Fifth Difficulty

Pulse has light and heavy pressing distinctions; what does this refer to?

The answer: When beginning to palpate the pulse, if the finger force is light, like the weight of three beans, and corresponds to the level of skin and body hair, it is the pulse manifestation of the Lungs. If the finger force is like the weight of six beans and corresponds to the level of blood vessels, it is the pulse manifestation of the Heart. If the finger force is like the weight of nine beans and corresponds to the level of muscle, it is the pulse manifestation of the Spleen. If the finger force is like the weight of twelve beans and aligns with the depth of sinews, it is the pulse manifestation of the Liver. If the force is heavy, pressing all the way to the bone, and when the finger lifts, the pulse comes rapid and forceful, it is the pulse manifestation of the Kidneys. Therefore it is said that pulse has light and heavy pressing distinctions.