Spleen Meridian Points: Function & Benefits

Spleen channel points, vital components of the meridian system, correspond to specific anatomical locations along the spleen meridian. The spleen meridian itself impacts digestion and nutrient absorption. Acupuncturists often use these points in acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine technique, to treat various health conditions. These spleen channel points are critical in maintaining overall well-being by balancing the body’s energy, also known as Qi.

Hey there, wellness wanderers! Ever feel like your body is a bit of a mystery? Well, buckle up because we’re about to dive into the fascinating world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and unlock some secrets! Think of TCM as a holistic detective, viewing your health as a whole picture, not just isolated symptoms.

In TCM, there’s this intricate network of pathways called meridians, like energy superhighways coursing through your body. These pathways are responsible for moving Qi (pronounced “chee”), or vital energy, and blood. Today, we’re zooming in on one particularly powerful meridian: the Spleen Meridian.

Now, before you picture your spleen doing…spleen-y things, know that in TCM, the Spleen is not just the organ; it’s a whole energetic system responsible for some pretty big jobs: digestion, nutrient absorption, and fluid metabolism. It’s basically the body’s ultimate processor and distributor, ensuring every cell gets the nourishment it needs. The Spleen is also associated with the Earth element – think grounded, nurturing, and centered. When this meridian is balanced, you feel strong, stable, and energized!

So, what’s on the menu for this blog post? We’re going to explore the key functions of the Spleen Meridian, from the way it processes our food, to how it distributes energy throughout the body. We’ll also talk about what happens when things go a little haywire (we’re looking at you, digestive woes!), and some simple ways to check your Spleen Meridian and what to do if problems arise. So get ready to get Spleen-savvy!

Diving Deep: Qi, Blood, and the Spleen’s Central Stage in TCM

Let’s pull back the curtain and peek at the energetic powerhouse that is the Spleen Meridian! In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), everything dances around the concepts of Qi and Blood. Forget dusty textbooks, think of Qi as the body’s fuel, the vital energy that gets you going each day. And Blood? It’s not just red stuff; it’s the nourishing elixir that keeps your tissues happy and your mind sharp. The Spleen Meridian orchestrates a lot of this!

Qi and Blood: The Spleen’s Culinary Masterpiece

So, where does the Spleen chime in? Picture the Spleen as a master chef in your body’s kitchen. It takes the raw ingredients (your food!) and, through a series of amazing transformations, extracts the essence – that’s your Qi and Blood. Without a well-functioning Spleen, you might as well be eating cardboard – your body wouldn’t be able to get the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Decoding the Imbalances: When the Spleen Throws a Tantrum

Now, what happens when the Spleen throws a tantrum? In TCM, imbalances are described as Deficiency, Excess, or Stagnation.

• Deficiency: Think of it as a dwindling fire. If your Spleen Qi is deficient, you might feel tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep. Other signs could include poor appetite, loose stools, and a general lack of vitality.
• Excess: This is more complex, often showing up as Dampness. If the Spleen can’t properly transform and transport fluids, dampness accumulates (think waterlogged basement), leading to symptoms like bloating, heavy limbs, and even foggy thinking.
• Stagnation: Imagine a traffic jam on the Spleen Meridian. This can manifest as abdominal distension, pain, or digestive discomfort.

Transformation and Transportation: The Spleen’s Daily Grind

The Spleen’s primary job is transforming food into usable energy and transporting it throughout your body. It’s like the amazon prime of your internal world. It takes the digested mush and extracts the good stuff, then efficiently delivers it to where it’s needed. It’s also a master of fluid management, ensuring that fluids are used properly and preventing that dreaded dampness from building up.

Navigating the Pathways: Internal and External Routes

The Spleen Meridian is like a complex road map within your body. It has both internal and external pathways, connecting to key organs and areas. The external pathway starts on the big toe, travels up the inside of the leg, across the abdomen, and ends on the side of the chest. The internal pathway connects the Spleen to the Stomach, which explains the very close relationship between the 2 organs and how a deficiency in the Spleen can impact Stomach and vice versa.

Meridian Connections: It Takes a Village

No meridian is an island! The Spleen Meridian has special connections with other meridians, especially the Stomach Meridian. They work hand-in-hand in the digestive process. When the Stomach efficiently “rots and ripens” food, the Spleen can then do its job of extracting the Qi and Blood. This collaborative relationship shows that TCM views the body as an interconnected whole.

