In this article we will look at the Lung Meridian. As its name suggests, this Meridian relates to protecting the horses immune system and guarding the internal body from external pathogens and influences. The horse with a weak lung meridian may have lingering conditions like nasal discharge, coughing or sinusitis. Your touch of this meridian will stimulate and tonify the horses natural protective armour and can bring many benefits. Some owners have found that, after a visit from a Shiatsu practitioner to learn exactly where the Meridian is on their horse and how to work the Meridian their horse can remain clear of Sweet Itch.

The Lung Meridian begins within the horse's abdomen and rises to the surface of the chest. It then continues down the front of the foreleg flowing down to a point on the hoof just above the coronary band. From its very position you can see why poorly fitting rugs or breast collars can restrict energy flow.

Each meridian affects the exterior body parts over which it flows so massage and acupressure on Lung Meridian points are used to treat chest and forearm pain, arthritis in the knee, tendonitis in the knee area and laminitis.

The Lung Meridian overseas respiration - in Western medicine the lungs have a primary role in inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide and filtering out dust and debris. In traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine this respiration is also thought to be vital to the energy or Chi flow. Symptoms of an imbalance include fatigue, asthma, heaves and coughing to more serious conditions like strangles. Massage on the meridian can help guide the body back to balance.

Another vital function of the Lung Meridian is the care of the skin which you may have heard called “the third lung”. Just as the lungs exhale carbon dioxide the skin exudes toxins and waste products through the pores. Skin conditions like poor coat quality, rain scald, hives, chronic itching etc are all signs that the Lung Meridian has become unbalanced.

The Lung Meridian also affects emotions. Horses with balanced meridians are intelligent, calm, unflappable and composed. They respect riders with the same characteristics - both horse and rider can enjoy tasks that challenge them. The well-balanced horse reacts easily with his social environment but any imbalance in this meridian leads to aloofness, grief, tenseness. Massaging your horse and his Lung Meridian will surely draw the horse out, especially if done in a loving manner.

Use the diagram as a guide but remember that there are subtle differences in the ways the meridian runs over each horse’s individual anatomy. Chi is a live force not a fixed one and the flow of the meridian can alter its course just as a river can in nature.

Start at the first acupressure point at the base of the chest and work slowly up several inches. Then follow as the meridian loops down to the forearm and runs down the inside edge of the forearm to the inside of the knee. It then runs down to the inside of the lower leg ending just above the coronary band. Remember that this meridian runs on both legs so it is important to work on both front legs to keep the Chi in balance and to affect your horse’s mental and physical health.

Use one hand to support and protect yourself from sudden movements and one hand to work along the meridian. Feel for hot or cold spots (too much or too little energy). You may need to massage to release the tension of “stuck” energy. If you find spots that feel soft or hard grainy places on the muscles you might like to spend a little time massaging them. Be aware of these subtle variations and make a note of any textures that change with time. Points that elicit a sensitive response or pain may need massage to release the tension. Points which relax and calm your horse can be used in times of stress. Lung meridian massage can be used to relieve respiratory conditions (other meridian work can also help with this) and relieve dry skin and help bring your equine companion back to balance.

If you feel that you would like to know more or need some help with your horse then do give me a call. Nicholas Goody on 01622 738102.

For more details see www.shiatsu-for-horses.co.uk or email: n.goody@btinternet.com
For areas outside Kent, Nick may be able to put you in touch with a practitioner near to where you and your horse live