"TCM Life Clock" and Circadian Rhythm: The Connection Between Traditional Chinese Medicine and Modern Science
- phangngatcmclinic
- 4 days ago
- 9 min read
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) firmly believes in the profound connection between nature and humans, as expressed in the saying "天人合一" (Tiān Rén Hé Yī), meaning "Heaven and Man are One." Regardless of how the date, time, "Shi辰" (Shíchen - traditional Chinese hours), seasons, or weather change, our human bodies adapt to conform to these natural cycles. Qi (vital energy), blood, and internal organs function cyclically in accordance with our lifestyles. This concept bears a remarkable resemblance to the Circadian Rhythm, or biological clock, recognized by modern medical science.
For this reason, TCM texts have recorded the "Life Clock", serving as a manual for health preservation (养生 - Yǎng Shēng) and disease prevention according to TCM principles. This is immensely beneficial for everyone, including those residing in Phuket and Phang Nga who wish to care for their health holistically.
When we understand the working principles of the "Life Clock," which is essentially the Circadian Rhythm from a TCM perspective, we can properly care for our health, reduce the likelihood of illness, and improve our quality of life.
Getting to Know the "Life Clock" and Circadian Rhythm: The Body's Wonderful Mechanism
The term "Life Clock" may have various names, such as "Body Clock" or "Biological Clock." In Western science, this is known as the Circadian Rhythm (from the Latin "circa," meaning "around," and "diem," meaning "day"). All these terms refer to an internal body cycle that repeats approximately every 24 hours, controlling various physiological functions and behaviors in living organisms, including humans.
"Life Clock" = The Working Cycle of the Body's Machinery
What is the "Life Clock" according to TCM?
It is the natural working cycle of the body's various systems, operating precisely in relation to our daily routines, light, and body temperature over 24 hours. This aligns with the function of the Circadian Rhythm, which controls waking, sleeping, hunger, digestion, the secretion of acids and hormones (such as melatonin and cortisol), the endocrine system, metabolism, and the immune system. It's like complex machinery where each part works in harmony to ensure the body functions normally.
However, if we overwork our bodies and don't allow for rest, thereby disrupting the Circadian Rhythm, this "machinery" can malfunction or "short-circuit," leading to health problems. Therefore, most TCM practitioners often recommend that patients begin their health journey by readjusting their "Life Clock" to restore its strength.
What Happens If Your "Life Clock" (Circadian Rhythm) is Abnormal?
A lifestyle inconsistent with the "Life Clock," or frequent disruption of the Circadian Rhythm – such as sleeping late, waking up late, eating at irregular times, or accumulated stress – can affect the functioning of various organs, causing bodily systems to become imbalanced, leading to these problems:
Chronic fatigue, lack of freshness
Insomnia or poor-quality sleep
Digestive system problems: constipation, bloating, acid reflux
Dull skin, acne, melasma
Mood swings, irritability, anxiety
Weakened immune system, frequent illness
Increased risk of chronic diseases in the long term, such as liver disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and even depression.า
Adjusting Life According to the "Life Clock" with Traditional Chinese Medicine and Understanding "Chinese Hours" Deeply
The concept of the "Life Clock" in TCM is also related to time and sunlight. A day is divided into 12 "Shi辰" (Shí Èr Shíchen - twelve traditional Chinese two-hour periods). Each "Shi" (时 - hour/period) lasts for two hours. We often hear these "Shi" mentioned in historical Chinese series. Each period corresponds to the functioning of 12 important organs in the body, as follows:
🕛 11:00 PM – 01:00 AM – "Zi Shi (子时)" Gallbladder Time
The Gallbladder is working... you should be asleep... or you won't wake up refreshed.
Beliefs and Recommendations: This is the first "Shi" of the day according to ancient Chinese reckoning. Yin energy in the body is at its peak and Yang energy begins to generate. You should be sound asleep to allow the Gallbladder (胆) to function optimally in storing bile from the Liver to aid fat digestion. This is also when bone marrow begins to produce blood and repair the body. Those who watch Chinese series and see characters preparing for bed early are following this principle for body nourishment.
