Comparative Analysis of Sympathetic and Triple Warmer Functions
To fully appreciate the role of the San Jiao (Triple Warmer) in TCM and its parallels with the sympathetic nervous system, we must delve deeper into a comparative analysis. George Soulié de Morant’s insights provide a rich foundation for this comparison.
The beauty of reconsidering the language of early TCM practitioners lies in how it described the observed effects in the qualitative language of the time. I was fortunate to study for many years in my TJM cohort under Masakazu Ikeda sensei and Edward Obaidey sensei, who emphasized that the classics should be read with the understanding that these are conceptual rather than literal descriptions.
Ren Mai (Conception Vessel)
The Deep Front Line (DFL) in the trunk corresponds to the Ren Mai in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), providing core stability and supporting parasympathetic functions during states of calm. The DFL encompasses structures such as the diaphragm, psoas, pelvic floor, and lumbar spine, all critical for stabilizing the core and maintaining posture. The Ren Mai, running along the anterior midline, similarly governs core structures, regulating the flow of Yin Qi and internal balance.
The Ren Mai primarily functions in alignment with the parasympathetic nervous system (PANS), promoting rest, repair, and nourishment. However, in states of sympathetic dominance, such as Fight-Flight-Freeze (FFF), the body's defensive mechanisms take over. The Jue Yin sinew channels (Liver and Pericardium) engage in flexion, retraction, and protective postures, activating muscles such as the psoas and inner thighs. This defensive contraction pulls the body inward, reflecting a protective response to perceived threats.
During FFF states, the Ren Mai's parasympathetic functions are inhibited, as the body shifts into a sympathetic-dominant state. The Jue Yin channels trigger inward contraction to protect the core, suppressing the Ren Mai's stabilizing and restorative role, leaving the body locked in a heightened state of tension and defense.
Trauma, which often leads to chronic sympathetic dominance, further reinforces this inhibition. The body’s inability to release from this defensive state keeps the Ren Mai’s parasympathetic influence diminished, and the deep emotional and physical tensions associated with trauma remain stored in these deeper core structures. In this context, restoring diaphragmatic breathing and core stability can help release the accumulated trauma and restore balance to the body’s systems.
Function and Significance: The Ren Mai, or Conception Vessel, is central to the regulation of all Yin channels in the body. It governs the reproductive system, supports fetal development, and influences the overall balance of Yin energy. The Ren Mai plays a crucial role in supporting the body’s foundational energy and influencing the endocrine system.
Du Mai (Governor Vessel)
Function and Significance: The Du Mai, or Governor Vessel, regulates all Yang channels in the body. It governs the spine and the central nervous system, influencing physical and mental strength. The Du Mai plays a significant role in maintaining the body’s posture and coordination, as well as its influence on cognitive functions.
