Part 2 – The Small Intestine Channel

The Small Intestine is the yang partner of the Heart. It helps us sort and separate—digesting not just food, but also emotions and decisions. Think of it as the body’s discernment system.

The Small Intestine channel Starts at the ulnar (outside) side of the little finger. It then runs along the outside edge of the hand to the wrist and up the outer edge of the forearm to the elbow. It continues along the back of the upper arm to the shoulder blade area and zig-zags across the upper back and shoulder to connect with the Du (Governing) vessel at the neck. Next it moves up to the cheek area and then ends in the ear. Another branch runs from the cheek to the inner corner of the eye, connecting with the Bladder channel.

🌿 When the Small Intestine is in Balance:

• Clear thinking and good decision-making
• Comfortable digestion and regular bowel movements
• Emotionally flexible and physically comfortable

• Open-minded and resilient under stress

❌ When the Small Intestine is Out of Balance:

• Indecision, confusion, or mental fog
• Abdominal bloating, constipation, or discomfort
• Shoulder or neck tension
• Feeling emotionally overwhelmed or “stuck”

✨ Small Intestine-Supporting Summer Tips:

• Eat light, warm, easy-to-digest foods (steamed veggies, broths).
• Stay hydrated—but avoid ice-cold drinks.
• Take time for mental decluttering—journaling, walks, quiet time.

• Stretch the upper body to release shoulder and neck tension.

✋ Acupressure Point To Try:

Apply firm pressure or circular massage for 1–2 minutes on each hand

Small Intestine 3 (Hou Xi – “Back Stream”)

• Location: On the outer edge of the hand, just behind the knuckle of the pinky.

• Benefits: Clears the mind, relieves neck tension, improves sleep.

🌞 Final Thought

The Heart and Small Intestine channels work together to help you feel joy, make wise decisions, and process the world with clarity and peace. Summer invites us to express ourselves and connect with others, but also reminds us to stay cool and centered. When your Heart and Small Intestine are in harmony, you radiate warmth without burning out. Let joy rise gently like the summer sun—bright, calm, and steady.

👉 Did you miss Part 1? Learn all about the Heart channel. Be sure to check out our spring posts about the Liver and Gallbladder channels as well! Stay tuned for our fall blogs, where we’ll explore the Lung and Large Intestine channels.

📅 Ready for a Summer Tune-Up?

Acupuncture is a gentle, effective way to support your Heart and Small Intestine channels and keep your energy balanced through the heat of summer. Whether you’re feeling anxious, scattered, tired, or just want to stay aligned with the season, a summer session can help restore calm, clarity, and vitality.

Call us at 612-447-4002 to set up a FREE 15 minute consultation to see if acupuncture is right for you! Or contact us here. Healing Lotus Acupuncture proudly serves Plymouth, Minnetonka, Maple Grove, Golden Valley, and other surrounding areas.