The lung meridian massage

An ally for your breathing and emotional balance

Did you know that your lungs play an essential role, not only for your breathing, but also for your overall energy and emotional balance? In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the lung meridian is at the heart of these connections. This meridian, which runs from the top of your chest to the tip of your thumb, can be stimulated by massage to improve your physical and mental well-being. In this article, find out all about this practice the lung meridian massage and how to incorporate it into your daily routine.

What is the lung meridian?

The lung meridian is one of the 12 main energy meridians of the human body, according to TCM. It is associated with respiratory functions and the regulation of vital energy, known as Qi.

Its course :

• Starts in the sub-clavicular area, near the shoulder.
• It runs down the inside of the arm, ending at the outer corner of the thumbnail.

Role:

The Lung meridian regulates breathing, nourishes the skin (considered the “outer lung” in TCM) and supports the immune system. Emotionally, it is linked to sadness and the ability to let go.

The benefits of lung meridian massage

Stimulating this meridian with massage can :

• Improve breathing by clearing the airways and strengthening the lungs.
• Regulate emotions by promoting a sense of calm and helping to release sadness.
• Support the immune system by stimulating vital energy (Qi).
• Moisturize and nourish the skin, which reflects the state of the lungs in TCM.

How to massage the lung meridian: a simple method

Here’s a step-by-step guide to stimulating this meridian:

1. Key points to work on:

1. Zhongfu (P1) – Under the collarbone, outside the chest.
   • Benefits: Clears the lungs and calms breathing.
   • Technique : Appliquez une pression douce avec vos doigts en mouvements circulaires.
2. Chize (P5) – At the elbow crease, on the inside.
   • Benefits: Reduces inflammation and improves energy circulation.
   • Technique: Press firmly with thumb for 1 minute.
3. Taiyuan (P9) – At the base of the thumb, on the wrist.
   • Benefits: Promotes deep breathing and calms the mind.
   • Technique: Make small circular movements with fingertip.
4. Shaoshang (P11) – At the tip of the thumb, near the nail.
   • Benefits: Clears airways and relieves congestion.
   • Technique: Lightly press for 30 seconds.

2. Massage the entire path

1. Starting position: Sit comfortably with arms relaxed.
2. Technique: Slide your open hand or fingers along the meridian path, starting below the collarbone and moving down to the tip of the thumb.
3. Duration: 3 to 5 minutes on each side.

When to use this massage

• Morning: To boost energy and stimulate breathing.
• During periods of stress or sadness: To soothe the emotions.
• Mild respiratory problems: To clear the airways.

What science says

Although TCM is based on different concepts from those of Western medicine, several studies have highlighted the benefits of massage and acupressure for managing stress and respiratory disorders:

• A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2020) showed that targeted acupressure on meridian points could significantly reduce asthma symptoms.
• Research in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2018) demonstrated that stimulation of the lung meridian could improve respiratory capacity and boost immune function.

Conclusion: a simple gesture for overall well-being

Lung meridian massage is an accessible and effective practice for improving your breathing, balancing your emotions and boosting your vital energy. Incorporated into your daily routine, it can be an invaluable tool for enhancing your well-being.

If you’d like to explore these practices further, I offer consultations to guide you in a personalized approach. Contact me for more information or follow me on Instagram for more wellness tips!

Scientific studies and literatures

Relevant studies demonstrate the validity of meridian-based massage techniques, including lung meridian massage, as complementary therapies for holistic health. For more details, you can refer to the studies directly on the links.

1. Acupressure’s Role in Respiratory Function: Acupressure targeting meridians, including the lung meridian, has shown promise in managing chronic respiratory diseases. Studies suggest that stimulating these meridian points can enhance lung function and reduce symptoms such as breathlessness by balancing energy flow in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) frameworks.   

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32539427

2. Massage and Energy Regulation: Research on TCM-based abdominal massage techniques, like “Tongmai Tiaoshen,” highlights their ability to improve systemic health issues, including stress and anxiety, which indirectly impact respiratory health. While not specific to the lung meridian, such techniques demonstrate the broader efficacy of meridian-based therapies in improving physiological and psychological balance.   

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33360562

3. Clinical Trials on Meridian Therapy: Systematic reviews indicate that acupuncture and related therapies, such as meridian massage, can be effective for various conditions, including pain and stress, by stimulating dermatomes that overlap with specific meridians like the lung. This aligns with neurophysiological mechanisms influencing the body’s energy flow.    

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32026725

Références :

• « Effectiveness of Meridian Massage for Asthma Patients », Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020.
• « Le rôle de la médecine traditionnelle chinoise dans la santé respiratoire », Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2018.
• Maciocia, Giovanni. Les fondements de la médecine chinoise, Elsevier, 2005.

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