What are Meridians?

Meridians, also known as Jing‑Luo, are the invisible pathways through which Qi—the body’s vital energy—circulates. They interconnect organs, tissues, and sensory systems, guiding the distribution of Qi and blood to sustain life and harmony.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), meridians form a dynamic network much like rivers across a landscape. When the current flows freely, the terrain is nourished; when blocked, stagnation and imbalance arise. This concept underpins practices such as acupuncture, acupressure, Qigong, and Tai Chi.

• Connect internal organs with the body surface for assessment and care
• Regulate the movement of Qi and blood to nourish tissues
• Maintain balance between Yin and Yang across body systems
• Provide pathways used in diagnosis and treatment (e.g., acupuncture points)

The 12 Primary Meridians

The twelve primary meridians correspond to the major organ systems. They pair in Yin–Yang relationships and run bilaterally along the body, circulating energy in a continuous cycle:

• Lung (LU) — Governs breathing, disperses and descends Qi, supports immunity.
• Large Intestine (LI) — Assists elimination and detox, embodies the ability to let go.
• Stomach (ST) — Receives and ripens food; central to digestion and vitality.
• Spleen (SP) — Transforms and transports nutrients into Qi and blood.
• Heart (HT) — Governs blood and circulation; houses spirit (Shen).
• Small Intestine (SI) — Separates pure from impure; aids assimilation and clarity.
• Bladder (BL) — Regulates water metabolism and excretion; long pathway along the back.
• Kidney (KI) — Stores essence (Jing); governs growth, reproduction, and willpower.
• Pericardium (PC) — Protects the Heart; harmonizes circulation and emotions.
• Triple Burner / San Jiao (SJ/TB) — Coordinates Qi transformation and fluid pathways across the three “burners”.
• Gallbladder (GB) — Facilitates decision-making and courage; assists smooth Qi flow.
• Liver (LV) — Ensures the smooth coursing of Qi; stores blood; influences vision and emotions.

Historical Background

The meridian system was described in detail over two millennia ago in the Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine). This seminal text established the relationships between organs, meridians, and the balance of Yin and Yang, and it remains a cornerstone of TCM theory.

Across centuries, physicians refined meridian maps through clinical observation and practice, giving rise to acupuncture, moxibustion, and channel-based therapies. These traditions spread widely throughout East Asia and later influenced integrative medicine worldwide.

“Where there is blockage, there is pain. Where there is free flow, there is no pain.” — Classical TCM Principle

Meridians & Health

Health, in the meridian model, depends on the smooth and balanced flow of Qi. Stagnation, deficiency, or excess disrupts harmony and may manifest as pain, fatigue, or emotional imbalance. Restoring flow supports resilience and self‑regulation across body systems.