TCM Tips: Sleeping before this time helps clear the mind, brightens the spirit, prevents gallstones and liver disease, and strengthens Yang energy.
If you don't rest: The Gallbladder will weaken, possibly leading to overthinking, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, waking up unrefreshed, mental fog, and dark under-eye circles.
🕑 01:00 AM – 03:00 AM – "Chou Shi (丑时)" Liver Time
The Liver is working... you should be sound asleep... don't let anything wake you.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Liver Meridian (肝经) is active, detoxifying the body. The Liver stores blood (肝藏血). Deep sleep during this period directly nourishes the Liver, strengthening Liver Qi.
TCM Tips: Adequate rest ensures a healthy liver and a good mood.
If you don't rest: (e.g., due to overworking, alcohol consumption) The Liver may accumulate excess Yang energy, leading to irritability, anxiety, a dull complexion, melasma, acne. The elderly may be at risk of dementia, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
🕓 03:00 AM – 05:00 AM – "Yin Shi (寅时)" Lung Time
The Lungs receive energy... wake up refreshed with beautiful, clear skin.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Lung Meridian (肺经) is active, gathering Qi and blood, and distributing oxygen to blood vessels throughout the body (肺主气，朝百脉). Deep sleep during this time nourishes the Lungs.
TCM Tips: Deep sleep during this period nourishes the Lungs. You'll wake up with a bright face and a refreshed body.
If you don't rest: Less oxygen reaches the brain and body. Those with allergies or asthma may experience flare-ups. The elderly with poor lung or heart function should not get up hastily or engage in strenuous exercise in the early morning.
🕕 05:00 AM – 07:00 AM – "Mao Shi (卯时)" Large Intestine Time
The Large Intestine is awake... time for a bowel movement to prevent constipation.
Beliefs and Recommendations: This is when ancient people typically woke up. The Large Intestine Meridian (大肠经) is active. Qi and blood flow to the Large Intestine to prepare for waste elimination.
TCM Tips: Drink warm water upon waking to stimulate bowel movements, preventing hard stools or constipation.
If you don't have a bowel movement at this time: The Large Intestine system may become imbalanced, leading to constipation, irregular bowel movements, and a feeling of discomfort during the day.
🕗 07:00 AM – 09:00 AM – "Chen Shi (辰时)" Stomach Time
The Stomach is open... let's have breakfast.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Stomach Meridian (胃经) is actively working. Qi and blood flow more to the Stomach to provide energy for digestion and nutrient absorption.
TCM Tips: Breakfast during this time is crucial. It's like fueling machinery to run at full capacity, allowing you to perform activities optimally and helping to prevent weight gain.
If you skip breakfast: The Stomach may malfunction, secreting excess acid, leading to acid reflux or gastritis. You may feel weak, mentally sluggish, and lack concentration.
🕙 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM – "Si Shi (巳时)" Spleen Time
The Spleen digests easily... move around a bit... the body is alert.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Spleen Meridian (脾经) is active and responsible for strengthening the limbs and movement (脾主四肢). The Spleen also helps separate the pure essence of food to nourish the upper body and directs the impure parts downwards for elimination (升清降浊).
TCM Tips: It's suitable to move your body to help the digestive system distribute nutrients and water to various organs effectively.
If you don't move much/are asleep: The Spleen may weaken, leading to indigestion, fatigue, and a lack of freshness during the day.
🕛 11:00 AM – 01:00 PM – "Wu Shi (午时)" Heart Time
Take a short nap... nourish the Heart, rest the brain.
Beliefs and Recommendations: This is when Yin and Yang energies alternate; Yang Qi is at its peak, and Yin Qi is at its lowest. The Heart Meridian (心经) is active.
TCM Tips: Resting during this time, such as taking a short nap or meditating, helps nourish the Heart and calm the spirit (养心安神), providing energy for the afternoon and improving cognitive function.