The Spleen’s Buddies: Digestion’s Dynamic Trio (Spleen, Stomach, and Pancreas)

Think of your digestive system as a band. You’ve got your lead singer (the Stomach), your smooth bass player (the Spleen), and the keyboardist laying down all the funky grooves (the Pancreas). Each has their own role, but when they play together, that’s when the magic happens! We’re gonna dive deep into how these three amigos work together to keep you feeling energized and happy. Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at your inner rockstars.

Stomach: The “Rotting and Ripening” Master Chef

First up, let’s talk about the Stomach. In TCM, it’s not just a holding tank; it’s a cauldron where food undergoes the initial stages of digestion. Imagine it like a slow cooker set on high. The Stomach receives food and begins the process of “rotting and ripening”. Gross? Maybe. Essential? Absolutely! This process involves breaking down food into a more manageable mush, making it easier for the rest of the digestive system to extract the good stuff. It’s like the opening act, getting the crowd (your intestines) warmed up and ready for the main event!

Pancreas: The Enzyme Extraordinaire and Blood Sugar Boss

Next, we shine a spotlight on the Pancreas, often the unsung hero of digestion. This organ plays a dual role. Firstly, it’s a champion enzyme producer, churning out digestive enzymes that break down fats, proteins, and carbs. It’s like the stage manager making sure everything runs smoothly, because if you don’t break down your food properly, you will be miserable. Secondly, the Pancreas helps regulate blood sugar levels. Ever felt that afternoon crash after a sugary snack? Blame unstable blood sugar! So, how does the Spleen’s health affect the Pancreas’ ability to do its thing? A happy Spleen means better nutrient absorption, less strain on the Pancreas, and more balanced blood sugar. If the Spleen is weak, the Pancreas has to work overtime, potentially leading to imbalances.

Spleen: The Transformation and Transportation Titan

Now, let’s connect it all back to our star of the show: the Spleen. It’s the lynchpin of digestion in TCM. The Spleen takes the partially digested food from the Stomach and transforms it into Qi (energy) and Blood – the fuel that keeps your body running! It’s also responsible for transporting these nutrients throughout your body. The Spleen also helps to keep your body free from dampness. The Spleen transforms and transports fluids, if the Spleen is not functioning optimally, dampness can build up leading to a host of problems. Think of it as a filter that cleans and distributes resources, ensuring every cell gets what it needs. When the Spleen is strong, digestion is smooth, nutrient absorption is optimal, and you’re less likely to experience bloating, fatigue, or other common digestive woes.

In essence, the Spleen, Stomach, and Pancreas are a digestive dream team. Each member has a vital role, and when they work in harmony, you’ll feel the amazing results: consistent energy, balanced mood, and a happy gut!

Navigating the Spleen Meridian: A Guide to Key Acupuncture Points

Alright, folks, let’s get acquainted with the Spleen Meridian’s all-star lineup! Think of these points as little buttons on your body that, when pressed (gently, of course!), can help re-tune your internal orchestra. We’re going to dive into the nitty-gritty of these points. We’ll uncover their locations, what they actually do, and how they can help you feel like the best version of yourself.

Spleen Meridian Point Details:

Sp-1 (Yinbai):

• Location: Imagine your big toe, right on the inside corner of the toenail, where the white meets the red. That’s Yinbai.
• Functions: This point is your go-to for tonifying the Spleen, calming the mind, and even stopping bleeding. Think of it as your inner peacekeeper.
• Therapeutic Uses: Great for abdominal distension, heavy periods, anxiety, and nightmares.

Sp-2 (Dadu):

• Location: Still on that big toe, find the depression just in front of the big toe joint (metatarsophalangeal joint) on the inside of the foot.
• Functions: Dadu strengthens the Spleen, clears heat, and benefits the stomach.
• Therapeutic Uses: Ideal for abdominal bloating, constipation, and a heavy feeling in the body.

Sp-3 (Taibai):

• Location: On the medial side of the foot, in the depression posterior and inferior to the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint
• Functions: Tonifies the Spleen, regulates Qi, and resolves dampness.
• Therapeutic Uses: Addresses poor appetite, fatigue, and abdominal distension.

