3) TCM: The Meridian System

[Guest guest]

The Meridian System

In addition to chi (qi), Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes a subtle energy

system by which chi (qi) is circulated through the body. This transportation

system is referred to as the channels or meridians. There are twelve main

meridians in the body, six yin and six yang, and each relates to one of the

Zangfu or organs.

To better visualize the concept of chi (qi), and the meridians, think of the

meridians as a river-bed, over which water flows and irrigates the land;

feeding, nourishing and sustaining the substance through which it flows. (In

Western medicine, the concept would be likened to the blood flowing through the

circulatory system.) If a dam were placed at any point along the river, the

nourishing effect that the water had on the whole river would stop at the point

the dam was placed.

The same is true in relation to chi (qi) and the meridians. When chi (qi)

becomes blocked, the rest of the body that was being nourished by the continuous

flow, now suffers. Illness and disease can result if the flow is not restored.

Acupuncture is one tool used to restore the flow of chi (qi), by inserting

needles into the acupuncture points (located on the meridians). These insertions

are said to clear any residing blockages, or dams, thus freeing the river to

better feed the body in its entirety.

We may not be able to change the direction of the wind, but we can adjust our

sails.

---------------------------------