Chinese Medicine Concepts
Chinese Medicine Body Clock
Chinese Medicine Body Clock. The Chinese Medicine Body clock consists of 24-hours divided into 12 two-hour intervals of the Qi (life force, or energy) moving through your organ systems. Chinese Medicine practitioners use the body clock to help them determine the organs responsible for diseases.
The Body-Energy Clock is built upon the concept of the cyclical ebb and flow of energy throughout the body. During a 24-hour period (see the clock that follows), Qi moves in two-hour intervals through the organ systems. During sleep, Qi draws inward to restore the body. This phase is completed between 1:00-3:00 AM, when the liver cleanses the blood and performs a myriad of functions that set the stage for Qi moving outward again.
Here is a general overview of the Chinese medicine body clock:
- 11:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Gallbladder Meridian and Liver Meridian):
- This is the time for the body to detoxify and cleanse the blood.
- It is recommended to be asleep during this time to allow the body to carry out these processes effectively.
- 1:00 AM – 3:00 AM (Liver Meridian):
- The liver continues its detoxification processes during this time.
- It is important to be in a deep sleep for optimal liver function.
- 3:00 AM – 5:00 AM (Lung Meridian):
- This is the time when the lungs are believed to be most active.
- Deep breathing exercises or fresh air can be beneficial during this time.
- 5:00 AM – 7:00 AM (Large Intestine Meridian):
- This is the time when the large intestine is most active, and the body prepares for elimination.
- It is often recommended to have a bowel movement and engage in light stretching or exercise.
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM (Stomach Meridian):
- This is the time when the stomach is most active for digestion.
- Consuming a nutritious breakfast is recommended during this period.
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Spleen and Pancreas Meridian):
- This is a time of energy absorption and nutrient distribution.
- A light snack or a warm beverage may be beneficial.
- 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Heart Meridian):
- This is when the heart is at its peak, and blood circulation is optimized.
- Lunch is often recommended during this time.
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Small Intestine Meridian):
- The small intestine is most active in the absorption of nutrients during this period.
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Bladder Meridian):
- This is a time for mental activity and focus.
- 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Kidney Meridian):
- The kidneys are believed to be most active during this time, and it is a period for physical and mental restoration.
- 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Pericardium Meridian):
- This is a time to unwind and relax.
- 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Triple Burner Meridian):
- This is the time for the body to prepare for sleep, and it is recommended to wind down and relax.