main channels and the Connecting channels are relatively empty. In this case, local points on one
side can be balanced by the Connecting point of the related channel on the opposite side, needled
with reinforcing method. For example, if there is a chronic pain from invasion of Cold in the
Large Intestine channel on the right side, we can needle (with moxa on needle) local points of
the Large Intestine channel on the right side and balance them with the Connecting point of the
Lung channel (LU-7 Lieque) on the left side.
Extraordinary Vessels
The Extraordinary Vessels' opening points are a prime example of Left-Right balancing. In
particular, the Extraordinary Vessels play an important role in balancing the circulation of Qi
between Left and Right: this role belongs especially to the Governing Vessel, the Directing
Vessel, the Yang Heel Vessel and the Yin Heel Vessel. These four vessels balance Yin and Yang
between Left and Right.
The opening points of the Extraordinary Vessels are usually crossed over according to gender: in
a man, the opening point (inserted first) is used on the left side and the coupled point on the right
side. For example, if the Governing Vessel is used in a man, one would needle S.I.-3 first on the
left side and BL-62 Shenmai afterwards on the right. In a woman the reverse is used: the opening
point is inserted first on the right side and the coupled point on the left. For example, if the
Directing Vessel is used in a woman, LU-7 Lieque is needled first on the right, and KI-6 Zhaohai
on the left.
The opening points of the Extraordinary Vessels can be combined with other points, also needled
unilaterally. This creates a particularly dynamic combination. For example, if we were treating a
man suffering from a deficiency of the Kidneys causing a chronic lower backache on the
midline, insomnia and anxiety, we could use the opening points of the Governing Vessel, HE-7
Shenmen to calm the Mind and KI-4 Taixi to nourish the Kidneys and strengthen Will-Power.
These points could be combined in this way: S.I.-3 Houxi on the left, BL-62 Shenmai on the
right, HE-7 Shenmen on the right and KI-4 Dazhong on the left. This particular combination is
very powerful and very balanced as it harmonizes Left and Right, Top and Bottom, Yin and
Yang, and Greater Yang with Lesser Yin. KI-4 Dazhong, Connecting point, is used in preference
to KI-3 Taixi as the Connecting point will also affect the Bladder channel and therefore the
backache. Other examples of the combination of the Extraordinary Vessels' opening points with
other channels' points will be given shortly below.
Divergent Channels
One of the functions of the divergent channels is to harmonize Left and Right. It will be
remembered that all the divergent channels start near articulations such as feet, hands, knees,
hips and shoulders. From there, they all enter their respective and other organs and re-emerge
around the neck; in this area, the Yin divergent channels join their related Yang divergent