By Hayley Stobbs R.Ac, CNC
Meridian Theory
You may wonder why your acupuncturist palpates pathways along your limbs, or asks you to point to areas of pain or discomfort. Here we are applying TCM meridian therapy based on classical principles in ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) texts. According to TCM theory, Qi circulates in the body along 12 major energy pathways called meridians, each of which links to specific internal organs and organ systems. When there is illness, physical injury, and/or mental-emotional stress, the natural flow of qi and blood becomes impeded within the meridian system over time. We can often feel disharmony along pathways that are imbalanced, via knots, tight tissue, sunken areas, and other characteristics. Feedback of these qualities and painful palpated points (ah shi points) further guides treatment.
”Channel networks (meridians) form the physiological interconnections that render the body-mind an integrated whole rather than a series of independent units.” - Peter Deadman
What Are Meridians?
Meridians are the conduits in the body through which electromagnetic energy (qi) and blood flows to every part of the body and through every organ and tissue. They are networks of channels that can be metaphorically visualized in a variety of ways, for ex. a system of roots, trunks, branches, and stems.where nourishment flows, or as roadmaps and motorways in which traffic requires regulation.
The functional mapping of meridians is similar to patterns of the circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems. They lie along fascial pathways and act as strategic conductors of electromagnetic signals through nervous system receptor stimulation. Meridian energy flow and balance is crucial as it influences the functioning of cells, organs, blood and lymph circulation, and nervous system conductivity. Inserting specific therapeutic acupuncture points along meridians regulates this flow of energy, prevents disease, maintains health, and promotes healing.
"The flow of river systems is crucial for the ability to move efficiently." - unknown
I hope my post has given you insight today. If you’re interested in nutrition and acupuncture I’d be happy to guide you along. Please visit www.vcaspa.com to book online or call 250-590-4341. To learn more about my acupuncture practice, follow @hayley_stobbs on Instagram.
In health & happiness,
Hayley Stobbs, R.Ac, CNC