The meridians are a system of invisible channels on the back and front of the body along which energy or Ki flows. There are twelve principal meridians plus two additional ones which are called the ‘governing vessel’ each meridian passes partly through the body and partly along the skin joining various chakras and organs. One end of every meridian is beneath the skin while the other is on the surface of the skin on the feet or hands. Along each meridian are acupressure or acupuncture points which in shiatsu are called ‘tsubos’. These points allow the flow of energy along the meridian to be altered if necessary- energy is received via the ends located on the feet and hands and via the pressure points. By working on the meridians channeling the energy pathway’s problems such as muscle tension, backache and headaches can be reduced. It is also said to affect the joints, muscles and the skin thereby easing these complaints.
