In Yin Yoga, the practice is often based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which includes the concept of meridians. Meridians are channels or pathways that run through the body and are believed to carry Qi (pronounced “chee”), or vital energy. The meridians are associated with different organs and physiological functions, and when they become blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical or emotional health problems.
In Yin Yoga, the practice is designed to stimulate the meridians and promote the flow of Qi through the body. Each Yin Yoga posture targets specific meridians and organs, and by holding the postures for several minutes at a time, it is believed that the meridians are gently stretched and stimulated, allowing the Qi to flow more freely.
For example, the Yin Yoga posture known as Dragonfly, or Upavistha Konasana, is believed to stimulate the kidney and urinary bladder meridians, while the posture known as Butterfly, or Baddha Konasana, is thought to stimulate the liver and gallbladder meridians. By targeting these meridians and promoting the flow of Qi, it is believed that Yin Yoga can help to restore balance to the body and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Explain 12 meridian
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there are 12 meridians, or channels, that are believed to be the pathways through which Qi, or vital energy, flows through the body. Each meridian is associated with a specific organ and physiological function, and when the flow of Qi through a meridian is blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical or emotional health problems. Here’s a brief explanation of each of the 12 meridians:
1. Lung Meridian: The Lung Meridian runs from the chest through the arms and down to the thumbs. It is associated with the lungs, immune system, and skin.
2. Large Intestine Meridian: The Large Intestine Meridian runs from the index finger up through the arms and shoulders to the face. It is associated with the large intestine, skin, and respiratory system.
3. Meridian: The Stomach Meridian runs from the head down through the chest and abdomen to the feet. It is associated with the stomach, digestion, and appetite.
4. Spleen Meridian: The Spleen Meridian runs from the toes up through the legs and abdomen to the chest. It is associated with the spleen, digestion, and immune system.
5. Heart Meridian: The Heart Meridian runs from the chest through the arms and down to the little fingers. It is associated with the heart, circulation, and emotions.
6. Small Intestine Meridian: The Small Intestine Meridian runs from the little fingers up through the arms and shoulders to the head. It is associated with the small intestine, digestion, and immune system.
7. Bladder Meridian: The Bladder Meridian runs from the eyes down through the head, back, and legs to the toes. It is associated with the bladder, kidneys, and urinary system.
8. Kidney Meridian: The Kidney Meridian runs from the toes up through the legs and abdomen to the chest. It is associated with the kidneys, hormones, and reproduction.
9. Pericardium Meridian: The Pericardium Meridian runs from the chest through the arms and down to the middle fingers. It is associated with the heart, emotions, and circulation.
10. Triple Burner Meridian: The Triple Burner Meridian runs from the fingers up through the arms, shoulders, and head to the ears. It is associated with the endocrine system and the regulation of body temperature.
11. Gallbladder Meridian: The Gallbladder Meridian runs from the eyes down through the head, neck, and sides of the body to the toes. It is associated with the gallbladder, liver, and digestive system.
12. Liver Meridian: The Liver Meridian runs from the toes up through the legs and abdomen to the chest. It is associated with the liver, digestion, and detoxification.
By targeting these meridians and promoting the flow of Qi, it is believed that TCM practices such as acupuncture, acupressure, and Yin Yoga can help to restore balance to the body and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Meridian yoga
Meridian Yoga, also known as Energy Yoga, is a type of yoga practice that is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the concept of meridians. In Meridian Yoga, each yoga pose is specifically designed to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi (vital energy) through the body’s meridian pathways.
The practice of Meridian Yoga involves a combination of asanas (yoga postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation. Each posture is held for a longer period of time than in a traditional yoga class, allowing for a deeper stimulation of the meridian channels. The focus is on holding the postures in a relaxed, meditative state, allowing the body to release tension and blockages in the meridian pathways.
Meridian Yoga is believed to have a number of benefits for the body and mind, including improved flexibility and range of motion, increased energy and vitality, reduced stress and anxiety, and improved overall health and wellbeing. It is also believed to be effective in addressing specific health issues related to the meridian channels, such as digestive problems, hormonal imbalances, and emotional issues.
Meridian Yoga can be practiced by individuals of all levels and abilities, but it is particularly beneficial for those who are interested in exploring the connection between yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine.