The "Meridians" are energy lines that circulate the "life force", or Qi, throughout the body. They can be thought of as an energy grid through which all life derives its power. The meridians contain acupoints, which are located in areas that are particularly difficult for Qi to pass through, and which have specific energetic functions that affect specific organ meridians or the system as a whole.
| LUNG SPLEEN HEART KIDNEY PERICARDIUM LIVER |
LARGE INTESTINE STOMACH SMALL INTESTINE BLADDER TRIPLE WARMER GALLBLADDER |
There are 12 Organ Meridians: Lungs, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine, Urinary Bladder, Kidneys, Pericardium, San Jiao, Gall Bladder, and Liver. The organ meridians are "bi-lateral", meaning that they appear on both sides of the body, and act as a grid through which Qi, or life energy, flows. The organ meridian network organizes all physical and mental processes, and links the structural components of the body.
The organ meridians are so named, as many of their functions are similar to the functions of "Western organs", but should not be confused with "Western organs".
Calvin Dale Smith, BA, MSc, DOM
Doctor of Oriental Medicine (USA)
Riverside Acupuncture and Wellness Centre
2211 Riverside Dr., Suite 106
Ottawa, ON K1H 7X5
613-232-5888
cdalesmith@calvindale.com