Circadian Rhythms and Traditional Chinese Medicine
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy to lose touch with our natural rhythm. However, according to Chinese medicine, aligning with our circadian rhythm is vital for overall health and well-being. Learning how to cultivate healthy habits through the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine allows you to achieve balance in your daily life.
Understanding Circadian Rhythms:
Circadian rhythms are the body's internal clocks that regulate various physiological processes over a 24-hour cycle. These rhythms influence everything from sleep-wake patterns to hormone production, body temperature, and cognitive functions. They are orchestrated by a master clock in the brain's hypothalamus and are profoundly affected by external cues, primarily light. In Chinese medicine, these rhythms are closely tied to the flow of Qi (energy) and the balance of Yin and Yang.
Lung (3 am - 5 am)
The Lungs produce and circulate Qi around the body Their main function is to Govern Qi and respiration and associate with the nose, skin and hair. This is the time for the lungs to rejuvenate and expel toxins. Early morning breathing exercises and meditation are recommended. When this is out of balance there may be symptoms of eczema, asthma, cough, phlegm and breathlessness, sadness and grief.
Large Intestine (5 am - 7 am)
The Large Intestine is involved with waking up, releasing and letting go which allows the body to cleanse and excrete waste and toxins. Its role is vital in maintaining a balance between the body's Qi and overall health. Its functions extend to supporting respiratory health through its connection with the lung, influencing the skin's condition, and impacting emotional and mental well-being.
When out of balance there may be constipation and holding onto feelings and emotions It's a great time for deep breathing exercises, promoting lung health and cleansing.
Stomach (7 am - 9 am)
The Stomach is fundamental to digestion, nutrient absorption, and the maintenance of Qi and bodily fluids. Its functions are deeply interconnected with the spleen and other organs, reflecting the holistic approach of TCM. Proper stomach function ensures physical health while contributing to emotional well-being and mental clarity. The stomach is ready to receive food, digestion is at its best during this period. It's a good time to eat a healthy, nutritious breakfast that sets the tone for the day.
Spleen (9 am - 11 am)
The Spleen in TCM is primarily involved with digestion, whilst controlling muscles and limbs, raising Qi in the body and housing thought. In its role of transformation and transportation, nutrients from food are dispersed as Qi and Blood around the body. Drinking coffee to fuel energy levels during this time could indicate that your natural energy source is weak or fatigued.
Heart (11 am - 1 pm)
The Heart in TCM is a central organ with responsibilities that extend beyond physical circulation to encompass mental, emotional, and spiritual health. It governs the blood, houses the Shen (spirit), influences mental functions, opens into the tongue, manifests in the complexion, regulates the emotion of joy, and influences sweating. At this time the heart's energy is at its strongest, promoting circulation. This is a good time to eat lunch. Eating appropriately helps keep us emotionally grounded and physically energised (qi and blood). Both contribute to a healthy Heart.
Small Intestine (1 pm - 3 pm)
The Small Intestine plays an important function in digestion, nutrient absorption, and separating pure from impure substances. It supports the heart, influences mental clarity and decision-making, regulates body fluids, facilitates the smooth flow of Qi, and collaborates with the bladder in fluid excretion. Weakness in this organ can lead to painful urination or loose stools.
Avoid heavy meals to prevent sluggishness.
Bladder (3 pm - 5 pm)
The Bladder is a key organ that interacts closely with the kidneys and other organs to maintain the body's fluid balance and Qi transformation. Just as in Western physiology, the Kidneys send by-products from their filtration to the Bladder to excrete. Drinking plenty of water leading up to and during this time can help detoxification and maximise the Bladder's functions when it is energetically strongest.
Kidneys (5 pm - 7 pm)
The Kidneys are central to overall health, governing essential functions like growth, reproduction, water metabolism, and the body's vitality. Balancing Kidney Yin and Yang, as well as maintaining the strength of Kidney Qi and Jing, Weakness in either of these organs can be indicated by a need to urinate at night, having weaker streams or more prevalent dribbling, likely worsened at this time supporting healthy adrenal function. Kidney energy promotes the development of blood, healthy respiration, sex drive, bone development and repair, aging and more. Gentle exercise, such as a light walk or a stretching routine during this time can help with circulation in assisting Kidneys filter more blood and can be beneficial.
Pericardium (7 pm - 9 pm)
The Pericardium in TCM is more than just a physical membrane surrounding the heart; it is a vital organ with significant responsibilities in protecting the Heart, regulating emotions, and maintaining the flow of Qi and Blood. It plays a crucial role in both physical health and emotional balance. Focus on relaxation and social activities to support emotional health.
Triple Burner (9 pm - 11 pm)
The Sanjiao is a foundational concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine that highlights the interconnectedness of bodily functions and the importance of balance and harmony in health. Its role in regulating Qi and fluids, maintaining thermal balance, and ensuring the coordination of organ functions underscores its significance in TCM practices. It’s suggested to go to sleep during this time for the regulatory and repair functions of the body that take place at night.
Gall Bladder (11 pm - 1 am)
The gallbladder in TCM has a multifaceted role that encompasses physical, emotional, and energetic aspects. It is essential for digestion, emotional fortitude, decision-making, and the health of the musculoskeletal system. Being in charge of storing and excreting bile it has a close relationship with the liver. As well as controlling the sinews, and decisiveness (decisions, courage) it also influences the quality and length of sleep. An imbalance in the gallbladder’s function can affect the body and the mind. Deep sleep is crucial during this time.
Liver (1 am - 3 a,m)
The Liver is a vital organ with multifaceted roles that include regulating the flow of Qi and blood, maintaining emotional balance, nourishing the sinews and muscles, supporting vision, and aiding in planning and decision-making. The liver detoxifies and rejuvenates. Ensure uninterrupted sleep for optimal liver function. The Liver, and thus your sleep, can easily affected by stress, anger, resentment, frustration and drinking too much alcohol during the day or too late at night.
Tips for Maintaining Balance
Consistent Sleep Routine:
Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every night to sync with your body's internal clock.
Mindful Eating:
Eat your largest meal during the day when digestion is strongest, and opt for lighter, easily digestible foods in the evening.
Gentle Exercise:
Incorporate activities like Tai Chi, Qi Gong, or yoga into your daily routine to promote energy flow.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink plenty of room-temperature water throughout the day to support organ functions.
Mind-Body Connection:
Practice mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress and support emotional balance.
Limit Artificial Light:
Reduce exposure to screens and artificial light in the evening to encourage a natural sleep-wake cycle.
Consult a Practitioner:
If you're experiencing imbalances, consider consulting a licensed Chinese medicine practitioner for personalised guidance.
Embrace these principles, and let nature's clock guide you towards a more harmonious existence.
Stay balanced and be well!
Warm regards,
John
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