Understanding the Meridians: Pathways of Energy in the Body

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of meridians is foundational. While they aren’t visible to the eye or detectable with modern imaging, meridians are considered vital energetic pathways that help the body maintain balance, function, and vitality.

If you’ve ever wondered how acupuncture works—or what it means when someone says your energy is “blocked”—understanding meridians is a great place to start.

What Are Meridians?

Meridians are invisible channels that run throughout the body. They carry Qi (pronounced "chee"), or life energy, to every organ, tissue, and cell. Each meridian is associated with a specific organ system, like the Liver, Heart, or Spleen, but also influences broader aspects of physical and emotional health.

There are 12 primary meridians, plus two extraordinary vessels that form the foundation of the body’s energetic structure. These 14 meridians make up a complete system that links the surface of the body with its internal organs. When Qi flows smoothly, we feel balanced and well. When Qi is blocked, imbalanced, or depleted, symptoms may arise.

A Brief Overview of the 14 Main Meridians

Here’s a simplified look at each meridian and its key influence on the body and mind:

1. Lung
Governs respiration, immunity, and boundaries — both physical and emotional. Often associated with grief or letting go.

2. Large Intestine
Helps eliminate waste and supports clarity, decisiveness, and healthy release (physically and mentally).

3. Stomach
Plays a central role in digestion and nourishment. Also linked to worry and overthinking.

4. Spleen
Transforms and transports nutrients; supports digestion, energy levels, and blood. Emotionally connected to worry and mental overexertion.

5. Heart
Houses the Shen (mind/spirit) and governs circulation, emotional warmth, and joy.

6. Small Intestine
Sorts pure from impure — physically (digestion) and emotionally (discernment and judgment).

7. Urinary Bladder
Regulates fluid balance and detoxification. Stores physical and emotional tension, especially from fear.

8. Kidney
Considered the root of vitality. Influences growth, reproduction, and deep emotional reserves. Associated with fear and willpower.

9. Pericardium
Protects the heart physically and emotionally. Involved in relationships, emotional openness, and boundaries.

10. Triple Warmer
Regulates metabolism, fluid movement, and overall harmony between the body’s three energetic zones: upper, middle, and lower.

11. Gallbladder
Supports decision-making, courage, and planning. Physically linked to bile and digestion.

12. Liver
Ensures the smooth flow of Qi and blood. Supports emotional regulation, menstrual health, and resilience to stress.

13. Conception Vessel (Ren Mai)
Runs up the front midline. Supports reproductive health, growth, and Yin energy.

14. Governing Vessel (Du Mai)
Runs up the spine and over the head. Influences Yang energy, mental clarity, and vitality.

How Acupuncture Supports Meridian Flow

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points along these meridians. These acupoints act like access points or regulators for Qi flow. By inserting thin needles at key locations, acupuncture helps to:

• Release stagnation

• Restore healthy circulation

• Relieve pain and inflammation

• Support emotional wellbeing

• Reconnect the body’s internal communication systems

The goal is to treat the root cause of imbalance while also easing symptoms — creating space for your system to heal and reset.

A Holistic Framework for Healing

What makes the meridian system so powerful is its ability to bridge physical symptoms, emotional experiences, and underlying patterns. Instead of focusing on isolated issues, this framework asks: Where is the flow being blocked, and what does your body need to restore balance?

In this way, meridians serve as both map and guide — offering insight into your health that goes beyond surface-level symptoms.

Curious how meridian-based acupuncture can support your health journey? Explore more blog posts or get in touch to learn how this gentle, effective system can help bring your body and mind back into alignment.

Written by: Alex Simmonds R.Ac TCM