life. They are full of optimism, hope and
potential.
It is taught in the tradition of acupuncture that as long as the Foot-Yin meridians are kept healthy, one
will not experience critical and terminal diseases. This is how important they are to the overall health. These
meridians provide flexibility, nourishment, expansiveness, renewal and rejuvenation. They are the meridians
that allow cells to become as new again.
They are the meridians that foster immortality. A beautiful new flower can appear on a tree that is 100s
of years old because the sap from the roots is the same sap as when the tree was just sprouted. The sap can
always become new cells and new tissue that look as young as newly sprouted seeds. These meridians
revitalize and rejuvenate the body.
The meridians of the Foot-Yin triangle are raw substance that has no form but only potential to be
anything. They are completely undifferentiated. They are like the stem cells of the meridian system, in that
they can become any cell in the body. They have complete potential to renew the body. This is why they are
so important to our health. They keep us young and sprightly.
The other meridians have the task of differentiating the substance of these meridians, but to have
abundance in these meridians is essential. It is taught that the Kidney cannot be in excess, but its hard to
imagine that any of these meridians, even Liver and Spleen, can become excessive. They all give only what
the body can use. If they have abundance, then that abundance will be stored in the Foot-Yang meridians,
which have the function of storing Yin substances. If one grows more food than they can eat, they can
simply give the surplus away to others who harvested short of what they needed. It is the same with these
meridians; if they flow in abundance then the person can become more generous and giving to others. It is
then a good thing that they go into excess.
It is only when the excess is harbored and greedily kept to oneself that stagnation and pain result. The
best way to keep these meridians healthy is to give, be generous, listen to others, serve the needs of others,
inspire others and help others. This will increase the strength and flow of these Foot-Yin meridians.
All the Foot-Yin meridians are important in the menstrual cycle of women. The tissue and lining of the
uterus must be cleansed, dissolved, enriched, moistened, fortified and fertile. This is all done with the Yin
substances of the Foot-Yin triangle.
The Liver and Spleen are very important to preparing the uterus for receiving the fertilized egg. The
blood of the Liver first enriches and engorges the tissue of the uterine lining. The superficial endometrium
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blood of the Liver first enriches and engorges the tissue of the uterine lining. The superficial endometrium
becomes vascularized with blood. This is the Liver action of blood supporting the uterus. The tissue of the
endometrium thickens with cell division and the growth of endometrial glands. This is the Spleen action
preparing the fertile tissue that will hold the fertilized egg.
After ovulation endometrial glands secrete uterine fluid, which is necessary for the development and
implantation of the embryo. The uterine fluids secreted are associated with the Kidney phase of the
fertilization. This phase is called the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. These uterine fluids are critical
for a woman to get pregnant and why the Kidney is so important to treat in cases of infertility.
If the uterine lining does not receive a fertilized egg, reproductive hormones decrease and the
endometrial blood flow diminishes. The Livers role is then diminished. The endometrium, which is the
Spleen tissue, is then shed with the blood of the Liver.
In the whole process of preparing the uterus in the menstrual cycle, there is the sequence of
Liver supporting Spleen, then Spleen supporting Kidney. If a fertilized egg does not arrive, then the
breakdown of the uterine lining begins with Kidney-fluids and hormones not supporting Liver-blood, which
then causes Spleen tissue to slough off.
The whole menstrual cycle follows the flow of the Foot-Yin triangle, Kidney to Liver to Spleen back to
Kidney. Treating infertility and menstrual pain focuses on harmonizing and circulating this triangle.
Kidney supports Liver
The fluids and essence of Kidney provides the basis of all Yin substances in the body, but most
importantly for the building of blood. The blood contains creative potential energy to activate the body but
the Kidney first has to be strong for the blood to be strong. The Kidney gathers all that is necessary to create
life. The element Seed transforms the Kidney substance into Liver blood.
The Kidney diffuses throughout the body entering and exiting every space. However, the blood does not
flow everywhere like in lymphatic vessels. The blood-brain barrier keeps materials in the blood separate
from cerebrospinal fluids. The blood-testis barrier keeps immune response cells in the blood separate from
spermatozoa. The Kidney on the other hand is able to go everywhere because it is not as specific as Liver or
even Spleen. The freedom that the Kidney enjoys connects every part of the body through a flow of fluids.
Its as if the whole body was floating and immersed in a sea of liquid. All the organs share the same liquid
base. The blood on the other hand uses the sea of liquid from the Kidney as the basis for its journeys around
the body. The blood is more specific in that it has a function of providing energy to the body. The Kidney is
less specific because it flows everywhere unencumbered, which is the highest expression of water.
The freethinker and the artist tune into the Kidney and Liver meridians in order to allow the mind to go
beyond the familiar forms and images of the world. These meridians dissolve shapes and textures into pure
experience. The artist then seeks to reveal the beauty of the undifferentiated life substance within life. By
doing this, life is revealed and the mind is rejuvenated. The artist seeks to unveil pure life within mundane
life. It is only through the Kidney and Liver that this can be accomplished because they transcend form and
geometry.
The body is always in the process of breaking down and being rebuilt. Even the bones are always being
dissolved and rebuilt. The Kidney has a powerful ability to dissolve and break down. This is essential to
keep the body healthy. There is constant renewal and rejuvenation of the body tissue so that it does not
harden and lose its suppleness. As this process of dissolution proceeds, the blood brings life and awakening
to the tissue.
Point combinations:
Kd3 & Lv3 to support blood and potential energy in blood. These points nourish blood.
Kd2 & Lv3 to cool blood that is affected by internal emotions of heat like anger, revenge, hatred,
competition and jealosy.
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Kd6 & Lv1 for pain and stagnation in the external genitalia and for pain due to retention of urine.
Kd6, Lv1 & Lv8 for uterine prolapse due to insufficiency of Liver and Kidney substance.
Kd1 & Lv2 for wasting and thirsting disorder due to insufficiency of Liver and Kidney substance.
Liver supports Spleen

Traditionally Liver is given the action of aiding the ascent of Spleen substance in the body. The Liver is
comparatively warm and since heat rises, the Spleen is carried on the back of the Liver. The Nutritive Qi of
Spleen is carried in the blood of Liver. When Liver-blood passes through the spleen organ, the spleen cleans
the blood of worn out red blood cells and platelets. The Spleen function receives blood from the Liver and
cleans it.
The Liver brings energy to the body. The Spleen brings substance that builds the body. The Liver has the
energy that is used to build the body. The meridians of the Yang elements actually build the body but they
use the energy in the Liver-blood and the building materials of the Spleen-Nutritive substance.
The relationship between Liver and Spleen in reference to the menstrual cycle was discussed above. But
the cramping and pain during menstruation is related to the ability of the Spleen to let go of the endometrial
lining. When the sloughing off of this tissue is hindered, pain, cramps and even scar tissue can result. Using
Sp6, Sanyinjiao, is a very commonly used to clear the Spleen channel in order for the endometrial lining to
shed.
Liver acupuncture points are more useful in the preovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle. Thats when
blood building and the vascularization of tissue take place. It is actually more likely that a woman will want
or have sex during the preovulatory phase, which is also related to the urge of the Liver-blood.
Point combinations:
Lv3 & Sp6 for liver detoxification from alcohol and chemical abuse. Also used for diarrhea due
to poor quality of Spleen substance.
Lv3 & Sp3 for abdominal distension causing back pain due to weakness in the flow of Liver and
Spleen meridians.
Lv3, Sp6, Kd8 & Kd10 for profuse uterine bleeding which is draining the substances of the FootYin meridians.
Lv4, Kd6 & SI2 for swelling and soreness in the throat due to stagnation of freely circulating
substances in throat by Small Intestine.
Spleen supports Kidney
The Spleen supports the fluids of the Kidney by providing a substrate in which they can flow. The
Spleen is like soil. Water will penetrate and soak into soil. Soil will absorb and hold onto water too. The soil
of Spleen suspends water in a space that can be reached by the roots of plants as well as allows the air of
Lung to breath through the soil. The same happens inside the body. The Spleen creates porous tissue that
makes water as well as oxygen available to the organs and cells. Even though the tissue is porous, it is still
firm enough to support the body structure. The Spleen is one of the bridges that assist the relationship
between Kidney and Lung.
Another way that the Spleen supports the Kidney is in the spine. The Spleen forms the support and
substrate so that the Kidney can flow within the spine. The Spleen governs the muscles, ligaments and
tissues around the spine. When the Spleen supports the spine, the Kidney can flow around the body, as it
needs to. When the spine is weak and cant hold its form, the Kidney goes astray and does not circulate
properly. The pain that is felt when Kidney goes astray is a dull ache with stiffness and the inability to bend
or extend the back. The back loses flexibility and suppleness.
The relationship between Spleen and Kidney in the menstrual cycle was discussed above. It can be
reiterated that Spleen points are mostly used for pathologies in the postovulatory and menstrual phases of
the cycle. Kidney points are most often used for infertility. Kidney points are also used during the menstrual
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the cycle. Kidney points are most often used for infertility. Kidney points are also used during the menstrual
phase to help with the shedding of the endometrium, because the endometrium needs to be loosened and in
a sense dissolved away from the uterus.
Point combinations:
Sp5, Kd1 & Bl32 for infertility due to cramping and stiffness in the uterine tissue. These points
assist the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle.
Sp9, Kd3, GB30 & Bl67 for paralysis of lower extremity due to failure of Foot-Yang meridians
to secure and contain Spleen meridian.
Sp3, Kd6 & Lv13 for constipation due to insufficiency of Yin substances.
Sp8 & Kd5 for painful and irregular menstruation. These points are specific and empirical for
menstrual irregularities.
Sp5, Sp6, Ren6 & Kd13 for irregular menstruation and infertility.
Sp2 & Kd11 for lumbar pain due to Spleen not supporting the Kidney. This is a weak back
condition where the muscles and tissues have lost firmness and tone.
Sp3, Kd3 & Du2 for lumbar pain with stiffness and wind-dampness due to weakness of lower
back.
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Page 5 of 5
Chapter 17 - The FOOT-YANG Triangle
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The 3 Yang meridians of the foot are Gall Bladder, Stomach and Bladder. Each corresponds to one of
the three Yang divisions, Shaoyang, Yangming and Taiyang respectively. Therefore Gall Bladder is
meridian of Foot-Shaoyang. Stomach is meridian of Foot-Yangming. Bladder is meridian of Foot-Taiyang.
They are all Yang meridians whose
channels connect with the feet.
each other.
Gall Bladder is a meridian of the
Wood element. Stomach is a
meridian of the Earth element.
Bladder is a meridian of the Water
element.
corresponds to the Yin triangle of
six-element theory. Wood supports Earth, Earth supports Water, and then Water supports Wood.
The meridians of the Foot-Yang triangle are considered the reservoirs of Yin substance. They store and
accumulate the substances of the Foot-Yin triangle. Being reservoirs their nature is to receive and give out.
They like to show off their abundance and resources.
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The Gall Bladder stores creative energy from the Liver. The Gall Bladder is full of courage and
confidence. It presents itself to the world as a great light that will inspire others. The Gall Bladder meridian
is like the sun, which is a huge reservoir of energy. The sun shines brighter than any star. It is the center of
the solar system. Everything turns and orbits around the sun. When the Gall Bladder meridian is healthy, the
whole being radiates a power like light on a darkened path.
The Stomach stores the Nutritive substance of Spleen. The Stomach is solid, substantial, stubborn and
dependable. The Stomach holds the resources that get one through life. It presents itself to the world as a
solid foundation upon which one can walk. The Stomach meridian is like the planet Earth, which is a huge
reservoir of physical matter. Everything physical that we need in life comes from the Earth. The Earth is the
center of life on this planet. We are all born on it and are fed by it. When the Stomach is healthy, the whole
being has enough stockpiles to meet the challenges of a long cold winter or to provide for a family. The
Stomachs nature is to present itself as rich, wealthy and abundant.
The Bladder stores the fluids of Kidney. The Kidneys fluids flow everywhere in the body and know
everything. The storage of Kidney communication occurs in the nervous system and brain. Therefore the
Bladder amasses knowledge and information. It presents itself to the world as a great scholar with quick wit
and prose. The Bladder forms the foundation of thought and perception. Its abundance forms the basis of
logic and interaction with the world.
Life is based not only on the ability to store abundant energy and matter, but also on the ability to store
knowledge. The Gall Bladder stores energy. The Stomach stores matter. The Bladder stores knowledge. The
meridians of this triangle dont really do anything. They dont seek to impact the world. They dont seek to
achieve anything specific. They dont seek to take action on anything. They only seek to be the foundations
upon which we can live a life. They provide us with necessary resources. They are self-sufficient by nature.
They love to show off the beautiful things that they store up. They are possessive by nature.
Bladder supports Gall Bladder
The Bladder opens up passageways through the physical body by extending the nervous system. The
spirit of the Gall Bladder moves through the body along these nerve passageways. The quality and quantity
of the Gall Bladder depends upon the openness and unobstructed flow of nerve impulses through the
nervous system. When the nervous system is open, the spirit of the Gall Bladder can fill the body to every
nook and cranny.
The Bladder and the Gall Bladder are important in the functioning of the head and brain. Consciousness
needs to circulate in the brain. Consciousness is based on the accumulated power of Gall Bladder as well as
the health of the nervous system. When the nervous system is calm, unobstructed and aware, the power and
scope of ones consciousness expand.
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The ability to perceive the world from ones own point of reference depends on the Bladder supporting
the Gall Bladder. When people see the world from anothers point of view or when their thoughts are
determined by the opinions of others, they are not seeing the world from their own truth. Gall Bladder is the
center of a being. When one perceives the world from their center, one remains in contact with their own
truth. A healthy Bladder and Gall Bladder help to insure that a person will live their own truth.
The strength of the Gall Bladder is essential to overcome depression. The Gall Bladder gives confidence
to keep on going and living. But the Bladder supports the Gall Bladder. So in many cases of depression,
Bladder points are treated first to strengthen and circulate the Bladder Qi. Once the nervous system is
circulating again, then the creative energy of the Gall Bladder can begin to accumulate.
The mind allows expression of ones being. The Bladder represents the mind. The Gall
Bladder represents the power base of ones being. These are powerful and inconspicuous aspects of the
personality. All the thinking we do, all the desires we act upon and all the judgments we make, it is all based
on the undifferentiated power that makes up the core of our beings. This power becomes differentiated by
the action of the Yang element meridians. The integrity of that core power is maintained and circulated by
the Bladder and Gall Bladder meridians.
Point combinations:
Bl62 & GB40 for swelling of neck due to Gall Bladder energy backing up into Bladder meridian.
Bl63 & GB40 for cramping when powering the muscles. This is due to weak strength of Gall
Bladder to handle the speed and power moving the muscles.
Bl60 & GB43 for head wind due to lack of consciousness circulating in the nervous system.
Bl64, GB19 & GB43 for depression due to weakness of Bladder to support ones confidence.
Bl10 & GB20 for dizziness due to lack of internal stability of the consciousness.
Gall Bladder supports Stomach
Energy becomes matter. This is the guiding principle by which Gall Bladder supports Stomach. The Gall
Bladder amasses creative energy that fills the spirit. This energy becomes the foundation upon which the
resources of the Stomach are created. The physical body is nothing unless it is filled with the energy of
spirit. The physical body represented by Stomach will be animated by spirit. This animation is what the Gall
Bladder gives to the Stomach.
The relationship between these two meridians deals with much more than just digestion and bile
secretion. The sturdiness of the body depends on these meridians. Endurance depends on them. The ability to
nurse and retain a fetus for a full term pregnancy depends on them. The ability to face death with ones head
held high depends on them. The ability to go out on stage as an actor and project a personality and charisma
depends on them. The ability to overcome guilt and regret depend on them because these meridians do not
judge success or failure. These meridians only give unconditionally. They are the true mother meridians.
Point combinations:
St36 & GB34 to stabilize the reservoir of power and inertia in the body-mind. Consolidates
resources and reserves.
St29 & GB27 for retracted testicle due to internal containment of Qi reservoir.
St33 & GB31 for weakness of the legs due to weakened structural strength.
St41 & GB35 for fear and pounding of the heart organ due to lack of courage and structural
confidence.
St38, St42 & GB39 for atrophy and limpness of legs due to a weakening of the structural base
and physical reservoir of the body-mind.
St44 & GB39 for fullness and distension due to accumulation of energy around Heart.
St40 & GB40 for pain around heart due to accumulation and constraint of energy.
St39 & GB40 for manic raving due to accumulation of creative energy inciting Heart.
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St34 & GB42 for breast abscess due to not nursing when mothers milk is abundant.
Stomach supports Bladder

The physical body represented by the Stomach is animated by the energy of Gall Bladder. The physical
body then starts to move; the movement itself is a fundamental part of life. The ability to move is governed
by the Bladder meridian.
The physical body develops coordination and dexterity with the Bladder meridian. Many of us take the
simple movements of the body and the nervous system for granted. In a way, all the Foot-Yang meridians
are taken for granted, because they dont have any agenda of their own. The Bladder gives us movement,
coordination and the ability to process information. These attributes are extremely important but they dont
drive the actions of our lives.
When the nervous system breaks down, then its importance becomes apparent because so much of the
body simply shuts down. A nervous breakdown stops ones life. A person simply cant continue to function.
The nervous system works hard while we are living and working everyday. Most dont notice how hard it is
working. Actually the Bladders nervous system isnt doing the work, but rather it is being worked by the
Yang element meridians. When the nervous system is relied upon too much, it can break down.
The back-Shu points of the Bladder meridian found along the spine connect with every organ system.
This shows how the Bladder meridian is fundamental to every action and function in the body. The whole
body is integrated by the Bladder meridian. Many times in treatment the Bladder meridian is treated first,
because an organ can lose contact with the rest of the body and must be reintegrated. The Bladder meridian
reintegrates lost organs back into the whole. The Bladder then frees up communication in the body so that
problems can reveal themselves.
Point combinations:
St36 & Bl67 to hasten delivery of a baby because the Stomach Qi in the uterus holds the baby
and the Bladder Qi will incite movement into the stability of the baby being held in the uterus.
St41 & Bl62 for madness due to ungrounded thoughts and spacey inclinations.
St23, St24 & Bl58 for madness and manic disorders due to solidifying of the Stomach meridian
internally which undermines the smooth flow of the Bladder meridian causing stagnation in the
nervous system.
Bl67 & St15 for painful itching due to the flow of Qi through the Stomachs connective tissue
being obstructed. Bladder point will free up the movement of Qi through connective tissue.
So all together we have four triangles. In the formation of the spherical meridian pattern all these four
triangles merge together as one. Each triangle merges with each of the other 3, thus producing 6 different
levels merging. When all triangles have merged, the result is the spherical meridian pattern.
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Page 4 of 4
Chapter 18 FOOT-YANG united with FOOT-YIN
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Chapter 18 The Unification of FOOT-YANG and FOOT-YIN