Sp-4 (Gongsun):

• Location: Find the base of your big toe, then slide your finger back about an inch. You should feel a little bump (the base of the first metatarsal bone). Gongsun is right in front of that bump, in the hollow.
• Functions: This point is the Luo-Connecting point, meaning it’s like a bridge between the Spleen and Stomach Meridians. It’s excellent for regulating the middle Jiao (your digestive center), resolving dampness, and calming the mind.
• Therapeutic Uses: Great for abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even those days when you feel like your emotions are all over the place.

Sp-5 (Shangqiu):

• Location: On the inside of your ankle, find the pointy bone (medial malleolus). Shangqiu is in the hollow right in front and below that bone.
• Functions: Strengthens the Spleen, transforms dampness, and benefits the sinews and bones.
• Therapeutic Uses: Helps with ankle pain, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness in the body.

Sp-6 (Sanyinjiao):

• Location: Place four fingers above the tip of your medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), along the posterior border of the tibia.
• Functions: This is the point for practically everything related to women’s health! It harmonizes the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney Meridians (hence the name “Three Yin Intersection”), regulates menstruation, nourishes Blood, and calms the spirit.
• Therapeutic Uses: It’s your go-to for menstrual irregularities, PMS, infertility, insomnia, and digestive issues. It is also contraindicated during pregnancy.

Sp-7 (Lougu):

• Location: 6 cun directly above the tip of the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), along the posterior border of the tibia.
• Functions: Resolves dampness and benefits the Spleen.
• Therapeutic Uses: Treats abdominal distension, diarrhea, and leg pain.

Sp-8 (Diji):

• Location: 3 cun directly below Sp-9 (Yinlingquan) on the medial aspect of the lower leg.
• Functions: Regulates Qi and Blood, alleviates pain, especially during menstruation.
• Therapeutic Uses: Addresses acute abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea, and edema.

Sp-9 (Yinlingquan):

• Location: Just below your knee, on the inside of your leg, find the big bony bump (the head of your tibia). Slide your finger down and behind that bump, into the hollow. That’s Yinlingquan.
• Functions: This point is the He-Sea point of the Spleen Meridian, meaning it’s like a drainage point. It transforms dampness, benefits urination, and strengthens the Spleen.
• Therapeutic Uses: Edema, urinary problems, abdominal distension, and knee pain.

Sp-10 (Xuehai):

• Location: With your knee bent, find the bulge of the vastus medialis muscle (the big muscle on the inside of your thigh). Xuehai is located on the medial aspect of the thigh, 2 cun superior to the medial border of the patella when the knee is flexed.
• Functions: Nourishes and invigorates Blood, cools heat, and regulates menstruation.
• Therapeutic Uses: Commonly used for blood deficiency, skin problems (eczema, hives), and menstrual issues.

Sp-11 (Jimen):

• Location: On the medial aspect of the thigh, 6 cun superior to the medial epicondyle of the femur.
• Functions: Regulates Qi and benefits the genitals.
• Therapeutic Uses: Urinary retention, genital itching, and lower abdominal pain.

Sp-12 (Chongmen):

• Location: On the lower abdomen, 3.5 cun lateral to the midline, level with the upper border of the pubic symphysis.
• Functions: Regulates Qi, alleviates pain, and benefits the lower Jiao.
• Therapeutic Uses: Addresses hernias, lower abdominal pain, and irregular menstruation.

Sp-13 (Fushe):

• Location: On the lower abdomen, 4 cun lateral to the midline, 0.7 cun inferior to Sp-12 (Chongmen).
• Functions: Regulates Qi, alleviates pain, and benefits the lower Jiao.
• Therapeutic Uses: Addresses abdominal pain, constipation, and hernia.

Sp-14 (Fuai):

• Location: On the abdomen, 4 cun lateral to the midline, 3 cun superior to the umbilicus.
• Functions: Regulates Qi, benefits the Spleen, and warms the middle Jiao.
• Therapeutic Uses: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and poor appetite.

Sp-15 (Daheng):

• Location: On the abdomen, 4 cun lateral to the umbilicus.
• Functions: Regulates Qi, strengthens the Spleen, and transforms dampness.
• Therapeutic Uses: Treats constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal distension.

Sp-16 (Fu WAI):

• Location: On the abdomen, 3 cun lateral to the midline, level with the lower border of the sternocostal angle.
• Functions: Regulates Qi, benefits the chest, and alleviates pain.
• Therapeutic Uses: Chest pain, cough, and asthma.

