1

ORGAN & MERIDIAN DIAGNOSIS STUDY GUIDE The human body is a continuous circuit in which energy flows. Energy is our life force – it is called ki (Japanese), chi (Chinese) or prana (Indian). Energy runs through the body in pathways called meridians that are associated with each organ system. In modern medicine the body is viewed as separate parts, and that is one of the reasons surgeons are quick to remove an organ if it is not functioning properly. But, in ancient medicine, removing one body part affects the entire person – physically, emotionally and spiritually. Each organ in the body depends upon the every other organ to be properly nourished. If one organ is removed or not functioning well, the entire body will be out of balance. The organs are grouped in complementary systems that work together harmoniously. If energy is not properly flowing in any organ or meridian, it affects the entire body. A malfunctioning organ system could be physical, emotional or spiritual.

BASIC DISCOLORATION According to visual diagnosis every blemish, mole, line, or discoloration (including tattoos) can have a deeper meaning. We can assess the condition of the patient by viewing the meridians more closely. Below are some basic colors to be aware of: Red – expansion of capillaries, heart and circulatory disorders Yellow – disorders of liver/gallbladder, and/or spleen/stomach/pancreas Purple – digestive disorders, nervous disorders, extreme cold foods White – contraction of blood capillaries, anemia, lack of blood Blue – disorders of liver, spleen/pancreas and kidney/bladder Brown – digestive, kidney and excretory dysfunction Green – decomposition of tissues and cells, development of tumors, cancer

PAIN AND DISCOMFORT

Pain, aches or stiffness along meridians or at a specific point can indicate dysfunction, stagnation (tumors/cysts), or an excess or deficiency in that organ system. Once energy begins flowing again the organ receives proper nourishment and discomfort usually disappears. Each organ system can be nourished and/or harmed by a specific flavor; sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent/spicy. The Nei Ching (the Yellow Emperor’s classic of Internal Medicine) says, “If people pay attention to the five flavors and blend them well, their bones will remain straight, their muscles will remain tender and young, breath and blood will circulate freely, the pores will be in fine texture, and consequently breath and bones will be filled with the essence of life.”

2

Some books to further your knowledge on this subject: The Five Elements of Self Healing – Jason Elias L.Ac., Katherine Ketchum Staying Healthy with the Seasons - Elson Haas, MD The Yellow Emperors Classic of Internal Medicine – Ilza Veith Reading the Body - Ohashi

3

LIVER AND GALLBLADDER MERIDIANS

The Liver/Gallbladder (LV/GB) system rules the morning hours and gives us the capacity to wake energized, refreshed and inspired to begin the day. The sour flavor governs this system and a strong affinity to it, or repulsion from it, could indicate dysfunction. The tissues connected to LV/GB are muscles, ligaments and tendons that give us both strength and flexibility. The sense organ associated with LV/GB is the eyes. This system highly benefits from 3-7 day vegetable juice fast to ease stress on digestion. The Liver commands the blood and is responsible for metabolizing and distributing nutrients, removing toxins, and transforming food into glucose that the body uses for energy. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver makes sure our physical, emotional and spiritual needs are balanced by keeping blood, energy and emotions flowing smoothly. When liver energy becomes blocked, emotions stagnate creating anger and frustration. The Gallbladder stores bile, aids digestion by breaking down fats, and enhances the small intestine’s ability to absorb essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. The Gallbladder is responsible, for decision-making and wise judgement. The Gallbladder also moderates reckless behaviour. Migraine headaches and hip problems are generally associated with the gall bladder. Arthritis of the hip is often a gall bladder problem, while arthritis of the shoulders is usually caused by a dysfunction in the intestines. The LV/GB system is considered our creative channel. When our physical, emotional and spiritual needs are balanced, creativity flows.