These triangles both come from the Yin elements, Earth, Water and Wood. The Foot-Yang triangle
shows the Yang meridians of the Yin elements. The Foot-Yin triangle shows the Yin meridians of the Yin
elements.
Each individual triangle shows the sequence of Wood meridian to Earth meridian to Water meridian.
Then when we follow the sequence of arrows around the outside of the merge, again the elements proceed
from Wood meridian to Earth meridian to Water meridian. So the natural sequence of elements is
maintained in the overall merge.
The meridians alternate
between Yang meridians
and Yin meridians. This
reinforces the embrace and
dependency between Yin
and Yang Essences.
The relationship
between these two triangles
focuses on getting the Yang
meridians to store and
maintain the substances of
the Yin meridians. Together
they strengthen the Yin
reservoirs and substances of
the body-mind.
Kidney supports Gall
Bladder
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Bladder
Gall Bladder is the
power that accumulates
from the transformations
that take place in water. The
fluids and penetrating
substances of Kidney form
the foundation upon which
Gall Bladder will be
sustained. Of course other
meridians are involved in
the transforming of Kidney-fluids to produce Gall Bladder power, but the fact remains that Gall Bladder
relies upon the presence of Kidney substance.
Kidney represents faith and the ability to unite with things beyond oneself. Kidney dissolves individual
things such that they lose their separateness. Kidney keeps an individual from becoming separate from
universal substance. Kidney flows beyond ones sense of self-ego, and transcends self. Kidney allows one
to feel what another feels.
Kidney is the power to overcome all fear. Fear stems from the possibility of losing ones self and
uniqueness. Fear stems from a threat to ones self-ego. Fear is a limited belief that the self-ego can be
destroyed. Yet Kidneys power to dissolve is within the self-ego. You might think that Kidney would
dissolve the self-ego from within. Kidneys power to transcend the self-ego empowers the self-ego.
Therefore Kidney has the power to overcome all threats to the self-ego.
Kidney knows no fear. In actuality, fear blocks the power of the Kidney. The self-ego is then more
vulnerable and fragile when Kidney power is blocked. Gall Bladder represents the courage to live, the
potential power to be an individual. The will of the self-ego depends upon the Gall Bladder to empower it.
But the Gall Bladder is nourished by the transcendence of Kidney power.
Point combinations:
GB34 & Kd2 for anxiety and fear as if about to be attacked or apprehended.
Kd6 & GB20 for blurring of vision due to dissolution of the personality or disillusionment of the
desire to live in the world.
Kd6 & GB25 for dark urine due to blockage of water pathways.
Kd1 & GB30 for wind rash due to Kidney deficiency and Fire excess.
Gall Bladder supports Spleen
Gall Bladder represents the power of the spirit-soul to inhabit a body and give it life. That power is
incorporated into a body. The Spleen accepts the creative power of the Gall Bladder and anchors it into the
body. Conditions of paralysis are related to the Spleens inability to ground the spirit-soul into a body part.
When amputees feel a phantom limb, they are feeling their Spleen energy wanting to anchor the spirit-soul
into the limb.
Gall Bladder relates to the suns energy. There is an obscure teaching in acupuncture that the
Spleen incorporates the suns energy into the body so that the body can use it. However if people stay out in
the sun too long, their Spleen energy will be weakened due to be overburdened. This is a similar idea to
how the Spleen incorporates the creative energy of the Gall Bladder meridian.
In the area of reproduction, the Spleen meridian is powerful in its ability to relieve cramping during
menses. During the menstrual cycle, blood and spirit accumulate in the tissues of the uterus. Blood and
spirit become nutritive and fertile tissue that awaits the arrival of a fertilized egg so that they can nourish it.
The Spleen has taken the creative energy of Gall Bladder and incorporated it into the tissues of the uterus.
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The Spleen has taken the creative energy of Gall Bladder and incorporated it into the tissues of the uterus.
When a fertilized egg does not arrive, the blood and spirit in the uterine tissue will be released, as it can
only be held fresh for so long. The Spleen substance is undone in order to release the blood and spirit from
the tissue. If the Spleen resists the release of blood and spirit, there will be cramping. The Spleen meridian
must then be unblocked.
Point combinations:
Sp5 & GB40 for painful obstruction syndrome and especially for conditions of paralysis.
Sp10 & GB26 for amenorrhea due to Spleen holding on and being blocked.
Sp4 & GB34 for swelling due to blocked Spleen and excess Gall Bladder.
GB41 & Sp6 for delayed or inhibited menses due to Spleen holding on to creative Gall
Bladder energy.
Spleen supports Bladder
The Bladder represents the remarkable capacity of different parts of the body to communicate with each
other through the nervous system. All separateness is overcome. The nervous system interconnects a body.
The nervous system must be grounded in matter and substance. It is like how lightning is attracted to the
Earth, which is represented by Spleen. Nerve impulses travel better within a substrate.
A useful way to see the connection between Spleen and Bladder meridians is in the indications for the
point Taibai, Sp3. This point is used for enhancing and supporting mental processes. The Bladder is the
basis of mental processing because the nervous system is so highly relied upon. When a person overworks
the brain with excessive thinking and studying, the Spleen is burdened. This is a standard principle in
meridian theory. The understanding is that Spleen has to support the processing that the nervous system
does. Spleen is a substrate that supports Bladder.
Taibai is also used for straightening the spine. Spleen meridian is traditionally taught to control the
spine. The muscle channel of the Spleen meridian travels to the muscles of the spine. Bladder meridian is
intimately connected to the nervous system running in and out of the spine. Having a straight and aligned
spine allows nerve impulses to flow without being interrupted. Kinks and crookedness in the spine cause
pain and disruption of nerve flow. Spleen is important in supporting the Bladders movement through the
spine and nervous system.
Point combinations:
Sp3 & Bl39 for stiff lumbar pain due to inability to adjust to the changes in life.
Sp3, Sp9, Bl39 & Bl37 for lumbar pain with inability to extend and bend due to weakness of
Spleen meridian to nourish spine.
Sp1 & Bl40 for severe and ceaseless nosebleed due to empty-heat in Bladder meridian from weak
support by Spleen Nutritive substance.
Sp2 & Bl6 for vomiting due to excess heat in the digestion system which is being expulsed from
the body. Bladder helps to cool down heat.
Sp3, Sp4, Bl22 & Bl25 for borborygmus due to unsettled digestion.
Bl32. Sp5 & Kd1 for infertility due to weak Spleen not supporting and absorbing Water essence
in uterus.
Bl35 & Sp7 for cold abdomen due to weak Spleen which is being drained of essence by the
Bladder meridian which is stealing energy from Spleen.
Bladder supports Liver
Both these meridians enjoy the freedom to move about. Bladder enjoys the quick freedom of the nervous
system. Liver enjoys the slower expansion of the blood freely flowing around the body. The nervous system
tends to be excitable, whereas the Liver tends to be calm by nature. When the nervous system runs smooth,
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tends to be excitable, whereas the Liver tends to be calm by nature. When the nervous system runs smooth,
the body is coordinated, agile, responsive and quick. A healthy nervous system is very important for
supporting the calmness that the Liver requires for healthy expression.
Both Liver and Bladder meridians traverse the top of the head and integrate brain function. The brain
consumes a lot of blood compared to the rest of the body. Even though the brain is about 2% of body
weight, it will consume around 20% of the oxygen in the blood at rest. (A&P, p 411) Still the nervous
system itself supports the potential energy in the Livers blood by integrating body functions.
Liver blood deficiency is many times only indicated by symptoms of weakness in the nervous system.
These symptoms would include numbness in the body, tremors, tics, dizziness and muscle spasms and
cramps. The blood itself may not be deficient, when the tongue is not pale and thin. The pulse can be
thready or thin superficially, but will have deep fullness. The symptoms show that the Bladders nervous
system is weak and that it will eventually weaken the circulation of the blood. Also the blood invigorates the
body, but when the nervous system is weak, even the presence of blood cannot invigorate the body. The
nervous system is one of the foundations for blood circulation and invigoration.
Sexual activity, especially orgasms, requires the Liver to expend a lot of energy. The nervous system of
the Bladder supports the sexual expression of Liver. When sexual activity is excessive, there is a drain on
the Bladders nervous system, which can lead to nervous exhaustion. The Kidney meridian also supports
Liver sexual expression and can be depleted by excessive sexual activity. When the Water element is
depleted, some conditions which result are nervous exhaustion, restlessness, dry mouth, weak legs and faint
feeling. In such cases the body needs to be rested so that the Water element can regenerate.
Point combinations:
Bl63 & Lv6 for urinary discomfort related to the Liver meridian.
Bl39 or Bl40 & Lv1 for involuntary erection with difficult urination due to excess in
Bladder meridian and obstructed blood flow in lower burner.
Bl1 & Lv2 for night blindness due to heat in the blood. The blood doesnt cool down enough to
see low light levels.
Bl10 & Lv2 for inability of legs to support the body due to weak Bladder meridian which is not
circulating creative energy.
Bl52, Bl64 & Lv3 for pain in the genitals due to excessive sexual activity with nervous
exhaustion.
Bl44 & Lv4 for esophageal constriction due to nervousness which constrains free flow of blood
through chest.
Bl67, Lv8 & Ren3 for seminal emission due to nervous weakness not supporting sexual function.
May be due to excess sexual activity.
Bl11 & Lv8 for wind painful obstruction syndromes where blood and nerve stimulation is not
circulating freely.
Bl32 & Lv13 for rigidity of lumbar spine with inability to twist due to lack of free movement and
flexibility. Treats constraint of waist from Liver stagnation.
Liver supports Stomach
Liver relates to blood and Stomach relates to the bulk of connective tissue around the body. Connective
tissue is highly vascularized so that there is a rich supply of blood flowing through it. Blood feeds and
nourishes the bulk of connective tissue.
The Liver has the attitude of abundance. It receives life power from the element Seed. This life power
grows and supports Liver. The attitude of abundance gets transferred into actual physical abundance in the
Stomach.
Many people are obese because emotionally the Liver feeling of freedom is abundant within them, and
that feeling of abundance gets stored up in the connective adipose tissues represented by the
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that feeling of abundance gets stored up in the connective adipose tissues represented by the
Stomach meridian. These people feel content and happy on the inside, because they have plenty of reserves.
When Liver is said to invade Stomach, in many cases it is actually the more aggressive Heart meridian,
which is excessive. Symptoms would include acid regurgitation, ulcers, and indigestion. People tend to use
antacids in these cases. When the Liver is excessive, there will be distension, pain, bloating and fullness. In
these cases the Stomach is actually becoming sluggish or dammed up, which causes the influx of Liver
substance to swell. The Liver needs to keep moving through the middle burner area of the body. Any
heaviness there will tend to accumulate Liver leading to distension.
When the stomach organ is digesting food, more blood is sent to the stomach to support the creation of
gastric juices. The support of blood to the stomach reflects how Liver supports Stomach function.
Point combinations:
Lv14 & St36 for indigestion due to a weak stomach and strong liver Qi.
Lv1 & St45 for somnolence due to bogged down and heavy feeling. Enthusiasm is weighed down
by heaviness and over-contentment.
Lv14 & St43 for post-partum belching due to delay in re-stabilizing blood nourishment within the
mothers own body.
St36 & Lv3 for inability to walk due to lack of muscle tissue and atrophy of muscle. Wasting
away syndrome.
St30 & Lv13 for insomnia due to accumulation of blood in abdomen, which makes the Heart
meridian restless, since Heart supports both Liver and Stomach.
St29 & Lv1 for sagging and swollen testicle due to accumulation of blood in connective tissue of
testicle.
St12 & Lv14 for heat in the chest due to constrained Heart fire in chest. Stomach and Liver both
receive heat from Heart meridian and settle it down.
Stomach supports Kidney
Stomach is the solid ground upon which the fluids of Kidney will flow. When rain falls from the sky,
the Earth is there to catch it. The Earth will carry it back to ocean. The presence of solid ground becomes the
foundation for rivers and the flowing of water upon the land.
Stomach is said to be the origin of fluids in the body. The Stomach receives fluids in food and drink and
offers it to the body. When Stomach fluids do not support the fluids of Kidney, there can be Kidney-Yin
deficiency.
The firm and solid nature of the Stomach allow fluids to gather and accumulate. Kidney power easily
dissipates because its nature does not know how to form its own boundaries. Without other meridians giving
it boundaries, Kidney would dissipate into a mist and return to the void. Yet Kidney power must be isolated
and then held separate from the void. This is how Kidney can be contained within a living being. The
Stomach gives a solid base and a firm boundary for Kidney to accumulate within a body-mind.
Point combinations:
St36 & Kd3 to tonify Kidney fluids when worry and impending loss allow Kidney Qi to leak and
weaken.
St45 & Kd3 for somnolence due to stubbornness and withdrawal from social activities.
St40, Ren22, Kd2, Kd7, Kd10 & Ht4 for loss of voice due to Kidney not receiving fluids from
Stomach resulting in dry and scratchy throat with empty heat indications.
St36 & Kd10 for sudden turmoil disorder due to weakness of Stomach to hold and contain
Kidney fluids.
St30, Kd2, Kd14 & Lv13 for stone edema in abdomen due to Stomach over solidifying and
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damming up Yin fluids and substances.

Opposite Complements
Each meridian in the pattern has an opposite on the other side of the cycle. These opposites form 3 pairs.
These pairs all represent the internally-externally related meridians of the Yin elements. The Wood-Yang
meridian Gall Bladder is opposite the Wood-Yin meridian Liver. As well the Earth-Yang meridian
Stomach is opposite the Earth-Yin meridian Spleen. Also the Water-Yang meridian Bladder is opposite the
Water-Yin meridian Kidney.
Internally-externally related meridians are
complements of each other by element. Complements are
two things that complete each other. One will complete or
bring to perfection the other. This is the nature of
opposites.
Liver completes and brings to perfection Gall
Bladder. As well Gall Bladder brings Liver to perfection.
Essentially these two meridians perfect the element
Wood by sitting as complements to each other in the
cycle. The same goes for Stomach and Spleen, and
Bladder and Kidney. Both pairs perfect the elements of
Earth and Water respectively.
The perfection is achieved by all 6 meridians in the
merge working together to support and generate each
other. Yin and Yang must always interact in order to
complete each other. Gall Bladder and Liver must be
involved in some sort of interaction in order to complete
each other. They cant just sit as internally-externally
related pairs without interaction with other meridians.
The element Wood would never be perfected. The same goes for the Earth and Water pairs.
Because each of these pairs shares the nature of one element, they undoubtedly have a strong basic
connection. They come from the same element. One expresses the Yin aspect of that element, the other the
Yang aspect.
This concept of complementation of element pairs is a profound one. Current meridian theory does not
teach that element pairs actually complement each other. For example, Stomach and Spleen are both seen as
Earth, but there is no teaching that I have seen that says there is a process by which they perfect and
complete each other. Not all elements pairs have reached a sufficient level of distinction to allow their
complementary nature to be clear. Mostly current teaching says that element pairs relate internallyexternally and that they communicate with each others organ.
Still the spherical flow clarifies the internal-external pair relationship. Wood has to be completed and
perfected by a process of interaction, which is achieved with other elements. Gall Bladder and Liver even
though they both come from the element Wood, must be separate and somewhat distant from each other.
This distance allows other meridians to perfect the nature of Wood in the body-mind.
The complementary opposites allow for sophisticated feedback loops that develop each element. The
process of evolution requires interdependence between the elements in order to perfect each element over
time.
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Gall Bladder complements Liver

Gall Bladder completes Liver by being the reservoir of lifeblood that gives courage and an uplifting
posture of confidence. The potential power of Liver-blood is stored in the Gall Bladder, and then the Gall
Bladder becomes empowered to support self-determination. Liver completes the Gall Bladder by distributing
the stored lifeblood around the body-mind.
The relationship between Gall Bladder and Liver is regulated by Kidney, Spleen, Bladder and Stomach.
Gall Bladder, which is the king of the meridians, sits between Kidney and Spleen, which serve the king.
Kidney and Spleen are good servants that provide for the basic comfort of the leader. Liver sits between
Bladder and Stomach, which give the Liver access to free-flow around the body. As the Liver flows free, the
body fills with power, and the Gall Bladder releases its power.
Point combinations:
GB37 & Lv3 to aid the eyes and expand the vision to see to the horizon.
GB34 & Lv3 to stabilize creative energy, unblock pain in lateral costal area and relieve distension
from blocked Liver. Stabilizes free spirit and confidence to live life.
Stomach complements Spleen
The Spleen is raw physical substance ready to be used for constructing an object. The Spleen is like
thread before it is woven into a fabric. The fabric can then be cut and stitched together to make an article of
clothing. The Spleen can be made into many things. Once the thread and fabric becomes an article of
clothing, the thread is bound and stabilized into a pattern. The Stomach represents bulk and stabilized
Spleen substance. The finished clothing represents the Stomach, because it is stabilized thread.
Stomach completes Spleen by being the body mass and mature tissue that is built from Spleen substance.
Spleen completes Stomach by providing the nutritional substance that becomes the bulk of Stomach.
The Stomach complements the Spleen because the destiny of Spleen substance is to become stabilized
into a larger mass. The Spleen simply cannot become stabilized into Stomach bulk without the help of other
meridians, especially meridians from the Yang elements of Seed, Fire and Metal. The Yang elements take
Spleen substance and fabricate it into something specific. The stabilized mass of the finished product is
represented by the Stomach meridian.
One difference between Stomach and Spleen is that the Stomach likes moistness, but the Spleen likes
dryness. Just in that principle we obviously see that one is complementing the other. The fluid nature of
Spleen likes dryness because dryness helps Spleen differentiate. The stabilized nature of Stomach likes
moistness because moistness maintains the stabilized mass of Stomach, which is vulnerable to drying out.
The relationship between Stomach and Spleen is regulated by Liver, Kidney, Gall Bladder and Bladder.
Stomach sits between the wet Yin meridians of Liver and Kidney. Spleen sits between the firm Yang
meridians of Gall Bladder and Bladder. This clarifies how paired meridians of one element will complement
each other.
Point combinations:
St40 & Sp3 for heavy phlegm conditions in stomach or anywhere in body and mind.
St36 & Sp4 to regulate digestion and nourishing of body tissues. Treats excess in Stomach or
Spleen.
St36 & Sp6 to stabilize tissues and blood especially in relation to the menstrual cycle. Also for
cold-damp legs due to lack of tone in tissue and muscles.
St39 & Sp6 to reduce abdominal pain.
St44 & Sp4 for stomach heat without any pleasure in eating.
St36, St41, Sp4 & Ren12 for stagnation of food in abdomen due to accumulation of heaviness
and fullness from eating too much.
St39 & Sp3 for pus in diarrhea due to Spleen substance not being properly processed for
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digestion. Infection can be triggering immune response.

St36 & Sp1 for hemorrhage due to lack of tone in connective tissue surrounding blood vessels.
Bladder complements Kidney

Bladder completes Kidney by being the master of communication throughout the body. The Kidney
seeks to communicate and bring together all parts of the body. The nervous system, which is governed by
Bladder, transits information quickly between all parts of the body. The Bladder is the Yang aspect of Water
and as such opens and closes the gates of water passage. Bladder deficiency can lead to incontinence. The
Kidney completes the Bladder by bathing all parts of the body in a river of fluids. Kidney holds all parts of
the body in suspension, which helps the Bladder link them together in one system of communication.
Bladder sits between Spleen and Liver, which help to connect and circulate the ethereal and transparent
nature of the Bladder in the body. Kidney sits between Gall Bladder and Stomach, which stabilize and
harness the movement of water.
Point combinations:
Kd8 & Bl55 to control excessive uterine bleeding related to weakened Bladder meridian.
Kd4 & Bl64 for sciatica.
Kd10 & Bl63 to open water passages and relieve urinary pain.
Kd3 & Bl23 to tonify Kidney.
Kd10 & Bl54 for weakness in lower extremities from nervous exhaustion and excessive sexual
activity.
Kd8 & Bl55 for diminished uterine bleeding due to deficiency of Kidney fluids being secreted
during secretory phase of menstrual cycle.
Return to Homepage
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Chapter 19 - HAND-YANG united with HAND-YIN
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Chapter 19 The Unification of HAND-YANG and HAND-YIN

These triangles both come from the Yang elements, Metal, Seed and Fire. The Hand-Yang triangle
shows the Yang meridians of the Yang elements. The Hand-Yin triangle shows the Yin meridians of the
Yang elements.
Each individual triangle shows the sequence of Seed

meridian to Fire meridian to Metal meridian. Then when we follow the sequence of arrows around the
outside of the merge, again the elements proceed from Seed meridian to Fire meridian to Metal meridian. So
the natural sequence of elements is maintained in the overall merge.
The meridians alternate between
Yang meridians and Yin meridians.
This reinforces the embrace and
dependency between Yin and Yang
Essences.
The relationship between these two
triangles is to establish and fortify the
structural and functional activities of
Yang in the body-mind.
Small Intestine supports Lung
The Lung is light and open. The
Lung allows itself to be vulnerable to
the outside world. The Lung
exchanges energies with the outside
world. The Lung floats to the surface.
The Lung requires a tether or an
anchor so that it doesnt float away.
The Small Intestine has the function of
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The Small Intestine has the function of