Sp-17 (Shidou):

• Location: In the fourth intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
• Functions: Benefits the chest and promotes lactation.
• Therapeutic Uses: Insufficient lactation and chest pain.

Sp-18 (Tianxi):

• Location: In the fourth intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline (level with the nipple).
• Functions: Regulates Qi, benefits the chest, and promotes lactation.
• Therapeutic Uses: Cough, asthma, and insufficient lactation.

Sp-19 (Xiongxiang):

• Location: In the third intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
• Functions: Regulates Qi and benefits the chest.
• Therapeutic Uses: Chest pain, cough, and asthma.

Sp-20 (Zhourong):

• Location: In the second intercostal space, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
• Functions: Regulates Qi and benefits the chest.
• Therapeutic Uses: Chest pain, cough, and asthma.

Sp-21 (Dabao):

• Location: On the mid-axillary line, in the 6th intercostal space.
• Functions: Regulates Qi and blood, benefits the sinews and bones.
• Therapeutic Uses: Whole-body aching, weakness, and pain.

Disclaimer: It’s always a good idea to consult a qualified TCM practitioner before attempting to use these points on yourself, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Point Categories: Unlocking the Spleen Meridian’s Potential

Alright, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the fascinating world of point categories along the Spleen Meridian! Think of these categories as different tools in a TCM toolbox, each with its own special job to do. Understanding these point types is like getting the secret decoder ring for unlocking the Spleen Meridian’s full potential.

The Fantastic Five Shu Points

First up, we’ve got the Five Shu points, a quintet of acupuncture points that are super important. They’re located from the tips of your fingers/toes up to the elbow/knee, and each one represents a different stage of Qi flow, like a mini-cycle within the meridian. Each one is associated with different therapeutic actions.

• Jing-Well Point (Sp-1 – Yinbai): Imagine a tiny spring of water bubbling up. This point is used to revive consciousness and address fullness below the heart.
  • Functions: Revives consciousness, clears heat.
  • Indications: Manic disorders, epilepsy, fullness below the heart.
• Ying-Spring Point (Sp-2 – Dadu): This is like that spring turning into a stream, starting to gain momentum.
  • Functions: Clears heat from the Spleen, benefits the Stomach.
  • Indications: Heat sensations, abdominal distension, poor appetite, constipation.
• Shu-Stream Point (Sp-3 – Taibai): Now the stream’s flowing steadily, nourishing the land. This is also the Earth point!
  • Functions: Strengthens the Spleen, harmonizes the Stomach.
  • Indications: Weakness of the limbs, abdominal distension, vomiting, diarrhea.
• Jing-River Point (Sp-5 – Shangqiu): The river broadens and deepens, moving Qi and Blood more strongly.
  • Functions: Strengthens the Spleen and resolves dampness.
  • Indications: Abdominal distention, undigested food in stool, edema, pain in ankle.
• He-Sea Point (Sp-9 – Yinlingquan): Finally, the river flows into the sea, representing a convergence of Qi.
  • Functions: Resolves dampness, benefits urination.
  • Indications: Edema, urinary difficulty, abdominal distension, knee pain.

The Luo-Connecting Point (Sp-4)

Next, we have the Luo-Connecting point, a crucial point on the Spleen Meridian known as Sp-4 (Gongsun). Think of it as a bridge connecting the Spleen and Stomach Meridians. It’s all about communication and balance between these two vital digestive partners! When these points are used together, it allows for a balance between what is yin and yang, so that the body functions as expected.

• Sp-4 (Gongsun): This point is essential to tonify the Spleen and Stomach, and it is one of the most important points in Chinese medicine. The role is to allow Qi and Blood to be produced.
  • Functions: Strengthens the Spleen and harmonizes the Stomach.
  • Indications: Weakness of the limbs, abdominal distension, vomiting, diarrhea.

The Xi-Cleft Point (Sp-8)

Then, we have the Xi-Cleft point, also known as Sp-8 (Diji). Think of Xi-Cleft points as emergency responders – they’re used for acute conditions, those sudden flare-ups that need immediate attention. Located along the meridian pathways, Xi-Cleft points act as targeted treatment zones for alleviating pain, clearing obstructions, and restoring balance when symptoms arise rapidly. By tapping into the concentrated energy of these points, practitioners can swiftly address imbalances and provide relief during acute episodes.