4

Physical & Emotional Symptoms of Excess LV/GB

Physical & Emotional Symptoms of Deficient LV/GB

Oily skin, acne, fatty deposits under the skin and/or gallstones

Allergies & environmental sensitivities

Hard ridged or cracked fingernails and toenails Insomnia, fitful sleep, difficulty falling asleep

Tight tendons and ligaments, muscular tension, cramps, spasms (usually in the head, neck, shoulders, hips, feet)

Chronic neck and shoulder tension

Red spots on the skin (too much EFA’s) Itchy eyes, ears, anus Migraine headaches Restless leg syndrome, muscle spasms Visual problems Blurred vision, dry eyes, sensitivity to

light Menstrual irregularities and excessive PMS symptoms

PMS – depression, bloating, sadness, irregularities (missed periods, light and short flows)

Digestive problems (heartburn, gas, ulcers) Digestive problems Cysts and lumps in the breasts, ovaries, prostate, and uterus, and cancer of all types

Lethargy

Aggressive and/or violent outbursts of anger Anxiety Difficulty relaxing/de-stressing Restless, nervous energy Overly serious Indecisiveness and general

procrastination Inflexibility Poor judgment Agitation, irritability Feeling stuck creatively Blaming others Blaming self Workaholic Lack of responsibility Self destructive behavior patterns Depression

5

Diet and Lifestyle Suggestions to Restore Balance to Liver/Gallbladder

Get to sleep before 11pm (imperative!) Reduce alcohol and eliminate drugs (both prescription and street drugs)

Reduce stress – get massage, relax and meditate

Eliminate toxins from the diet (pesticides, chemicals,)

Practice flexibility of body and mind; yoga, tai chi and stretching help create flexibility in the body. Meditation and understanding creates flexibility of mind

LV/GB system highly benefits from a 3-7 day vegetable or juice fast

Exercise 30-40 minutes daily (vigorous walking, running, sports)

Eat whole foods (whole grains, beans, vegetables, fruit, fish, and smaller quantities of animal proteins and fats)

Do NOT skip meals unless you are intentionally fasting (makes the body tight & stressed)

Emphasize fresh fruits and light easy to digest raw salads

Restrict overall fat intake and eliminate fried foods and hydrogenated oils

Eat small portions of food and chew well

Reduce stimulants (stimulants trigger “stress” hormones)

Foods with a sour taste (pickles, lemons, vinegar, yogurt,) can support LV/GB function

Avoid sugar, soft drinks, white bread, refined flour products

Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily

6

HEART MERIDIAN AND SMALL INTESTINE MERIDIAN

The Heart/Small Intestine (HT/SI) is responsible for human intelligence, understanding, compassion, intuition, spiritual transformation, joy, excitement, and overseeing intimate relationships. The flavor governing this meridian system is bitter and strengthens the heart. Excessive bitterness (both food and emotions) injures this system: coffee, chocolate, cigarettes, and charred food. The sense organ is the tongue and helps regulate speech. A clear pink tongue is the ideal. The Heart meridian divides into three branches; one goes directly to small intestine, another travels through the throat towards the eye, and the third crosses the chest, travels down the inside of the arm to the pinky where it connects with Small Intestine meridian. The Small Intestine transforms carbohydrates, proteins and fats, and sort nutrients into usable glucose, fatty acids and amino acids. These substances are absorbed into the blood. Unusable portions of food (fiber, bulk, waste) pass through small intestine into the large intestine where they are formed into fecal matter and discarded. Emotionally, the small intestine separates the “pure (things that you need) from the impure (things you don’t need).”

The HT/SI governs two other systems, the Triple Heater (TH) and the Pericardium (Circulation/Sex). The TH is responsible for maintaining temperature, governing heat in the upper burner (chest/respiratory), middle burner (digestion) and lower burner (elimination & sex). Pericardium regulates blood flow and sexual secretions. Circulation and heating are imperative to bodily functions.

7

Diet & Lifestyle Suggestions to Restore Balance to Heart/Small Intestine

• Reduce overly spiced foods • If in a state of excess, reduce intake from heat generating foods; meat, cheese, eggs, and

fats. Incorporate tofu and other cooling foods into the diet (salad, fruit, water) • Incorporate bitter flavored foods to help cool the body and support the liver and the

digestive system (dark leafy greens: kale, escarole, endive, collard greens, parsley,) • Drink green tea (supportive bitter flavor), instead of coffee (draining) • Reduce tomatoes, red peppers, chili peppers (can contribute to irritability) • Daily breathing exercises are needed to calm the mind and heart • Eat slowly, chew and relax (eating quickly without chewing creates heartburn) • Find fun exercises, the heart likes fast action and group sports/activities • Express yourself through giving and receiving touch (hugs, holding hands, caressing) • Listen to the heart, and emotionally and spiritually connect with others

Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Excessive Heart/Small Intestine

Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Deficient Heart/Small Intestine

Overall flushed or red complexion Pale complexion Hot hands and feet, overheating, excessive perspiration

Cold hands and cold feet

Rashes and hives Rashes/eczema/psoriasis (especially on the elbows)

Stuttering, strained speech and tension in the throat

Shallow breathing, tendency to hold the breath

Insomnia, nightmares or disturbing dreams, restless sleep

Insomnia and difficulty staying asleep

Rapid heartbeat, palpitations Palpitations and irregularities (missed heart beats)

Pain in the chest radiating down the left arm Lightheadedness Sores inside the mouth and on the tongue (red tipped tongue)

Difficulty maintaining sexual arousal

Excessive desire for cold drinks Low blood pressure Inability to concentrate, ADHD Tendency to go in many directions, inability

to focus Fear of rejection Poor judgment in love relationships Feelings of overwhelm Lack of spontaneity, originality and

creativity Phobias about public speaking, public performance

Intense need to be accepted

Emotionally unstable Loss of passion Over-excitability Forgetfulness Restlessness, agitation, anxiousness Exhaustion

8

STOMACH AND SPLEEN/PANCREAS MERIDIANS

The Stomach/Spleen/Pancreas (ST/SP/PAN) system is associated with the sweet flavor. A little sweetness nourishes us while an excessive sweet flavor diminishes energy. The sense organ is the mouth and the bodily fluid is saliva. This system governs our flesh and muscles. To function properly ST/SP/PAN requires more “building” type foods; proteins, fats, and beans, with an emphasis on cooked vegetables and fruits. Too much raw and/or cold food damages this system. The Stomach is the receiver of nourishment. If the stomach is not functioning properly we cannot assimilate the necessary nutrients to strengthen and support body, mind and spirit. The stomach breaks down food and sends partially digested substances to the small intestine for absorption. The stomach also transports nutritive energy to the Spleen where it is transformed into Chi (blood/energy). The Spleen contains a high concentration of red blood cells and releases blood for use during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, emotional stress, bleeding, and exhaustion. The Spleen distributes energy obtained from food, removes waste from the blood, and breaks down old blood cells. The Pancreas is associated with the spleen according to Chine Medicine. Scientifically, the Pancreas secretes enzymes into the small intestine, assisting in digestion of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The Pancreas also regulates blood sugar by releasing insulin that signals cells to absorb glucose for energy. The ST/SP/PAN keeps us feeling centered and able to physically manifest our ideas into reality.

9

Physical & Emotional Symptoms of Excess Stomach/Spleen/Pancreas

Physical & Emotional Symptoms of Deficient Stomach/Spleen/Pancreas

Excess saliva and/or thick mucus in the nose, throat, mouth

Lack of saliva

Insatiable appetite, compulsive overeating Constant hunger but inability to decide what to eat

Weak joints Arthritis, aching limbs, joints and muscles

Lack of energy and endurance, overall sluggishness, heavy feeling in the limbs

Poor muscle tone

Water retention (swelling in abdomen, hips, legs, ankles, hands, fingers)

Tendency to bruise easily and slow wound healing

Heavy menstrual flow Varicose veins Fibroid tumors Fluid retention, bloating Gas, distended abdomen, excessive belching Lack of endurance Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), craving sweets, carbohydrates, bread, sugar

Craving sugar and sweetened caffeinated drinks

Heartburn, ulcers Obsessive worry and concern for others, neglecting self in the process

Difficulty losing weight, rapid weight gain Clingy, fear of being disconnected from friends, family, loved ones

Intense craving for love and affection, constant need to be needed or included

Feelings of inadequacy, emptiness, loneliness, abandonment

Obsessive worrying, confusion Difficulty starting things; work, projects, exercise routine

Poor self-esteem, sensitivity to criticism, self pity

Unfocused, scattered

10

Diet and Lifestyle Improvements to Balance Stomach/Spleen/Pancreas

• Increase naturally sweet foods (whole grains, fruits, sweet vegetables, red meats)

