Meridians and Pressure Points in Shiatsu
Meridians constitute the energy map of the human body in shiatsu tradition. These twelve main channels, plus extraordinary vessels, form a complex network through which Ki — vital energy — flows. Each meridian connects to an organ and specific physiological, emotional and psychic functions. Understanding meridians means understanding the body's language according to Eastern energy vision: every pain, tension and imbalance tells an energy story that can be rebalanced.
Meridian Theory
In Chinese medicine and shiatsu, the body is traversed by invisible energy channels called meridians (経絡, keiraku). The classical system comprises twelve main meridians organized in six Yin-Yang pairs. Ki flows through meridians in a 24-hour cycle, each meridian having a two-hour peak.
The Twelve Main Meridians
Six Yin Meridians
- Lung (LU): breathing, letting go. Peak: 3-5am.
- Spleen (SP): transformation, digestion. Peak: 9-11am.
- Heart (HT): joy, consciousness. Peak: 11am-1pm.
- Kidney (KI): willpower, vitality. Peak: 5-7pm.
- Pericardium (PC): emotional protection. Peak: 7-9pm.
- Liver (LV): planning, creativity. Peak: 1-3am.
Six Yang Meridians
- Large Intestine (LI): elimination. Peak: 5-7am.
- Stomach (ST): reception, grounding. Peak: 7-9am.
- Small Intestine (SI): discernment. Peak: 1-3pm.
- Bladder (BL): reserves, adaptation. Peak: 3-5pm.
- Triple Warmer (TW): thermoregulation. Peak: 9-11pm.
- Gallbladder (GB): decision, courage. Peak: 11pm-1am.
Tsubos: Pressure Points
Along meridians lie tsubos — acupuncture equivalents. The classical system catalogues about 365. Key tsubos include Hoku (LI4) for pain, Zusanli (ST36) for general tonification, Sanyinjiao (SP6) for gynaecological and emotional balance, and Taixi (KI3) for fundamental vitality.
Masunaga's Extended Meridians
Masunaga expanded the classical system by extending each meridian across the entire body. His hara diagnosis uses specific abdominal zones corresponding to each meridian to identify Kyo and Jitsu patterns.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Shiatsu does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Meridians belong to an Eastern conceptual framework distinct from Western anatomy.