concentrating Qi and substances. This
concentration holds the Lung in place.
All the ducts and vessels, which
travel through the body, are constructed by the Small Intestine in order to direct, channel and concentrate
substances and Qi. All these ducts and vessels are lined with epithelial cells, which are represented by the
Lung Wei Qi function. The Wei Qi of the Lungs covers the surfaces of organs, vessels and the body as a
whole.
As the Small Intestine builds the structure and pathways through the body, the Lung begins to finish
them off with a covering of Wei Qi. Therefore the Small Intestine sets the foundation for the activities of the
Lung.
The Small Intestine has the tendency to harden. Emotionally the Small Intestine meridian sets goals and
ambitions and then works hard to achieve them directly. People who work hard and strive to achieve a place
in this world tend to get hardening of the arteries. This is because they are emphasizing the tendencies of the
Small Intestine to achieve security. The world is playing a trick on most people by making it hard to get a
solid foothold into security. Many people work overtime and live paycheck to paycheck. This kind of
environment makes the Small Intestine Qi work harder and longer than naturally it needs to. Thus the artery
walls become inflamed and harden.
The Lung is meant to soften and protect the structure of the vessels, but this function loses out to the
stress placed on the Small Intestine. Research has shown that tender loving touch and play actually protect
the blood vessels from hardening. Meridian theory would say that is because the stress is being taken off of
Small Intestine. When a person is secure and relaxed, they can play more easily, but more importantly, they
breathe much better. The lungs open up and blood gets oxygenated. Many people say that they get so
involved in their work that they forget to breath. They realize for an instant that they are not breathing and
have to consciously take a breath. Small Intestine focuses and concentrates so much that it can even restrict
breathing and consequently the circulation of Qi and fluids.
A calm and healthy Small Intestine will support the Lung function of breathing and circulating Qi.
Point combinations:
Lu7 & SI5 to help a person exteriorize a decision so that he/she can express to others what their
goal is.
Lu5 & SI1 for restlessness due to greed and driving ambition.
Lung supports San Jiao
The Lung interfaces with the exterior environment. The Lung receives impressions about the harmony of
life. The interactions that the Lung has with the external environment are passed onto San Jiao in the
subconscious.
When a child is born it takes its first breath. The first breath opens the child to the post-natal Qi in the
world. The Qi of the world begins to mix with the original Yuan Qi circulating in the middle of the chest.
By mixing the Qi of the world with the primordial Yuan Qi, the vision of life held by San Jiao is awakened
and begins to develop on its own as an individual being separate from the mother. That first breath activates
the subconscious to become conscious.
The Zong Qi of the chest is where the breath of the Lung and the Yuan Qi of San Jiao meet and mix.
The chest is the meeting place of the subconscious and the conscious. The Zong Qi describes the influence
of ancestors. The Heavenly Heart matrix in the middle of the chest is where past life memories are stored.
Past life memories are a large part of the subconscious. Still people live consciously in the present moments
of life, so there is a reason for keeping memories and experiences in the subconscious. The Lung allows the
present life to interface and exchange experience with the subconscious ancestors within. It is only in this
way that the subconscious can change over time. The Lung cultivates and empowers the development of San
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way that the subconscious can change over time. The Lung cultivates and empowers the development of San
Jiaos subconscious Primordial Power.
The breathing of the Lung has a powerful influence on the circulating Yuan Qi of the San Jiao. Rhythms
are established. Exchanges between subconscious and conscious mind develop. Transformations of Qi
around the body are supported and enhanced.
San Jiao has a nature of being content in quiet solitude. San Jiao can easily isolate itself from the world
and live in its own dreams and visions. By doing this, San Jiao becomes self-absorbed and loses touch with
mundane reality. The Lung has the function of keeping San Jiao in touch with the world. The Lung offers a
continual stream of fresh views, thoughts and impressions by which the San Jiao can see beyond its murky
and shadowy meditations. When the Lung goes weak, a person has the tendency to withdraw into the
subconscious, because the subconscious loses contact with the outer world.
Breathing, exercising, hiking in nature and talking with others are basic ways to keep the Lung healthy
and the San Jiao involved in the world.
Point combinations:
Lu3 & SJ13 for phlegm nodules in neck due to Wei Qi being constricted by a blockage in the
harmonious flow of fluids and breath. An external pathogen can unsettle the harmony of the
body, which can affect the normal functioning of the Lung. The excess in the Lung comes from a
blocked San Jiao.
Lu10 & SJ2 for throat pain due to inflamed heat to battle an external pathogen.
Lu7 & SJ5 for releasing wind pathogens from the exterior. San Jiao harmonizes the exterior, and
wind pathogens obstruct the flow of Lung Wei Qi. San Jiao helps to regulate and harmonize Wei
Qi.
San Jiao supports Heart
The foundation that San Jiao gives to the Shen of the Heart is a core aspect of the mind. The San Jiao
resonates with deep impressions and memories of this life and past ones too. The San Jiao is related to the
subconscious, where the murky depths of the mind influence our actions and desires. The Will of the Heart
is rooted in the subconscious as shown by this relationship. The Will of the Heart actively expresses itself in
the world, but it is formed by the state of equilibrium in the subconscious. The more a person can cultivate
harmony, quiet and stillness in the subconscious, the more settled the Heart meridian will be.
Problems with the Heart meridian lead to all kinds of insomnia. When the San Jiao upsets the Heart, the
cause of the insomnia is deep in the mind. When San Jiao is disrupted, there will be dream disturbed sleep.
The Shen of the Heart will be disturbed. SJ16 (Tianyou) and the extra point Anmian are frequently used
points for dream disturbed sleep stemming from an unsettled San Jiao. The hypothalamus, which is the
associated organ to San Jiao, governs waking and sleeping patterns. The Heart meridian responds to the
sleeping patterns of the hypothalamus, and allows sleep or not.
The hypothalamus is the center of rage, anger, fear and aggression. These emotions are mostly related to
the Heart meridian. But the Heart expresses these emotions straight from the subconscious where they are
rooted. There is a powerful and mysterious bond between San Jiao and Heart. Karmic experiences tend to
come from the subconscious and San Jiao. The Heart Fire is greatly influenced by the state of Karma in the
subconscious.
Point combinations:
SJ16 & Ht3 for confused dreaming at night due to subconscious troubles.
SJ10 & Ht3 for scrofula due to phlegm blockage and anxiety.
Heart supports Large Intestine
The relationship here makes one a warrior. The Large Intestine defines and protects the boundaries of
life. If a piece of food does not pass through the small intestine, the large intestine will eliminate it. A
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life. If a piece of food does not pass through the small intestine, the large intestine will eliminate it. A
warrior in the same way seeks to eliminate an unwanted presence or threat. The Large Intestine meridian
steps up and commands the unwanted thing to leave. If it does not a battle will ensue.
There has to be a strength of will behind the commands of the Large Intestine. The Heart provides that
fundamental will to survive. When the Large Intestine, like a judge or warrior, lays down the law, the
Hearts fervor feeds the enforcement. Self-preservation or self-aggrandizement is behind every act of war.
The Heart and Large Intestine make a connection that can express this fundamental warrior aspect of human
nature.
The Heart is the self-ego. Its primary interest is in self. The Large Intestine has the primary interest of
exterior things. In order for the Large Intestine to deal with exterior things for the good of the self, the Heart
supports and set the foundation for the actions of the Large Intestine. When the Heart wants to force its
personal will onto another being, the Large Intestine is the best meridian for dominating the exterior.
The connection between Heart and Large Intestine is not just used for killing and execution. It can be
used for establishing and enforcing laws and traditions, which create cultural identity and collective selfinterests. It is the same connection that forms contracts and agreements between people. Many times people
would rather fight and kill their enemy but the Large Intestine can allow room for negotiation and
discussion. Behind any negotiation is always the Hearts will to impose ones needs upon the other person.
Fortunately life has allowed the capacity to negotiate.
Point combinations:
Ht2, LI11 & LI15 for pain in shoulder and upper arm due to battle fatigue, especially swinging a
sword.
Ht3 & LI10 for persistent numbness of forearms due to the action of hitting something over and
over like does a blacksmith or boxer.
Ht3, LI4 & LI11 for manic raving and abusive behavior toward weaker people.
Ht9 & LI11 for high fever due to battling aggressive pathogenic invasion.
Large Intestine supports Pericardium
The Large Intestine upholds principles and laws. It protects and maintains the boundaries of a being or
state. This ability is required for attaining homeostasis. Homeostasis exists within the boundaries of a
comfort zone. If those boundaries cant be stabilized, homeostasis will never even come close to occurring.
The Pericardium develops homeostasis, but it requires boundaries first. Then it can seek to achieve
homeostasis within those boundaries.
The boundaries or parameters of homeostasis can shift suddenly. The shift happens in the Large
Intestine meridian. What happens is an epiphany that changes the perception of a situation. In the epiphany,
the comfort zone of homeostasis shifts.
An exterior pathogen must be kept from reaching the Heart meridian. If the Heart meridian becomes
infected, there can be intense heat and fever, enough to kill a person. The Large Intestine protects the
outside surface, and the Pericardium protects the Heart. A pathogen would have to penetrate the Large
Intestine Wei Qi to reach the inner presence of the Pericardium. Then the Pericardium functions to protect
the Heart meridian. The Large Intestine supports and protects Pericardium.
Biology gives another way to look at this relationship. There is a principle in biology that states when a
balanced ecosystem becomes stressed; the ecosystem will change itself in order to minimize the effects of
the stress. The ecosystem has gone through an event of evolution. The Large Intestine associates with the
effects of an external stress. The required changes associate with the action of the Pericardium to reestablish
homeostasis. The Large Intestine is like an antenna sensing the changes in the environment that effect the
comfort zone of the ecosystem. Large Intestine becomes a foundation for changes in the homeostasis, and
consequently for the evolution of comfort zones.
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Point combinations:
Pc5 & LI4 for sudden mania due to a feeling of not getting ones way and a feeling of having
ones boundaries violated.
Pc5 & LI3 for obstruction of the throat due to an exterior invasion.
Pc7, LI5, Lu7 & Du26 for frequent laughter due to relieving the stresses being put upon
homeostasis. Most comedy is based on making fun of the contradictions and irrationality of
comfort zones represented by Pericardium. Large Intestine meridian is the meridian of comedy,
because it deals directly with the forces of evolution which stress homeostasis.
Pc8, LI19 & Du27 for incessant nosebleed due to interior heat, heat in the blood, and emotional
anger and frustration.
Pc9, Du26 & LI4 for loss of consciousness due to pathogenic heat and phlegm invading the
Pericardium. Large Intestine must be cleared and strengthened to aid heat to clear from
Pericardium.
Pericardium supports Small Intestine
The breasts are governed by the Pericardium meridian. The Pericardium relates to mothers and mothers
milk. Normal lactation shows that the Pericardium meridian is unblocked and healthy. When lactation is
insufficient or when there is a breast abscess during lactation, the cause is usually stagnant Qi or constrained
heat. The Small Intestine is the major meridian that stagnates Qi and constrains heat. The Small Intestine is
comfortable with limiting and constricting substances. One of the main points to treat breast problems is
Shaoze, SI1. The use of this point shows that Small Intestine can block and stagnate Pericardium function.
What many acupuncturists see as Liver stagnation is more precisely understood as Small Intestine
controlling the emotional sensitivities of the Pericardium. The Small Intestine takes on the role of an
authority making decisions, which are meant to provide security.
I was once in Mexico City on their Independence Day. There was a big fiesta in the central park with
games, fireworks and skits put on by local actors. There was a group of actors putting on a skit about
Mexican culture. They showed how different people in the community produced things of value. Farmers
produced food. Tailors made clothes. Carpenters built houses. And then a policeman came on the scene
saying he too was a productive part of society. There was laughter in the crowd over this. Mexican people
have a tradition of rebellious attitudes, and the strong hand of the police is not always completely
appreciated in that country. The farmer in the play taunted the policeman asking him what the police
produced. The policeman thought intently about it while the whole crowd stayed quiet waiting for an
answer. Then with the suspense building, the policeman said optimistically, producimos seguridad,
meaning we produce security. Everyone in the crowd stayed silent, because it was ironically true. Security
is a core need that goes to the heart of communal life. Police have a vital role to play, one that cannot be
eliminated all together. Yet providing security is so necessary that police can at times abuse their power
without impunity saying it is for the common good.
The core reasons as to why a country defends itself or goes to war always involve the countrys selfinterests. A mother will most always defend her children. Even a religious person has a self-interest in
seeking to convert another culture. Pericardium represents ones self-interests. These self-interests always
form the basis for making decisions, whether for war or conversion of minds. The authority to defend or
implement ones self-interests is related to Small Intestine. If a leader of a country says that war is
necessary to liberate other people, it is not the true reason for war, unless the sovereignty of the foreign
people is intimate with our survival.
Some cultures do not emphasize the control of self-interests as much as other cultures. The Hawaiian
culture has the spirit of Aloha, which shares a respect and hospitality with foreigners. The Hawaiians have
learned to stand up for their rights and defend their traditions because the power grab by missionaries and
business people has almost decimated their connection to the land and sacred sites. The Small Intestine
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business people has almost decimated their connection to the land and sacred sites. The Small Intestine
function of defending self-interests is growing stronger in the modern Hawaiians.
The Pericardium relates to the production of food, clothes and homes, all the things that support family
existence. The Small Intestine wants to protect and secure family life, which is the foundation of the whole
community. In the modern world, the cohesiveness of family traditions and cultures is weakening. Stable
family life is vulnerable now. The Pericardium relates to stable family life. So now there is a tendency to
seek more protection and security in order to insure basic values. Conservative movements are growing that
conserve traditional values.
The emotional sensitivities of the Pericardium must be protected. The Small Intestine provides many
self-defense mechanisms that hide a vulnerable Pericardium. These mechanisms include denial, projection,
lying, control, conversion and selective perception. The Small Intestine discerns the best stance to take in
order to secure the emotions, which is its primary role to play for the Pericardium. In the same way, the
small intestine organ guards the internal body from harmful things that were eaten.
The relationship between Small Intestine and Pericardium is a very difficult one for people to master,
because it is dangerous to accept and then admit that one is wrong. Ones power can be lost by such an
admission. It is almost countless how many churches, governments and scientists through history have
condemned new theories as heretical, then rejecting, killing, silencing or imprisoning the freethinkers who
offered the new views. The main reason was to protect their own power and their own views. And yet so
many of those freethinkers turned out to be right requiring history to apologize by recognizing their efforts.
There will be a chapter on comfort zones later in this book, because they relate to the new understanding
of the Pericardium meridian. The Pericardium gets comfortable with known and familiar views and
traditions. Small Intestine seeks to consecrate those values. There is a delicate balance between defending
ancestral values and the evolution of values. In order for human understanding to evolve it has to be able to
risk its comfort zone. That ability is very hard for many.
Point combinations:
Pc7 & SI5 to help make a decision that will be good for homeostasis and cause one not to over or
under extend oneself. Helps to see an issue clearly and make a proper decision for ones own
good and harmony.
Pc5 & SI3 for sudden mania due to a feeling of having ones self-interests threatened or violated.
Pc8, Du16 & SI16 for throat pain due to constrained heat in the upper back to lower portion of
brain. Also for ear infection. For pain with a tight and constricted feeling.
Each meridian in the pattern has an opposite on the other side of the cycle. These opposites form 3 pairs.
These pairs all represent the internally-externally related meridians of the Yang elements. The Seed-Yang
meridian San Jiao is opposite the Seed-Yin meridian Pericardium. As well the Fire-Yang meridian Small
Intestine is opposite the Fire-Yin meridian Heart. Also the Metal-Yang meridian Large Intestine is opposite
the Metal-Yin meridian Lung.
Internally-externally related meridians are complements of each other by element. Complements are two
things that complete each other. One will complete or bring to perfection the other. This is the nature of
opposites. The whole cycle between opposite complements forms sophisticated feedback loops to
progressively develop each element through the millions of years of evolution.
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San Jiao complements Pericardium

San Jiao completes and brings to perfection Pericardium. As well Pericardium brings San Jiao to
perfection. Essentially these two meridians perfect the element Seed by sitting as complements to each other
in the cycle. The same goes for Small Intestine and Heart, and Large Intestine and Lung. Both pairs perfect
the elements of Fire and Metal respectively.
The perfection is achieved by all 6 meridians in the merge working together to support and generate each
other. Yin and Yang must always interact in order to complete each other. San Jiao and Pericardium are
involved in some sort of interaction in order to complete each other. They cant just sit as internallyexternally related pairs without interaction with other meridians. The element Seed would never be
perfected. The same goes for the Fire and Metal pairs.
The understanding of why element pairs are opposite each other in order to complement each other is
given in the previous chapter.
Still the spherical flow clarifies the internal-external pair relationship.
Seed has to be completed and perfected by a process of interaction, which is achieved with other
elements. San Jiao and Pericardium even though they both come from the element Seed, must be separate
and somewhat distant from each other. This distance allows other meridians to perfect their expressions.
This is natural to the process of evolution.
San Jiao completes Pericardium by establishing guidelines of homeostasis that Pericardium will then
monitor for San Jiao. Pericardium completes San Jiao by giving those guidelines.
In order to perfect their function of homeostasis, other Yang-element meridians must be involved. San
Jiao sits between Lung and Heart, whose actions activate the body and initiate metabolism. These actions
must then be balanced. Pericardium sits between Large Intestine and Small Intestine, whose functions are to
protect, cradle and contain the most sensitive of all meridians, namely the Pericardium.
Point combinations:
Pc6 & SJ4 to regulate homeostasis and calm the mind. Relaxes muscles and relieves stress.
Harmonizes comfort zones.
Pc6 & SJ6 to regulate homeostasis, which is in disharmony due to stagnation. Treats a feeling of
oppression from emotional constraint.
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Pc6 & SJ3 to circulate homeostatic synergy and lift mood and emotions. Treats depression and
confusion.
Pc7 & SJ3 to calm down homeostatic synergy and calm mood. Treats mania and paranoia, which
is expecting too much from life and upsetting balanced homeostasis.
Pc7 & SJ5 for abdominal pain due to stressed comfort zones.
Small Intestine complements Heart

Small Intestine completes the Heart by channeling Fire energy through specified and determined
pathways. Small Intestine knows how to focus and direct Heart energy. Heart completes the element Fire by
being the energy that Small Intestine channels. Together they perfect the existence of Fire within the bodymind.
Small Intestine sits between Pericardium and Lung, which help Small Intestine develop meaningful
pathways through the body in order to direct Heart energy. Heart sits between San Jiao and Large Intestine,
which both encourage and fan the flames of Heart energy.
Point combinations:
Ht7 & SI5 to calm mind and spirit, aid concentration of actions, make decisions, and aid
discernment. Treats unfocused behavior and manic laughter. Helps to set goals and stay on track.
Ht6 & SI3 to treat night-sweating and restlessness from constrained heat in Fire element.
Ht3, SI4 & SI7 for manic raving and fighting with extreme anger and aggression.
Ht4, Ren22 & SI16 for loss of voice with lockjaw due to constricting the urge to speak ones
mind.
Ht7, Ren15 & SI3 for epilepsy due to excessive and suddenly uncontrolled discharge of brain
neurons.
Large Intestine complements Lung
Large Intestine completes Lung by being the exterior structure that protects and contains Lung function.
Lung then completes Large Intestine by dispersing and descending energies and fluids within the exterior
protection. In the same way that Small Intestine channels Fire energy internally, the Large Intestine channels
and contains Lung energy externally.
Large Intestine sits between Heart and Pericardium, whose function is to rally and support the troops in
times of war. Large Intestine is associated with troops who protect the self-interests of the people. Heart and
Pericardium are the meridians most interested in self-interests. Lung sits between Small Intestine and San
Jiao, both of which define the internal structure and pathways that Lung will travel in. The Lung opens up
passageways for San Jiao and Small Intestine.
Point combinations:
LI4 & Lu7 to release or consolidate the exterior, including invasions of wind pathogens. Also
used to strengthen defensive Wei Qi.
LI4 & Lu9 to strengthen Wei Qi, regulate sweating and consolidate the exterior.
LI4 & Lu11 to release wind-heat from exterior and relieve sore throat.
LI11 & Lu5 to clear Lung heat from phlegm blockage. These points stimulate the Wei Qi to
move through the phlegm.
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Page 8 of 8
Chapter 20 FOOT-YANG united with HAND-YIN
10/16/2005 10:02 AM
Chapter 20 The Unification of FOOT-YANG and HAND-YIN

The Foot-Yang triangle shows the Yang meridians of the Yin elements, Wood, Earth and Water. The
Hand-Yin triangle shows the Yin meridians of the Yang elements, Seed, Fire and Metal. When these two
triangles merge the overall sequence of elements is just like in six-element theory, Wood to Fire to Earth to
Metal to Water to Seed.
The meridians alternate between Yang and Yin

meridians. The meridians also alternate between Yang and Yin elements. This reinforces the embrace and
dependency between Yin and Yang Essences.
Bladder to Pericardium
The Bladder processes
information. This is an
important foundation for the
work of Pericardium to build
homeostasis. The Bladder
processes so much information
that it is unable to analyze it.
The Pericardium senses the
harmony in the information as it
is traveling back and forth.
The Bladder learns how best
to do things through a trial and
error process. The
Pericardium is assessing and
guiding the process. When
things are done right, the
Pericardium responds with a
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Pericardium responds with a

surge of energy to reinforce it.
For example, give someone
a spark plug. Lets say theyve
never seen one before and dont
know what it is for. The
Bladder meridian will then try
to gather information about the spark plug. It may put the spark plug in a light bulb socket and realize
nothing happens. Eventually the Bladder meridian learns that the spark plug belongs in a car engine. When
the spark plug is put in the engine, everything feels right, the engine works better and power is enhanced.
The Pericardium becomes strong when the spark plug is put in car engine.
The Bladder meridian governs the nervous system running around the whole body. The nervous system
gathers information about the changes and actions being taken. The Pericardium monitors that information
to assess its harmony and correctness. If something is out of whack, the Pericardium will raise a flag so that
the body can correct it. Basically the Pericardium loves it when everything is in its place and harmony
abounds.
When there is a weakness or breakdown in the nervous system, the Pericardium will not have the proper
information to guide homeostasis. The use of recreational drugs, like methamphetamines and cannabis,
interfere with the nervous system and lead to such problems as poor memory, lethargy, unbalanced appetite,
paranoia and lack of motivation. Recreational drugs have a disturbing effect on the homeostasis of the
Pericardium meridian. The effects can be seen by weakened Gall Bladder confidence and weakened Small
Intestine ambition.
Point combinations:
Pc5 & Bl40 for the four BIGS of excess sweating, fever, thirst and pulse. These points work to
harmonize the whole body and support the process of homeostasis.
Pc7, Bl10 & Bl62 for clearing confusion and inability to arrive at a conclusion. These points help
the thinking to arrive at a specific conclusion and to stop the mind from spinning in circles.
Pericardium to Gall Bladder
The Pericardium functions to monitor and cultivate homeostasis. Pericardium builds homeostasis,
whereas the San Jiao can be seen more as the storage and stabilization of homeostasis. Pericardium actively
produces the synergy of homeostasis, which becomes the power of the Gall Bladder. The Pericardium
directly feeds and supports Gall Bladder power.
The key factors to Pericardiums homeostasis are harmony, simplicity and intimacy. Harmony directly
leads to synergy. Simplicity allows the Pericardium to settle into a comfort zone more easily. When the
Pericardium is constantly stirred up and disrupted, it does not function well and cannot produce life power
for Gall Bladder. Intimacy is important for confirming and reassuring ones comfort zone of homeostasis.
The Pericardium needs feedback on its comfort zone. It needs to trust the source of that feedback, so the
Pericardium has a tendency to seek intimacy in order to develop that trust.
The confidence and courage of Gall Bladder is best cultivated in a secure and loving family. When a
child receives nurturing, guidance and intimacy from parents, relatives and community, the child is more
able to grow up with confidence and power to act upon decisions and live life. When a persons Gall
Bladder is weak, many times this is due to an unsupportive family environment as a child and teenager. The
Pericardium also supports Small Intestine. All in all, a healthy Pericardium meridian is essential for
developing the ability to take on the challenges of life.
The Pericardium can go weak at any point in a persons life, which will have consequences for the Gall
Bladder meridian. Once homeostasis weakens, the life power of Gall Bladder weakens, and then the door is
wide open to disease, mental disorders and despair.
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wide open to disease, mental disorders and despair.

Point combinations:
GB34 & Pc6 for pain around liver and gall bladder area of abdomen.
GB16 & Pc7 for red eyes due to Heart fire ascending.
Gall Bladder to Heart
The accumulated potential power of the Gall Bladder expresses as courage. The Hearts ability to be
active and strong depends upon the courage of Gall Bladder. When the Heart is weak and unable to act upon
a decision, many times in acupuncture the Gall Bladder is strengthened. Indecisiveness and timidity are
related to a weak Gall Bladder, even though it is the actions of the Heart meridian that have lost their
assertiveness and aggressiveness.
The Heart meridian by itself is insufficient to be a leader. It has desires and the will to act upon those
desires, but it does not have the power within itself that is needed to back up those desires. Gall
Bladder gives the fullness of power. Just as the rain comes from the deep and wide ocean, so the heat and
light of the day come from the huge reservoir of the sun. The Gall Bladder relates to the Sun.
Point combinations:
Ht7 & GB40 to calm mind, strengthen ability and courage to act upon decisions.
Ht7, Ht9, GB34 & Pc6 for fear and fright with heart pain due to lack of will and inner weakness.
Ht1, GB24 & Bl20 for loss of use of the four limbs due to soul not rooting in the body. The soul
carries the fire to activate the body.
Heart to Stomach
The impetus of the Heart meridian builds the mass of the body represented by Stomach, in the way that
energy becomes matter. The Heart pumps blood and Nutritive Qi to the whole body. These substances build
and energize body tissue. For the Stomach meridian to be healthy for the body, the Heart supports it by
pumping and activating substances, which build it.
The stomach organ requires a very high acidic environment to breakdown food. The acid is related to
the Fire of the Heart meridian. The acid within the stomach is comparable to the molten lava underneath the
Earths crust. The Stomach houses this fiery mix in order that there can be an Earths crust. The whole mass
of the body is represented by Stomach meridian, but at the heart of the stomach organ is the Fire and acid of
the Heart meridian. The Stomach is supported by the Heart meridian.
The Fire of the Heart is behind the impulse to activate muscle movements. Muscles exist within the bulk
of the body mass. Muscles are the fire and acid within body tissue. Muscle activity produces acid as a byproduct. The main way that the body produces heat is through muscle contractions. Shivering produces heat
through many small muscular contractions. Acid and heat are both related to the Heart meridian. Muscles
express the activity of the Fire element.
Frustration and anger are emotions rooted in the fiery nature of Heart. When these emotions are strong
they tend to affect the stomach organ, leading to such symptoms as acid regurgitation, irritability, bleeding
and red gums, ulcers and indigestion. In these cases, the Heart meridian is too strong to properly support the
Stomach. When the Heart is weak and the fire in the body is weak, the Stomach will be cold. Thus Stomach
function will be weak.
The main idea here is that any Stomach function seen in the body has within it the acid and heat of the
Heart meridian.
Point combinations:
Ht5 & St41 for head wind, redness of face and eyes due to fire not being rooted in the earth of the
body. The earth of the body refers to the actions and use of the body.
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Ht7, St42 & SI3 for mania and running around singing without clothes on. This is due to fire of
heart rising and spreading beyond the everyday practical duties that correspond to earthly living
and responsibilities.
Ht7, St42 & Bl40 for enuresis due to Heart deficiency which is not activating the Yang of the
body. This leads to Yang type deficient enuresis.
Ht8 & St36 for difficult urination or retention of urine due to excess of fire Yang, which is
constricting urination. Stomach point helps to absorb the excess fire relieving the constriction.
Stomach to Lung
The Stomach represents the bulk of body mass, yet there needs to be a proper exterior boundary to this
mass. The exterior boundary is a layer that keeps things in, keeps things out and manages the exchange of
things between the interior and the exterior. The Lung meridian has the function of building and managing
the exterior boundary.
Physiologically the Lung relates to the actions and functions of epithelial cells and the Stomach relates
to the various types of connective tissue. Epithelium forms the outer layer of the skin and some organs, as
well as the inner lining of blood vessels and body cavities. Epithelium forms the linings of the respiratory,
digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. All these areas are governed by the actions of the Lung
meridian.
Connective tissue on the other hand binds and supports the bodys tissues and organs. Much of
connective tissue is made up of a matrix of fibers and amorphous substance. Basically connective tissue is
the bulk of the body that gives structure and support. Just as the Earth element is uncarved substance,
connective tissue is generally amorphous. The Stomach meridian governs body mass and weight. Adipose
tissue, which stores fat, falls into the category of connective tissue. The connective tissue in blood is the
liquid matrix plasma.
Epithelial tissue surrounds connective tissue and gives it an exterior form. There are many functions that
epithelial cells provide for connective tissues; lubrication, managed secretions, absorptions, transportation
and excretions. Connective tissue forms the bedrock and foundation for epithelial cells to function. This
goes along with the Stomach meridian supporting the Lung meridian.
Epithelial cells govern the same functions as the Lung meridian like, respiration, blood vessels,
dispersing and descending (lubricating), regulate water passages (transportation) and skin.
Point combinations:
Lu9 & St36 to build and fortify the body strength.
Lu7 & St36 for acute dyspnea due to closing down of sharing with the outside environment.
These points open up the body to breath again and circulate Wei Qi between the body and
outside environment.
Lu7 & St42 for one-sided hemiplegia. These points return proper form to the body and revive
sensation.
Lung to Bladder
The traditional teaching is that Lung has the function of sending fluids down to the bladder organ. When
Lung does this, urination will be normal. The normal dispersing and descending of fluids by the Lung is the
process that supports Bladder function.
Bladder is most closely related to the nervous system, which is the vast communication system of the
body. The Bladder meridian receives information from the interior and the exterior and then sends the
information to be processed. Lung supports the nervous system by managing the exiting and entering of
Essences and Qi, controlling the exchange of Qi between the body and the external environment, and
ensuring the smooth movement of Qi around the body. These functions of the Lung lay the foundation for
the Bladder to communicate Qi within the body and with the external environment.
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the Bladder to communicate Qi within the body and with the external environment.
Point combinations:
Lu7 & Bl63 to open pathways of water and promote urination. Free movement of nerve impulses
around surface of body.
Lu9 & Bl13 for lung distension due to lack of circulation of breath. These points open up the
lung and relieve distension.
Lu6 & Bl31 for fever with absence of sweating due to restricted circulation, which is unable to
cool down body.
Lu1 & Bl49 for fullness of the chest with esophageal constriction due to severe blockage of
circulation in the lungs. These points go deep to break up internal blockage of breathing energies.
For the rest of the merges, Wood meridians will always be opposite Metal meridians. Earth meridians
will always be opposite Seed meridians. Water meridians will always be opposite Fire meridians. This is
pure and simple six-element theory. To see a discussion on how these elements complement each, go to the
chapter on six-element theory.
Whenever all six elements come together, as Yin meridians or Yang meridians, they always arrange
themselves according the sequence of elements in six-element theory. The six-element flow is the original
vision of the elements and this flow is held constant throughout the whole spherical flow pattern.
Gall Bladder complements Lung.

