Pericardium Meridian

Communication and emotional protection are key words for the Pericardium meridian.

The Pericardium meridian is one of three Yin meridians located on the arm.

“The Pericardium is like the court jester who makes the king laugh, bringing forth joy.”
– Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine

The Pericardium meridian begins on the chest, just lateral to the nipple.  Pericardium 1 (P 1) is the first point on this relatively short meridian. The Pericardium meridian flows from the chest down the center of the front (anterior) surface of the arm, ending at the tip of the middle (P 9).
The pericardium itself is a sac around the heart. In Chinese Medicine, the Pericardium is thought of as the “Heart Protector.” The Heart is the King, or sovereign of all the organs, the Pericardium is in direct service to the Heart. It is the “chief of staff” for the Heart. As stated in the Yellow Emperor’s Classic, the Pericardium brings forth the joy of the Heart (King).
Internally, the Pericardium meridian is rooted in the center of the chest and connects to the pelvic and abdominal cavities.

Communication

Practically speaking, I use the Pericardium meridian to support clear communication of the Heart’s desires and to soothe and soften emotional defenses that are no longer useful.

Pericardium Meridian

Famous Pericardium Point

P 6, Nei Guan, “Inner Gate”

Along with other points and massage, I always use P 6 on my clients to calm their hearts and relieve chest tension associated with holding in too many emotions.

Locate P 6

P 6 is on the inner forearm, right in the center about two inches from the wrist crease toward the elbow. Measuring two thumb widths from the wrist will bring you to the point. See the image below:

Measure 2 thumb widths from the wrist crease

P 6