Hara is a Japanese word that in general refers to the abdominal area of the body, below the ribs and sternum down to just above the pubic bone. Hara is abdominal palpation and relates to the meridian system of the body. “The abdomen is more than just the physical center in which the organs reside. It is the residence of the source of the body’s energies, the energetic center from which life springs.” Assessment of the Hara looks for Kyo or Jitsu (deficiency or excess as related to Traditional Chinese Medicine), quality within the different areas indicates what is most out of balance. Assessing the Hara is a powerful diagnostic tool and much like the tongue, it tells an honest picture of the clients energetic make-up. The goal to treating the Hara is to rebalance the meridians where necessary.