Do our bodies have energy channels? What is the scientific opinion

When we think of the word “energy” most likely the electricity that exists in various forms come to our mind. Maybe we have heard abou the energy the human body emits. Some religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism as well as traditional Chinese medicine claim that our body has energy that flows in the so-called “channels”. Traditionally, channels play a role in our health and well-being.

In traditional Chinese medicine

A 2010 study states that the meridians are a system of channels through which vital energy (or qi) flows. It is believed that qi can lead to imbalance and disease. The study also notes that meridians may correspond to the peripheral and central nervous systems. According to a 2015 review, the meridians are “low-resistance fluid channels where various chemical and physical transports take place.” The review noted that there are 14 major channels associated with 365 subchannels.

In Ayurveda

Ayurvedic texts often refer to the channels as srotamsi. An earlier study in 2007 noted that health in Ayurveda is governed by the balance between the three doshas.The dysfunction in the doshas can result in a blockage in the srotas. Nadi is another Sanskrit word for channels often used in Buddhist and Hindu traditions. According to a 2016 review, the main nadis are believed to correspond to the nervous system in the body. The same review noted that there are 10 main nadis on the body, along with 350,000 small nadis. In addition, three main nadis are believed to represent the basic energy properties of life: ida, pingala and sushumna

In yoga and energy therapy

The prevailing belief is that “working” with channels can help people take a more holistic approach to their health and well-being. Our health is not just about our immune system, but our emotions, our energy levels, how we interact in our relationships. Energy channels can play a role in each of them. “Working” with the channels can “cleanse” the physical and emotional energies that hinder true well-being. Some believe that the channels can be cleared through practices such as certain types of yoga, breathing, meditation, tai chi.

What is the scientific opinion?

In a 2010 analysis of the history of acupuncture, researchers observed that canals are not a universally accepted scientific concept. However, many researchers have tried to find evidence that “justifies” their existence. In a research of multiple studies in 2013 there were many suggestions such as the existence of a primordial vascular system that can provide support for the natural existence of the meridians. A 2019 study on human corpses noted that acupuncture meridians may be part of the human extracellular matrix. The researchers also hypothesized that vascular nerve bundles may account for 80% of acupuncture points. Although many studies have been contacted, the existence of the channels has not yet been confirmed. Scientists say that if one wants to do therapies that involve the channels of the body they can do it. It should be noted that people should first turn to traditional medicine for their problems and complement their therapies with the alternative therapies. Giota Florou source: healthline.com Recent Articles