The Heart Meridian holds the highest position in Traditional Chinese Medicine as the "Emperor" of all organ systems. It is the seat of consciousness and houses the Shen (spirit), supporting mental-emotional well-being, clarity of thought, and spiritual connection. The heart governs not just physical circulation but the circulation of love, joy, and emotional warmth throughout our being.

As the ruler of the cardiovascular system, the Heart meridian ensures that blood reaches every part of the body, carrying both nutrients and the vital essence of our spirit. It controls our ability to connect authentically with others, experience appropriate joy, and maintain mental stability. When balanced, the heart fosters centeredness, love, mental clarity, restful sleep, and good memory.

Meridian Pathway & Flow

Direction

Flows from chest to hand, Yin to Yang

Pathway

Origin: Begins deep in the heart organ system within the chest
Internal Branch: One branch descends through the diaphragm to connect with the small intestine
Surface Path: Emerges at HT-1 (Jiquan) in the center of the armpit
Arm Path: Travels down the medial aspect of the arm along the pinky-side
Forearm Path: Continues down the ulnar side of the forearm to the wrist
End Point: Terminates at HT-9 (Shaochong) at the radial corner of the pinky fingernail
Connection: Links to the Small Intestine meridian at SI-1 (Shaoze) on the pinky finger

Active Time

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Peak energy circulation)

Primary Functions

Physical Functions

Governs blood circulation and heart rhythm
Controls blood vessel health and integrity
Regulates body temperature through circulation
Manages sweat production
Controls the tongue and speech
Supports complexion and facial color

Emotional & Mental Functions

Houses the spirit (Shen) and consciousness
Governs mental clarity and cognitive function
Controls emotions, particularly joy and love
Manages sleep quality and dream states
Supports memory and mental focus
Supports authentic connection and communication
Maintains emotional stability and inner peace

Essential Acupoints

Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.

Therapeutic Applications

Cardiovascular Conditions

Heart palpitations and irregular rhythm
Chest pain and tightness
High or low blood pressure
Poor circulation and cold extremities
Angina and heart-related anxiety
Shortness of breath with exertion

Mental & Emotional Issues

Anxiety and panic attacks
Depression and lack of joy
Insomnia and sleep disturbances
Memory problems and mental fog
Emotional instability and mood swings
Difficulty with emotional expression
Spiritual disconnection and lack of purpose

Communication & Social Issues

Speech difficulties and stuttering
Social anxiety and isolation
Difficulty forming intimate relationships
Lack of emotional warmth or empathy
Inappropriate laughter or emotional responses

Sleep & Consciousness Disorders

Chronic insomnia
Restless sleep and vivid dreams
Night sweats
Mental restlessness
Difficulty quieting the mind

HT Protocols

Heart Calming Routine (5-10 minutes)

Begin at 11 AM - 1 PM (peak heart time) or when feeling anxious
Start with HT-7 (Shenmen) with gentle, sustained pressure for mental calm
Apply pressure to HT-5 (Tongli) for communication and emotional expression
Apply pressure to HT-8 (Shaofu) for grounding scattered energy
End with light touch on HT-1 (Jiquan) to open the heart space

Sleep Preparation Sequence (5-7 minutes)

For insomnia or restless mind before bed
Focus on HT-7 (Shenmen) with slow, rhythmic pressure
Hold HT-6 (Yinxi) for calming the spirit
Gently massage HT-3 (Shaohai) for releasing mental tension
Coordinate with slow, deep breathing

Emotional Balance Practice (10 minutes)

For emotional instability or lack of joy
Begin with heart-opening breathing while touching HT-1
Apply pressure to HT-7 for emotional stability and inner peace
Apply pressure to HT-8 while focusing on self-compassion
End with HT-9 for gentle activation and renewed energy

Communication Enhancement (5-8 minutes)

For speech issues or difficulty expressing emotions
Start with HT-5 (Tongli) for opening communication pathways
Apply pressure to HT-7 for mental clarity and confidence
Apply gentle pressure to throat area while holding HT points
Practice speaking or singing while maintaining point contact

All HT Points

Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.

Considerations

Summer Focus

The heart meridian is most active in summer - increase practice during hot weather
Be mindful of overheating and excessive activity during summer

Dietary Support

Red foods (tomatoes, red beans, dates) nourish heart energy
Bitter flavors in moderation help clear heart heat
Avoid excessive stimulants like caffeine which can agitate the heart

Lifestyle

Honor the 11 AM - 1 PM peak time with mindful, joyful activities
Cultivate healthy relationships and emotional connections
Practice gratitude and joy-enhancing activities

Exercise

Gentle, joyful movement that doesn't overstrain the heart
Dancing, walking, tai chi, or light swimming
Avoid excessive cardio which can deplete heart energy

Emotional Health

Regular meditation or spiritual practice
Creative expression and artistic activities
Laughter and social connection

Sleep Hygiene

Maintain regular sleep schedule
Create peaceful bedtime environment
Avoid stimulating activities before bed

Precautions

Pressure

Use very gentle pressure on heart meridian points
Heart points are generally more sensitive than other meridians
Focus on quality of touch rather than intensity

Heart Conditions

For serious heart conditions, always work with cardiologist
Never substitute acupressure for emergency cardiac care
Monitor for unusual symptoms (palpitations, dizziness) during practice

Emotional Sensitivity

Heart meridian work can trigger emotional releases
Be prepared for tears, laughter, or unexpected emotions
Create safe, supportive environment for practice

Mental Health

For severe depression or anxiety, work with mental health professionals
Heart meridian support is complementary to, not replacement for, proper treatment

Overstimulation

Avoid excessive stimulation of heart points
More is not better - gentle, consistent practice is key
Stop if feeling overly agitated or restless

Pregnancy

Heart meridian points are generally safe during pregnancy
Use extra gentle pressure and avoid prolonged sessions

Medications

Be aware of interactions with heart medications
Inform healthcare providers about complementary practices
Monitor blood pressure if taking cardiovascular medications

Spiritual Sensitivity

Heart meridian work can enhance spiritual sensitivity
May increase intuition and psychic perception
Ground yourself after intensive heart meridian sessions

HT - Heart Meridian