When this relationship is perfected, one has confidence to circulate ones energies. Lung sits between
Stomach and Bladder. Lung opens up passageways through the body mass, represented by Stomach. Then
the breath of Bladder innervates the body. The spirit lifeblood of Gall Bladder then flows through the body
channels giving life to the body. Gall Bladder in this way completes the actions of Lung in the body. Gall
Bladder sits between Pericardium and Heart. Gall Bladder is the reservoir of creative energy behind the
actions of the Heart. Gall Bladder gives confidence and courage to the Heart. The willpower of the Heart to
fight depends upon the quantity and quality of the Gall Bladder Qi.
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fight depends upon the quantity and quality of the Gall Bladder Qi.
Point combinations:
GB38 & Lu5 for wind painful obstruction syndrome with contracted and stiff joints due to
blockage of circulating energies.
GB40 & Lu8 for swollen sensation in the chest due to internal accumulation of Gall
Bladder energy not circulating with breathing.
Stomach complements Pericardium.
Pericardium acts to stabilize the formation and expression of life. Stomach represents the solidification
of that stabilization. Thus stomach completes the actions of Pericardium. Many times upset stomachs are
due to a problem in the Pericardium, because the solidity of the stomach meridian dissolves when the
Pericardium loses the ability to keep life stable.
Pericardium sits between Bladder and Gall Bladder in this merge. Pericardium monitors the
communications of the Bladder meridian in order to support the creative power of Gall Bladder. The
stabilization of Gall Bladder energy is what eventually creates body tissue and structure governed by the
Stomach meridian. Stomach sits between Heart and Lung.
Point combinations:
St40 & Pc5 to calm mind and open the orifices, when mind is obstructed by phlegm and therefore
confused or manic.
St40 & Pc6 to regulate the middle burner and calm down rebellious stomach function.
St36 & Pc6 to harmonize middle burner and calm down rebellious stomach function due to
emotional upset.
Bladder complements Heart.
The Bladder is the most cooling meridian for heat conditions. When there is heat in the head, chest or
upper body, points of the Bladder meridian work the best to disperse that heat. The activity of the Heart
creates heat. So Bladder balances that heat.
The Bladder represents the capacity of the different parts of the body to communicate. This is done
mostly with nervous system control. However, the heart organ is interesting in that it controls the rhythm of
its own heartbeat with its own electrical stimulation. The heart is the only organ in the body, which has
nerve function outside of the normal nervous system. Connections to the autonomic nervous system and
hormones like epinephrine modify heartbeat, but the heart establishes its own fundamental rhythm.
The balance between hot and cold best defines the opposite relationship of Fire and Water. Cold can
settle into the lower back and lower burner of the body. There can be a cold sensation in the back or even
incontinence. A cause can sometimes be that the Bladder is not being warmed by the Yang-heat of the Heart
meridian.
Heart sits between Gall Bladder and Stomach, which incorporate the heat of the Heart into the body.
Bladder sits between Lung and Pericardium. The pathways opened up by the Lung help the Bladder disperse
heat around the body. The Lung also disperses fluids to the Bladder organ to be eliminated from the body.
Point combinations:
Ht7, St22 & Bl40 for enuresis. The use of Heart and bladder points helps balance the hot and cold
mechanisms, which relate to the control and function of urination.
Ht7 & Bl15 for palpitations due to an inability to access the energies and activities of the heart
meridian in ones daily activities. One feels overwhelmed and spread to thin. This point
combination brings the ability to choose a course of action when one is frozen into non-action.
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Return to Homepage
Page 7 of 7
Chapter 21 HAND-YANG united with FOOT-YIN
10/16/2005 10:03 AM
Chapter 21 The Unification of HAND-YANG and FOOT-YIN

The Hand-Yang triangle shows the Yang meridians of the Yang elements, Seed, Fire and Metal. The
Foot-Yin triangle shows the Yin meridians of the Yin elements, Wood, Earth and Water. When these two
triangles merge the overall sequence of elements is just like in six-element theory, Wood to Fire to Earth to
Metal to Water to Seed.
The meridians alternate between Yang and Yin

meridians. The meridians also alternate between Yang and Yin elements. This reinforces the embrace and
dependency between Yin and Yang Essences.
Kidney supports San
Jiao
The San
Jiao receives water in
order to perform its Qi
transformations, just as
the ocean receives water
from the rivers of the
world. Kidney gives the
foundation to San Jiao
that it needs. Once
Kidney power is
contained it wont
dissipate itself. Yet San
Jiao sinks deep into
Kidneys power and
becomes dissolved into
it. While San Jiao is
dissolved within the
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dissolved within the

fluids of Kidney, it
performs its
transformations. Kidney
becomes transformed
into lifeblood.
The relationship between Kidney and San Jiao is a deep emotional experience of fulfillment. Here is the
power to unify and harmonize all life, all desires, all passions and all of the Hearts Intent. When someone
enters the space of Kidney and San Jiao consciously they have entered the realm of transformative
transcendence. It is the realm of silent Primordial Power from which generates abundant life. It is the realm
that oversees the creation of life. It is the realm of Mingmen, gate of vitality, where Kidney power is
transformed by Yuan Qi to be carried throughout the body.
The relationship between Kidney and San Jiao is essential to sexual maturation and the coming of
puberty for boys and girls. San Jiao oversees fertility just as Primordial Power oversees the creation of life
in primordial soup. Fertility is developed through a ripening process of the body, so that when the body is
developed enough, a person will come of age sexually. Normally this happens in the early teens for both
boys and girls. San Jiao draws upon the essence and substance of Kidney to ripen the sexual organs. The
process is patient and purposeful. The process is calm and subconscious by nature. San Jiao and Kidney are
both quiet and relaxed by nature. Anxiety, fear, worry and stress all disrupt the quiet production of fertile
power. When boys and girls come of sexual age, it is important that they have guidance and support so that
they experience the change calmly and confidently.
Point combinations:
Kd6 & SJ6 for constipation due to fluid imbalances.
Kd2, Bl49 & SJ1 for wasting and thirsting with great thirst due to weak transformation of
Kidney fluids.
Kd3 & SJ3 for swelling of the throat due to blockage of Kidney meridian at the point of reaching
the hypothalamus and base of head.
Kd2, Kd3 & SJ6 for stabbing heart pain due to weakness in transformation of Kidney essence by
San Jiao.
San Jiao supports Liver
San Jiao maintains the homeostatic synergy that feeds the lifeblood in Liver. Liver is the expression of
lifeblood. San Jiao is the foundation of Livers lifeblood.
Physiologically San Jiao governs hormone-producing glands. Hormones are glandular secretions that
alter the activity of other organs and cells in order for them to control the effectiveness of their activities.
The free-flowing blood of Liver carries the hormones secreted by the hypothalamus, pituitary and other
glands. The blood not only carries San Jiaos message, but embodies the power of Qi transformation.
Sexual activity requires energy from the Liver meridian. In orgasm, the Liver meridian draws energy
and substance from other meridians and the body in order to send them to the sexual partner. One of the
source meridians for Liver is San Jiao, which plays a large role in producing the ovum or sperm. Excessive
loss of sperm can drain the San Jiao and leave a male depleted and fatigued. A womans menstrual cycle
requires the San Jiao to oversee the development of the ovum. A healthy and normal menstrual cycle
depends on the hormonal regulation and Primordial Power of San Jiao to produce a fertile ovum. San Jiao is
a meridian of the element Seed, so its relation to sperm and ovum is natural. Sexual function in every
aspect, passive or active, is guided by San Jiao. San Jiao governs the act of creating life. Excessive Liver
sexual activity can deplete the Primordial Power of San Jiao.
Point combinations:
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Lv10, SJ8, SJ10, ST45 & LI3 for somnolence with no desire to move four limbs due to Yuan
Qi exhaustion. The body-mind is not generating the internal power to manifest life.
Lv13, SJ6 & SJ5 for pain in the lateral costal region due to constraint of Qi transformations in the
body.
Lv3 & SJ4 to stabilize sexual energies.
Liver supports Small Intestine

The nature of the Liver is to expand gently and effortlessly. Freedom is the way of the Liver. The Liver
flows without obstruction. However when the Liver overextends itself, its power is spread too thin. So there
has to be a mechanism that will limit the expansion of Liver. Small Intestine puts limits on the ever-flowing
movement of the Liver. The result is that the power of the Liver can be retained and conserved. Small
Intestine channels the lifeblood of Liver throughout the body.
The action of Small Intestine to constrict the flow of Liver is the main mechanism, which leads to Qi
and blood stagnation in the body. When life or ones own decisions enhances the control of Small Intestine
over Liver. The Small intestine can be like a dam, which stagnates the Liver. The power of Liver will tend
to build up behind the dam and create pressure to push through the dam. Small Intestine works to channel
that pressure for constructive means just like turbine engines in a dam produce electricity.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a clear condition of Qi stagnation caused by the restricting effects of
Small Intestine upon the Liver meridian. The Liver meridian flows to the small intestine where it can be
stagnated resulting in pain in the bowels. IBS is often treated with hypnotherapy and relaxation techniques
to calm down the emotional constraint, which is associated with defense mechanisms and fears. The Small
Intestine meridian becomes excessive in order to deny and disassociate from the fears. This creates
stagnation and pain in the bowels.
As long as the will of the Liver is not totally dammed up, pressure will not build up inside. By nature the
Liver is easy-going and carefree. The domineering tendency of Small Intestine may seek to take advantage
of Liver. The important factor to consider is that the freedom of ones spirit must be felt.
Society many times places so many conditions and expectations upon an individual that individual
freedom is lost. The person may be a productive citizen but not feel individual freedom. Liver must feel
individual freedom to express ones own nature and destiny. That is how the original vision within a person
will be fulfilled. If individual freedom is not allowed or felt, Qi and blood will stagnate and create pain.
Point combination:
SI4 & Lv3 to regulate stagnant Liver Qi pain extending from the hypochondrium to the upper
back.
SI1 & Lv3 to regulate stagnant Liver Qi in the breast.
Small Intestine supports Spleen
The actions of Small Intestine to harden and set limits establish a basic skeletal structure, which supports
the body. Muscles are able to move the body because they attach to bones. Small Intestine tends to form
structures, which are too rigid and consequently ineffective. The rigidity develops flexibility with the Spleen
meridian. Spleen has a changeable and mutable nature. Spleen builds joints between bones. Joints articulate
the bones, which gives dexterity and fine motor abilities to the body.
Rigidity of mind and body shows that the Spleen meridian is not developing well. This will lead to
Liver stagnation and excess Liver. Spleen is weak because Small Intestine is not supporting it. Liver is in
excess because Small Intestine is damming up the Liver. The key to treatment is to relax the Small
Intestines control and constriction of Liver, which will allow the development of Spleen. Qi gong and yoga
are relaxing forms of exercise that develop the flexibility of Spleen.
The small intestine organ digests food. The small intestine discerns which foods the body should absorb.
This ability of small intestine to maintain a high standard of quality for digested food is the foundation for
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This ability of small intestine to maintain a high standard of quality for digested food is the foundation for
better quality Spleen-Nutritive substance.
It is important that the Small Intestine is not overloaded with too much food. It is also important that
food be kept simple but complete. This kind of food makes the job of supporting Spleen-Nutritive substance
so much easier for the Small Intestine. If the small intestine rushes food through too fast onto the large
intestine, diarrhea is likely. If food moves too slowly through the small intestine, constipation is likely.
Diarrhea and constipation are usually said to be mainly a Spleen disorder, but Small Intestine meridian
plays a large role too. Constipation and diarrhea indicate that small intestine is not supporting the production
of good quality Spleen-Nutritive substance.
Point combinations:
Sp2, SI2 & SI3 for pain and heaviness in the bones.
Sp3 & SI4 for pain in the bones, diarrhea, borborygmus or constipation due to rigidity of
emotions and inflexibility of body.
Sp4 & SI3 for swelling of face or throat due to deficient Earth energies in the body. Once the
Earth Qi is supported, proper tone of tissue will return.
Sp5 & SI7 for fright, mania-depression or sad heart due to inflexibility of the mind to discern the
truth.
Spleen supports Large Intestine
Large Intestine establishes boundaries and laws. Boundaries have to have the ability to change and
adapt. As well the foundation upon which boundaries are formed have the ability to adapt. Spleen gives
flexibility to any structure. When the wind blows very hard, trees and plants bend because of Spleen energy.
If their exterior were too rigid, they would break.
The Spleen meridian connects to the large intestine organ. When the Spleen energy is weak, the result
can be diarrhea and/or constipation. The Spleen is very involved in the digestive processes of the Small
Intestine and Large Intestine meridians.
The integrity of the Large Intestine is determined by the Small Intestine and the Spleen. The authority of
the Large Intestine is founded on the determination and discernment of Small Intestine. The intelligence of
that authority is developed by Spleen. It is not enough just to be able to enforce a law; one needs to know
when a specific law applies and when it does not. Spleen gives the ability to compensate for rigidity in law.
Stating ones opinions associates with the Large Intestine. If the Large Intestine is founded too much on
Fire energy, Heart and Small Intestine, then ones opinions become fanatical.
A fanatic is someone who wont change the subject, and wont change their mind.
Winston Churchill
The relaxed nature of the Spleen allows one to change their mind with reason. Studying burdens the
Spleen if done too much, because the mind has to adapt its reasoning and logical assumptions during
studying. The mind bases its opinions upon information it has already come across. When basic information
changes, the mind redevelops its opinions. This mental process relates to how Spleen develops and reshapes
the opinions and beliefs maintained by the Large Intestine.
A Taoist master once read some of the material in this book and could not comment on it, because,
according to this particular Taoist master, a Taoist master can only teach what they have been taught. In
effect, this material was beyond their scope of vision. This is an example of how a rigid authority based on
Small Intestine discernment, loses the ability to evolve when new information is made available. When the
Spleen goes weak in a traditional body of knowledge, it loses its fertility and new seeds will not take root.
A body of knowledge must continually evolve to withstand the forces of evolution. In biology, when a
stress is put upon a balanced ecosystem, the ecosystem will rearrange itself to a higher level of development
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stress is put upon a balanced ecosystem, the ecosystem will rearrange itself to a higher level of development
in order to incorporate and mitigate the impact of the stress. This process of rearranging is the basic process
of evolution. Life becomes stronger when it acknowledges stress and adapts to it. Basically traditional
knowledge needs to have the capacity to rearrange itself at a higher level. The goal of knowledge is not to
have knowledge to preserve, but to have knowledge to preserve life.
Point combinations:
LI11 & Sp10 to cool blood in skin diseases. The Spleens deep tissue in the skin, holds onto the
heat, and the Large Intestines surface skin tissue is not helping to release the heat. This point
combination is meant to release the heat through the exterior.
LI4 & Sp8 for acute dysmenorrhoea due to epithelial tissue of uterus not sloughing off. Tissue is
being held on by rigid Wei Qi of the Large Intestine.
Large Intestine supports Kidney
The Large Intestine establishes boundaries in which Kidney power can be contained. Since Kidney
power tends to flow freely, it would readily leak from the body if there wasnt an exterior shell to contain it.
As long as Large Intestine meridian is healthy and intact, Kidney will be astringed.
Physiologically the large intestine organ completes the absorption of fluids into the body from the
digestive process. It is an important organ for maintaining the balance of water in the body. Needed
quantities of water can also be lost from the large intestine, which would weaken the fluids of Kidney.
Point combinations:
LI4 & Kd7 for regulating sweating when the Wei Qi boundary of Large Intestine is not astringing
the flow of fluids out the exterior of the body properly or when the release of sweat by the Wei
Qi is undermining other activities in the body.
Kd3, Kd4, Kd6, LI2 & LI13 for somnolence due to Leakage of Kidney essence through some
boundaries of the body-mind.
LI4, LI20, Kd20, Bl12, Du24, Bl2 & Bl67 for rhinitis with clear nasal discharge in part due to
leakage of Kidney fluids through the external membranes of nose.
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San Jiao complements Spleen.

The Spleen nourishes the body with all the things that it needs to exist. The Spleen makes the body. Yet
the vision for what will be made from the Spleen substance is governed by San Jiao. The San Jiao completes
the Spleen by overseeing the use of the Spleens materials. It is the relationship between a building
contractor and the materials that go into a completed building. The final product from that relationship is a
building. Once the building is complete, the contractor picks up the tools and leaves. The materials are left
in the perfected form of a building.
Spleen represents the Nutritive Qi obtained from eating, yet the hypothalamus, which is governed by San
Jiao, controls hunger. The San Jiao tells us when to eat. The impulse to eat from the San Jiao ultimately gets
completed by the act of digesting food to nourish Spleen substance.
San Jiao sits between Liver and Kidney. The free-flowing blood of Liver carries the hormones secreted
by the hypothalamus, pituitary and other glands. The blood carries the messages of the San Jiao glands
throughout the body. These messages tell organs and cells what to do and how to do it. Spleen substance
then is used to fulfill those messages. The Spleen sits between Small Intestine and Large Intestine, which
both act like the carpenters that do the actual work on a building. They directly transform and
Point combinations:
Sp4, Ren14, SJ1, SJ6 and St41 for sudden turmoil disorder due to maintenance of bodys
construction being undermined. Stability in digestive system is collapsing.
Sp6, SJ6 & St36 for post-partum dizziness due to weakening of body power base. Stable power
building is weakened. Firmness and tone of body is undermined, which hinders clear Qi from
being raised to the head.
Large Intestine complements Liver.
This relationship is seen in the common point combination of Lv3 and LI4. This is point combination
activates and ensures the free circulation of Qi and Blood throughout the body. These points move and
disperse lifeblood. Lifeblood is able to reach the exterior and extremities of the body. Still there is not a rich
supply of blood in the epithelial tissue related to Large Intestine because blood vessels do not reach there.
Waste and other materials must travel by diffusion to and from the underlying connective tissue. This
separation between blood and epithelial tissue reflects the complement nature of Liver and Large Intestine.
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separation between blood and epithelial tissue reflects the complement nature of Liver and Large Intestine.
Large Intestine sits between Spleen and Kidney. Spleen is the infrastructure of an object that maintains
the ideal form represented by Large Intestine. Once the ideal form is established, Water begins to flow as a
natural consequence. Water represents the substance that lives within a form. Liver sits between San
Jiao and Small Intestine. San Jiao maintains the homeostatic synergy that feeds the lifeblood in Liver. Small
Intestine then channels that lifeblood throughout the body. The perfection between Liver and Large Intestine
helps a person live freely as an integral part of society.
Point combinations:
LI4 & Lv3 to regulate the smooth flow of blood and outward expression of creative power.
LI4 & Lv2 to expand Qi and blood, clear heat and treat eyes.
Small Intestine complements Kidney.
This is another balance between Fire and Water. Small Intestine functions like the pipes and plumbing
that carry water into a home. Small Intestine governs the ability to direct and channel energies and
substances to a specific place. Wherever we see pipes in the body, the Small Intestine plays a major role.
Arteries, intestines, spinal cord, bones and teeth are all structures that allow substances to flow within them.
Small Intestine governs these. The fluids of Kidney flow within these structures. Small Intestine completes
Kidney by giving it a canal system by which it can flow to where it is needed.
Bones is traditionally associated with Kidney, but by defining Small Intestine more precisely, the
rigidity of Small Intestine is clearly associated with the bones. The bones and skeletal structure balance and
complement the unification process from Kidney power. When bones go soft as in osteomalacia, the Kidney
is dissolving the rigidity of Small Intestine in the bones. There is always a balance between keeping the
bones soft and rejuvenated and keeping them rigid and strong. Teeth is also more related to Small Intestine,
but the ability of the body to form teeth and keep them healthy is related to the strength of Kidney power.
Teeth show the completion of Kidney by Small Intestine.
Small Intestine sits between Liver and Spleen. The free-flowing nature of Liver tends to expand and
keep on expanding. At some point that expansion must be controlled or the expansion will dissipate its own
self. Small Intestine limits the expansion of Liver thereby conserving and concentrating the power in
lifeblood. Small Intestine supports the Spleen by filtering out impure food from the pure food. Spleen
substance gains a higher quality by the actions of Small Intestine. Kidney sits between Large Intestine and
San Jiao. Large Intestine captures water from digesting food. This supports Kidney fluids, which then form
the substrate in which San Jiao can perform its actions of transforming Qi and maintaining homeostatic
synergy.
Point combinations:
Kd6 & SI17 to treat sore and swollen throat that feels constricted and choked.
SI2, Kd6 & Lv4 for swelling of the throat due to Small Intestine accumulating Yin substance
there.
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Page 7 of 7
Chapter 13 FOOT-YANG united with HAND-YANG
10/16/2005 10:04 AM
Chapter 22 The Unification of FOOT-YANG and HAND-YANG

The Foot-Yang triangle shows the Yang meridians of the Yin elements, Gall Bladder, Stomach and
Bladder. The Hand-Yang triangle shows the Yang meridians of the Yang elements, San Jiao, Small Intestine
and Large Intestine.
When these two triangles merge the overall sequence

of elements around the outside follows the normal order in six-element theory. The normal order is Wood to
Fire to Earth to Metal to Water to Seed.
The meridians alternate between Yang and Yin elements. This reinforces the embrace and dependency
between Yin and Yang Essences.
San Jiao supports Gall
Bladder
The Gall Bladder is the
reservoir of life energy. It is
the sun shining in all its
magnanimous brilliance.
The sun rises and the Earth
is filled with light. The sun
gives life to plants and all
living beings. Without the
sun, there would be no
Earth, no life. Within each
person the sun of the Gall
Bladder shines and enlivens.
It is the confidence that
there will always be another
day, another tomorrow. It is
the confidence that the
power of life will outlast.
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power of life will outlast.

