Blockages in the Lung Meridian can be alleviated through methods such as acupressure, moxibustion, herbal medicine, physical exercise and breathing exercises. Blockages in the Lung Meridian may be related to factors such as exposure to wind and cold, emotional distress, excessive fatigue, phlegm-dampness obstruction, and deficiency of qi and blood.
1. Acupressure
Massaging acupoints along the Lung Meridian helps to unblock the meridians; commonly used points include Zhongfu, Yunmen and Chize. The Zhongfu point is situated on the upper outer side of the anterior chest wall. To massage it, apply pressure with the pad of your thumb, holding for a few seconds before releasing, and repeat the process. The Yunmen point is located in the depression below the collarbone; it can be gently pressed with the pad of your index finger. The Chize point is situated on the transverse crease of the elbow; massaging it whilst taking deep breaths yields better results. Before massaging, you may apply a warm towel to the local area to help relax the muscles.
2. Moxibustion Therapy
Moxibustion on acupoints along the Lung Meridian helps to warm and unblock the meridians; it is suitable for blockages in the Lung Meridian caused by cold and dampness. Commonly used acupoints include Taiyuan and Lieque. The Taiyuan acupoint is situated at the radial end of the wrist crease; when performing moxibustion, ensure an appropriate distance is maintained to avoid burns. Lieque is situated on the radial border of the forearm; the use of ginger slices during moxibustion can enhance the effect. After moxibustion, take care to keep warm and avoid catching a chill. For those with a weak constitution, the duration of moxibustion should not be too long; 10–15 minutes per session is advisable.
3. Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine
Treatment of Lung Meridian obstruction with Traditional Chinese Medicine requires a syndrome-differentiation approach. Commonly used herbs include Ephedra, Apricot Kernel and Platycodon. For those with wind-cold invading the lungs, Ma Huang Tang with appropriate modifications may be used as directed by a doctor; for those with phlegm-dampness obstruction, Er Chen Tang with appropriate modifications may be considered; and for those with deficiency of qi and blood, Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang may be taken. Ready-made Chinese herbal medicines such as Tong Xuan Li Fei Wan, Xing Su Zhi Ke Granules and Yang Yin Qing Fei Oral Liquid may also be selected under a doctor’s guidance. During the course of treatment, avoid consuming raw, cold or greasy foods.
4. Physical Exercise
Moderate exercise helps to promote the circulation of qi and blood and improve blockages in the lung meridian. Traditional health-preserving exercises such as Baguazhang and Tai Chi are recommended; the ‘Drawing the Bow Left and Right Like an Archer’ movement is particularly helpful for stretching the lung meridian. Simple movements such as chest expansion exercises and deep breathing exercises may also be performed. The intensity of exercise should be increased gradually to avoid overexertion. After exercise, wipe away sweat promptly to prevent catching a chill.
5. Breathing Exercises
Diaphragmatic breathing exercises can enhance lung function and help clear blockages in the lung meridian. When practising, you may sit or lie down, placing one hand on your abdomen; as you inhale, your abdomen should rise, and as you exhale, it should draw in. Each session should last 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily. You may also try the ‘Hī’ technique from the ‘Six-Character Formula’, emitting the sound ‘Hī’ whilst exhaling, which helps to disperse lung qi. Breathing exercises should be carried out in a well-ventilated area, and should not be practised immediately after meals.
Those with blocked lung meridians should take care to keep warm and avoid catching a chill, paying particular attention to protecting the neck, shoulders and back. The diet should be light; it is advisable to consume moderate amounts of lung-moistening foods such as white radish, pears and lily bulbs, whilst avoiding spicy and irritating foods. Maintain a regular daily routine and avoid staying up late or overexerting yourself. Emotional regulation is also important; you can relax by listening to music or going for a walk. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by discomfort such as a cough or chest tightness, you should seek medical attention promptly to rule out any organic lung diseases. Persist with moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming, as these aerobic activities help to enhance lung function. In daily life, you can perform chest-expanding exercises and deep breathing exercises to promote the circulation of qi and blood.
