Shaoyang Gallbladder functions
The Gallbladder is
the only Yang organ which does not deal directly with food and
drink. It is also considered an extraordinary organ. All other
Yang organs have direct contact to the outside world. It also
doesn’t transport food stuffs. The Gallbladder stores a refined
essence (bile) which actually makes it resemble a Yin organ.
Possibly the most important aspect of the Gallbladder is its
influence on decision making.
The functions of
the Gallbladder are:
- Stores and excretes bile
- Governs decision making
- Controls sinews
- Effects dreams
- Close relations with the Liver
Stores and excretes bile
Just as in western medicine, the Gallbladder receives bile from
the Liver which it stores until it is needed for digestive
processes. It is the only Yang organ that stores a refined fluid.
When the Gallbladder releases bile it is considered to regulated by
the Liver Qi, when digestion is smooth so is the flow of Liver Qi,
conversely, the Gallbladder needs Liver Qi to flow smoothly to be
able to release its bile. If this relation with the Liver is
impaired it can create a situation called ‘wood overacting on earth’
which can result in rebel Stomach Qi flow.
Governs decision making
The Liver is considered to be responsible for the ability to
plan life, the Heart oversees all mental functions, the Small
Intestine gives clarity and wisdom to decision making, and the
Gallbladder gives the courage and capacity to make decisions. All
these functions must be harmonized to plan and lead a harmonized
life. If the Gallbladder is weak a person will be timid and lack
initiative and courage. The Gallbladder gives us drive and the
passion to excel and the action potential necessary for these to
come to fruition. Dealing with adversity also comes under the role
of the Gallbladder. It is often necessary to tonify the Gallbladder
to support the Hearts function.
Controls sinews
This is almost identical to the function of the Liver but the
Gallbladder provides the Qi to the sinews not the blood. This is
why GB 34 Yanglingquan is the influential point for the sinews.
Effects dreams
It is said that the Gallbladder effects the quality and length
of sleep, if it is deficient a person will wake very early and not
be able to return to sleep. “When the Gallbladder is deficient, one
dreams of fights, trials, and suicide.” (Spiritual Axis).
Close relations with the
Liver
The Liver and Gallbladder depend on each other to perform their
functions. They both play an essential role in the smooth flow of
Qi throughout the body. In order to plan a good life (which is a
function of the Liver), one needs good decision making skills (which
is a function of the Gallbladder).
Links -
Gallbladder: Wood Energy Yang Organ (Bioenergetics)
