What Are Meridians?

Definition: In traditional Chinese medicine, one of the twelve invisible lines of energy along the body. Each meridian connects to an internal organ and to body structures. Certain therapies, such as acupuncture and acupressure stimulate specific points along the meridians to correct the flow of energy along that meridian and influence the related organ and body structures.

Meridians are the pathways of qi (chi) and blood flow through the body. Qi flows continuously from one meridian to another. Any disorder in the flow is an indication of imbalance. If a person's vitality or energy is recognizably diminished it is an indication that the body's organs or tissues are functioning poorly, therefore the qi flow is inadequate.