Last month on our blog, we talked about traditional Chinese medicine and its popular treatment, acupuncture. In acupuncture treatments, specific ‘acupoints’ along the body are penetrated through thin needles in order to correct imbalances through channels called meridians. So, what exactly are meridian points and how do they work?
Our meridians act as pathways through which our positive energy known as “qi” flows. They are completely invisible to the human eye, but experienced practitioners can feel these pathways with their hands. We are of optimal health when our energy is flowing freely. However, when we are stressed and tired, the energy flow is interrupted. Chinese doctors developed acupuncture in an effort to help us rebalance our “qi”.
We have 12 main acupuncture meridians (also known as acupoints). Each one is named after the organ that they distribute energy to:
- Lung Meridian
- Large Intestine Meridian
- Stomach Meridian
- Spleen Meridian
- Heart Meridian
- Bladder Meridian
- Kidney Meridian
- Liver Meridian
- Gall Bladder Meridian
- Thyroid Meridian
- Pericardium Meridian
- Small Intestine Meridian
(Note: Remember, QRay bracelets are worn on the wrist over a meridian and function similar to an acupuncture needle, where one end serves as a ‘ground’ and the other end is a ‘regulator’. Our wellness bracelets support naturopathic treatments to help the body optimize its positive energy)
During an acupuncture treatment, the thin needles are inserted into these points to help rebalance your qi and restore your health. It can look painful, but it is essentially painless. The needles used are as thin as a human hair, so once the needles are inserted, all you may feel is a dull tingling or numbness.
If you think you need your energy restored, acupuncture may be the right treatment for you!