• Decrease refined carbohydrates, sugar, and other refined sweets and sweeteners • Reduce caffeine, sugar, alcohol • Avoid iced foods and drinks (cold food dampens digestive fire) • Reduce or eliminate raw foods (salads, fruits) • Steam, sauté, blanch, and bake foods • Incorporate sweet vegetables to help quell sweet cravings • Avoid most dairy products (cheese, ice-cream, milk, cream) • Incorporate dry, warming condiments; ginger, garlic, cinnamon, pepper, etc. • Break down food in the mouth (CHEW!) to reduce digestive burden • Take a daily walk, push yourself to move that body and get going! • Working with weights helps strengthen this entire system • Start projects between 7-11am (best time for this system to manifest ideas) • Push yourself to finish projects that you’ve started • Learn to say no and do not take on other people’s problems • Work on yourself, focus on yourself and take full responsibility for yourself • Sing a happy song every day – singing strengthens this organ system

11

LUNG AND LARGE INTESTINE MERIDIANS

The sense organ associated with Lung/Large Intestine (LG/LI) system is the nose and the ability to smell and taste. The pungent/spicy flavor clears the sinuses and stimulates the lungs. The bodily fluid is mucous, and too much or too little indicates an imbalance in this system. The LG/LI meridian requires “cleanliness” in the form of fresh, clean air and regular bowel movements to keep the system running smoothly without a backup of waste. Lungs rule the interaction between the external and the internal world. We expand to inhale oxygen and contract to exhale carbon. With each breath “in” we live a little and with each breath “out” we die a little. The pace of our breathing also helps keep the heart in rhythm. The Lungs are also associated with the skin (elimination organ). Skin ailments and lung disorders are often found together. Large Intestine is responsible for reabsorbing liquid through intestinal walls, bulking up and eliminating indigestible foods. A breakdown in this system creates a cluttered and congested internal environment, leading to an inability to release, and an overly rigid body and mind. LG/LI system governs the understanding that there is a beginning and an end and that we need to release (out) in order to receive (in) and vice versa.

12

Diet and Lifestyle Suggestions to Restore Balance to Lung/Large Intestine

• Reduce or eliminate the common allergens; dairy, wheat, gluten, eggs, citrus, soy, peanuts

• Reduce or eliminate fruit and fruit juice • Be cautious of too many dairy products as they can create excess mucous • Become aware of immediate food sensitivities – itchy eyes, ears, nose, throat, skin • Become aware of chronic food sensitivities – bloating, cramps, nausea, fatigue, and

headache • Avoid cold and excessively sweet foods (contribute to poor digestion and asthma) • Eat lightly sautéed, baked, broiled, steamed, blanched foods • Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily • Eat whole grains, beans, vegetables, fish and animal proteins • Eat foods that are mildly spiced with the pungent flavor • Incorporate deep breathing to help regulate body/heart rhythm • Meditate daily (or as often as possible) to help clear and calm the mind • Daily walk – especially around the trees • Adjust your attitude toward living and dying – both are a natural process of life

Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Excessive Lung/Large Intestine

Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Deficient Lung/Large Intestine

Allergies (hay fever, food, mold, chemicals) Allergies Frozen shoulder, stiff shoulders Moles and warts Inflexible spine and back Chronically dry skin, hair, lips and

nasal passages Sinus infections and sinus headaches Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Lack of perspiration Itching, eczema and/or psoriasis Intestinal distress Loose bowels and/or constipation,

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Respiratory problems (asthma, persistent cough, tight chest)

Persistent flu’s and colds

Dry skin, hair, nails and lips Congested nose/throat/sinuses Domineering and rigid personality, self righteousness

Difficulty letting go of the need to be right

Overly critical and judgmental, petty Critical of others and self, pettiness Inability to adapt to change Inability to adapt to change Obsessed with cleanliness Accumulate junk and clutter Inability to release and let go Tendency to wallow, depression Possessive of both people and things Obsessive relationships

