The 12 Primary Energy Meridians & The 8 Extraordinary Vessels
Within Chinese Medicine, there exists the theory of the 12 Primary Energy Meridians. Also, there is the Eight Extraordinary Vessels representing the body’s deepest level of energetic structuring. These vessels are the first to form in utero, and are carriers of Yuan Qi – the ancestral energy which corresponds to our genetic inheritance. They function as deep reservoirs from which the twelve main meridians can be replenished and into which the latter can drain their excesses of qi. Other names for these Eight Extraordinary Vessels include: the Eight Curious Vessels, the Eight Marvelous Meridians, and the Eight Irregular Vessels.
Western medicine does not recognize the meridians nor vessels existence as they are not physical components that can be seen nor dissected in a lab environment. However, other types of energy such as electricity, radiation and heat also are not visible to the human eye but are accepted as existing.
The blood, fascia and nervous system are all presumed to be the conduit in which the qi circulates throughout the human body. Mind and body practices such as tai chi, yoga and qigong are all methods of exercise and wellness known to affect the meridians, vessels and qi flow in a positive way. Improving the immune system is just one benefit of increasing this flow of energy.
Be well, stay healthy, be wise!
Jim Moltzan
United Martial Arts Association 