When to use: afternoon neck and shoulder tension, a stiff shoulder blade, or long hours at a desk.
| Element | Fire |
|---|---|
| Organ | Small Intestine |
| Paired with | Heart Meridian |
| Peak hours | 1–3 p.m. (Wei hour) |
| Number of points | 19 |
| Starts at | Shao Ze (SI1) |
| Ends at | Ting Gong (SI19) |
| Pathway type | Three Yang of the Hand · hand to head |
| Emotion | Joy |
| Color | Red |
The pathway
Begins at Shao Ze (SI1) on the outer side of the pinky fingernail, passes Hou Xi (SI3) on the outer edge of the hand, rises along the back outer edge of the forearm and upper arm, zigzags across the shoulder blade, then travels up the neck to the cheek and ends at Ting Gong (SI19) in front of the ear.
Its hour on the meridian clock
1–3 p.m. (Wei hour) · Hexagram Dun (Retreat). Yin grows as yang withdraws. Get up, loosen your neck and shoulders, and drink a glass of water.
Key points
- Five transporting points: Shao Ze (SI1), Qian Gu (SI2), Hou Xi (SI3), Yang Gu (SI5), Xiao Hai (SI8)
- Source (yuan) point: Wan Gu (SI4)
- Connecting (luo) point: Zhi Zheng (SI7)
- Cleft (xi) point: Yang Lao (SI6)
- Front-mu point: Guan Yuan (CV4)
- Back-shu point: Xiao Chang Shu (BL27)
A simple tapping routine
Tap from the pinky up the back outer edge of the arm to the back of the shoulder, then knead the shoulder blade for 1 minute. Repeat on both sides.
Foods traditionally linked to this meridian
Tomatoes, adzuki beans, red bell peppers, strawberries
Everyday tips
- Women: When your shoulder blade aches from sitting, massage Tian Zong (SI11).
- Men: If you're on the computer a lot, roll Hou Xi (SI3) against the edge of your desk.
- Elders: If your shoulders feel stiff, do shoulder circles daily and press Jian Zhen (SI9).
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.
