ST - Stomach Meridian

足阳明胃经 - Zú Yángmíng Wèi Jīng

The Stomach meridian, a Yang channel paired with the Spleen in the Earth element, governs the intake and transformation of nourishment. It initiates digestion, regulates appetite, and enables the body to extract and distribute vital nutrients. Anatomically extensive, it traverses from the face to the second toe, anchoring physical vitality and supporting the foundational processes that sustain energy and growth.

Energetically, the Stomach meridian is known as the "Sea of Food and Fluid," reflecting its role in assimilating not just sustenance but experience. It influences our ability to process emotions, maintain mental clarity, and stay grounded amid life's demands. When balanced, it fosters emotional steadiness and clear thought; when disrupted, it may give rise to worry, overthinking, or difficulty digesting both food and feelings.

Meridian Pathway & Flow

Direction

Flows from head to foot, moving from Yang to Yin

Pathway

  • Origin: Begins at ST-1 (Chengqi) below the eye
  • Face: Descends along the face and jaw toward the neck
  • Neck & Chest: Descends the neck and front of the body
  • Abdomen: Passes through the stomach region and abdomen
  • Leg: Continues down the front of the thigh and shin
  • End Point: Terminates at ST-45 (Lidui) on the second toe
  • Connection: Links to the Spleen meridian at SP-1 on the big toe

Active Time

7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (Peak energy circulation)

Location illustration for ST

Primary Functions

Physical Functions

  • Receives and processes food
  • Governs appetite and hunger
  • Controls stomach acid production
  • Influences breast milk production when relevant
  • Supports facial circulation
  • Supports leg strength and mobility

Emotional & Mental Functions

  • Processes worry and overthinking
  • Governs mental satisfaction
  • Supports ability to accept nourishment
  • Manages emotional "hunger"
  • Supports clear thinking and focus
  • Influences contentment and gratitude

Essential Acupoints

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

Therapeutic Applications

Digestive Disorders

  • Indigestion and bloating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Acid reflux and heartburn
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Food sensitivities

Mental & Emotional Issues

  • Excessive worry and overthinking
  • Mental fatigue and fog
  • Anxiety around meal times
  • Emotional eating patterns
  • Difficulty accepting help or nourishment
  • Feelings of emptiness or dissatisfaction

Physical Symptoms

  • Facial pain and TMJ disorders
  • Knee and leg weakness
  • Breast tenderness and milk issues
  • Frontal headaches
  • General fatigue and weakness

ST Protocols

Morning Grounding Sequence (5-10 minutes)

  1. Begin between 7-9 AM (Stomach's peak time) to support digestion and mental clarity
  2. Start with abdominal breathing while seated or standing
  3. Massage ST-36 (Zusanli) to boost energy, immunity, and digestive fire
  4. Apply pressure to ST-40 (Fenglong) for clearing phlegm and mental fog
  5. Add ST-25 (Tianshu) for regulating bowel function and abdominal tension
  6. End with ST-8 (Touwei) at the temple to clear the mind and support focus

Digestive Relief Routine (3-5 minutes)

  1. Apply firm pressure to ST-36 and ST-25 while breathing deeply
  2. Add ST-21 (Liangmen) for upper abdominal discomfort
  3. Combine with gentle abdominal massage and clockwise circular motion

Energy Activation Practice (5 minutes)

  1. Stimulate ST-36 and ST-40 with rhythmic tapping or circular pressure
  2. Add ST-9 (Renying) at the neck for Qi regulation and alertness
  3. Visualize energy rising from feet to head with each breath

Emotional Centering Sequence (10 minutes)

  1. Hold ST-36 while focusing on breath and body sensations
  2. Massage ST-25 and ST-40 to release tension and emotional stagnation
  3. End with ST-8 and ST-42 (Chongyang) to restore clarity and emotional balance

All ST Points

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

Considerations

Seasonal Focus

  • The stomach meridian is most active in late summer—support digestion and grounding during humid, transitional weather

Dietary Support

  • Warm, cooked foods (rice, squash, ginger) strengthen stomach Qi and aid digestion

Environmental

  • Practice in calm, centered environments; avoid multitasking during meals

Exercise

  • Pair with walking, tai chi, or yoga that emphasizes core strength and abdominal awareness

Emotional Work

  • Support clarity and emotional stability - overthinking and worry can weaken stomach Qi

Daily Rhythm

  • The stomach is most active between 7-9 AM - eat a nourishing breakfast and avoid skipping meals

Precautions

Pressure

  • Use gentle pressure on abdominal points; firmer pressure is appropriate on limbs

Digestion

  • Avoid acupressure immediately after heavy meals—wait at least 30 minutes

Skin Sensitivity

  • Some ST points may influence skin conditions—observe for changes in complexion or inflammation

Acute Symptoms

  • For severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly

Chronic Conditions

  • Coordinate with healthcare providers for ulcers, GERD, or chronic digestive disorders

Emotional Processing

  • Working with ST points may bring up issues around nourishment, self-worth, and mental clarity