The great boxer,
Muhammad Ali, once got
onto an airplane and sat next
to a lady, who had a fear
that the plane would crash.
Mr. Ali reassured her that
nothing would happen to anybody on the plane because he was aboard. His faith and confidence in his
destiny was so strong that he naturally had an invincible attitude toward life. His Gall Bladder meridian
seems to have been very strong.
San Jiao works quietly in the murky depths of deep water, where its vision creates the power of the sun
associated with the Gall Bladder meridian. The light and warmth of the sun is created from the waters of
San Jiao. The sun can only penetrate the murky depths so far. From below San Jiao gives power to the light
within it. San Jiao continues its work in creating life. The power of life in lifeblood is stored in the Gall
Bladder, mostly by the Pericardium meridian.
Once the generation of lifeblood reaches a point where life power begins to be accumulated, the process
of generation accelerates. The cycle between San Jiao and Gall Bladder is a positive feedback loop designed
to generate more and more lifeblood through homeostatic synergy. The feedback loop is regulated by the
actions of Pericardium and Liver to maintain homeostatic conditions. The synergy created from homeostasis
is the life power stored in Gall Bladder.
Point combinations:
SJ6 & GB31 to harmonize power, soothe stagnation.
SJ4 & GB40 to boost courage, clear lateral headaches and harmonize creative power.
GB41 & SJ10 for chest pain and heart pain due to weakness of internal harmony.
GB15 & SJ3 for visual dizziness due to murky thoughts when the light of Gall Bladder is not
reaching the dark recesses of the mind.
GB34 & SJ6 for rib pain due to cold. Reservoir of life force has weakened allowing cold to enter.
Gall Bladder supports Small Intestine
Gall Bladder represents the accumulation of creative energy, which is the energy used to create and
activate anything in the body. The main function of Small Intestine is to focus and channel substances and
energies. The accumulated energies of Gall Bladder are focused and concentrated by the integrity of the
Small Intestine Qi. The energies become more accessible if their accumulation can be controlled. The proper
discipline of Small Intestine will conserve vital creative energy. Without this discipline vital energies will
leak out, be squandered and weaken. The abundance and stability of Gall Bladders creative power depends
upon the extent to which Small Intestine can conserve the use of ones creative potential.
Gall Bladder and Small Intestine are often compared in the way they make decisions. Small Intestine
has the power of discernment, which allows one to make a clear and definite decision. With discernment the
decision is clear in the mind. Gall Bladder gives the courage and forthrightness to carry through with a
decision. Without having courage first, a clear and forthright look at a problem cant be made. Then when
Small Intestine Qi is weak, a decision can sit in the mind forever and never be acted upon. Without a clear
path, the courage of Gall Bladder will never act upon anything specific. Therefore Small Intestine and Gall
Bladder will work together to make and take decisions. Gall Bladder first shines its light down a number of
paths, and then Small Intestine chooses which path to take. The discernment of Small Intestine helps to
wisely manifest the broad radiance of the Gall Bladder.
Point combinations:
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SI5 & GB40 to resolve indecision, combine courage with the power to make a decision, and to
empower a person to take control of their own life.
SI1 & GB41 for swelling in womans breast due to stagnation of Qi and lack of confidence to
provide mothers milk.
SI5 & GB43 for swelling of jaw with lockjaw due to timidity to speak ones mind.
Small Intestine supports Stomach

The stomach organ receives food and there the food begins to be broken down for digestion. The food is
then sent to the small intestine organ to be separated into nutritive food and unwanted food. The Small
Intestine has the power of discernment, which gives the small intestine its ability to filter out the unwanted
food particles and absorb what is nutritious to the body. The nutritious food then gets accumulated in the
bodys connective tissues and storage tissues by the Stomach Qi.
Physiologically the matrix of connective tissue represented by the Earth element is the foundation for the
construction of ducts and vessels of all kinds, which are represented by Small Intestine. Small Intestine
relates to Cardinal-Earth in astrology. Ducts and vessels are a canal system through the body. They organize
the movement of fluids, food, blood, nerve impulses and lymph flow around the body. This canal system is
governed and constructed by Small Intestine Qi. The canal system is constructed as a basis for the matrix of
connective tissue that binds and supports the structure of the body.
Small Intestine governs the construction of bone because Small Intestine forms hollow structures within
which substances can be organized and protected. Blood is produced within bones. The Stomachs
connective tissue, which is the bulk of the body, is supported by the bones. Small Intestine is associated
with strength, uprightness, rigidity, hardened form and skeleton structures.
Teeth are more related to Small Intestine. The gums around teeth are more related to Stomach. Stomachfire is indicated by red, swollen and sore gums. The gums build around the teeth. Loss of teeth can stem
from a weakness in Stomach Qi. Stomach supports Kidney Qi. If Stomach goes weak, then Kidney Qi,
which strengthens teeth, can be weakened. This results in loose teeth. When Small Intestine Qi is weak, then
the hardness of teeth will be weakened.
Point combinations:
St42, SI3 & Ht7 for mania and desire to run around without clothes on. Stomach and Small
Intestine points work together to control and get a grip on Heart gone wild.
SI18 & St6 for pain and inability to chew due to stiffness and contraction of jaw muscles.
Condition stems from an obstructed Small Intestine, which is stagnating Stomach meridian.
Stomach supports Large Intestine
Stomach represents the connective tissue all around the body that binds and supports all organs. The
connective tissue is the mass and bulk of the body, even fat is stored there. Connective tissue is highly
vascularized in that it has a rich blood supply. The connective tissue of Stomach meridian is focused on
maintaining the overall internal stability of the body. The connective tissue of the body provides the
foundation for the epithelial tissue. The connective tissue must be protected from external forces. Large
Intestine provides that protection with the layer of epithelial cells that cover all surfaces, internal and
external, of the body.
The integrity of Stomach Qi supports the integrity of the Wei Qi related to the Large Intestine Qi. The
Wei Qi organizes and manages the inflow and outflow of substances. Without the outer layer, the Stomach
would lose form and function.
Point combinations:
LI4 & St44 to clear heat from gums, teeth, ulcers and herpes simplex.
LI4 & St36 to regulate digestion and to fortify body armor.
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LI10 & St36 to regulate middle burner and to fortify body strength. Aids in atrophy syndromes.
Large Intestine supports Bladder

The Bladder represents the nervous system extending everywhere around the body. Large
Intestine represents the epithelial tissue covering the body and internal structures. The combination of
epithelial tissue with nervous tissue creates the special sense organs, like smell, vision, touch and hearing.
Consequently these meridians both branch to the ears, eyes and nose.
As the nervous system reaches out to sense the external environment, the Large Intestine is there to organize
the sensations. Basically the extension of the nervous system around the whole body forms the foundation
for the exterior covering associated with Large Intestine.
Point combinations:
LI1, Bl19 & Bl27 for dry mouth and tongue with difficult ingestion due to epithelial tissue of
upper digestive tract being attacked by dryness.
LI3 & Bl23 for pain of shoulder and back and wind-invasion. Also for chronic painful Bi
syndrome leading to weakness of Qi and Blood. These conditions are due to exterior attack
affecting the nervous system and free movement of the body.
LI5 & Bl19 for fright palpitations due to the nervous systems inability to process exterior
stimuli.
LI3, LI4, LI6, Bl60 & Bl66 for rhinitis with nosebleed due to exterior irritation of epithelial
tissue and mucous membranes of nasal passages.
LI7, LI5 & Bl61 for manic raving and seeing ghosts. The nervous system is unable to process
exterior stimuli and one feels vulnerable to hidden and unseen forces.
LI5, LI8, LI9 & Bl60 for manic raving due to same reason as in previous combination.
LI8 & Bl40 for wind-damp Bi syndrome due to blockage of circulating exterior Wei Qi.
LI10, Bl62 & Bl63 for head wind, visual dizziness and stiffness of neck due to exterior invasion
affecting the brain and nervous systems ability to process external stimuli.
Bladder supports San Jiao
San Jiao governs the hypothalamus organ, which sits in the center of the brain. The hypothalamus is the
main control center for the functions and activities of the body-mind. Supporting the homeostatic functions
of the brain is the nervous system, which extends over the entire body. Bladder meridian circulates the
nervous system gathering and relaying messages to the control center of the body-mind. San Jiao being the
main control center requires the Bladder to maintain the integrity of the nervous system.
Tremors and tics are little nervous twitches seen in many muscles, like around the eyes. These twitches
show that the Bladder meridian is weak and unsupported. The nervous system is losing its rhythm and
harmony. Tradition in Chinese medicine says that a problem with Yuan Qi can lead to tremors and tics.
Yuan Qi is related to San Jiao. Even though tremors and tics are usually said to result from blood
deficiency, a weakness in Yuan Qi can also lead to blood deficiency. But a weakness in Yuan Qi can
directly lead to tremors and tics without any apparent blood deficiency. This happens when San Jiao is weak
from an unstable nervous system. The Bladder meridian deals constantly with the incredible information
age in which we live, and this undermines the integrity of homeostatic synergy associated with San Jiao.
There are huge stresses put on the nervous system in the modern world. Yuan Qi and the hypothalamus
have to work overtime to keep up with these stresses. Any relaxation that supports the nervous system of the
Bladder meridian goes to support and tonify the San Jiao meridian. When San Jiao harmonizes mood and
actions of the body, an inner peace is created, which calms down the tendency of the Bladder to become
hyper and scattered.
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Point combinations:
SJ1, SJ16 & Bl60 for wind dizziness due to overtaxing the nervous system and overthinking.
SJ6, SJ8 & Bl66 for sudden loss of voice due to homeostasis being stressed. Inner anxiety is
obstructing the Bladder meridian.
SJ10 & Bl59 for clonic spasm due to destabilized nervous system.
SJ16 & Bl15 for suppressed emotional sorrows causing tears.
Gall Bladder complements Large Intestine.

When we look at a person, we see their external appearance, which is represented by Large Intestine.
Yet within this appearance we look for spirit and aliveness, which is represented by the inner glow and light
of the Gall Bladder. A person is able to project and radiate their creative life substance in the exterior form.
They inner glow and the exterior form are very different but when they exist together, it is a thing of real
beauty. When they exist together, they have perfected and completed each other. This is the relationship
between the complements of Gall Bladder and Large Intestine.
Large Intestine sits between Stomach and Bladder. The network of the Bladders nervous system
innervates the exterior of every surface and form of the body. Everything communicates its condition and
status. The Large Intestine supports the structure and solidity of Stomach by giving it an image and form
that fulfills the origin ideal of what form the living being will take. Gall Bladder sits between San Jiao and
Small Intestine. Small Intestine establishes the authority of the Gall Bladder by conserving and
concentrating the power of the lifeblood. The power of the Gall Bladder then nurtures the function of the
San Jiao to maintain homeostatic synergy, which builds and feeds the inner power of Gall Bladder.
There is an interesting note to add about this relationship between Gall Bladder and Large Intestine. In
the deep understanding of Large Intestine, it is seen that it can smell fear from a long way off. Large
Intestine looks for fear and then seeks to attack fear. On the other hand, Gall Bladder is the base of courage
and radiates its own confidence when it is strong. When these energies are in balance, Large Intestine and
Gall Bladder have a stand off because Gall Bladder shows no fear. They are complements and opposites in a
pure sense. If one goes weak, the other will get stronger and begin to overpower the other.
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pure sense. If one goes weak, the other will get stronger and begin to overpower the other.
Point combinations:
GB34 & LI11 for hemiplegia when inner light not radiating outward.
GB34, GB41 & LI9 for fullness in the rib area due to holding creative energy inside.
GB40, GB39, GB25, LI4, & LI10 for fear due to lack of confidence or confusion. These points
also are used for a person who bullies others and attacks those who seem weak in their eyes. The
Gall Bladder points that are chosen support Kidney. Kidney is a main mediator between Large
Intestine and Gall Bladder.
San Jiao complements Stomach.
San Jiao seeks to stabilize the activities of life in order to create a specific living being with a specific
form. Stomach completes that vision by solidifying substance that can be formed into a specific being. San
Jiao complements Stomach by being the original force that starts the stabilization of energies towards Earth
substance that can be carved into life.
Stomach sits between Small Intestine and Large Intestine. These work together to carve and form the
Earth substance of Stomach. San Jiao sits between Gall Bladder and Bladder. Gall Bladder supports San
Jiao, which transmits the power of the Gall Bladder. The transmissions of San Jiao are carried throughout
the whole body by the communication pathways of the Bladder meridian.
Point combinations:
SJ4 & St42 to strengthen uterus and stabilize body mass. This is a specific tonification to aid the
body in finding its perfect weight.
SJ6 & St36 for constipation due to poor diet.
SJ6, St36 & Sp6 for post-partum dizziness due to destabilized body and weakened Yuan Qi.
The Small Intestine complements Bladder.
The most straightforward way to see this relationship is by looking at the spine. The Small Intestine is
the bone and tissue structure that protects and guides the central nervous system running up and down the
body. The balance between the structures and the nerve impulses within those structures must be
maintained. These meridians perfect each others functions. The point combination that opens up the Du
meridian, which runs up the spine, is SI3 and Bl632. This point combination confirms the relationship
between Small Intestine and Bladder to create the spinal column.
Small Intestine sits between Stomach and Gall Bladder. Stomach is the reservoir of Earth substance
from which the Small Intestine creates hardened substances like bone and teeth. Stomach also releases its
contents into the small intestine organ. Small Intestine through its actions of concentration, conservation and
filtration empower the Gall Bladder The Bladder meridian sits between San Jiao and Large Intestine.
Bladder connects the primal center of the brain, the hypothalamus, to the far reaches of the exterior of the
body represented by Large Intestine. Bladder connects the most interior part of the body-mind to the most
exterior.
Point combinations:
SI3 & Bl60 to clear upper back and neck and expel wind. This point combination strengthens the
resiliency of the bodys defense systems. The body is able to maintain its integrity. These points
are also used for making personal decisions. The ability to discern what is important amidst
volumes of information is a difficult process in the modern world because of information
overload. These points help deal with information overload.
SI6 & Bl66 to clear upper back and neck and expel wind. Aids eyes where these meridians meet.
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Return to Homepage
Page 7 of 7
Chapter 23 FOOT-YIN united with HAND-YIN
10/16/2005 10:05 AM
Chapter 23 The Unification of FOOT-YIN and HAND-YIN

The Foot-Yin triangle shows the Yin meridians of the Yin elements, Wood, Earth and Water. The HandYin triangle shows the Yin meridians of the Yang elements, Seed, Fire and Metal.
When these two triangles merge the overall sequence

of elements around the outside is actually reverse to the normal order in six-element theory. The reverse
order is Water to Metal to Earth to Fire to Wood to Seed. The reversal of the normal order of the elements
is so extraordinary that the next chapter will be dedicated to explaining why it happens.
The meridians alternate
between Yang and Yin elements.
This reinforces the embrace and
dependency between the Yin and
Yang Essences.
Kidney supports Lung
Kidney of the Water element
nourishes the Lung of the Metal
element in a living being. Since the
Lung becomes dry through contact
with air, it must be pre-moistened
by the fluids of Kidney in order to
function properly. Otherwise, the
tissues controlled by the Lung
would be too dry. Lung-Yin
deficiency stems from Kidney-Yin
deficiency implying that Kidney
fluids support Lung function. The
Lung then takes the fluids of
Kidney and disperses them.
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Kidney and disperses them.

The Kidney governs inhalation,
and the Lung governs exhalation.
In this regard, inhalation occurs
first in order for there to be air to
exhale.
The Kidneys are traditionally said to grasp Lung Qi, which would allow breathing to be deep and
normal. When Kidneys arent able to grasp Lung Qi, conditions such as asthma occur. Its not that the
Kidney grasps Lung Qi, but that Kidney is not supporting the Lung function of breathing. When Kidney is
weak and cant support Lung, then breathing, especially inhaling, becomes weak. The Lung becomes weak
and then is unable to receive the fluids and essence of Kidney. The skin and mucous membranes become
dry. Conditions such as eczema occur and the Lung struggles to breath. The Kidney supports its mother, the
Lung in order for Lung to function properly in a living being.
Point combinations:
Lu7 & Kd6 couple for the Ren and Yinqiao meridians. These points help to circulate the Yin
substances of the Kidney throughout the body. This moisturizes and soothes the irritations of
skin, mucosal linings, and tissue in general.
Lu7 & Kd7 to reconnect Kidney fluids to Lung dispersing function. Treats asthma.
Kd25, Kd27 & Lu3 for inability to catch ones breath and for difficult breathing where the Qi
wont descend. One is gasping for air.
Lung supports Spleen
Lung supports Spleen. Spleen substance is too heavy and dense to support life, so the spleen is preaerated by the lighter nature of Lung. The Lung cultivates Spleen by moving the fluids of the lymph system
through breathing.
The Lung moves through the pathways of the body. As the Lung breaths through the tissues of the body,
it is easier for the Spleen to provide its nutritive substance to the body.
Lung and Spleen work together to build the body and provide defense for the body. A fort is designed to
withstand attack from an enemy. The provisions and munitions within the fort relate to Spleen. The walls
around the fort relate to Lung. In battle, the wall protects and supports the integrity of the provisions and
makes it more effective to use the provisions strategically. The provisions go to rebuild and repair the wall
when it is damaged. In the body, the Lung relates to the natural barriers against outside invasion, which are
mainly skin and mucous membranes. Fluids help the defense through tears, saliva, urine and discharges
from the lower orifices. The Spleen relates to nonspecific and specific barriers against disease, which is the
main work of the lymphatic system. Together natural barriers and the immune system protect the body.
The spleen organ itself is not involved in digestive processes as is traditionally given to the
Spleen meridian. The spleen organ is the largest mass of lymphatic tissue in the body. Its main function is to
eat bacteria and worn out blood cells. Spleen is the housecleaner of the body, a function that relates to the
typical neatness of Virgo.
Point combinations:
Lu9 & Sp6 to nourish Lung with Yin substance and moisten dryness.
Lu9 & Sp3 to fortify body and enhance endurance. These source points fortify the body to
maintain physical strength and to aid breathing to energize the physical body. Defense
mechanisms are strengthened. Tissue becomes more supple. The muscles and body tissue vibrate
a vitality and energy.
Lu5 & Sp10 to cool blood in skin diseases. These points help circulate the heat in deep skin
tissue to move it to the exterior for release.
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Lu7 & Sp9 to treat heaviness in urine retention with or without pain.
Spleen supports Heart

Spleen supports Heart. The understanding here is that the richness and fertility of the Spleen cultivate
the Fire of the Heart. The muscles of the four limbs wait to be activated by the Fire of the Heart. Nutritive
substance in the body actually increases energy and activity. The Spleen grounds and anchors Heart activity,
so that it can be activated safely.
Normal tradition says that the Spleen makes blood to support the Heart, but in six-element terms the
Nutritive Qi of the Spleen circulates with blood in the blood system. The redness of the blood fuels the Fire
of the Heart, but the yellow part of the blood calms and pacifies the Heart. The yellow part is Spleen
Nutritive substance. The Chinese character for Nutritive substance, Ying, shows a fire over an encampment.
This character shows how Fire is supported by Earth.
During early fetal development the spleen organ actually produces blood cells. When the body is
hemorrhaging, the spleen will actually squeeze like the heart pushing stored blood out into the
cardiovascular system. This is a special way that the Spleen supports and encourages proper Heart function.
Point combinations:
Ht5 & Sp3 to stimulate the mind and increase intellect and concentration. Treats stuttering and
dyslexia.
Heart supports Liver
Heart supports Liver. The understanding here is that the potential energy in the blood of the Liver cannot
be consumed by Fire. The Heart cultivates the power of blood in order to nourish its mother. So the Heart
empowers the blood by pumping it around the body. In nature Fire would burn Wood. But the heart organ
doesnt consume blood, it moves it, spreads it around, makes it more available. By pumping blood the Heart
insures its peaceful co-existence with blood.
Fire is transformed into bloodFire resides in the Heart where it generates blood, which moistens
the whole body.
Foundations of Chinese Medicine, Giovanni Maciocia, p 49
Anger is usually associated with the Liver, but the Liver is gentle by nature. When the free-flowing
nature of Liver is blocked, energy in the body will back up into the Fire of the Heart causing an increase in
Fire energy. The increase expresses as anger. The Heart drives and pumps Liver substance. Anger will then
be put into the blood of Liver, making it look as though the Liver is angry. In actuality, the Heart is riled up.
The blood is pushed by the Heart. Then the Blood of Liver will rise to the face causing red flushes on the
skin.
Point combinations:
Ht7 & Lv3 to calm the mind, settle anger, soothe anxiety, calm down anxious blood, and expand
the personal will. Relaxes ones personal will to aid tolerance and generosity.
Liver supports Pericardium
Liver supports Pericardium. The understanding here is that the blood of Liver supports the Yuan Qi of
Pericardium by rooting it. Otherwise the Yuan Qi would float away or dissipate. The blood needs Yuan Qi
so much that it devotes itself to Yuan Qi. Blood gives nourishment to Yuan Qi.
It is taught, Qi is the commander of blood, but blood is the mother of Qi. Blood nurtures Yuan Qi in
order to insure its co-existence with all other energies of the body. Yuan Qi oversees the creation of life in a
womans womb. Yuan Qi oversees the development of a healthy baby. The power of Yuan Qi in a
pregnancy must be nourished. Blood supports the whole process by nourishing the fetus through the
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pregnancy must be nourished. Blood supports the whole process by nourishing the fetus through the
umbilical cord. In this way, Liver blood supports the Yuan Qi function of nurturing and forming a child.
The Liver is free and confident. The Liver expands horizons, opens up opportunity. Liver gives the sense
of freedom with which to live. Through sexual intercourse, an egg is fertilized. The Liver guides the
substances in sex. After sex, the nesting instinct of a mother, which is associated with the Pericardium,
becomes an urge. The freedom of Liver to roam independently has become the mother who seeks a home
and stability to raise the young.
Point combinations:
Pc6 & Lv3 for stagnation due to constrained and blocked emotions. Calm the mind.
Pc7 & Lv3 to settle emotions after the break-up of a loving relationship.
Pc3 & Lv3 to clear heat from blood in skin diseases. This condition is due to heat accumulating
in the blood because of a stagnation of Pericardium Qi. The Liver needs to be reinforced, while
the Pericardium needs to be unblocked.
Pc6 & Lv13 for hypochondriac distension and fullness due to Pericardium Qi stagnation.
Pericardium supports Kidney
The understanding here is that the fluids of Kidney flow into the space of the Pericardium. The
transformative actions of Pericardium depend on fluids. The Kidney is the mother of the Pericardium. Yet
the Pericardium watches over the fluids and takes care of them. The Pericardium monitors thirst levels,
blood volumes and fluid levels. In this way the Pericardium cultivates the fluids, which insure its existence.
The Pericardium seeks to maintain the health of the personal needs of an individual. Kidney on the other
hand, through its capacity to embrace everything, seeks to take care of the needs of other individuals. The
Kidney meridian can be drained in healing work, because the healer through empathy uses Kidney meridian
energy. In order for healers to effectively support the compassionate giving nature of Kidney Qi, their own
needs must be met and taken care of. Pericardium will do this. Therefore when Pericardium supports
Kidney, this ensures that an individual will take care of him/herself before they seek to help others. In this
way, healers will be more effective.
Point combinations:
Kd7 & Pc6 for insomnia from unsettled and confusing emotions. Helps to clarify vague feelings
and unclear commitments in relationships.
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Liver complements the Lung.