• Sp-8 (Diji): This point is useful for stopping acute lower abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea, and bloody dysentery. By stopping or slowing down the blood, symptoms can be relieved and promote the body’s own natural healing to resolve issues.
  • Functions: Resolves acute pain, clears obstructions.
  • Indications: Abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea, bleeding.

Meeting Points: A Brief Encounter

Lastly, let’s not forget Meeting Points. These are spots where the Spleen Meridian gets together with other meridians, like a TCM mixer. This creates a synergistic effect, enhancing the overall treatment! Meeting points can be located anywhere from the feet to the head. The most important one to remember in the spleen meridian is Sanyinjiao SP-6.

Understanding these point categories gives you a deeper appreciation for the Spleen Meridian and its potential to influence your health! Keep this knowledge in your back pocket as you explore the world of TCM.

Clinical Applications: When to Consider the Spleen Meridian

Okay, folks, let’s get down to brass tacks. You’ve learned about this amazing Spleen Meridian and its crazy intricate network. Now, when do you actually think, “Hey, maybe my Spleen Meridian is acting up?” Glad you asked! Let’s dive into some real-life scenarios where the Spleen Meridian is often the star (or, well, the slightly misbehaving actor) behind the scenes.

Tummy Troubles: Digestive Disorders

First up, let’s talk about your gut. Not that “gut feeling” (though maybe the Spleen influences that too!), but your actual digestive system. If you’re constantly battling poor appetite, feeling like a balloon after a light salad (bloating), dealing with indigestion, or are intimately acquainted with diarrhea or constipation, your Spleen Meridian might be waving a white flag. The Spleen, in TCM, is like the head chef of your digestive kitchen, so when it’s off, the whole meal prep process goes haywire. It is responsible for transforming the foods we eat into energy, which is also related to nutrients absorption.

Tired All The Time: Fatigue

Ever feel like you’re running on fumes, even after a solid night’s sleep? If so, Spleen Qi Deficiency could be the culprit. Think of Qi as your body’s fuel, and the Spleen is a key player in making that fuel. When the Spleen isn’t doing its job, your energy tanks plummet. Specific acupuncture points like Sp-3 (Taibai) and Sp-6 (Sanyinjiao) are often used to invigorate the Spleen, and certain herbal formulas containing ingredients like ginseng or astragalus can provide a much-needed boost.

Water Woes: Edema

Next, let’s talk fluids. The Spleen is crucial in managing fluids in the body, ensuring everything flows smoothly. When the Spleen is weak, fluids can accumulate, leading to edema, or swelling, particularly in the legs, ankles, and feet. Specific points like Sp-9 (Yinlingquan) can help promote fluid circulation and relieve that puffy feeling.

Beyond the Big Three: Other Spleen-Related Issues

But wait, there’s more! The Spleen’s influence extends beyond just digestion, energy, and fluid balance. It also plays a role in:

• Menstrual Problems: Irregular cycles, PMS, and other menstrual woes can sometimes be traced back to a Spleen imbalance.
• Prolapse of Organs: Because the Spleen is said to govern the “raising” of Qi, a weakened Spleen can contribute to the prolapse of organs, like the uterus or rectum.
• Muscle Weakness: The Spleen is associated with the muscles, so muscle weakness or atrophy can be another sign that the Spleen needs some TLC.

Diagnostic Insights: Decoding Your Spleen’s Secrets with TCM

Alright, folks, so you’re intrigued by the Spleen Meridian, huh? That’s fantastic! But before you start sticking needles in yourself (please don’t do that!), it’s crucial to figure out what’s actually going on with your Spleen’s energy. Because in TCM, just like a quirky sitcom, everything is connected. An accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective treatment. It’s like having the right map before embarking on a treasure hunt!

Now, how do we peek inside this energetic landscape? Well, TCM offers some pretty cool methods. Think of them as detective tools, helping us uncover the mysteries of your Spleen. Let’s dive in!

The Tongue: A Window to Your Spleen’s Soul

First up, we have the tongue. No, I’m not kidding! Your tongue is like a little billboard advertising your internal health. A healthy tongue is usually pink, moist, and has a light coating. But a Spleen out of whack? That tongue might tell a different story.

• Is it pale? Could be a sign of Spleen Qi Deficiency, like the Spleen is too tired to bring the color to your tongue.
• Is it swollen? Maybe your Spleen’s struggling to manage fluids, leading to a puffy tongue.
• See teeth marks along the sides? Yep, that’s often a classic sign of Spleen Qi Deficiency and dampness – your tongue’s so swollen it’s being squished by your teeth!

