Channel Systems and Qi Flow in Traditional Chinese Medicine

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to the study of channel systems, qi flow, and associated methodologies in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Channel Systems

Networks of pathways through which qi and blood flow in the body.

Cun

A unit of measurement in Traditional Chinese Medicine used to locate acupuncture points.

Flow of Qi

The movement of vital energy through channels in the body, facilitating health and balance.

Eight Extraordinary Channels

Unique pathways in the body that store and regulate qi and blood beyond the twelve primary channels.

Primary Channels

The main pathways that circulate qi and blood to and from the organs.

Master Points

Specific acupuncture points that have a profound effect on particular channels.

Minute Collaterals

Tiny channels that help distribute qi and blood, associated with capillaries.

Luo Connecting Channels

Channels that connect yin/yang paired channels, regulating qi and blood in those areas.

Sinew Channels

Channels that connect muscles and tendons, governing proper joint articulation.

Divergent Channels

Channels that run deeper in the body to connect areas not served by primary channels.

Cou Li

Refers to the spaces in the body, particularly those defined by the textures of tissues.

San Jiao

A system of cavities in the body, encompassing significant interconnected spaces.

Cun Measurements

Standardized distances used in acupuncture to locate points on the body.

Pathway of Qi Flow

The specific routes that qi takes through the primary channels.

Yin and Yang Pairing

The concept of balance where each channel has a corresponding counterpart.

Depth of Channels

Refers to varying levels at which different types of channels exist within the body.

Extraordinary Channel Functions

Channels that act as reservoirs for qi and blood, linking all twelve channels.

Qi Flow Cycles

The repetitive patterns of qi movement throughout the body's channels.

Acupuncture Points

Specific locations on the body where needles are inserted to influence the flow of qi.

Therapeutic Techniques

Methods such as massage, cupping, and gua sha used to treat qi flow disruptions.