If you work hard/are stressed: Insufficient blood flow to the Heart can lead to mental sluggishness and mood instability. You should relax and take it easy.
🕑 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM – "Wei Shi (未时)" Small Intestine Time
Avoid eating for now... the Small Intestine is digesting and absorbing well.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Small Intestine Meridian (小肠经) is active. This is the prime time for digesting and absorbing the food consumed.
TCM Tips: You should have finished lunch before this period. Avoid snacks and sugary drinks to allow the Small Intestine to fully absorb nutrients to nourish the brain and body. This is the best time for creative thinking and planning.
If you are still eating at this time: It may lead to poor digestion, drowsiness, and fatigue.
🕓 03:00 PM – 05:00 PM – "Shen Shi (申时)" Bladder Time
Drink plenty of water... take a slow walk... go to the bathroom to urinate.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Bladder Meridian (膀胱经) is active, responsible for storing and excreting urine.
TCM Tips: Drinking water frequently and urinating during this time helps maintain normal body metabolism and internal balance. Light exercise can also be beneficial for relaxation before evening.
If you don't drink enough water/hold your urine: The urinary system may become imbalanced.
🕕 05:00 PM – 07:00 PM – "You Shi (酉时)" Kidney Time
It's evening, avoid salty food, eat bland... helps strengthen the Kidneys.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Kidney Meridian (肾经) is active. Strong Kidneys also support the Spleen and Stomach (后天养先天), preventing accumulated fatigue.
TCM Tips: Eat dinner on time. Avoid salty foods and opt for bland flavors to benefit the Kidneys.
If you eat late/salty foods: The digestive system and the Kidneys' ability to store essential substances may be weakened, affecting growth and reproductive system function.
🕗 07:00 PM – 09:00 PM – "Xu Shi (戌时)" Pericardium Time
Good mood... don't eat too full, a healthy Pericardium.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The Pericardium Meridian (心包经) is active. Qi and blood flow to nourish the Heart. You should relax and maintain a good mood (怡养心神).
TCM Tips: Don't overeat, as this evening period is for rest before sleep.
If you overeat or are stressed at this time: It can lead to insomnia and irritability.
🕙 09:00 PM – 11:00 PM – "Hai Shi (亥时)" San Jiao (Triple Burner) Time
Body warm... ready for bed.
Beliefs and Recommendations: The San Jiao Meridian (三焦经) is active. The San Jiao is the pathway for Qi and blood for all body systems. It balances body temperature, which starts to decrease, and melatonin secretion begins.
TCM Tips: This is the time to prepare for bed, take a bath (perhaps warm), wear warm clothes, and get ready to sleep.
Improper behavior: Engaging in exciting activities or intense mental work can interfere with preparing for quality sleep.
Summary: "Life Clock" and "Chinese Hours" – The Key to Sustainable Good Health, Consistent with Circadian Rhythm
The "Life Clock" according to TCM and these 12 "Chinese Hours" cycle through the day, with organs working in a coordinated rhythm. This is consistent with the principles of the Circadian Rhythm in modern science. When we understand these mechanisms and adjust our daily lifestyles accordingly – including sleep, diet, rest, and exercise – we can create a balance of Qi, blood, Yin, and Yang in our bodies. This is a simple yet powerful way to prevent physical and mental illness without relying on medication, requiring only discipline and consistent practice.
Adjust Your Life Clock, Consult Traditional Chinese Medicine in Phuket and Phang Nga with Phang Nga Clinic of Traditional Chinese Medicine
If you live in Phuket or Phang Nga and are interested in learning more about adjusting your "Life Clock" to suit your body's condition, or if you have questions about health issues according to TCM principles, including wanting personalized advice to balance your Circadian Rhythm, contact us to schedule an assessment.
Phang Nga Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic
Phuket heroines' monument Branch, Phuket: Tel. (+66)80-516-9239
Muang Phang Nga Branch, Phang Nga Province: Tel. (+66)92-284-3804
See the clinic map at: "Our Branches"
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