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Distribution and Organisation of the Channel and Network Vessel (Jing Luo) System
Understanding the Jing Luo Network in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Jing Luo System refers to the intricate network of energy channels and network vessels that distribute Qi (vital energy) and Blood (Xue) throughout the body.
These pathways ensure communication between the surface (Exterior) and the internal organs (Interior), maintaining harmony and health in every part of the body.
According to the principle of Exterior–Interior (Biao–Li), the Exterior connects with the Interior.
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The Exterior (Biao) corresponds to the skin, muscles, and the superficial Jing Luo pathways, which respond first to external influences.
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The Interior (Li) includes the deep channels and internal organ systems (Zangfu) that govern the body’s physiological functions.
To keep Qi circulating smoothly between these layers, the body relies on a structured Jing Luo network, where each level supports the next — ensuring that energy and information flow seamlessly throughout the body.
Table of contents
The Role of the Extraordinary Vessels
Within this system, the Eight Extraordinary Vessels (Qi Jing Ba Mai) play a unique regulatory role.
They act as energy reservoirs, coordinating and balancing the 12 primary channels and the entire Jing Luo network.
Although they do not directly connect the Exterior and the Interior, their function is vital for maintaining energetic stability and systemic harmony.
These vessels include:
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Ren Mai (Conception Vessel)
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Du Mai (Governing Vessel)
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Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel)
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Dai Mai (Belt Vessel)
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Yin Qiao Mai, Yang Qiao Mai, Yin Wei Mai, and Yang Wei Mai
Depth Organisation of the Jing Luo System
Different TCM scholars have proposed varying interpretations of how deep each channel and vessel lies within the body.
Modern research (Solinas et al., 1998; Deadman et al., 1998) generally agrees that:
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Primary and Divergent Channels form the deepest internal structures, connecting directly to the internal organs.
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Sinew Channels and Cutaneous Zones lie closer to the surface, influencing muscles and skin.
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Some traditions consider the Extraordinary Vessels as the deepest energetic layer, integrating all other systems.
This layered arrangement allows Qi and Blood to move fluidly from the surface to the deepest tissues, ensuring that both physical and energetic health remain in balance.
Channel Systems – A Multi-Layered Network
Each of the 12 Primary Channels (Jing Zheng) forms a self-contained system, which also includes several secondary pathways that work together harmoniously.
These systems regulate energy flow, connect the internal organs, and link the body’s different regions.
Every Channel System includes the following components:
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A Primary Channel (Jing Zheng) – with both an external and an internal pathway that enters its associated organ (Zangfu).
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A Divergent Channel (Jing Bie) – branches from the main channel to connect deeper structures.
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A Sinew Channel (Jing Jin) – links the meridian with muscles, tendons, and joints.
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A Great Luo-Connecting Vessel (Luo Mai) – integrates Qi circulation and supports interconnection between channels.
Surrounding each complete channel system is the Cutaneous Zone (Pi Bu) – the outermost layer that protects the body and reflects the state of internal energy flow.
Clinical Meaning – Balance Between the Surface and the Core
In TCM practice, understanding the Jing Luo system’s layered organisation helps practitioners determine where energy is blocked or deficient.
For example:
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Pain or tension on the surface may indicate stagnation in sinew or cutaneous channels.
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Chronic internal disorders often involve imbalances in the deep primary or divergent channels.
At Dr. Tan Clinic, our doctors use acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, and acupressure therapy to stimulate the appropriate Jing Luo levels, restoring smooth Qi circulation and harmonising the connection between body and mind.
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