Its interesting to note that some physicians of acupuncture say that the Wei Qi is originally formed in
the blood. This view describes the relationship between Liver and Lung. Wei Qi is a perfection of Livers
lifeblood. Wei Qi can be seen as the external movement and expression of the internal lifeblood. Lifeblood
seeks to become something. Lung manifests the bloods potential to become something. Both these
meridians want to manifest an outward expression of life. Liver manifests a passive outward expression.
Lung manifests an active outward expression. It is in this way that these two meridians complement each
other.
Liver sits between Heart and Pericardium. The Heart supports its mother the Liver by pumping blood
around the body. The flow of blood then allows the heat of the Heart meridian to be available throughout
the entire body. Liver supports Pericardium. The blood supports the Yuan Qi by rooting it so that it does not
float away. Blood gives weight to Yuan Qi. Lung sits between Kidney and Spleen. Kidney moistens the
dryness of Lung so that it can maintain and support the exterior surface of the body. The surface has the risk
of drying out so Kidney helps the exterior from being damaged from outside forces. The Lung lightens the
heaviness of the Spleen so that the Spleen is more available to support life.
Point combinations:
Lu11, Lu8 & Lv3 for rattling sound in throat due to excess in Wei Qi as compared to strength of
blood.
Pericardium complements Spleen.
These both want to manifest stability. Pericardium wants to manifest an active stability, while the
Spleen wants to manifest a passive stability. The active stability of Pericardium is seen in homeostatic
synergy. The passive stability of Spleen is seen in the tissue mass of the physical body. These two meridians
complement each others form of stability.
Pericardium sits between Liver and Kidney. Liver roots and supports its mother the Pericardium. The
Pericardium then supports its mother the Kidney by guiding it and caring for it. The Pericardium monitors
the condition of the fluids of the Kidney. Spleen sits between Lung and Heart. The Lung increases the
availability of Spleen substance by aerating it. The Lung nourishes its mother the Spleen. The Spleen then
nourishes its mother the Heart by
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Point combinations:
Pc6 & Sp4 are the coupled points for Chong and Yinwei meridians; Stabilizes middle burner Qi;
treats nausea, stomachache and abdominal pain. Treats chest pain.
Heart complements Kidney.
This relationship centers on the balance between Fire and Water at the most rudimentary level. Fire and
Water complement each other by being so extremely different. The original blast of fire energy that leads to
life is perfected in the nature of water. Fire energy eventually becomes water. Likewise through the
transformational phases of Seed and Wood, Water will become Fire. Water and Fire are the most basic
fundamental elements that constitute life.
Heart sits between Spleen and Liver. The heat of the Heart must descend to warm the lower part of the
body. As the Spleen nourishes the Heart heat, Liver spreads the warmth through the blood. In this way,
warmth is carried around the body. Kidney sits between Pericardium and Lung. Pericardium nurtures and
monitors the quality of Kidney fluids. The Lung then mists those fluids so that they can be dispersed around
the body.
Point combinations:
Ht7 & Kd3 to harmonize Heart and Kidney and reconnect their expressions.
Ht6 & Kd7 to stop night-sweating and aid Kidney Yin to settle a restless Heart.
Ht7 & Kd9 to settle Heart and nourish Kidney when emotionally unsettled.
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Chapter 24 - Reversing the Cycle of the Six Elements by the Yin Meridians
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We need to take a special look at the previous chapter, in which the Yin meridians of the Feet and
Hands unified. When they unify, the normal sequence of the elements is reversed. Even though this may
seem improper, there is a tremendous wisdom behind it.
Aristotle saw a way to distinguish living from nonliving beings. He saw that a living being can be defined
as any thing that has the ability to change its own form
and function. On the other hand, a non-living being can
be defined as any thing whose form and function can
only be changed by external forces acting upon it. This
distinction is a wise one.
When we observe all natural forces like lightning,
wind, rain, landslides, and volcanic eruptions, we see that
they behave like non-living things. They change each
other but dont show the ability to change themselves.
The basic interactions between the elements in fiveelement theory show that the elements act upon each
other in the same way that non-living elements do. This is
seen in the control cycle of five-element theory, where
balance is achieved by forces acting upon other forces.
Control cycles reflect how non-living beings are shaped
and formed by other external elements acting upon them.
But to understand how forces behave within living
beings, we must come to understand how the forces are able to change their own form and redefine
themselves. This is a different process than is described by 5-element theory.
All the natural forces of the environment become integrated within a self-sustaining living entity. This is
a prerequisite of life. The natural forces will no longer be independent of each other once they are unified
within a living being. They become dependent and integrated with each other. They have to communicate
with each other and work together to secure their proper expression within the whole. The matrix of the
spherical meridian flow shows this integration of the elements.
In a living being a natural force must have the ability to determine its own form and function in order to
be considered alive. The spherical meridian pattern has unified natural forces in such a way that allows them
to live as one being.
In regards to the Yin meridians of hand and foot, it was seen that the normal sequence of elements was
reversed. The reverse sequence is Water to Metal to Earth to Fire to Wood to Seed and back to Water. This
reversal allows elements to control their formation.
The wisdom of reversing the element cycle is brilliant. The forces of nature are unified in a way that
allows these forces to control their own formation. By reversing the normal sequence of the elements, each
element can then cultivate and take care of its mother element. By cultivating its mother element, each
element is able to influence its own formation. It is simple and brilliant.
The mother element generates its child element. In living beings the child is able to influence its own
development. The child element communicates its needs to its mother element. The mother element then
responds by generating its child in a refined and living way.
Even more, the child element is able to influence its own evolution. This points to a deep mystery of
evolution. Offspring actually have some control over the evolutionary process. In this sense, there would be
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various degrees to which offspring can influence evolution. We may find that at some point in the future,
the offspring exert a tremendous control over the evolution on this planet.
An example of how a child element influences its own development can be seen between the elements
of Wood and Seed in relation to Liver-Qi stagnation in premenstrual syndrome. Liver-Qi relates more to the
expression of the element Seed in six-element theory. Liver-blood relates to the element Wood. In clinical
practice Liver-Qi stagnation can be due to Liver-blood deficiency. When Liver-blood is sufficient, Liver-Qi
can move and regulate the body. When Liver-blood is deficient, Liver-Qi lacks support to move, loses its
root and begins to stagnate from deficiency.
In this example, Liver-blood is seen as the root of Liver-Qi. Or in other words, Blood is the root of Qi.
This is just like saying that Wood supports Seed. This example shows the reverse of the normal cycle where
Seed is the mother supporting Wood. Yet in a living being, there exists this mutual support and rooting
between elements. This is a powerful way to harmonize and unify the elements.
Once unified, the elements of nature come to know and respect their mother elements, which generate
them. And the mother elements come to know the children they support. In this way their destinies are
insured and evolution of living beings can progress wisely.
It is as if the rain has learned to cultivate the air that carries it; or that the mountains have learned to
cultivate the molten lava that creates them; or that the ocean has learned to cultivate the rivers that feed it;
or that the atmosphere has learned to cultivate the earth that breathes it into existence.
The deep truth is that life learns to cultivate the Primordial Power that gave it life in the first place. This
special process is only found in living conscious beings.
The reversal of the elements is natural. It distinguishes a living being from a non-living being. The
reversal is made possible only by the special unification of the elements into the spherical meridian flow.
The spherical pattern teaches a powerful lesson by reversing the normal flow of natures forces. It is the
ultimate lesson of life on Earth. It is a lesson of permanence, evolution and immorality. It is a lesson that
marks the difference between the independent chaotic forces of nature and the wise unification of those
forces to develop life. It is the utmost lesson of wisdom; learn to be humble and to care for that which
supports you. It is a lesson of how to take good care of the planet and people that give us life. We should
cultivate the Earth instead of simply taking from it.
By taking good care of the planet and the environment, a living being insures its existence. If we ravage
resources, we undermine the support for our lives. If we cultivate our resources, we insure support for our
lives and for future generations. If we dont cultivate our mother Earth, then according to the wise principle
of the spherical flow, we head down a path of lifelessness.
Do onto others as you would have them do onto you.
The meaning of this ancient saying is that we should support that which we would have support us. That
is the lesson of the reversing of the normal flow of natures forces. It is only through this lesson that life and
consciousness can form and change its own self. It is only through this lesson that we can distinguish
ourselves as living beings from non-living beings. Either there is inner chaos, or there is peace within. The
spherical matrix unifies the forces of nature thus insuring that peace comes first.
From the first moment of existence, ones Heart is in a place of the most absolute calm (it is free of
all desire); Heaven creates it in this state. Soon external objects act on it and produce diverse
movements; these are desires that add themselves to its nature (to its original state).
In the presence of external objects, one has the faculty (or the desire) to know them; when one
knows them, one experiences feelings of attraction for some and feelings of revulsion for others.
If one does not master these feelings, one lets oneself be drawn towards external things and
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becomes incapable of returning within oneself (and regulating the movements of the Heart); one
loses the good tendencies one has received from Heaven.
Liji, Yueji, Rooted in Spirit, p. 47
This quote says it all. We must be conscious not to let external factors change our original and pure
nature. We must return to that which gives us life in order to insure our lives. Returning to the source within
is an essential part of the natural expression of life: just like reversing the order of the elements with the Yin
meridians is part of the natural harmony of the spherical flow. There is much wisdom in all this.
If we allow the desires and forces of the external world to shape our own Hearts, we may as well be
lifeless. Only through cultivating our own Hearts and the spiritual source of our lives, are we truly alive.
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Page 3 of 3
Chapter 25 - The Polarity of the Six Divisions
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In meridian theory there are six divisions: Taiyang, Yangming, Shaoyang, Taiyin, Shaoyin and Jueyin.
Each division is one long meridian that consists of two meridians linked together. The two meridians that
link up in each division are different than those that pair up in the elements.
Divisions
Yangming
Taiyang
Shaoyang
Taiyin
Shaoyin
Jueyin
Meridians from Yin Elements
Meridians from Yang Elements
Stomach (earth)
Bladder (water)
Gall Bladder (wood)
Spleen (earth)
Kidney (water)
Liver (wood)
Large Intestine (metal)

Small Intestine (fire)
San Jiao (seed)
Lung (metal)
Heart (fire)
Pericardium (seed)
No element theory has ever been able to incorporate the unique meridian pairings of the six divisions
into its system of relationships. One cannot see the six divisions in the 5-pointed star of five-element theory
or in the six-pointed star of six-element theory. But the spherical meridian flow displays the six divisions in
a profound and impressive way.
In the spherical
meridian flow the
two meridians of
each division are
seen as polar
opposites of each
other. This means
that the other
meridian of the
division is found on
the complete
opposite side of the
spherical flow.
This polar
symmetry of the six
divisions is
completely hidden
within the twodimensional
geometry of sixelement theory. By
expanding sixelement theory to
the three
dimensions of the
spherical flow, the
hidden polar
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symmetry is revealed.
The discovery that the six divisions formed the polar opposites on the spherical flow was unexpected and
occurred a year after first seeing the spherical flow. Finding this polar relationship within the spherical
meridian flow was an enormous confirmation of the flow. It is simply fascinating to see that the six
divisions were completely and uniquely interrelated with the element relationships. The detail is astounding.
The polar relationship itself created a new understanding of just what the nature of the six divisions is. They
are not creative cycles as seen in element theories, but they have their own expression, which can only be
understood by contemplating on the nature and origin of the polar relationships.
In order to understand the polar relationship between the two meridians of each division, we need to
make sense of a contradiction. On one hand, the meridians are as far apart as possible on the spherical flow.
On the other, the two meridians of a division form one long meridian between fingers and toes. For example
the Taiyin meridian goes from the big toe all the way to the thumb, because the Spleen and Lung meridians
make one long meridian. So on one hand the meridians are very separate but on the other hand, they are
more intimately connected with each other than with any other meridian.
If you hold a ball in your right hand and look in a mirror, the reflection is holding the ball in its left
hand. If you move, the reflection will move. If you throw the ball to your right, the reflection will throw the
ball to its left, but in the same direction you threw it.
If you place your right hand and your left hand in a prayer position with the palms together, then take
your right hand and put it on a mirror, the reflection forms the prayer position with your right hand. This is
how the polar relationships express on the spherical flow.
This reflective relationship gives new insight into the question, what is the sound of one hand
clapping? The six divisions each form one meridian but these meridians have two sides. For example, the
contrast between Spleen and Lung within the Taiyin meridian allows the Taiyin meridian to clap. The Taiyin
meridian is one meridian in itself. That must be understood. But it must be understood that the two sides of
the Taiyin meridian are distinguishable.
The two polar meridians of a division express as one meridian. One difference between them is that one
of them is rooted in Yin Essence, and the other rooted in Yang Essence. Another difference is that they have
distinct connections to the other meridians of the spherical flow. Even though the two meridian halves of a
division are distinct and independent, they are still the same meridian.
Take for example the Jueyin meridian. Here the Liver and Pericardium meridians join at the breasts to
form one meridian. In the course of the Jueyin meridian not only does the Liver flow upward into the
Pericardium meridian, but that the Pericardium also flows into the Liver meridian. They share experience
with each other as one meridian. The Pericardium behaves very differently than the Liver, but their separate
experiences cant be isolated from each other. The Pericardium responds to every experience of the Liver
and vice versa.
The six polar opposites represent a developing truth about the universe. Some mathematicians now say
that the universe has an edge in the shape of a dodecahedron, which is similar to the shape of a soccer ball.
Opposite sides of the universe are connected. So if we were to reach pass through one edge of the universe,
we would reappear at the polar opposite edge. It would be like when one reaches the extreme edge of Lung
meridian; one reappears at the opposite edge of the Spleen meridian, since they form the Taiyin division.
It is possible to state that there are only six meridians in the body, corresponding to each of the six
divisions. It can then be said that each of these six meridians has two halves; each half diametrically
opposed to the other. One half is rooted in Yin Essence and the other in Yang Essence. The two halves meet
in the middle forming one meridian.
If one were to treat a disharmony in the Yangming meridian, the choice can be made to treat the Yang
Essence half, the Yin Essence half or both halves. According to the spherical flow, it is beneficial to treat
both halves, because this gives balance and unity to the meridian. As well this method further strengthens
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both halves, because this gives balance and unity to the meridian. As well this method further strengthens
the embrace of Yin and Yang Essences.
It is common practice that when treating a meridian, the meridian that is paired by division is also
treated. Pericardium is often treated for Liver stagnation. Large Intestine is often treated for stomachache.
San Jiao is often treated for hypochondriac Gall Bladder pain. Small Intestine is often treated for back
problems. This method of point selection confirms that each division is one meridian and that both halves of
the meridian affect each other.
In using the spherical model for meridian diagnosis, the polar reflection of the divisions through the
center of the sphere is combined with the Sheng generation around the surface of the sphere. This
integration greatly increases and enhances the meridian pathways that can be used for assessing the
movement of stress through the meridian landscape. This specific polar dynamic of the six divisions plays
an important role in applying the spherical model to acupuncture treatments.
In the previous section we saw how the four basic triangles of meridian theory merge into the spherical
flow. But the polar symmetry of the six divisions is a completely different perspective of meridian theory all
together. The fact that the six divisions have a unique and distinct symmetry within the overall spherical
flow not only is a confirmation of the spherical flow but also helps to describe the precise mechanism by
which the six divisions behave. That mechanism is one of stark contrast, as it were. With diametrically
opposed poles, the universe is unified.
Shaoyin - Heart & Kidney

This most basic of all contrasts is found in the constitution of a person. The contrast is between fire and
water. The creation of life must pass through the harmonizing of fire and water. If these two cannot be
harmonized, there will be no life. The fire of the Heart relates to the individual as a separate entity able to
survive on its own. The water of the Kidney relates to the non-separateness of an individual. We are all part
of one whole. In a sense none of us are separate from anything. These two represent real aspects of a living
being. The individual fire of the Heart is reflected and contrasted by the non-individualistic mist of the
Kidney. This is a huge contrast but one that must be reconciled in order for there to be life.
Point combinations:
Ht7 & Kd3 to balance Heart and Kidney and calm the mind.
Ht6 & Kd7 to regulate night sweating and reconnect Yin and Yang.
Ht7 & Kd9 to harmonize Heart and Kidney, nourish Kidneys and calm the mind. When fire and
water struggle for control of the mind and body, Heart and Kidney point combinations help to
calm the mind greatly.
Taiyang - Small Intestine & Bladder

The Bladder is easy-going and curiously open to all things. The Small Intestine is stiff and narrowminded in comparison. Their contrast is seen in the walking of ones path. The Bladder tends to stray from
the path because it looks around to see what is going on. The Small Intestine tends to stay on the path
because it is focused on the path. This contrast actually makes it possible for someone to walk their path
through life. There is a difference between knowing ones path and walking ones path. Knowing ones path
does not mean that one will walk the path. Walking ones path does not mean that one knows one path
either. The contrast between Bladder and Small Intestine is made when our life takes on a destiny or a
purpose. Staying on the path to our destiny is as important as being able to see the landscape through which
our paths cross. The landscape determines the path as much as the path flows with the terrain of the
landscape. Going straight up a mountain is not always the easiest or best way to reach the top. Finding the
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landscape. Going straight up a mountain is not always the easiest or best way to reach the top. Finding the
path through the landscape which leads to our destiny is important. Bladder relates to reading the landscape.
Small Intestine relates to keeping the path oriented toward the destiny. The two make an important and
basic contrast.
Point combinations:
SI2 & Bl64 for superficial visual obstruction as it relates to seeing ones path through the
confusing and ever-changing landscape.
SI3 & Bl60 to harmonize the rising and descending of Qi and expel wind as it relates to the
effects of the outer landscape on ones self-integrity and self-determination.
SI6 & Bl66 for same condition as in previous example.
SI3 & Bl62 for regulating the spine as the spine gives one the Backbone to stand their ground
and walk their path against the winds and forces that seek to take them off their path. These
points build resolve and the capacity to walk ones path.
SI5 & Bl58 for dizziness and eye pain that effects clarity and focus.
SI6 & Bl10 for blurring of vision due to lack of discernment which is an ability governed by
Small Intestine.
Shaoyang - Gall Bladder & San Jiao

The Gall Bladder represents the depth of the light within the sun. San Jiao represents the depth of the
water in the ocean. The sun is bright. The depth of the ocean is murky. These are two extreme contrasts of
life, but they reflect each other. The extreme depth of one is reflected in the others extreme depth.
Point combinations:
GB31 & SJ6 to expel wind and eliminate stagnation when the deep powers of the body are
blocked and unable to support circulation of Qi and blood.
GB44 & SJ1 for deafness due to ones spirit being drowned in the depths of the soul. One goes
within themselves and loses contact with the world.
GB15 & SJ3 for visual dizziness due to weakness of the light shining from the eyes. Gall
Bladder relates to the light that shines from the eyes in order to light up the world around us.
GB2 & SJ5 for impaired hearing and deafness due to ones hearing being immersed in the murky
depths of the San Jiao.
GB39 & SJ6 for wandering painful obstruction due to weakening resources of Qi and Blood in
the body.
Jueyin - Liver & Pericardium

The Liver likes to roam the world sharing in the many expressions of culture. Pericardium likes to stay
at home where it feels comfortable surrounded by its own familiar culture. These two expressions make an
extreme contrast. The freedom to explore the world is best contrasted by the comfort of ones own home.
The two reflect each other.
Point combinations:
Pc6 & Lv3 to move Liver Qi, release suppressed emotions.
Pc7 & Lv3 to calm the mind so that there is balance in the energy and enthusiasm to live.
Pc3 & Lv3 to clear heat and cool blood in skin diseases.
Taiyin - Spleen & Lung

The Spleen is the pure substance within any form. The Lung is the form that the pure substance takes on.
Form must have substance. Substance must have form. It is actually hard for some people to see the
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Form must have substance. Substance must have form. It is actually hard for some people to see the
difference between substance and form because they are so closely linked. But truly they make a very clear
contrast. For example, a sand castle is beautiful because it is pure form made from the pure substance of the
open sand of a beach. The sand relates to the Spleen. The form of the sand castle relates to the Lung.
Point combinations:
Sp3 & Lu9 to tonify Qi when substance and form are weakened. These points balance the
structural form of our body and our life so that we can function within our niche in society.
Sp10 & Lu5 to cool blood, especially when the skin is affected.
Sp2 & Lu8 for fever with absence of sweating due to heat being tramped in the substance of the
body and not being able to move out through the skin.
Yangming - Stomach & Large Intestine

