When to use: an afternoon pick-me-up, tension along the sides of the head, or tightness on the outer legs.
| Element | Wood |
|---|---|
| Organ | Gallbladder |
| Paired with | Liver Meridian |
| Peak hours | 11 p.m.–1 a.m. (Zi hour) |
| Number of points | 44 |
| Starts at | Tong Zi Liao (GB1) |
| Ends at | Zu Qiao Yin (GB44) |
| Pathway type | Three Yang of the Foot · head to foot |
| Emotion | Anger |
| Color | Green-blue |
The pathway
Begins at Tong Zi Liao (GB1) at the outer corner of the eye, weaves back and forth over the side of the head, passes Feng Chi (GB20) at the base of the skull and Jian Jing (GB21) on top of the shoulder, then runs down the side of the body, the outer thigh (Feng Shi, GB31), and the outer lower leg (Yang Ling Quan, GB34), ending at Zu Qiao Yin (GB44) on the fourth toe.
Its hour on the meridian clock
11 p.m.–1 a.m. (Zi hour) · Hexagram Fu (Return). The first line of yang is born, like the first spark of light after the winter solstice. Being asleep now lets that yang slowly rise.
Key points
- Five transporting points: Zu Qiao Yin (GB44), Xia Xi (GB43), Zu Lin Qi (GB41), Yang Fu (GB38), Yang Ling Quan (GB34)
- Source (yuan) point: Qiu Xu (GB40)
- Connecting (luo) point: Guang Ming (GB37)
- Cleft (xi) point: Wai Qiu (GB36)
- Front-mu point: Ri Yue (GB24)
- Back-shu point: Dan Shu (BL19)
A simple tapping routine
Stand and, with loose fists, tap down the outer thigh from hip to knee, 36 times per side (do this during the day, not before bed).
Foods traditionally linked to this meridian
Spinach, celery, broccoli, mung beans
Everyday tips
- Women: When the sides of your head feel tense before your period, press Feng Chi (GB20) and Zu Lin Qi (GB41).
- Men: Tap the Gallbladder Meridian during the day for a lift (not before bed), and press Yang Ling Quan (GB34) to relax the outer legs.
- Elders: Tap Feng Shi (GB31) on the outer thigh daily, and keep your knees warm.
Six ways to work with your meridians →
See all twelve on one chart: The 12 Meridians Wall Chart →
We don't promise. We don't cure. We align. This article is for everyday wellness and cultural education only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a health concern, talk with your doctor first.
