In Chinese Medicine the body is thought to contain channels of energy. The subtle or energetic body is made up of these channels, meridians, or nadis. These channels act as pathways where Qi or Prana flows.
There are fourteen main meridians. Twelve meridians are associated with individual organs and two meridians are considered central channels. These two meridians, the Ren (Conception) and the Du (Governing), run down the center of the body.
In Chinese Medicine, the Ren (Conception Vessel) and Du (Governing Vessel) are paired. They are a part of the “eight extraordinary vessels”.
Generally, the Ren is thought to ascend the front of the body, and the Du runs along the back of the body. However they both have channels that run internally to the opposite side. This makes these channels very similar to the central channel (sushumna) in the yoga system.
“The middle channel (madhyanadi) is situated in the center. It is as slender as the stem (sutra) of a lotus. If one meditates on the inner vacuity of this nadi, it helps in revealing the divine.”
Energetically, both meridians can address local problems along the channel. In addition, both the Ren and Du are important because they affect the internal organs and the deepest energy in the body.
Watch the video to learn about the location of the Ren and the Du meridians and some acupressure points you can use in your yin yoga or active yoga practice:
Location of the Ren Meridian:
- Starts at the uterus in females and the lower abdomen in males
- Ascends along the anterior midline
- Terminates just below the lower lip
- An internal branch travels up through the spinal column
Location of the Du Meridian:
- Emerges at the perineum
- Ascends along the back centre line of the body to the crown of the head and penetrates the brain
- The primary pathway descends along the midline of the head
- Terminates at the upper lip
- An internal pathway travels up along the anterior side of the body and connects to the Kidneys, Heart, throat, and eyes
Acupressure Points for Yoga
During your yoga practice some poses may compress these points and others will release the compression. You can also place gentle pressure on these points before, during or after your practice.
Ren 4 (GuanYuan):
This point strongly builds energy and supports a person’s deep reserves and stamina.
LOCATION: On the lower abdomen. Three thumb widths below the navel.
Du 4 (MingMen):
This point supports the Kidneys, clears heat and is helpful for disorders of the lumbar spine.
LOCATION: In the depression below the second lumbar vertebrae
