Chinese Reflexology


Meridians

The concept of energy channels is the central point around which Reflexology and acupuncture are based.  Both operate on the premise that vital energy is channelled along various lines throughout the body.

In Reflexology these lines are known as zones, in Acupuncture they are known as meridians. 

Meridians are not straight lines: they have curved and sometimes zig-zag pathways that transverse throughout the body, including the feet.

Reflexology concentrates mainly on the reflex areas and sections of meridians on the feet.  These are stimulated by specific pressure techniques.  However, in Acupuncture, points situated all over the body are stimulated by needles that are inserted into the skin.

The Chinese discovered that Ch'i, or life energy, circulates in the body along meridians, similar to blood, nerve and lymphatic circuits.  Meridians have been described as containing a free flowing, colourless, non cellular liquid, which may be partly actuated by the heart.

Meridians have been mapped electronically, thermatically and radioactively.  They are named by the live functions with which they seem to associate.  In most cases, this is the same as that of many of the gross organs.

There are 12 bi-lateral meridians, resulting in 24 separate but parallel pathways.  Each is connected and related to a specific organ.


The 6 main meridians, which penetrate the major body organs, include:

Liver

Gallbladder

Splene / Pancreas

Stomach

Kidney

Bladder


The other six meridians, which are situated in the arms so do not penetrate specific organs, include the:

Lung

Large Intestine

Small Intestine

Pericardium/circulation

'triple burner'/Endocrine

Heart


Since the meridian cycle is one continuous energy flow, these meridians are stimulated when the main meridians are worked on.

As well as being connected and related to a specific organ, each meridian has a partner meridian organ which consists of a yin an yang. YIN organs are dense, blood filled types of tissue which regulate the body.  YANG organs are those that are hollow and involved in absorption and discharge from the body.  There is a constant interaction between yin and yang forces and if the balance between the organs is interrupted the flow of Chi throughout the body will be affected, resulting in illness.
 

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