The other meridian associated with the element of water and the season of Winter is the Bladder.
Bladder qi is the Yang aspect of water, in counterpart to the Yin Kidney meridian. It represents the manifestation of the mind, and both forms and guides the interacton of the shen and jing energies.
The Bladder plays a role in regulating our sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system response. An imbalance of the bladder meridian can cause lower back pain/weakness as well as urinary tract issues problems.
Let your emotions flow so you can let them go
The first thing I always think of when it comes to the Bladder meridian is that song from Frozen… “Let it go, let it go!”
If we’re holding on to our feelings and emotions, they can become stuck or “frozen” in our tissues and organs.
The bladder meridian is the longest in the body
It starts just next to the inside corner of the eye, travels over the back of the head, and branches into four pathways as it moves down the back of the body, either side of the spine.
It then moves down the back of the legs, and the end meridian point is the side edge of the small toe.
So as you might expect for the Bladder, the direction of qi flow is downwards.
Bladder function
Kidneys make urine, which travels down the ureter tubes to the Bladder.
The Bladder both stores and excretes urine. It also participates in the transformation of fluids necessary for the production of urine in the first place.
Bladder performs its functions based on the heat and energy it receives from the Kidneys. If the Kidneys are weakened, the Bladder becomes inhibited too.
Issues that impact Bladder function include: elevated stress levels, nutrition, hydration, over-use of pain killers, and sleep quality.
The lymphatic system also needs to be working properly in order to facilitate the movement of fluids, which means that moving your body each day is important for Bladder function.
The emotion of fear causes the most issues for Bladder
Metaphysically, Bladder is both a mirror and conduit for our personal power.
In relation to personal power, you might need to understand where your boundaries are needing some support, both interpersonally and energetically. Shame and guilt also cause issues with the Bladder.
When Bladder meridian energies are balanced, we feel empowered to adapt in the face of change, and move forward with determination.
Common imbalances
- Frequent urination
- Headaches and dehydration
- Swelling in the face and ankles
- Fluid retention
- Bladder, shoulder, back issues
- Waking up many times at night to urinate
- Urinary tract infections
Nourishing the Bladder
Hydrating well, which means making sure your body is assimilating the water you drink, as well as drinking enough in the first place.
Drinking water that has minerals and electrolytes in it can help you hydrate more effectively. This can include: coconut water, herbal teas, water with a pinch of salt.
Make a habit of hydrating well in the morning, through to late afternoon. Don’t be afraid to pee, and pee often!
The also Bladder benefits from eating more water-dense foods such as fruits and vegetables to make it easier for the body to retain the water rather than just passing through the Bladder.
Also… let yourself feel your feels so you can process and release them. If you’re feeling stuck, a Kinesiology session can help you with this!
Bladder health tips
- Drink water.
- Add lemon and lime to your water.
- Choose healthy fats (coconut oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil). Stay away from seed oils!
- Eating fruits and vegetables every day is a must, including cruciferous vegetables.
- Moderate your intake of foods that might irritate your bladder including: spicy foods, caffeinated and carbonated bevrages, chocolate, tea, vinegar, orange juice, tomato-based foods, or alcoholic beverages.
As always, we have to look at the body and energy system as a whole as well as looking at specific issues.
But it’s useful to get to know a little more about each of your meridians and related organ functions to help you support your overall health and wellbeing.
Much love,
Ambha Amanda Roberts is a Kinesiologist, Intuitive Healer, educator and facilitator based on the Sunshine Coast, Australia. She offers Kinesiology sessions both in-person and via Skype/Zoom all over the world. Ambha Amanda is the co-creator of Adventures of Staria, which includes a series of Staria cards, and an upcoming book for children (including inner children). |