The governing meridian (also called the du meridian) is believed to regulate the flow of qi (vital energy) throughout the body and is associated with the function of the brain and nervous system. It is also thought to play a role in mental and emotional balance.
There are 28 points on the governing meridian. The meridian originates from the inside of the lower abdomen. Descending, it emerges at the perineum. Then it ascends posteriorly along the interior of the spinal column to Fengfu (GV-16) at the nape, where it enters the brain. It further ascends to the vertex and winds along the forehead to the columella of the nose.