How to Prevent a Cold or Flu using Meridian Massage
Zip up your Qi Jacket!
Zip up your Qi Jacket!Many of us were taught to put on a jacket to prevent us from catching a cold or flu. These physical jackets work very well to block out the cold and wind. Imagine adding an energetic layer of protection – that is exactly what a “Qi Jacket” is!
Defensive Qi
We have a layer of Qi, called Defensive Qi, which acts as a barrier between our skin and the environment.
This energetic barrier is the key to preventing colds and flu. Since Defensive Qi plays a role that is very similar to a physical jacket, I call it a “Qi Jacket.”
The Lung Organ System is in charge of making and maintaining our Qi Jacket. Simply support the Lungs in order to ensure a strong a Qi Jacket. By preventing cold, wind, dampness, and viruses from entering our energetic system, we prevent the manifestation of a cold or flu.
How to make a strong Qi Jacket
Meridian massage uses a two-step approach:
- Lifestyle adjustments
- Acupressure points to boost the Lungs
Lifestyle adjustments:
- The Lung Organ System appreciates plenty of rest, calm, and quiet.
Take a little time each day just to practice being quiet. This can be five minutes of placing your awareness on your breath or a little time gazing at nature. - The Lung Organ System appreciates nutritious, long-cooked food.
Soup is wonderful for the Lungs. It is also a great meal to enjoy during the cooler weather in the fall and winter. - Bundle up when it is cold and windy.
Put on your socks, scarf, mittens, and jacket when you go out into the cold and wind!
The Lung Organ System appreciates plenty of rest, calm, and quiet.Acupressure points to boost the Lungs
- 3 Acupoints to support the Lung Organ System:
Lung 1, Lung 2, and Lung 9.
Gentle massage to these points nourishes and supports the strength of the Lungs. The “Fall Flu Season” can challenge the Lung Organ System. Using these points in the fall is a simple way to boost the Lungs.
How to locate Lung acupoints
Lung 1 and Lung 2 are on the upper chest, below the clavicle (collarbone).
These points are located on the upper ribcage, toward the sides of the body.
Lung 9 is on the palm side of the wrist.
Bend the wrist a little to make the wrist crease stand out. Feel for a dip on the end of the crease toward the thumb side.
Lung 1, Lung 2, and Lung 9 are on both sides of the body.
Experiment with locating and contacting the points.
Wondering how long to hold the point, how much pressure to use? Here is a great article about how to apply pressure to acupoints.
Thank you, Cindy! Something that has also helped my husband with his lungs and winter cough is when I work on the lung points on his feet! I appreciate all of your wonderful info and this fabulous book, which I have!
You are welcome!
Thank you so much for your continuing gifts of wisdom and education. I always look forward to your postings.
Thank you very much Cindy
You are welcome Diana!
Can you use the same point to RECOVER from a cold that has settled in your lungs? If you feel “sore” where you are putting pressure, does that mean anything?
Hi Lianda,
Thanks for your great question!
No, don’t use the same points to recover – this is an important clarification.
The Lung meridian is paired with the Large Intestine meridian. All meridians are paired according to Yin and Yang. Lung is the Yin meridian that is paired with the Large Intestine (Yang). In general we use Yang meridians to clear out pathogens and recover, and Yin meridians to build up or nourish Organs.
Here is blog post with more about the connection between the Lung and Large Intestine
So, use the Large Intestine points to relieve symptoms associated with a cold or flu.
Large Intestine 4 to relieve coughs, stuffy nose, headache,
Large Intestine 20 to open the nose,
Large Intestine 11 is combined with other points to relieve fever.
Of course, there are always exceptions 🙂
Lung 10 has the special property of easing sore throat. Here is a link to my YouTube video showing how to locate Lung 10
Wow this makes sense because lung 9 is where the radial pulse is obtained. Thanks
It’s all connected!
Tis the Season for this Knowledge … thanks Cindy … Timing always perfect as usual … Blessings & Love
My pleasure Genesis – I always appreciate your comments, thoughts, and wisdom.
Thank you Cindy
Thanks a lot for the post! Really need it right now.
Yoshy,
You are welcome
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