Features of the Du Mai

One of the 8 Extraordinary Channels

Only the Du Mai and Ren Mai have their own points, other extras have confluent points on their pathways

Ascends through the spine to the brain, through the kidneys and the heart, around the anus, the genitals and the occiput

Because of this unique pathway, the Du Mai can be used to treat:

• Conditions of the anus such as haemerrhoids, rectal prolapse and intestinal disorders
• Conditions of the genitals, urinary system and uterus
• Conditions of the spine
• Being the ‘sea of yang’ it treats febrile conditions, and can reduce excessive heat
• Conditions of the ‘zang-fu’ (organs) as well as the sensory organs

Assessment Begins at the Midline

When we look at the condition of the Du Mai channel, we can quickly observe not only the movement of the entire spine, but if we are able to reflect the areas of the body that are showing stiffness or hypermobility, we can connect the organ and meridian pathways to build the treatment plan.

Knowing that there are specific areas of interest on the Du Mai Channel, based on our knowledge of where the Acupoints and spinal nerves are attached, we are able to quickly and gently relieve the tension in these areas in order to balance the overall flow in the body.  By liberating the Qi on the Master Channel, it can then proceed to flow to areas that need the most support in other parts of the body.

The Du Mai and its Rhythm – the Microcosmic Orbit

Although it is not called the cranial rhythm is classical Chinese Medicine, there is a flow to the Du Mai which can be likened to the cranial rhythm.

It is said that the rhythm of the flow of Qi on the Du Mai channel is like that of a spiral. It starts in the Dan Tien, deep at the centre core of the body, and descends to the perineum, back to the anus, and up the spine.  If you imagine this not on the posterior of the body but realize that the spinal cord is quite protected and more internal than we realize. 

When the Du Mai spirals up the spine, it enters the brain at the occiput, and spreads around the brain, to then spiral back down the body. Most theories state that the microcosmic orbit travels up the back and down the front of the body, others believe that the microcosmic orbit travels up the centre, and creates a larger spiral over the original spiral, much like how the spine covers and protects the spinal cord.  Yet others imagine its descent to travel up the centre and down both the back and the front. 

What is important is that you understand the flow overall, and that you are able to connect with it. It is notable to be aware that this rhythm connects with the heart, the kidneys, and the reproductive system. Its important to be aware that this energy should be flowing freely in a circuit through the center of the body.

The Du Mai Channel from a Manual of Acupuncture, by Peter Deadman

…the Governing vessel is the channel that mediates between the brain and the Heart. Clinically many of its points may be used to treat a variety of psycho-emotional disorders, in much the same way that points of the twelve principal channels may be used, especially those of the Heart and Pericardium. If we try to be more precise about the use of the Governing vessel points, we can suggest that i. their indications generally reflect excess patterns of spirit disharmony such as mania-depression, and ii. they are especially indicated when psycho-emotional disorders are accompanied by fullness and discomfort of the head, dizziness, disturbance of consciousness and epilepsy.

In this respect, we see the importance of keeping the Du Mai Meridian flowing well to manage and avoid the extreme emotional conditions and stress that we are facing in todays society.