This is the contrast between structure and design. Stomach relates to structure. Large Intestine relates to
design. The structure of any object shows its internal integrity. The design of any object shows its external
usefulness and purpose. The structure must support the design. As well the design honors and does justice to
the quality of the materials used. These two reflect a basic contrast within any manifestation of life.
Point combinations:
St36 & LI4 to harmonize the rising and descending of Qi in digestion.
St36 & LI10 as a general tonic combination for atrophy syndromes when structure and design are
being weakened.
St43 & LI11 to expel wind-damp-heat painful obstruction syndrome.
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Chapter 26 - Unified Theory of Meridian Dynamics
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Unified Integration of Independent Principles
The spherical meridian flow describes the specific relationships between all 12 individual meridians,
whereas six-element theory is only able to describe the relationships between six elements. In the spherical
flow each meridian has its own place. Therefore the complexity of meridian dynamics is much more allembracing in the spherical meridian flow.
Apart from embracing the total complexity of meridian relationships, the spherical flow integrates all the
distinct aspects of meridian theory into one pattern: element sequences, six divisions, Yin/Yang theory,
meridian complements, Foot and Hand meridians, and more that wont be covered in this book. This
integration is very powerful,
The spherical flow streamlines meridian theory by unifying all the diverse principles into one seamless
pattern. Current meridian theory is not integrated. I have seen students get so confused in classes of
meridian theory when they see that the diverse principles are not integrated. And then when their questions
are not answered clearly, they end up having to rationalize the confusion.
The diverse principles of meridian theory are all valid; its just that they dont integrate into the same
pattern. For example, the six divisions have a unique perspective. Six-element theory has its own unique
perspective. During diagnosis one is compelled to juggle a variety of views in order to determine the cause
of the stress in the meridians. One must pinpoint which principle directly caused the imbalance. Is it a
Yin/Yang imbalance? Is it an element imbalance? Is it an imbalance in the 6 divisions? Is it a control cycle
imbalance? Isolated perspectives like these fracture the wholeness of meridian theory.
In contrast, the spherical flow is like juggling one ball, because every perspective is intimately contained
within the same pattern of relationships. Juggling between one perspective and another is seamless.
The theory of the six divisions came about because a doctor realized their existence. He couldnt explain
his insight with existing theories. And now the spherical flow shows the polar relationship of them in 3dimensional space. With the spherical flow we can appreciate the extraordinary insights within the long
tradition of Chinese medicine. The total integration of the six divisions within the spherical flow is simply a
major breakthrough. The six divisions are now a very unique aspect of the whole meridian picture. This
integration has advantages for diagnosis and treatments.
New theories are first of all necessary when we encounter new facts, which cannot be explained
by existing theories. But this motivation for setting up new theories is, so to speak, trivial,
imposed from without. There is another, more subtle motive of no less importance. This is the
striving toward unification and simplification of the premises of the theory as a whole.
Albert Einstein, Scientific American, April 1950
The wholeness of meridian theory is completely unified in the spherical flow. All the distinct aspects of
meridian theory have blended into this one 3-dimensional pattern. In the spherical flow we can draw an
imbalance. Then without changing the drawing, we can discuss the imbalance from every perspective of
meridian theory. The spherical flow offers a unified and simplified vision of meridian dynamics.
For example, lets say that a practitioner of acupuncture has determined that the Stomach meridian is the
root of the illness. The practitioner then goes to the spherical flow and visualizes him/herself in the position
of the Stomach meridian on the spherical flow. The practitioner then looks around the sphere to see all the
various pathways that lead to and from the Stomach meridian. With knowledge of the unique symptoms and
signs of the illness, the practitioner can visually trace how the illness developed from the Stomach out to
other meridians by following pathways in the spherical flow.
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During diagnosis, the diverse complexity of meridian theory is simplified. The result is an effortless
switch between various principles. By simply following the pathways through and around the spherical
flow, one confidently accesses all the various principles of meridian theory at the same time. One doesnt
even need to be conscious of that. It becomes natural and second-nature to move through the pathways of
the spherical flow knowing that no aspect of meridian theory is being left behind. The spherical flow is the
one all-inclusive comprehensive pathway of all meridian theory. All the symmetries in the spherical flow are
perfect, consistent and complete within themselves.
In Albert Einsteins theories, the creative spark was the idea of symmetry. A symmetric object
remains the same even if it is transformed: reflected, rotated, distorted The idea is that the
more symmetrical the equations are, the more phenomena they encapsulate.
Scientific American, September 2004
The geometric symmetries of the spherical flow are extreme. We can differentiate them into specific
principles, but eventually we come to know the spherical flow as one complete pathway: a pathway of
harmony, adventure, stability and diversity. It is good to seek the holistic unity of purpose of the spherical
flow, where the spherical flow beats as one heart with one common purpose, with one common harmony.
Einstein searched for a Unified Field Theory of Physics, but never found it. Physicists and
mathematicians are still looking. The spherical flow presented in this book can be seen as the Unified Field
Theory of Metaphysics. If it can shed light on the search for the Unified Field Theory of Physics, that
would be wonderful.
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Chapter 27 - Homeostatic Synergy & Comfort Zones
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Comfort Zones
Comfort zones are loosely defined as conditions in which people feel comfortable. When people find
themselves outside of their comfort zones, they become stressed. To live outside of ones comfort zone
requires effort.
Conditions outside a comfort zone put stress on homeostasis. Thus, comfort zones are very useful for
detecting problems in homeostasis, and as such the causes of disease.
A comfort zone defines certain limits, which serve to protect our homeostatic synergy. Comfort zones
are natural and essential to survival. The idea is that if we live within those limits, we will increase our
homeostatic synergy. Likewise, we will have more power to withstand stresses.
Comfort zones not only protect us against real threats, like a forest fire, but also against imagined
threats, as seen in phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Imagined threats are not things that would
normally disrupt homeostasis, but the person imagines they will. For example, a person may have a phobia
of bird feathers. Whenever they see one, they go into a panic attack. It would seem irrational but it is
rational because the person experienced something in the past. The comfort zone remembers the experience
and is triggered by the bird feather.
Comfort zones do not monitor themselves as to whether they are realistic and rational. They are
designed for survival on a moments notice. They simply follow orders either from the subconscious, from
the neuro-endocrine feedback loops, or from learned behavior.
However, a comfort zone that is too strict or too loose will most likely lead to problems. But knowing
the balance of a comfort zone is a very tricky endeavor, because they have a certain amount of
vulnerability. Vulnerability implies an innate ability to adapt to abnormal conditions when the need arises.
Vulnerabilities in homeostatic synergy are not usually openly apparent. So to criticize anothers comfort
zone is not helpful, until you come to understand their internal vulnerabilities.
Case Study
Woman, 27, was in car accident 14 years earlier. While she was standing by the street, a car hit her. She was
told that she flew 100 feet. She was in a coma for weeks. She became quiet passive after the accident. Now
her periods would come every 6 to 8 weeks. She felt soreness in her lower back. Her right shoulder was
always stiff and sore. The car hit her on the right side. She gets confused easier, but somehow it makes sense
to her that things dont make sense. She was more receptive and vulnerable to external influences. When
talking her eyes would occasionally roll up and backward in what looked as if she was entering a trance
state.
I asked her to relax her arm completely while I moved it slowly in circles, up and down. The muscles in
her arm unconsciously resisted the movement. The resistance was very noticeable. She could not control it.
She could not let her arm completely relax.
Her wrist pulses told me much more. As my ring finger touched her kidney pulse, a low electrical buzz
vibrated up through my whole finger. It felt like touching a low voltage electrical outlet. My finger started
to cramp a little. I listened to the sensation in my finger and it helped me understand the expression of her
ailment.
Diagnosis
As a result of the accident, her kidney energy was devastated. To compensate for the weak kidney, the
bladder and small intestine channels went on hyper-alert status. These two meridians are complement
opposites to Kidney.
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opposites to Kidney.
She had been taken by complete surprise 14 years earlier and was not going to let it happen again. Her
body redirected Qi into the bladder channel because the bladder is the best at scanning the environment and
picking up on every little detail. It then communicates quickly to the body.
Qi was directed into the Small Intestine channel because it is the best at defending the vulnerabilities of
the kidney. The small intestine is like a security force that protects and defends. The small intestine was the
Qi causing her arm to resist free and natural movement. Her subconscious just could not trust me to move
her arm. It kept thinking that if it relinquished control, something bad would happen.
Her comfort zone of relaxation disappeared because of the accident. She was unable to let down her
guard. This is common with post-traumatic syndrome.
Treatment
Needles were placed in Wangu, SI4, Small Intestine source point to clear the small intestine channel of
obstruction. She instantly felt the soles of her feet start to burn she said. This sensation was due to the
complementary relationship between kidney and small intestine. The treatment then proceeded with a
meridian massage on the feet and calves to work out soreness.
As she sat up from the table, a spot behind her left ear became painful and she squinched. I saw this as a
blockage in the small intestine. I asked her to lie back down. Then I held her head in my hands and asked
her to relax her head completely while I slowly moved her head back and forth. Her head resisted the
movement. I rubbed Jianwaishu, SI 14, because even with just a little pressure it was very sore. The
soreness subsided and then her head began to move freely. A few gentle pops were heard in the musculature
as tension released. She remarked how good it felt that her head was able to move freely.
She bounced off the table with a smile. She left remarking how great she felt. Yet I knew a lot more
time would be needed to relax her subconscious.
The process of adjusting a comfort zone in order to maintain homeostatic synergy is a natural reaction to
changes in the environment. It is a profound process. An example of this is found in the aborigine of
Australia. Some aborigine can consciously lower their core body temperature in order to survive a cold
night under the stars. In the morning the sun warms their bodies back up again. That is a powerful example
of how conscious adaptation of a comfort zone preserves homeostatic synergy.
Many people cant feel homeostatic synergy, let alone know that it even exists. As such, it would be
impossible for them to consciously make adjustments to external or internal stresses. Normally people arent
apt to change their comfort zones or physiology. Their first response is to directly resist a stress rather than
adapt their own homeostasis. Consequently many people in the world could not survive a cold Australian
night in the outback. Adjusting a comfort zone to preserve homeostatic synergy requires wisdom and will
power.
To sense homeostatic synergy as it weakens or strengthens takes awareness and reflection. When
homeostatic synergy is the ultimate goal of ones thoughts and actions, then one will make appropriate
adjustments to their comfort zones. This approach maintains a healthy life, which gathers and then
preserves life-supporting power.
Comfort zones have to change as conditions of life change. The comfort zone of a newborn baby is very
different than that of a sexually active adult. For example, when a bachelor gets married, his comfort zone
with sexually attractive women should change to maintain homeostatic synergy in his family. If he is unable
to change that comfort zone and has many affairs, the family synergy is in danger. The wife may have to
change her comfort zone about infidelity. If she is unable to, then there may be a serious problem. The point
is that the homeostatic synergy within a marriage is at risk whenever the comfort zones dont match
expectations. If the expectations can allow freedom of behavior, then there is less risk.
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expectations. If the expectations can allow freedom of behavior, then there is less risk.
Drug companies have the purpose of producing drugs that will benefit people who are diseased. Their
financial comfort zone only supports drugs that can recoup the costs of research and development. Many
times a drug is rushed into the market, in spite of dangers that should be researched. The comfort zone to
insure profit is a powerful one for many people.
The modern economy is increasing productivity because employees work longer hours to maintain their
jobs. As companies streamline their payrolls, workers are challenged to enlarge their comfort zones to keep
their jobs. Workers make more and more sacrifices. They see less of their family and have less time for their
own personal interests. Modern life forces people to change healthy comfort zones into unhealthy ones.
Comfort zones are meant to satisfy the Heart and increase overall homeostatic synergy. When they
become sacrificed, the Primordial Power of life becomes diseased.
Another example of how a comfort zone can threaten homeostatic synergy and even life involves food.
There is a term comfort food, which describes food that satisfies an emotional emptiness. Such foods
include fatty foods, starchy foods, sweet desserts, coffee and alcohol.
Food is meant to nourish the physical body, but when people eat for emotional reasons, they tend to eat
food that is not balanced for the body. The result could be obesity, hypertension, digestive disorders or
diabetes. An emotionally unbalanced comfort zone for food can threaten long-term health. Once a person
adjusts their food comfort zone in a way that supports physical homeostatic synergy, they tend to eat less
and tend to eat more fruits and vegetables.
It takes awareness and will power to eat for the body and not for the emotions. To help someone
overcome emotional eating requires rebalancing internal emotional vulnerabilities and preparing balanced
meals for them.
Many people can handle changes in the environment. Whereas others complain, freak out or become
fatigued by having to adapt. They are intolerant of temperature, food, allergens, household chemicals,
sunlight, wind, dampness, and so on.
Physiologically, chemical sensitivities are increasing. Physical bodies are being challenged by ever more
prevalent industrial by-products. Auto-immune diseases are increasing. Some research shows that children
should test their immune systems by playing outdoors in the dirt. Dirt matures the immune system. Modern
life has lost contact with the Earth.
Comfort zones are also found in emotional sensitivities. People feel comfortable only showing a certain
range of emotions. Extreme emotions challenge comfortable behavior; such emotions include crying,
yelling, belly laughing, taking criticism, prolonged eye contact and even physical touching. Constraining
emotions leads to depression, headaches, fatigue, eating disorder, hypertension, Irritable Bowel syndrome,
and even fibromyalgia.
Internal & External Factors in Emotional Comfort Zones
The emotional experience of life is determined by internal and external factors. Internal Factors are
those within the mind-body of a person. They determine how one perceives and manages interaction with
the outside world. External Factors are those found in the outside world. They are the influences of other
people, culture, economics, politics, and environment.
Internal and external factors can both be supportive or pathogenic. Supportive factors are those that
strengthen ones homeostatic synergy. Pathogenic factors are those that weaken homeostatic synergy.
One has to look carefully at whether a factor is supportive or pathogenic. It is not always obvious. For
example, one a wife supports an alcoholic husband, by hiding his faults and sympathizing with his
problems, the wife is enabling his illness of alcoholism. Her actions are meant to support her husband, but
her actions actually support the alcoholism. The alcoholism undermines the health and integrity of the
husbands homeostatic synergy. His quality of life and health will suffer as a consequence. Her enabling is
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husbands homeostatic synergy. His quality of life and health will suffer as a consequence. Her enabling is
actually pathogenic to him.
The best way to determine if a factor is supporting or hurting homeostatic synergy is by focusing ones
awareness on the homeostatic synergy of the persons body-mind and assessing how it changes in response
to internal or external factors. If one notices that the homeostatic synergy decreases over time, then the
factor is pathogenic. The final judge is the health of the person.
Everyone has a long list of factors that they become dependent on. Some are basic to life; food, clothes,
shelter. Some would not be seen as basic to life: recreational drugs, shopping, gambling, pornography and
flattery. Dependencies, for the most part, are meant to maintain and support a certain level of homeostatic
synergy. Assessing the short-term and long-term effects of the dependencies is important. For example, the
short-term effects of alcohol at a social gathering help strengthen ones external supportive factors through
social bonding. Alcohol can help to break the ice in a relationship so that people open up. If a person
depends on alcohol to maintain their socially supportive relationships, the dependency becomes an
unhealthy one. The big problem comes when a person cannot function socially without alcohol. The longterm effects with continued use of alcohol create illness. The best use of alcohol is for its short-term effects
to aid in social bonding.
Emotions respond when the forces of life put stress on homeostatic synergy. Emotions can be described
by using external and internal factors, and whether they are supportive or pathogenic.
Pathogenic Emotions
Some emotions indicate that homeostatic synergy is under stress in one way or another. These emotions
seek to reveal personal weaknesses, as well as strong external pathogenic influences. The true way to treat a
pathogenic emotion is by treating the underlying weaknesses and the pathogenic influences. This assures the
long-term healing of a weakening emotion.
Worry happens when supportive external factors begin to weaken or when pathogenic external
forces begin to threaten the comfort zone. Either way the comfort zone constricts. Worry shows
a stagnation of internal supportive factors, which are unable to resolve a challenge. A situation is
left in limbo. Worry indicates a weakness in internal supportive factors. Worry will weaken
Spleen/Stomach, give shallowness to the Lung, and eventually stagnate the Heart, Liver and
Pericardium.
Anger happens when a comfort zone is put under enough pressure to make it react with the
internal will to battle against external factors and forces. Anger indicates that ones internal
desires battle against external factors that dont support those desires. Ones desires may be
unrealistic or unacceptable. As well the external factors may simply be unsupportive of healthy
desires. Anger will overemphasize the firmness of the Stomach, push the gentle nature of the
Liver to aggressiveness, and push the Heart to extremes.
Fear happens when supportive external factors abandon someone and when pathogenic external
forces overpower internal strengths. The person wants to run to a safe comfort zone. Fear
indicates a weakness in internal supportive factors. Fear will over stimulate the Bladder meridian
to exhaustion, disperse the Kidney meridian which needs to be astringed, and weaken the
courage of the Gall Bladder.
Joy happens when supportive external factors over-inflate the comfort zone or when pathogenic
external forces subside. The comfort zone by over-inflating and lets down its guard. A person
becomes less aware of danger and threats in joy. Joy indicates a dependency on external factors.
Joy will disperse the Pericardium, which needs tighter controls, inflate the Heart, and perforate
the Lung Qi.
Sadness happens when supportive external factors are felt to weaken. The person feels a loss of
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support and friendship. The supportive factor may leave in some way. It is a sign of dependency
by the comfort zone on supportive external factors. Sadness stagnates the Lung, pushes Kidney to
excess, and depletes the firmness of the Stomach.
Guilt happens when supportive external factors seek to change ones comfort zone to be more in
line with accepted normal zones. The comfort zone itself comes under scrutiny and judgment,
and becomes unsteady. Guilt indicates a stagnation of internal supportive factors, which are put
into doubt. Guilt undermines self-esteem, by weakening the element Seed, which in turn will not
nurture the self-esteem of the element Wood. Guilt unsettles the Pericardium, disturbs the Lung,
constricts the San Jiao, and undermines Liver, Heart and Gall Bladder.
Doubt happens when the supportive internal factors lose familiarity with the conditions of life or
when one no longer identifies with external supportive factors. Doubt holds the comfort zone in a
state of inaction. The comfort zone is vulnerable to upset during doubt. Doubt constricts the
Pericardium, undermines the Heart and Small Intestine, confuses the Kidney, weakens the Gall
Bladder, and disturbs the Bladder.
Self-destructiveness happens when pathogenic internal factors prevail and threaten comfort zone
from within. Negative thoughts and obsessiveness threaten ones comfort zone like an infection
from the inside. The only treatment is to clean out the negative and destructive thoughts from the
normal thought processes of the mind. Self-destructiveness can affect any meridian. Certain
internal beliefs or attitudes can infect the healthy expression of related meridians.
o Hatred affects the Stomach and Kidney.
o Criticism directed at another affects ones own Bladder, Heart, Liver and Pericardium.
o Blaming affects the Kidney, Lung, Stomach, and San Jiao.
o Superiority affects the Kidney, Liver, and Spleen.
o Feeling sorry for oneself affects all the Yang meridians of Hand and Feet.
o Revenge affects the Liver, San Jiao, Heart and Kidney.
o Recreational Drug use affects the Liver, Spleen, Heart-Kidney relationship, Bladder,
Small Intestine, and Large Intestine.
o Hopelessness & Suicidal thoughts affect Kidney, Pericardium, San Jiao, Gall Bladder,
Liver, Heart, Stomach, Small Intestine, Large Intestine, Lung, Spleen and Bladder. All of
them. The whole unified system of the meridians is collapsing.
Supportive Emotions
Some emotions simply strengthen healthy homeostatic synergy.
Generosity is based on abundant supportive internal factors that through giving actually expand
supportive external factors. Generosity shows a healthy relationship between Liver and Stomach.
Firmness shows internal strength to the comfort zone. In many cultures women feel it is
important that their men show firmness. The man must stand his ground and display selfconfidence. Firmness shows an ability to handle difficult situations with resoluteness. This
emotion is based on a healthy relationship between the Heart and Stomach meridians.
Adventurousness results from strong internal supportive factors that have been nurtured and
cultivated over a period of time. The person feels comfortable with who they are enough to
travel and meet people from other cultures and ways of life. They are able to overcome the
stresses of culture shock. Adventure shows a healthy relationship between Liver and
Pericardium.
Intimacy & friendships strengthen the bonds of supportive external factors. This emotion
indicates a healthy Lung and Pericardium.
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Congeniality shows that a person is able to harmonize with others. This emotion strengthens
external supportive factors. This emotion indicates an active Lung meridian.
Flexibility & Resiliency show that the comfort zone can adapt if need be to pathogenic external
forces. This emotion indicates a healthy Spleen.
Courage shows a strong reservoir of internal support in order to meet the challenges of the day in
order to preserve and defend ones comfort zone. This emotion indicates a healthy Gall Bladder.
Passion shows that supportive internal factors are in abundance and able to express within the
comfort zone. This emotion shows a healthy relationship between the Pericardium and Heart
meridians.
Discernment is the ability to judge right from wrong. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy
homeostatic synergy. A person needs to be able to make the right decisions in life in order to
insure long-term health. This emotion shows a healthy Small Intestine meridian.
Faith & Patience allow the supportive internal factors to overcome worry and fear. It buffers the
need to fight against pathogenic external forces. This keeps the comfort zone from shrinking.
This indicates a healthy relationship between Kidney and Pericardium.
Relevance is when a person allows only relevant factors a place in their life. This simplifies the
impact on the comfort zone by any force. If a pathogenic external force is not relevant to ones
life, the comfort zone need not change. It is equally good to know when a force is relevant to
ones comfort zone. This emotion indicates a healthy relationship between Lung and San Jiao.
Mindfulness gives awareness of external and internal factors and the changes going on. This
awareness helps the comfort zone immensely to express effectively. This emotion indicates an
active Bladder meridian.
Purity is a humble emotion of simplicity. Purity represents a basic and strong homeostatic
synergy. Complications in life destabilize homeostatic synergy. Purity results from the resolution
of those complications. Purity indicates an uncomplicated and healthy Spleen.
Forgiveness shows that a person is able to liberate their comfort zone from previous stresses and
move on freely with their life. For many people, it is very hard to forgive what they perceive as a
threat to their homeostasis, whether that threat is personal or cultural. Forgiveness widens a
comfort zone so as to neutralize and absorb a threat. Forgiveness increases tolerance. It is more
than a coping mechanism; it is an act that strongly empowers homeostatic synergy by liberating
the comfort zone.
Trust happens when an unfamiliar external force begins to become a supportive external factor.
This is a careful process of not letting a pathogen enter the inner circle of the comfort zone. Trust
issues indicate that the Large Intestine is active.
Peace & Quiet cause the comfort zone to stabilize naturally. Pericardium and Kidney rejuvenate
most favorably to peace and quiet.
Peaceful Meditation enhances supportive internal factors causing the comfort zone to expand in
spite of any external factor or force. When done properly, which is actually quite rare, all
meridians strengthen their overall harmony.
Healing Homeostatic Synergy

Healing homeostatic synergy is achieved in 2 other ways; by reducing the external chaotic stress and by
strengthening internal homeostatic synergy.
Reducing External Chaotic Stress
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Reducing an external stress directly will take the pressure of homeostatic synergy. Consequently disease
will diminish and life will flourish. Many times one does best to mature the level of his/her internal
homeostasis in order to deal effectively with the realities of the external world. When the proper
adjustments are made, synergy returns and we go on living healthfully.
Examples of reducing external stress;
If a person watches too much TV news about the world, they can develop anxiety, unease and
insomnia. Reducing TV time will eventually settle them back down.
If a friend cant pay the rent and you have some extra money, you can help pay the rent. This
relieves stress.
If the sun is too hot, a hat will help.
If a woman is being beaten by her husband, removing her from the home will eliminate the abuse
and give her chance to make sense of things.
If a food is causing an allergic reaction, eliminating it from the diet will help.
If there are mosquitoes biting someone, a little repellant will reduce the biting, and the person will
be more at ease.
Antacid tablets reduce acidity in the stomach to relieve discomfort, even though they interfere with
proper digestion.
Strengthening Internal Homeostatic Synergy
Homeostasis can be diseased internally. By supporting or repairing the internal mechanisms of our
homeostasis, we become stronger and healthier.
Not only does our physiology have homeostatic mechanisms, but also are emotions and thoughts too.
Our internal homeostasis even extends to our social connections. Any aspect of our lives that builds inner
peace and security is part of our internal homeostasis.
Family and friends are integral to supporting our lives. They help us to flourish in the same way that
primordial soup helped life flourish. With their support and many times just their presence, we feel stronger.
Then when a stress confronts us, we not only have our emotions and thoughts to help us, but others too. The
ultimate goal is to have balanced and strong emotions that can stand on their own, as well as supportive
people to lend a helping hand.
Physiologically we can use such things as medications, surgery, diet, and exercise to restore homeostatic
health. Stress disrupts physiological functions. Many times medications will help to restore physiological
homeostasis, but the emotional stress that caused the illness may still remain.
For example, Prozac is used to neutralize the internal physiology of depression, but it cant change the
depressive conditions of life. Once again, pathogenic emotions should not be treated directly, because they
are the messengers that bring news of the real problem. Prozac disables the messenger. The logic is no
news is good news. But one does not learn to overcome the challenges of their life.
Emotionally we can change our attitude, become more forgiving, or learn to overcome fears. We can
learn to meditate in such a way as to calm our internal biochemistry. Internal homeostatic mechanisms love
calm meditation, because it is just like the calm of the original primordial soup. Many diseases, like IBS and
hypertension, diminish with stress reduction techniques and meditation.
Mentally we can learn not to overstress our brains. We can minimize over-thinking and worry. We can
learn patience when a problem cant be solved. We can learn coping strategies, like humor, to minimize
internal stress. Prayer is receiving a lot of attention currently because it has been shown to help during the
recovery from an illness. Prayer strengthens ones internal and social homeostasis.
Socially we need to develop support systems. The main ones are work, family, friends, groups/clubs and
a primary healthcare provider. Support systems are actually an integral part of internal homeostasis because
they are called upon to withstand external stresses. Many times a support group is the only resource that can
help us deal with a certain stress.
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help us deal with a certain stress.

