Tai Yang Channel Patterns
In a meridians based approach to pattern identification the tai yang (UB - SI) channels connect to three other meridian pairs. Through the internal-external relationships the tai yang have an association with the shao yin (HT and KI). This can be represented by the image below.
​
Tai Yang - Shao Yin Circuit
SI - UB
- -
HT - KI
Actions: Treats primary complaints in the tai yang channels and addresses root imbalances in the heart and/or kidneys. To be used when the primary complaint is in the tai yang meridians and secondary concerns involve the heart and/or kidneys.
Tai Yang - Tai Yin Circuit Patterns
In Zang Fu Bei Tong theory the tai yang connects to the tai yin (LU and SP), and in traditional theories the bladder, small intestine, lung, and spleen all play a role in water metabolism. The tai yang – tai yin pattern is identified when a client has symptoms in the tai yang channels but also has a predominance of either spleen or lung imbalances.
Tai Yang - Tai Yin Circuit
SI - UB
- -
SP - LU
Actions: Treats primary concerns in the tai yang that occur with root imbalances in the spleen and/or heart. This circuit should be used when the primary symptoms involve the tai yang and secondary concerns involve the tai yin.
Tai Yang - LV/LU Circuit Patterns
The final tai yang pattern is seen when primary symptoms are present in the tai yang channels and root imbalances exist in either the liver and/or lungs. This pattern is often seen in cases of upper back and shoulder pain in the UB and SI meridians, and the underlying cause is due to liver qi stagnation.
​
Tai Yang - LV/LU Circuit
SI - UB
- -
LV - LU
Actions: Treats tai yang symptoms that occur with secondary complaints in the liver or lungs. This circuit is often used for upper back, neck, and shoulder pain that is connected to liver and/or lung imbalances.
Notice how the above system reveals that the tai yang has a connection to each of the 5 zang organs, and this is important because symptoms in the tai yang channels may be indicative of an imbalance in any of the 5 zang.
When we analyze patterns of disharmony from a meridian-based perspective, we are often able to see deeper into the syndromes and unravel complex cases. Another important aspect of using a meridian systems method is to ask the patient about their top three health concerns. Doing this allows the clients to prioritize their needs, and creates a framework for determining what symptoms are most problematic. When this is done it also allows us to better determine the major meridian, and zang-fu pattern that is present.
Learn more about Meridian Circuit Systems.
​
Learn more about myofascial anatomy and how it relates to the tai yang channels.