When to use: before a midday nap, when you feel fluttery or restless, sleep feels unsettled, or you feel lonely.
| Element | Fire |
|---|---|
| Organ | Heart |
| Paired with | Small Intestine Meridian |
| Peak hours | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (Wu hour) |
| Number of points | 9 |
| Starts at | Ji Quan (HT1) |
| Ends at | Shao Chong (HT9) |
| Pathway type | Three Yin of the Hand · chest to hand |
| Emotion | Joy |
| Color | Red |
The pathway
Begins at Ji Quan (HT1) in the center of the armpit, runs down the back edge of the inner upper arm (pinky side), passes Shao Hai (HT3) at the elbow and Shen Men (HT7) at the wrist, and ends at Shao Chong (HT9) beside the pinky fingernail.
Its hour on the meridian clock
11 a.m.–1 p.m. (Wu hour) · Hexagram Gou (Coming to Meet). The first line of yin is born as yang peaks and turns. A 15-minute rest helps settle the heart and mind.
Key points
- Five transporting points: Shao Chong (HT9), Shao Fu (HT8), Shen Men (HT7), Ling Dao (HT4), Shao Hai (HT3)
- Source (yuan) point: Shen Men (HT7)
- Connecting (luo) point: Tong Li (HT5)
- Cleft (xi) point: Yin Xi (HT6)
- Front-mu point: Ju Que (CV14)
- Back-shu point: Xin Shu (BL15)
A simple tapping routine
Raise one arm and, with the other hand, tap from the armpit down the back edge of the inner arm to the pinky, 36 times per side.
Foods traditionally linked to this meridian
Red dates (jujube), adzuki beans, lotus seeds, longan, goji berries
Everyday tips
- Women: When you feel fluttery or sleep feels unsettled, press Shen Men (HT7) and take a short midday rest.
- Men: Under stress, press around Ji Quan (HT1) and stretch out both arms.
- Elders: Rest for 30 minutes after lunch rather than jumping straight into vigorous activity.
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.
