Open your internal highways
The basics
In eastern medicine it is believed that disease is created because the flow of energy is either blocked or off balance.
Similar to self-healing disciplines like tai chi and qigong, the goal of meridian exercise is to open the body’s highways so energy can move freely – something which can be achieved through deep stretching, meditation and bouncing the body.
There are said to be 12 primary meridians in the body, with each associated to a different organ – the gall bladder meridian is found in the foot, for instance.
Giving it a bash
At Auckland’s Body & Brain the goal of the meridian opening class is to bring more focus to the core or energy centre. I was instructed to wear comfortable clothing and socks for the lesson.
Across 75 minutes the class would cover a tapping warm-up to open up the energy points in the body, a sequence of deep stretches with breathing and some meditation.
In a circle, instructor Sean led the class through a round of abdomen tapping.
Counting in intervals of 10 as a way to focus, the percussive patting commenced below the belly button to strengthen the core and encourage circulation in the intestines.
After a traditional Korean greeting between class members, we began waking up the body and clearing blockages in the brain.
There was full-body shaking, rotating the hips and hands in opposite directions and reaching for the sky. Breathing out the stress and feeling a connection with the core were common instructions.
Stretching the arms out and back, we put focus on each pinky finger – believed to connect the heart meridian.
Next, the thumbs were lengthened to open the lungs. Cross-legged on the floor, we flapped the knees to wake up the legs.
Common yoga postures including cat, cow and child’s pose were then introduced. UNSPLASH
Sean suggested we should observe where the body is stretching the most.
To relieve tension further we bounced and tapped different body parts in time to a tribal soundtrack – toes knocking together should assist the liver meridian.
With the lights turned off, the class moved into the final meditation section. The sleeping tiger pose, with hands and legs levitating, was a true mental challenge.
Sean moved around the class encouraging inward thoughts and pressing on acupuncture points.
The class finished by rubbing the body with energy, tapping the abdomen, some more light stretching and jumping three times to the mantra ‘‘healthy body, happy heart, power brain’’.
Why you should try it
As well as connecting energy, Auckland’s Body & Brain states that meridian opening increases flexibility and balance, and will improve circulation and alignment.
A study examining the effects of meridian exercise on anxiety, depression and self-esteem of college students in Korea produced promising results compared to the control subjects taking part.
In the same way as meditation, yoga and tai chi, you can expect to feel refreshed and stretched out with this form of self healing.
Risk rating
Meridian opening is an incredibly safe practice, though guidance should be sought when learning how to properly position your body.
While considered a form of tradition medicine, it is not recommended that you use the practice to treat intense medical issues. Consult a professional first.