Now we'll move on to the foundation of Acupressure. There are 361 acupuncture points that are recognized by WHO as standard classical acupuncture points. However, there are more than 2,000 acupuncture points on a human body.

Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese treatment that involves insertion of very thin needles on the acupuncture points. Acupressure uses the same points but they are stimulated using finger pressure instead of the use of needles.

What are the Meridians?

The meridians are the network lines of energy throughout the body. There are vertical lines and horizontal lines. If the energy or qi and circulation stagnate on the meridian, it causes sickness. It is important to keep a good flow of qi and circulation on the meridians to maintain good health. By observing and touching the qi and circulation flow on the meridians daily, you can monitor your health and predict the change in your health before it turns into illness. The acupressure points are located on one of the meridians.

How Many are There?

There are 12 major meridians and 8 vessels. However, 6 of the vessels do not have acupressure points so only 2 vessels are included in the 14 major meridians in our body. They are divided into:

- 6 solid organs

- 6 hollow organs

- 2 vessels

As you've learned, different organs have different energies and roles to contribute to your overall health. Each meridian belongs to one of the solid organs or hollow organs. These meridians communicate with each other and the corresponding organs to circulate the qi and blood as one big loop.

Yin meridians belong to solid organs and communicate with hollow organs.

Yang meridians belong to hollow organs and communicate with solid organs.

There are 3 Yin meridians and 3 Yang meridians on hand and foot each as follows:

- 3 Yin hand meridians (Lung, Heart, Pericardium)

- 3 Yang hand meridians (Large Intestine, Small Intestine, Triple Energizer)

- 3 Yin foot meridians (Spleen, Liver, Kidney)

- 3 Yang foot meridians (Stomach, Gall Bladder, Bladder)

The 2 vessels are the front center (Conception Vessel) and back center (Governing Vessel).

1. Meridians and Acupressure Points