Pulse Diagnosis: Listening to Your Body’s Rhythm

Next, let’s talk about pulse diagnosis. This is where things get really interesting! A skilled TCM practitioner can feel the quality of your pulse and gain insights into the state of your organs and meridians.

If your Spleen Qi is feeling weak, your pulse might be:

• Weak: It lacks strength and feels shallow.
• Thready: Thin and fine, like a delicate piece of string.

It is important to emphasize the significance of an experienced practitioner in accurately interpreting pulse readings.

Palpation: Feeling for Clues Along the Meridian

Now, let’s get hands-on! Palpation involves gently pressing on specific acupuncture points and along the Spleen Meridian pathway to feel for any unusual sensations.

• Palpation of Points: If a Spleen Meridian point feels tender or sensitive when touched, it could indicate an imbalance in that area. It’s like your body is saying, “Hey, something’s not quite right here!”
• Palpation of Channels: A skilled practitioner can also feel along the Spleen Meridian pathway for any irregularities or blockages. It’s like feeling for a kink in a hose – if the energy can’t flow freely, it can cause problems.

By combining these diagnostic methods, a TCM practitioner can get a comprehensive picture of your Spleen Meridian’s health and tailor a treatment plan just for you. Remember, it’s all about finding that balance and harmony within your body!

Anatomical Guide: Precision in Point Location

Alright, folks, let’s talk about anatomy! Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Ugh, anatomy? Sounds like med school!” But trust me, understanding a little bit about your body’s map is super important when you’re diving into the world of the Spleen Meridian. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t try to find a hidden treasure without a map, right? Same goes for acupuncture points!

Why Anatomy Matters

Imagine poking around, trying to find Sp-6 (Sanyinjiao) without knowing where your tibia (shin bone) is. You might end up hitting a nerve or a tendon, and let me tell you, that’s no fun for anyone! Understanding the underlying structures – bones, muscles, blood vessels – is crucial for a few reasons:

• Safety First: You want to make sure you’re not accidentally poking anything important. We’re aiming for healing here, not accidental owies!
• Accuracy is Key: Finding the exact location of a point is essential for it to do its job properly. A millimeter off, and you might as well be whistling Dixie.
• Confidence Boost: Knowing what’s underneath your fingertips gives you confidence. And a confident practitioner leads to a more relaxed and receptive patient (or yourself!).

Finding Points Like a Pro: Using Anatomical Landmarks

So, how do we become anatomical Indiana Joneses, expertly locating those elusive Spleen Meridian points? We use anatomical landmarks! These are those bony bits, muscle attachments, and other easily identifiable features that act as our guides.

Here’s a sneak peek at how this works, with a few examples to get you started:

• Sp-6 (Sanyinjiao): This rockstar point is located on the inside of your lower leg, about four finger-widths above the highest point of your ankle bone (the medial malleolus). So, first, find that ankle bone bump. Then, measure up! You’ll also notice it’s right behind the tibia (shin bone).
• Sp-9 (Yinlingquan): To find this point, locate the lower border of the medial condyle of the tibia. Basically, feel for the bony bump on the inside of your knee; the point is in the soft spot just below that.
• Sp-10 (Xuehai): With the knee flexed, this point is on the medial (inner) side of the thigh, 2 cun above the medial border of the patella (kneecap). Feel around for a depression in the muscle; that’s your spot!

Pro-Tip: “Cun” is a relative measurement in TCM, based on the patient’s own hand. One cun is roughly the width of the patient’s thumb at the knuckle.”

Visual Aids: Your New Best Friends

Words are great, but sometimes a picture is worth a thousand acupuncture needles! Look for diagrams and illustrations that show the Spleen Meridian’s pathway and the precise location of each point. These visual aids can be invaluable in helping you visualize the anatomy and find those points with confidence. Many acupuncture charts and apps have detailed anatomical overlays. Don’t be afraid to use them!

Remember: If you’re unsure about the location of a point, it’s always best to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure you’re on the right track.

So, there you have it! A little anatomical know-how can go a long way in your Spleen Meridian journey. Happy point-hunting, and may your needles always hit their mark!

So, next time you’re watching your favorite streamer and they mention spleen channel points, you’ll be in the know! Who knew such a quirky thing could be so useful, right? Happy earning and spending!