13

KIDNEY AND BLADDER MERIDIANS

The Kidney/Bladder (KD/BL) system is responsible for the water element in the body and is essential for circulation of blood, lubricating cells, carrying heat, lymphatic flow, sexual fluids, perspiration, and waste elimination. The flavor associated with KD/BL is “salty.” Salt can both nourish and/or injure this system. The ear is the sense organ and is responsible for the ability to listen and hear. If the ears are chronically wet, itchy, ringing, buzzing or failing (hearing loss), it indicates an imbalance in this system. The emotions associated with a malfunctioning KD/BL are fear, trepidation and loss of will. While a strong will, ambition and drive to succeed in all aspects of life indicate a well functioning kidney system. The Kidneys filter the blood, keeping the body clean by extracting water, urea, ammonia, mineral salts, chemicals, and heavy metals. Urine is made from the process of filtering blood where it is then passed to the Bladder and stored, and eventually secreted from the body. The kidneys govern the “life-force,” the bones and it’s marrow. The Bladder stores and eliminates urine received from the kidneys. The Bladder meridian begins at the inner corner of the eyes, goes over the top of the head, then runs down both sides of the spine through the sacrum, down the back of both legs and ending at the outside of the pinky toe. This organ system thrives when we learn to listen, become receptive, and quiet our mind. The kidneys become stronger when we continually take action without fear.

14

Physical & Emotional Symptoms of Excessive Kidney/Bladder

Physical & Emotional Symptoms of Deficient Kidney/Bladder

Weakened bones, bone loss, teeth loss Brittle bones and joints, osteoporosis Severe lower back pain Loss of appetite Bladder infections or Prostate infections, difficulty urinating (pain and/or discomfort)

Yeast infections

Kidney stones Amenorrhea (irregular or lack of menstrual bleeding)

Arthritis Excessive thirst Cold hands and feet Ringing, buzzing/humming in the

ears Hypersensitivity to light and loud noises Dark blue or black color around the

eyes Intense anxiety, multiple phobias, excessive and irrational fear

Frequent urination

Vertigo Dry, thinning, balding or prematurely graying hair

High Blood Pressure, heart attack, stroke Extreme dislike of cold/winter Antisocial behavior, emotional withdrawal Infertility, lack of sex drive Insecurity Depression and hopelessness Cynicism, pessimism, excessive criticism Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Depression Laziness Paranoia Lack of trust, loss of faith Fanaticism Absentmindedness Irritability Unfocused and poorly defined goals Isolationist Phobias – heights, intimacy, closed

spaces, new situations Preoccupation with self, inner-thoughts, feelings Poor self confidence

15

Diet and Lifestyle Suggestions to Balance Kidney/Bladder

• Reduce overly salted foods, cured meats, sausages, bacon, pretzels, potato chips • Avoid coffee, chocolate, sugar, drugs and other stimulants • Avoid raw, cold food and drinks (salads, smoothies, iced tea or other cold

drinks) • Use little or no fruit juice and/or fruit (except cranberry) • If deficient, increase animal fat and protein; if excess decrease animal fat and protein

(specifically pork, beef, duck) • Incorporate bone stocks (easily absorbable liquid nutrition) • Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily • Steam, sauté or stir-fry vegetables • Eat ocean foods; sea salt, sea vegetables, fish, shellfish • Sleep! Get adequate rest • Find a cause to believe in or a direction to follow – something greater than the self • Learn to be receptive • Use meditation to enhance quiet receptivity • Be fearless. Do the thing that scares you most and keep doing it!

Homework Assignments

Deepen your practitioner skills by observing at least one new person and ask questions. Write down everything you discover about them. Questions to ask: • Do they have any aches or pains in their body? Is it dull or sharp? Chronic or sporadic? • Do they wake to urinate in the middle of the night? • What are their sleeping patterns like? • What time do they go to bed? What time do they wake? • Do they feel energetic and rested upon waking? • What is their level of self-care? • What type of exercise do they do on a daily basis? • What do they eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks? As the practitioner, please observe the client with an open mind: • How do they talk? • How do they sit? • What is their overall bodily energy like? Hyper? Agitated? Calm? Nervous? • What is your body intuitively picking up on? • Is the client emotionally expressive?

16

Incorporate a daily routine of meridian exercises: See page 173-177 in Healing the Body by Ohashi