Restoring Balance

Bring balance to your small intestine and triple warmer meridians - By Micaela Madeddu

Reading time: 4 minutes

The small intestine and triple warmer meridians serve as the yang counterparts to the yin meridians of the heart and pericardium. Responsible for discerning purity and facilitating transformations within the body, these meridians play a vital role in the digestive tract. In this article, we will explore how imbalances in these meridians can manifest and discuss practical approaches to restoring balance.

Identifying Imbalances: Imbalances in the meridians can manifest as either excess (full) or deficit (empty). Physically, an excess in these meridians may present as abdominal pain, bloating, digestive issues, constipation, a tendency to overeat, and problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and ears. From an emotional standpoint, imbalances can lead to anxiety, agitation, and worry, with the triple warmer's imbalance impacting emotions associated with other organs.

On the other hand, an empty meridian may result in feelings of deflation, sadness, and nervousness. Physical symptoms can include fever, diarrhea, deafness, muscle weakness, and poor appetite.

Restoring Balance: To restore balance when there is an excess in the meridians, it is beneficial to practice poses that disperse excess energy. During these poses, hold each position for 10-12 breaths, consciously relaxing and releasing tension. Here are a couple of poses to try:

Garudasana Arms (Eagle Pose): Cross your arms in front of you, allowing one arm to carry the other. Wrap the forearms together, if possible, bringing the palms to face each other or clasping the hands together. Keep your shoulders relaxed and away from your ears.

2. Deep V: Lie on your back with your arms on the floor, palms facing down. Raise your arms to a 30-35 degree angle between your head and each arm.

After practicing each pose, take a moment to pause and listen to your body and mind. Pay attention to any changes you may notice.

When the meridians feel empty, an active practice can be effective in restoring balance. Consider incorporating the following poses:

Camatkarasana (Wild Thing Pose): Start seated with your legs slightly apart. Position one hand behind you, then inhale to prepare. Exhale as you lift your hips towards the ceiling and reach the other arm up and behind, opening the heart center towards the sky. Inhale at the top and exhale to lower. Repeat 5-6 times on each side. Afterward, pause and observe any differences you feel.

2. Purvottanasana (Reverse Plank Pose): Sit with your legs together and your hands behind your hips (adjust the wrist position for comfort). Inhale to prepare, then exhale as you lift your hips, visualizing a straight line extending from your toes to your spine. Inhale at the top, and exhale to lower. Repeat this sequence 5-6 times, then pause and listen.

Balancing the small intestine and triple warmer meridians is essential for overall well-being. By recognizing the signs of imbalance and engaging in appropriate yoga poses, you can restore harmony to these energetic pathways. Remember to tune into your body and mind, embracing the transformative power of your practice. Have a wonderful session!

Namaste.