There was research once done by feeding rabbits a diet that would lead to hardening of the arteries. But
one time the group of rabbits that should have developed hardening of the arteries didnt develop it. The
researcher called up the research assistants and wanted to know what went wrong. Did they give the wrong
food? It turns out that nothing was done wrong, everything was done to strict protocol, except for one thing.
The woman who was taking care of the specific group of rabbits would pet them and play with them on her
break time everyday. This group did not develop hardening of the arteries even though previous results
showed they should have. The researcher decided to run the experiment again, asking the woman to do
exactly as she had done before, pet and play with the rabbits everyday. The same result happened again.
Those rabbits did not develop hardening of the arteries.
This shows the power of love from a friend to nourish the synergy of homeostasis. Its power can
overcome the effects of a bad diet.
A primary healthcare provider should be someone who looks at every aspect of your life and
understands all the factors that affect your homeostatic synergy. They should know how to help you blend
all these factors in a balanced way in order to create synergy in your life. They should not just look at your
physical body, but also your diet, your emotions, your mind, your social connections, your home, your
culture, your aspirations and spiritual development. When all these blend together harmoniously, your life
and health are powerful.
Many people separate the various aspects of a healthy life. They work hard during the week and think of
eating and exercising right on the weekend. Or they sleep in too late on the weekend trying to make up for
lost rest. Or even worse, they take out their work stress on their family, because they were not able to
express their frustrations at work. Or they take medications without learning how to adjust the emotional and
social stresses.
When we value diet as much as work. When we balance rest with activity. When we learn to live in
Yin/Yang homeostasis as the ancients did, we will no longer struggle to eat right, or to exercise right, or to
reduce stress right, or to be happy all the time. We relax into a primordial calm, an inner peace. Inner peace
is a sign of a nourished internal homeostasis.
When we help someone live with more calm in mind, body and emotions, we have given them a
powerful ability to live a long healthy life. The calm of the primordial soup did just that. Its synergy allowed
life to flourish on this Earth. So it is by remembering, understanding and practicing the synergy of the
primordial soup, that we foster inner peace and help our lives flourish.
Physiologic Homeostasis
When we look at our bodies, we notice that all homeostasis is being regulated to some degree. Every
physiological function in the body is controlled by homeostasis. The majority of homeostasis is governed by
the hypothalamus and the neuro-endocrine systems. Interstitial fluids are important to homeostasis in the
body. The body regulates homeostasis by adjusting hormone levels in the interstitial fluids.
Homeostasis in all organisms is continually attacked by stress, internal and external. It is a fact in
physiology that without homeostasis there is disease and death. Likewise, the homeostatic power of the
primordial soup has survived for millions of years within all organisms. That power of the primordial soup
had to be maintained for life to survive. So it is that, even as life evolved to move out into the chaos,
physical bodies have never lost total contact with the primordial soup. If the connection to the original soup
were lost, a bodys integrity would disintegrate immediately.
So the main obstacle for life to survive in the chaos of nature was to maintain the calm homeostatic
synergy of the primordial soup. In effect, the primordial soup is still under attack by chaos. But nowadays,
much of the chaos is of our own making. We stress each other out. We compete and war with each other.
Our society overworks us. We consume products to stimulate our senses and bolster our self-confidence.
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Our society overworks us. We consume products to stimulate our senses and bolster our self-confidence.
The enormous stimulation surrounding us is a form of chaos that tests and attacks our homeostasis.
It must be said that chaos can make us stronger if we learn to protect our homeostasis. But homeostasis
will always be a fragile balance that can be destroyed. If people are stressed out long enough, their
homeostasis will breakdown, and they will develop disease, as we see happening all over the world now.
Achieving Homeostatic Synergy
Homeostatic synergy is a quiet power. It is an invisible potential to support life and healing.
The physical body is a biochemical soup, but when this soup reaches a perfect state of homeostasis
where all the constituents are in perfect balance, synergy results. This synergy is powerful. It results in
optimal health. Its like a finely tuned engine that hums smoothly and cleanly at all speeds. Achieving this
state of synergy is the ultimate goal of healthcare.
Likewise, the mind is another soup of attitudes and emotions. The mind balances courage, faith,
tolerance, resiliency, freedom of thought, passion, reaching out, humor, ethics, discernment, mindfulness,
intimacy and relevance. When all these attitudes are balanced and able to adapt to changing situations, there
is a powerful synergy in the mind that develops. One can effectively deal with any challenge or opportunity.
Once homeostasis is reached, it is tricky for many to maintain it. Many easily squander the power of
synergy. They feel so full of life that they waste it in some reckless or immature way. They dont know to
preserve it and cherish its presence.
Homeostasis also has to adapt in order to maintain its synergy. It has to change appropriately as
conditions of life change, like weather, war or love. One must eventually develop flexibility to maintain
harmony. Knowing when homeostasis is stuck in a pattern that is inhibiting life takes wisdom. Transforming
the homeostasis to a healthier pattern takes faith, willpower and positive emotions.
Homeostatic Synergy in Medicine
The main approach of prescribing drugs in modern medicine does not seek homeostatic synergy, but
rather repair of what is broken or symptom relief. This is not the way in which the primordial soup created
life. Primordial Power did not repair life, nor did it suppress its discomfort and pain. Primordial Power gave
life a power to overcome all the obstacles of the world. Life now covers the Earth. Life did not hide from
the challenges of the world.
The use of modern medications results in side effects. Side effects show that a disease is part of a whole
body system with an overall state of homeostasis. When we target treatment on the symptom of the disease,
the cause will find other symptoms to express the problem.
An analogy is when a beehive is directly disturbed, the whole colony will respond. As a beekeeper, I
learned that if I approached a beehive with calmness they were less apt to resist my presence. Medications
are an intrusion into the bodys own efforts to regulate homeostasis. Yet if the medications are presented in
a way that simulates the calm homeostasis of the body, they are less apt to trigger resistance or side effects.
The modern use of medications does not have the subtle wisdom to perfectly regulate overall
homeostasis. Even with insulin, the dose changes everyday and still it is a hit or miss method. Nothing beats
the internal feedback loops that fine-tune the physiology of the body. The hypothalamus blends internal
physiology, with emotional feelings and perceptions of the external environment to masterly regulate
physiological homeostatic synergy.
Specified dosages of a prescription do not simulate the ebb and flow of our physiology. Because of that,
medications achieve synergy only in a random way. To think that anti-depressives can fluctuate with the
tides of daily existence, when given in specific doses, is unwise. Specific doses rob the body of its ability to
change its homeostatic synergy from day to day. Even worse is when a person tries to adjust the dose of
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change its homeostatic synergy from day to day. Even worse is when a person tries to adjust the dose of
their medication to how they feel from day to day. This person will never find balance. They will waver
back and forth, never knowing exactly how they will feel the next day. Their mind and emotions have lost
contact with the natural flow of the tides, with the natural flow of the Moon and with the natural flow of the
seasons.
Many drugs are said to have a synergistic effect, in that their actions are potentiated when used together.
This is a different perception of synergy than existed in the primordial soup and what is understood by
homeostatic synergy. The nature of homeostatic synergy is not to make the actions of drugs stronger, but to
harmonize the body with subtlety. The synergy in the body is a subtle power not measured by increased
strength but by increased harmonic potential.
A friend of mine, named Tieraona, who is a Native American medicine woman from the Lakota Sioux
tribe, once said that in healing with herbs all the body needs is just a nudge in the right direction. Her use of
herbs was not to go to war against the disease or take over control where the body had gone weak, but to
humbly nourish the persons own inner power of synergy.
Ancient Chinese herbal medicine is based upon blending various herbs in a way that supports the
internal homeostatic synergy of the body. Various groups of herbs are combined to treat a disease. The
various groups complement each other according to the overall pattern of the disease. By doing this, the
herbal formula complements the needs of homeostatic synergy. Thereby the holistic nature of the disease is
treated.
Two people with the same disease by western medical standards will be treated very differently
according to Chinese herbal medicine. Each has unique associating factors that contribute to the condition.
The result is that there are minimal side effects during the course of healing. When an herbal formula
perfectly complements a disease, the disease will disappear in a way that seems magical and effortless.
An herbal formula seeks to achieve a synergistic effect within the patient, whereby all the bodys
systems are unified and harmonized. The disease is then overcome through the balancing and empowering
of internal homeostatic synergy.
The sophistication required to achieve such an herbal formula is as profound as it is elegant. It is
essential to understand and diagnose how the various systems of the body interact, and then be able to treat
at that sophisticated level. Western medicine has not developed this degree of sophistication.
When you commit to harmony and synergy, you are healing at deep levels. If you help others achieve
inner synergy, you have helped them exactly like the primordial soup helped life flourish around the world.
World Homeostatic Synergy
Modern life is disrupting homeostatic synergy around the world. Forests and animals are being uprooted.
Cultures are being fragmented and replaced through globalization. There is a disconnect being created
between people and their ancestral lands. Economic growth is continually consuming cultural heritage and
resources around the world.
The modern diseases of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) syndrome and Toxicant-induced Loss of
Tolerance (TILT) are said to possibly represent a new disease paradigm. They are associated with increases
in asthma, migraine headaches, depression, allergies and chronic fatigue syndrome.
The homeostatic synergy model explains these diseases in the following way. Chronic stresses that force
people to live outside of natural comfort zones ultimately undermine homeostatic synergy. Eventually there
is a breakdown or collapse of internal synergy. Common symptoms of these diseases reflect this internal
collapse; chronic discomfort, fatigue, loss of concentration, depression, memory loss, dizziness, headaches
and heat intolerance.
The desire to go home is getting stronger among peoples around the world. Home is a place of
personal power and of being nourished. The original home for all life was the primordial soup. Homeostatic
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personal power and of being nourished. The original home for all life was the primordial soup. Homeostatic
synergy will only tolerate so much chaos of the modern global economic society.
The humble power of homeostatic synergy is the most powerful living force in nature; one that modern
people would do good to incorporate back into their way of life.
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Chapter 28 - Overview & Perspectives
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The spherical meridian flow shows a deeper complexity of meridian dynamics than has ever been seen
before. The ancient doctors of acupuncture understood it, but never deciphered it directly. Its discovery
marks a point in time that distinguishes the past of meridian theory from the future. We can now see exactly
what the ancients abstractly understood. Still there will be more for future generations to discover.
We always keep in mind that the spherical meridian theory is not just general theory about how elements
in nature interact. The spherical flow represents an actual living matrix of energy that exists within each of
us at a deeper dimension. That matrix of energy is the spherical Heart matrix that mystics have talked about
for millenniums. The Heart matrix has dominion over our lives. It manages the flux of meridian dynamics
and the changes of our personalities, Spirits and souls.
Any theory would love to completely describe the expressions of the Heavenly Heart and the Essences
and Spirits that flow from it. But a description is not enough. To really know the actual profound harmony
of the Heart takes more than book learning or a prescribed number of hours in school. One learns to calm
their own Heart, to purify it of pathogenic emotions and thoughts, to forgive when others know not what
they are doing, and to keep the Heart free and open so that its resonating power overcomes all destructive
forces of nature. Then one is able to treat the Hearts of others through acupuncture.
The Heart is the sovereign-masterthrough it the Blood and Breaths flow and circulate; the spaces
of yes and no are overrun by it at a full gallop; the one hundred matters come and go through
the doors and openings.
For this reason, one who, not having full possession of his/her Heart, meddles at imposing norms on
the Breaths of the empire, can be compared to a person who, having no ears, claims to tune bells
and drums, or one who, lacking vision, says he/she enjoys art. Neither is able to bring to
completion the role he/she claims to take charge of.
This sacred vase, which is the empire, cannot be manipulated by ones will. He/she who would
manipulate it fails; it escapes the one who would grasp it.
Huainanzi, Chapter 1, Rooted in Spirit, p.50
Think of the Heart and its meridian dynamics as a thick over-grown jungle, fertile and teeming with
varied life; vines growing out of control, trees reaching high into the sky to escape the undergrowth, hordes
of insects chewing and pollinating. The living power of the jungle is spontaneous and wild in its raw
harmony.
There is order in a jungle but it is a primordial order that developed over millions of years: where the
balance of death nourishes life. When can we say that a jungle is diseased? Only when its Primordial Power
that supports life is diseased. Otherwise it will always and eventually survive any setback.
The modern acupuncturist dares to go into a patients meridian jungle and be the authority of the jungle.
Acupuncture seeks to bring harmony back to the meridians, to free them of blockages and to raise their
spiritual development. Unless one possesses the authority of the Heart, their actions are simply foolish.
Like the above quote says, He/she who would manipulate it fails.
Ask yourself, would you really dare go into a jungle and change it according to how you think it should
be? The natural and fluid complexity is beyond your ability to formalize into rules of harmony. Modern
acupuncture is designed to manipulate the meridians according to its own formalized rules of harmony. Yet
the meridian jungle is exceedingly wise, mysterious and primal. The primordial consciousness has the ability
to absorb through resonance the weaknesses and strengths in your treatment. That consciousness then
adjusts the meridians. It is right to humble ourselves to this consciousness.
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I hear many acupuncturists talk about intent. They say that it doesnt matter how one needles or even if
the perfect points are chosen, what really matters is the intent behind the needling. This is a clear sign that
one is trying to manipulate or override the authority of the Heart whether they realize it or not. They are not
humbling themselves to the natural Primordial Intent of the Heart. The patients Heart watches from deep
within consciousness, and takes notice of the foolishness. The wise Heart surveys the situation and knows
not only what is in the conscious mind, but also in the subconscious mind. The Heart is completely aware of
how deep your treatment goes. It is always the Heart that determines the changes made during a treatment.
The Heart is the rooting of life, the place where changes are made by the Spirits.
Suwen, Chapter 9, p. 32
The Heart has the responsibility of sovereign and master; it gathers and presides over the Spirits and
their beneficent influences, and it places itself in a triad with Heaven and Earth; in this way it
takes on the burden of the Ten Thousand Beings.
Zhang Jiebin
An acupuncturist can be deluded to think he/she is in control. If the patient gets better, the acupuncturist
thinks his/her actions healed the disease. If the patient doesnt improve or even gets worse, he/she may say
that acupuncture wont work in such a condition. Either way, they never had the authority to make the
changes in the first place.
An acupuncturist may produce all kinds of changes in the patient through a force of personality, faith or
some level of hypnotism. A weakened or even a tormented person will give up personal authority to
someone in control in order to survive. Their behavior will change and acquiesce to the demands of the
authority. If a patient shows dependency on or worship for the treatments of an acupuncturist, the treatments
are like a crutch until the person can stand on their own feet.
An acupuncturist can be a positive and supportive influence in a patients life. There is always an
opportunity to regenerate the Primordial Power within the patients own Heart. Clearing the pathogenic
influences and the sins of the soul unburden the Heart.
An acupuncturist may try to subdue the vast wildness of the meridians with an exact theory, just like a
landscaper replaces an old-growth forest with manicured lawns and trimmed bushes. The overgrowth is kept
to a minimum. Randomness is minimized. Beauty becomes a reproducible image that imitates nature.
Conformity to this image becomes inevitable. Life in this way seems more refined, but it is as unnatural and
artificial as a clothed monkey in a circus giving regularly scheduled shows.
Whether we humble ourselves to the jungles vast and complex harmony or we seek to subdue the
jungle to our own manageable designs, the Heart of the jungle, meaning our own Heavenly Hearts, simply
watches what we do. There exist two truths, what we think is truth and what is truth.
There are but two events in the world; that which was in existence before consciousness began to
assert itself, is now, and ever shall be; and the things that humanity has thought and will think
about. That which was before consciousness began, is eternal; that which humanity thinks is
changeable and inconstant; that which was, before consciousness began, is Truth; that which
humanity thinks is truth, is truth to them. When the law of Truth comes to consciousness, it will
erase all that humanity has ever thought erroneously.
In acupuncture it would be wise not to subdue the meridian jungle to views that might be erroneous.
Wouldnt it be better to be guided by the eternal law of truth? Ask yourself if you would want your
meridians to be manicured and trimmed according to civilized theories. Here are wise words of caution
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meridians to be manicured and trimmed according to civilized theories. Here are wise words of caution
written long ago.
In every case where the Heart is encumbered by formalized knowledge, life is lost.
Guanzi, Chapter 37, Xinshu, The Art of the Heart
Does one normally see wild animals living comfortably within manicured lawns and trimmed bushes?
No. They are shooed out because they dont belong there. Wild animals require the overgrowth of plants for
hiding and moving safely. They dont belong in formalized landscapes. Formalized landscapes reflect the
insecurities of the human mind.
It is not wise to apply formalized theories onto the Heart and expect the Heart to give up its wild nature
and acquiesce. Within the spiritual depth of acupuncture it is foolish to have that expectation unless of
course you want to live according to the authority of formalized theories. That is your choice. Your healing
will occur allowing you to live within the limitations of formalized theories, but the freedom, authority and
vast potential of your Heart will be sacrificed until you are able to free yourself and move on.
The key to acupuncture treatments is to resonate with the Heart of the patient, whether consciously or
unconsciously. One can become aware of what that resonance feels like. It is the Primordial Power of the
Heart. One can generate and preserve that resonance within him/herself. Then one can better regenerate and
encourage that resonance in others.
To be effective, and at the same time not violate the organism, the acupuncturist goes all the way to
the origin of the patients life, to that place where the Spirits are rooted
For every needling, the method is above all not to miss the rooting of the Spirits.
Lingshu, Chapter 8, Lines 2-3
Since the Spirits are rooted in the Heart, the acupuncturist goes all the way to the Heart. This is done by
resonating with the Primordial Power of the patients Heart. The power sought for healing is found within
the patient. That Heart power within the patient regenerates their life and the healing comes from within.
The power to heal can be obtained only as we learn to trace things out from their source. Supremacy
over every discord can come only in the degree that we understand that they do not come from
God. The divinity that shapes your destinies is not a mighty person molding you as a potter
molds his clay but a mighty divine power within and all around you and around and in all
substance which is yours to use as you will.
It is not enough to define what Primordial Power is or what homeostatic synergy is. An acupuncturist
proves his/her commitment by experiencing it. The power of homeostatic synergy is what an acupuncturist
seeks by harmonizing and balancing the meridians. In order to cultivate that synergy in a patient,
acupuncturists must have experience in cultivating their own.
The perfectly symmetrical and spherical Heavenly Heart is the ultimate master at harmonizing the
meridians. It has an infinite number of ways to do it. Each way has a special purpose and function. Its
intelligence and cunning, if you will, is all-embracing. The normal human mind cannot grasp the infinite
number of ways that the Heavenly Heart expresses, because the normal human mind judges and critiques the
Heart according to its own limited theories. As long as the Heart has the freedom to express its natural
harmony, there will be health. When that infinite freedom is manipulated by us, life will be shallow and
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harmony, there will be health. When that infinite freedom is manipulated by us, life will be shallow and
stressful on the Heart.
The key to acupuncture is to free the Heart of encumbrance and constraint. Then the Hearts primordial
potential can resonate in ones life.
From the first moment of his/her existence, ones Heart is in a place of the most absolute calm (it is
free of all desire); Heaven creates it in this state. Soon external objects act on it and produce
diverse movements; these are desires that add themselves to its nature (to its original state).
In the presence of external objects, one has the faculty (or the desire) to know them; when one
knows them, one experiences feelings of attraction for some and feelings of revulsion for others.
becomes incapable of returning within oneself (and regulating the movements of ones Heart);
one loses the good tendencies one has received from Heaven.
Liji, Yueji, Rooted in Spirit, p. 47
Life usually doesnt allow the Heart to express its true nature through the individual being. External
forces act upon the Hearts nature. The Heart actually receives those forces. Most people end up living a life
that is not their own, but living a life that conforms to pressures and traditions in the world around them.
The goal of healing is to return within, to ones own Heart, and to regulate the Primordial Power there. The
authority of the Heart is calm, forgiving and able to overcome every situation.
The serious practitioner of the Art of the Heart (Xin shu) keeps lust and desires at a distance, and
also attractions and revulsions.
From this we see that the bringing up of excessive joy and anger or of deep joy and bitterness, are
for the Ten Thousand Beings primitive communion that must be neither affirmed nor denied, but
must move through the transformations, nourish and reach the mystical brightness, living a life
that looks like death.
Huainanzi, Chapter 1, Rooted in Spirit, p. 50
The Art of the Heart is a practice of not only purifying the Heart of external encumbrances, but of living
a life upon the power and authority of ones own Heart. The one who practices this Art nourishes the
Primordial Power of the Heart. This one is guided by the wisdom of that power. The one who masters this
Art is as wild as the jungle, as silent as the passing mist, as free as the wind, as empty as water falling, as
firmly rooted as tall trees and as boring as decaying vegetation. This one knows that to create life is to
resonate with the Heart of life.
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Six Elements and Chinese Medicine

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Six Elements and Chinese Medicine

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Creating Life

its ongoing journey.

One who remains where one is, lasts.

an individual, in a relationship, in a family, in a group, in a culture or in a world.

Chapter 1 - Primordial Power

Chapter 1 - Primordial Power

Chapter 1 - Primordial Power

Chapter 1 - Primordial Power

heal if used appropriately.

Chapter 1 - Primordial Power

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Yang elements through the Yang triangle.

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 - Six Element Theory

Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

Chapter 3 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

Metal and Wood

Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

elements, which are not transforming Spleen substance.

Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

Chapter 2 Perspectives on Six-element Theory

These treatments are effective ways to strengthen either Yin or Yang.

Chapter 4 - The 6 Shu Points

Chapter 4 - The 6 Shu Points

Chapter 4 - The 6 Shu Points

The deep calm water points used in six-element theory are:

Chapter 4 - The 6 Shu Points

Chapter 4 - The 6 Shu Points

Chapter 5 - Distinguishing 5 and 6 elements

Chapter 5 - Distinguishing 5 and 6 elements

Chapter 5 - Distinguishing 5 and 6 elements

wholeness and purity.

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

cooler than the core.

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

to survive a cold pathogen.

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

Chapter 6 - Climatic Factors in the 6-element Cycle

is in the Yin triangle of Essence. Blood depends upon an abundant wetness.

Chapter 7 The Meridians of Seed, San Jiao & Pericardium

Yuan/Primordial Qi of the body.

The sage is guided by what is sensed within

The Hypothalamus & San Jiao

Chapter 8 - The Perspective of Spherical Meridian Theory

Chapter 8 Intro to the Spherical Meridian Theory

Chapter 8 - The Perspective of Spherical Meridian Theory