The Microcosmic Orbit

Dear Patient,

Two of your acupuncture meridians, the Ren and the Du, form what we call the microcosmic orbit. These meridians are yin and yang opposites, together making a complete whole, originating from one source in the lower abdomen and then separating. The Ren travels up the front midline of the body, the Du up the back.

They both terminate in the mouth, the Ren on the tongue and the Du on the hard palate. When you touch your tongue to the roof of the mouth, the pair reconnects, like a circuit, allowing energy to flow unceasingly through the microcosmic orbit.

When you talk, the tongue separates from the roof of the mouth and breaks the circuit. This is why talking all day can be very draining. It’s like when you’re trying to read a book and someone keeps interrupting you. Interruptions in the microcosmic orbit break up our flow, our concentration, our stamina.

We all know we should listen more than we talk. It gives other people space to be heard. But it also gives you the opportunity to engage the microcosmic orbit within you. It enhances your awareness, your presence—it’s a bit of a superpower. Try touching your tongue to the roof of your mouth. It can lead to some interesting places.

Love and gratitude,

Your Acupuncturist