Understanding Energy: Qi and Meridians

Qi is the vital life force or energy that flows through all things in the universe. Qi governs all aspects of life, including health, happiness, and prosperity. Qi is within us, without us, and all around us.

Within your own body, qi flows along pathways called meridians. Meridians are like rivers that carry qi throughout the body and nourish the organs and tissues. There are 12 main meridians in the body, each of which is associated with a different organ system.

There are 12 main meridians in the body, each of which is associated with a different organ system.

The meridians are:

1. The lung meridian

2. The large intestine meridian

3. The stomach meridian

4. The spleen meridian

5. The heart meridian

6. The small intestine meridian

7. The bladder meridian

8. The kidney meridian

9. The pericardium meridian

10. The triple burner meridian

11. The gallbladder meridian

12. The liver meridian

Each of these 12 main meridians is further subdivided into two branches, for a total of 24 meridians. Each of these 24 meridians is associated with a different organ, function, and/or emotion.

The lung meridian, for example, is associated with the lungs, the chest, and the emotions of sadness and grief.

The large intestine meridian is associated with the large intestine, the rectum, and the emotions of frustration and anger.

The stomach meridian is associated with the stomach, the spleen, and the emotions of worry and anxiety. The spleen meridian is associated with the spleen, the pancreas, and the emotions of overthinking and obsessiveness.

The heart meridian is associated with the heart, the small intestine, and the emotions of joy and happiness.

The small intestine meridian is associated with the small intestine, the bladder, and the emotion of fear.

The bladder meridian is associated with the bladder, the kidney, and the emotions of anger and rage.

The kidney meridian is associated with the kidney, the pericardium, and the emotions of fear and terror.

The pericardium meridian is associated with the pericardium, the heart, and the emotions of love and compassion.

The triple burner meridian is associated with the triple burner, the liver, and the emotion of jealousy.

The gallbladder meridian is associated with the gallbladder, the liver, and the emotion of anger.

The liver meridian is associated with the liver, the spleen, and the emotion of frustration.

When qi is balanced and flowing smoothly, the body is healthy and happy. But when qi becomes blocked or out of balance, it can lead to physical, mental, or emotional problems.

There are many ways to keep your qi balanced and flowing smoothly. Some include eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and practicing meditation or mindfulness.

The integrative practice of Sūvata is designed to keep your qi balanced and flowing smoothly — and in the proper directions, so as to better hear the Voice of Spirit that resides deep within you.

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