When the 12 meridians connecting the internal organs remain unobstructed, disease prevention is achieved. Traditional Chinese Medicine posits that most illnesses stem from impaired qi and blood circulation within the meridians. Assess your meridian flow through these six indicators:
How to Determine Meridian Flow?
1. Presence of Pain
Pain near meridians indicates blockage, disrupting normal qi and blood circulation and harming internal organs.Generally, individuals over 40 may notice sagging, loose muscles in the arms when performing a salute gesture. Using the thumb and index finger to pinch and knead the area from the armpit toward the elbow joint feels very soft. Rubbing with fingers may reveal fatty deposits, and applying slight pressure causes pain. This indicates insufficient blood supply to the heart.
2. Do you feel soreness?
Soreness in a body part indicates slowed qi and blood circulation, failing to meet the body's demands. For example, soreness and weakness after sprinting occur because intense running requires ample qi and blood supply. When exertion exceeds capacity, insufficient qi and blood supply cause soreness.When meridians feel sore, vigorous tapping or massage can help. For the elderly, exercises that balance qi and blood supply—such as Tai Chi or slow jogging—are recommended.
3. Do you feel heat?
When meridians are blocked, certain body parts may feel dry and hot because heat cannot dissipate normally.Qi and blood circulate continuously within the body. When meridians are blocked, they seek alternative pathways to flow. Additionally, patients may develop issues like enlarged pores and rough skin texture. Impaired blood circulation prevents timely removal of waste accumulated in pores, leading to blackheads and acne.
4. Do you feel numbness?
Blocked meridians can cause numbness. For instance, prolonged cross-legged sitting may lead to poor qi and blood circulation in the lower body, causing pain. When meridians are obstructed, qi and blood stagnate, resulting in numbness in the legs. Hypertensive patients should be vigilant when experiencing frequent limb numbness and seek ways to unblock meridians to prevent stroke.
5. Do you feel cold?
Meridian blockages often manifest as coldness in the abdomen and limbs. Body temperature depends on the sufficiency and smooth transport of qi and blood. When qi and blood are abundant, circulation is normal, and body temperature remains stable. Coldness in a specific area indicates blockage in the corresponding meridian, preventing proper delivery of qi and blood.
6. Presence of Swelling
Meridian blockages stem from blood stasis. To reduce swelling, promote blood circulation and disperse stasis through cupping, gua sha, and acupressure. Massage the swollen area manually to enhance local blood flow and alleviate swelling.
Friendly Reminder
The above six indicators help assess meridian flow. Various methods exist for unblocking meridians—such as tapping, massage, acupuncture, and cupping—choosing the most suitable approach is key.