LU - Lung Meridian

手太阴肺经 - Shǒu Tàiyīn Fèi Jīng

The Lung meridian, often called the "Prime Minister" or "Minister of Heaven," is second only to the Heart in its influence over the body's vital functions. As the first meridian in the daily Qi cycle, it governs respiration, the intake of pure Qi, and the circulation of energy throughout the body. Closely linked with the Heart, it helps distribute both Qi and blood, and regulates the skin, pores, and sweat glands—making it essential for detoxification, temperature regulation, and immune defense.

Beyond its physical role, the Lung meridian embodies the capacity to receive life and release what no longer serves us. It is associated with the emotion of grief and the spiritual act of surrender. Known as "The Priest," it connects us to higher guidance and the Corporeal Soul (Po), anchoring our sense of worth, presence, and inspiration. When balanced, it fosters clarity, courage, and the ability to let go; when imbalanced, it may manifest as sadness, rigidity, or difficulty processing change.

Meridian Pathway & Flow

Direction

Flows from chest to hand, moving from Yin to Yang

Pathway

  • Origin: Originates in the middle burner (stomach area) and connects internally with the Large Intestine
  • Ascent: Ascends through the diaphragm into the lung system
  • Surface Path: Emerges at LU-1 (Zhongfu) in the lateral chest below the collarbone
  • Arm Path: Descends along the lateral arm, along the radial (thumb) side of the forearm
  • End Point: Terminates at LU-11 (Shaoshang) at the corner of the thumbnail
  • Connection: Links to the Large Intestine meridian at LI-1 (Shangyang) on the index finger

Active Time

3:00 AM - 5:00 AM (Peak energy circulation)

Location illustration for LU

Primary Functions

Physical Functions

  • Controls respiration and breathing
  • Governs skin and pores
  • Regulates water metabolism
  • Distributes defensive Qi (Wei Qi)
  • Supports voice and throat function
  • Manages body hair and perspiration

Emotional & Mental Functions

  • Processes grief and letting go
  • Maintains emotional boundaries
  • Supports inspiration and creativity
  • Supports the ability to receive
  • Manages attachment and release
  • Connects to spiritual aspiration

Essential Acupoints

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

Therapeutic Applications

Respiratory Conditions

  • Asthma and breathing difficulties
  • Chronic cough and bronchitis
  • Common cold and flu
  • Chest tightness and oppression
  • Shortness of breath
  • Throat problems and hoarseness

Skin & Surface Issues

  • Eczema and skin rashes
  • Excessive sweating or lack of sweating
  • Skin sensitivity and allergies
  • Poor skin circulation

Emotional & Mental Patterns

  • Grief and difficulty letting go
  • Feeling emotionally closed or protected
  • Lack of inspiration or creativity
  • Difficulty receiving support from others
  • Attachment issues and possessiveness

LU Protocols

Morning Breathing Routine (5-10 minutes)

  1. Begin at 3-5 AM (peak lung time) if possible, or upon waking
  2. Start with deep breathing: 4 counts in through nose, 6 counts out through mouth
  3. Apply gentle pressure to LU-1 (Zhongfu) while breathing to open the chest
  4. Work down the arm: LU-5 (Chize), LU-7 (Lieque), LU-9 (Taiyuan)
  5. End with LU-10 (Yuji) and LU-11 (Shaoshang) for activation

Respiratory Relief Sequence (3-5 minutes)

  1. For cough, congestion, or breathing difficulty
  2. Focus on LU-1 and LU-5 with firm, sustained pressure
  3. Add LU-7 for opening airways and promoting circulation
  4. Combine with conscious exhaling and releasing tension

Emotional Release Practice (10 minutes)

  1. For processing grief or difficulty letting go
  2. Hold LU-9 (Taiyuan) while focusing on your pulse and breath
  3. Visualize breathing in what you need, exhaling what you're ready to release
  4. End with gentle pressure on LU-7 while setting intention to stay open

All LU Points

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

Considerations

Autumn Focus

  • The lung meridian is most active in autumn - increase practice during dry, cool weather

Dietary Support

  • White foods (pears, almonds, radishes) support lung health

Environmental

  • Practice in clean, fresh air when possible; avoid polluted environments

Exercise

  • Combine with gentle movement, qigong, or yoga that emphasizes breathing

Emotional Work

  • Be mindful of grief cycles and allow natural emotional release

Sleep

  • Support the 3-5 AM peak by maintaining quality sleep before this time

Precautions

Pressure

  • Use lighter pressure on the chest and upper arm, firmer on forearm and hand points

Breathing

  • Always coordinate acupressure with conscious breathing for maximum benefit

Acute Symptoms

  • For severe breathing difficulties, seek immediate medical attention

Chronic Conditions

  • Work with healthcare providers for ongoing respiratory conditions

Pregnancy

  • Certain points may be contraindicated during pregnancy; consult a qualified practitioner

Emotional Processing

  • Be prepared for emotional releases when working with lung meridian points