Meridians (Chinese 经络, jīngluò; Japanese 経絡, keiraku) are the network of energy channels in the body through which Qi (T009) circulates.

The anatomical basis. Meridians form the basis of the anatomical model of TCM (#25) and of Applied Kinesiology (#54).

12 Main (Paired) Meridians

Yin (Zang organs / 臟):

• Lungs, Spleen, Heart, Kidneys, Pericardium, Liver

Yang (Fu organs / 腑):

• Large Intestine, Stomach, Small Intestine, Bladder, Triple Burner, Gallbladder

8 Extraordinary (Unpaired) Meridians

• Du Mai (督脉, Governor)
• Ren Mai (任脉, Conception)
• Chong Mai, Dai Mai
• Yin Qiao Mai, Yang Qiao Mai
• Yin Wei Mai, Yang Wei Mai

Use in TCM

361 classical points. In TCM (#25), meridians are the foundation of acupuncture: 361 classical points on 14 main channels.

Use in Applied Kinesiology

A muscle as an indicator of a meridian. In Applied Kinesiology (#54), each tested muscle corresponds to a specific meridian, allowing the state of the linked organ to be diagnosed through the muscle test (T093).

Comparison with the Nadis

Meridians vs Nadis. The structural analog is the Nadi (नाडी, nāḍī) in the Indian tradition (#32, #19), but meridians describe the physical body, while Nadis describe the subtle one (sukshma sharira).