downwards and subdue Empty-Heat.
On the other hand, in prolapse of the uterus from sinking Spleen-Qi, one might choose only a
point on the top of the body, e.g. Du-20 Baihui to raise Qi.
Finally, another case when balancing of Top and Bottom is not used is when one uses only a
distal point in acute sprains. For example, Du-26 Renzhong for acute sprain of the lower back, or
ST-38 Tiaokou for acute sprain of the shoulder.
Balancing Yin and Yang
Balancing points according to their Yin or Yang character is very important. The Yin or Yang
character of a point is in relation with the Yin-Yang dynamics of the channel system. As we have
seen, within each 4-channel cycle (Figure 1.2(565)) in Chapter 1, "Headache"), the Yin channels
are the beginning and end of the cycle (e.g. Lung and Spleen channels), i.e. the phases of
preparation and recuperation. The Yang channels (e.g. Large Intestine and Stomach channels)
are in the middle of the cycle, i.e. the phase of activity and dispersal. Furthermore, only the Yang
channels reach the head which is the area of maximum potential. In keeping with the principle
that Yang corresponds to activity and Yin to inertia, the number of points in the channels reflects
the nature of Yin channels as phases of preparation and recuperation, and that of Yang channels
as phases of activity and dispersal: in fact, there are more than twice as many Yang points (218)
as compared to Yin points (91), excluding the Governing and Directing Vessels. If we include
the points of these two extraordinary vessels, the proportion is about the same, i.e. 246 Yang
against 115 Yin points.
If we look at the whole cycle of 12 channels (Figure 1.3(566) in Chapter 1, "Headache"), we can
see the flow of Yin and Yang within 24 hours and find an explanation for the names of Bright
Yang, Lesser Yin, etc. In the three 4-channel cycles, the flow of Yin and Yang within 24 hours is
such that there is maximum Yin ("Greater Yin") and average Yang energy ("Bright Yang") in the
first cycle (morning), maximum Yang ("Greater Yang") and minimum Yin energy ("Lesser
Yin") in the middle cycle (midday), and average Yin ("Terminal Yin") and minimum Yang
energy ("Lesser Yang") in the third cycle (evening).
The implication of all this in practice is that it is important to balance Yin with Yang points in
order to equalize the flow of Yin and Yang in the channels. As Yang points exceed Yin ones, it
is especially important not to use an excessive number of Yang points without balancing them
with Yin ones. Using too many Yang points may make the patient edgy and nervous, while using
too many Yin points may make him or her tired. As Yin points may be used to tonify Yang
organs or energies (e.g. LU-9 Taiyuan can tonify the Defensive Qi), and Yang points can tonify
Yin organs (ST-36 Zusanli to tonify the Spleen), this gives us greater freedom in the choice of
points when we are trying to balance Yin and Yang.