organ clock in tcm

The Organ Clock in Chinese Medicine: When to Rest to Reenergize

Did you know that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views our body as a complex energy system, with each organ having its own “working hours”? The organ clock, also known as the TCM biological clock, helps us understand when it’s best to rest, eat, and be active to boost our health and restore our energy. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of this concept, offering practical tips for any time of day.

In this article you will learn:

• How the organ clock works in TCM.
• How to use herbs, acupressure, and Qi Gong to support the body's regeneration.
• How to prepare a simple herbal infusion for better sleep.
• Interesting facts and scientific research results that confirm the effectiveness of the TCM approach.

How Does the Organ Clock Work in TCM?

The organ clock is based on the theory that life energy (Qi) flows through the body in a circadian rhythm, visiting individual organs at specific times. Each organ has its own "hours of peak activity" and recovery time. Knowledge of this cycle allows us to better understand the needs of our body and adapt our lifestyle to its natural rhythm.

Organ Clock Schedule:

• 11:00 pm–1:00 am – Gallbladder: Detox and regeneration.
• 1:00 am–3:00 am – Liver: Regenerate the digestive system and support healthy sleep.
• 3:00 am–5:00 am – Lungs: Clearing the airways, ideal time for deep breathing.
• 5:00 am–7:00 am – Large Intestine: Elimination of toxins, time for morning toilet.
• 7:00 am–9:00 am – Stomach: Optimal time for breakfast.
• 9:00 am–11:00 am – Spleen: Processing energy from food.
• 11:00 am–1:00 pm – Heart: Maximum cardiac activity, time to relax.
• 1:00 pm–3:00 pm – Small Intestine: Digestion and absorption of nutrients.
• 3:00 pm–5:00 pm – Bladder: Elimination of toxins through urine.
• 5:00 pm–7:00 pm – Kidneys: Regeneration of vital energy.
• 7:00 pm–9:00 pm – Pericardium: Relaxation and preparation for sleep.
• 9:00 pm–11:00 pm – Triple Heater: Harmonizing the energy in the body.

How to Rest According to Your Organ Clock?

Each time of day requires a different approach to rest. Knowledge of the organ clock allows you to plan your day in a way that supports the body's natural regeneration processes.

Evening (7:00 pm–11:00 pm)

This is a time to calm down and regenerate your nerves. Avoid stressful activities, intensive work, or exposure to blue light emitted by screens. Instead, choose meditation, gentle Qi Gong exercises, or evening reading.

Night (11:00 pm–5:00 am)

Best time to sleep. The liver and gallbladder cleanse the body. If you have trouble sleeping, try relaxation techniques such as abdominal breathing or acupressure (such as pressing on the Yin Tang point, located between the eyebrows).

Morning (5:00 am–9:00 am)

Start your day with a glass of warm lemon water to support your colon and stomach. Gentle stretching and light Qi Gong exercises will help stimulate the flow of Qi in your body, preparing you for an active day.

How to Use TCM Herbs, Acupressure, and Qi Gong?

Herbs that Support Rest

• Suan zao ren and he huan pi: Reduces stress and promotes sleep.
• Chai hu: Calms the mind and improves digestion.
• Long gu i mu li: An adaptogen that helps regenerate the nervous system.
• Goji (wolfberry): Strengthens the liver and eyesight, supporting regeneration at night.

Acupressure for Better Sleep and Relaxation

• Yin Tang (Third Eye Point): Gently massage this area for 1-2 minutes before bed.
• An Mian: Located behind the ears, helps with sleep.
• Zu San Li (ST36): A point below the knee, strengthens immunity and regeneration.

Qi Gong for Calming Down

• Swinging Arms: Stand straight with your knees slightly bent. Gently swing your arms back and forth, breathing calmly.
• Lung Breathing: Place your hands on your chest and focus on breathing deeply through your nose.

Recipe for a Simple Herbal Infusion to Support Sleep

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon chai hu.
• 1 teaspoon of goji berries.
• 1 slice of fresh ginger.
• 250 ml boiling water.

Preparation:

1. Pour boiling water over the herbs in a cup.
2. Wait 10 minutes for the infusion to gain strength.
3. Drink slowly before bed to calm your mind.

Fun Facts About the Organ Clock and Health

Tradition vs. Science

Modern research shows that following a circadian rhythm has a positive impact on health. The alignment of the organ clock with the circadian rhythm supports the quality of sleep and cardiovascular health. For example, studies show that synchronizing your lifestyle with natural circadian cycles helps reduce stress and improve well-being.

Organ Clock and Stress

Studies show that techniques such as acupressure, meditation, and Qi Gong effectively lower cortisol levels, supporting nervous system regeneration and improving sleep quality. Regular practice can also improve immune system function.

Qi and Mitochondria

Modern science suggests that Qi Gong can improve mitochondrial function, supporting energy production at the cellular level. Studies show that people who practice Qi Gong regularly have greater endurance and faster recovery from exercise.

Scientific Research

• A study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2021) found that Qi Gong significantly improved sleep quality in people with chronic stress.
• In 2020, the journal Sleep Medicine highlighted the role of regular sleep in brain detoxification, which is consistent with the TCM liver and gallbladder cleansing theory.

Practical Tips for Everyday Life

Morning: Energy Support

• Start your day with lemon water.
• Do a 5-minute deep breathing session.
• Eat warm and nutritious breakfasts, e.g., oatmeal with nuts and honey.

At Noon: Balance and Digestion

• Avoid heavy meals.
• Take a moment to relax – 10 minutes of meditation can work wonders.

Evening: Regeneration and Peace

• Avoid caffeine after 3 pm.
• Try evening Qi Gong.
• Calm down with a cup of herbal tea.

Summary

The organ clock in Chinese medicine is a practical tool that allows you to synchronize your lifestyle with the natural rhythm of your body. Practice herbal medicine, acupressure, and Qi Gong to make the most of your regeneration hours. Remember that health begins with harmony in body and mind! And do you follow these rules?