The ancient Chinese concept called “Zi Wu Liu Zhu” is all about understanding the body’s natural rhythms in harmony with the universe. Developed by wise scholars, this traditional Chinese medicine theory shows how human health is deeply tied to nature’s cycles. It takes into account factors like seasons, location, and personal characteristics to keep Qi (energy), blood, spirit, and organs in balance. Treatments such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and massage are often applied at specific times for the best effect, aligning with the idea of the “body clock” in traditional Chinese medicine. If you’re interested in more on this, a great resource is the body clock in traditional Chinese medicine pdf, which dives deeper into how timing can impact health.
In “Zi Wu Liu Zhu,” the terms “Zi” and “Wu” represent key time intervals in the day that are central to the body clock concept. For instance, “Zi” covers 11 PM to 1 AM, while “Wu” spans 11 AM to 1 PM. “Liu Zhu” itself refers to the way Qi and blood circulate through the body, flowing along twelve main pathways, or meridians, similar to how water moves naturally.
The idea of “Jing-Ying-Shu-Jing-He” adds more detail, breaking down how Qi and blood flow through these meridians during key times. This includes five key acupoints, the “Five Transporting Points,” which guide Qi and blood from shallow to deep levels, like a stream turning into a river. This flow is at the heart of the body clock in traditional Chinese medicine and shows how each organ has specific times for rest and renewal.
In ancient times, the Chinese divided each day into twelve two-hour slots, with “Zi” and “Wu” marking crucial moments in the cycles of Yin and Yang. These intervals play a big role in the body clock, as each one aligns with a different organ’s cleansing and self-renewal phase. Qi and blood flow follow these cycles, moving in a balanced loop that reflects our connection to nature.
Traditional Chinese medicine also emphasizes following natural cycles—spring, summer, autumn, winter, as well as growth, collection, and storing of energy. This is closely linked to the concept of organ cleansing times described in Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), which teaches, “Humans are connected to the heavens and earth.” Just like a stream that builds into a strong river, Qi and blood flow provide the strength each organ needs for its natural renewal. If you want a more detailed guide, the body clock in traditional Chinese medicine pdf is an excellent source for understanding these rhythms and how to support health naturally.
| Hours | Time | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Zi Hour | 23:00–1:00 | Gallbladder Meridian: Deep Sleep! The gallbladder needs to metabolize, and if a person falls asleep during this time, the gallbladder can complete its functions. The heart is at its weakest, so heart patients should have emergency heart medication on hand. |
| Chou Hour | 1:00–3:00 | Liver Meridian: Deep Sleep! This is the best time for liver repair, when old blood is replaced and fresh blood is produced. Entering a deep sleep allows the liver to replenish energy. If awake, the liver will continue to support cognitive and physical activities, hindering metabolism and risking liver disease. |
| Yin Hour | 3:00–5:00 | Lung Meridian: The earth’s energy shifts from Yin to Yang. The lungs are at their peak as the liver supplies blood to the lungs, which then circulate it throughout the body. A person needs ample oxygen at this time. Lung disease and asthma patients benefit from taking medications during Yin hour for improved efficacy. |
| Mao Hour | 5:00–7:00 | Large Intestine Meridian: Bowel Movement! Start with a glass of warm water. The large intestine is at its strongest, absorbing nutrients and fluids and expelling waste. |
| Chen Hour | 7:00–9:00 | Stomach Meridian: Don’t Skip Breakfast! The stomach secretes acid continuously, and prolonged hunger can lead to gastritis, ulcers, and inflammation. |
| Si Hour | 9:00–11:00 | Spleen Meridian: Drink Water! The spleen manages digestion, absorption, and elimination. It is known as the “foundation of acquired constitution.” Strengthen the spleen with congee made of coix seeds, red beans, and yam. Drink about 2000 ml of water daily, preferably avoiding sugary beverages. |
| Wu Hour | 11:00–13:00 | Heart Meridian: Take a Brief Nap. The heart drives blood circulation, nourishing both mind and body. A short nap during this time supports heart health and can provide energy for the afternoon and evening. Avoid naps longer than 30 minutes to prevent difficulty sleeping at night. |
| Wei Hour | 13:00–15:00 | Small Intestine Meridian: The small intestine absorbs nutrients during Wei hour. Eating lunch before 1:00 p.m. ensures that nutrients are absorbed effectively. Excess heat in the small intestine can lead to symptoms like belching and gas. |
| Shen Hour | 15:00–17:00 | Bladder Meridian: Urination! The bladder eliminates fluids. If the bladder is overheated, coughing may occur, leading to involuntary urination. The bladder is most active at this time, so drink water and avoid holding urine, as it can cause urinary retention. |
| You Hour | 17:00–19:00 | Kidney Meridian: The kidneys store the essence of life and are fundamental to overall health. After Shen hour detoxification, the kidneys begin storing vital energy. For men especially, this is a key time, and those with kidney issues benefit most from massaging the kidney meridian now. |
| Xu Hour | 19:00–21:00 | Pericardium Meridian: Create a peaceful environment for sleep. Cultivate a calm mind. |
| Hai Hour | 21:00–23:00 | Triple Burner Meridian: Sleep! The Triple Burner, the body’s largest organ network, facilitates energy flow and regulates water pathways. During Hai hour, the Triple Burner connects all meridians, allowing for rest and rejuvenation. |
There are twelve months in a year and twelve hours in a day, reflecting the cyclical balance of Yin and Yang in nature. The twelve meridians in the body correspond with each hour, as the flow of energy and blood in each meridian ebbs and flows like tides, adapting to seasonal and environmental changes. It’s as though each hour has a meridian “on duty” to maintain the body’s harmony.
