The Chinese meridian flow timetable is a concept from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that maps out the flow of Qi (energy) through the body’s 12 main meridians in 24 hours, with each meridian having a peak period of activity lasting for 2 hours. This system is used to explain how different organs are activated or resting at various times, impacting health and well-being. Here’s how it is structured into 12 sections:
- 11 PM – 1 AM (Gallbladder Meridian)
Organ: Gallbladder (胆经)
Peak activity: This time is vital for processing fats and lipids. Proper rest during this time supports healthy decision-making, courage, and emotional stability, linked to gallbladder function. - 1 AM – 3 AM (Liver Meridian)
Organ: Liver (肝经)
Peak activity: The liver detoxifies the blood and regulates emotions. It’s important to sleep during this time for optimal detoxification and emotional balance. - 3 AM – 5 AM (Lung Meridian)
Organ: Lung (肺经)
Peak activity: This is the best time for deep breathing, and it’s a period of self-reflection and emotional release. Many breathing problems, like coughing, can worsen during this period. - 5 AM – 7 AM (Large Intestine Meridian)
Organ: Large Intestine (大肠经)
Peak activity: This is the ideal time for elimination of waste, reflecting the body’s natural detoxification processes. Morning bowel movements are encouraged. - 7 AM – 9 AM (Stomach Meridian)
Organ: Stomach (胃经)
Peak activity: The digestive system is most active, making it the best time to have a nutritious breakfast to fuel the body’s energy for the day ahead. - 9 AM – 11 AM (Spleen Meridian)
Organ: Spleen (脾经)
Peak activity: The spleen governs digestion and the transformation of food into Qi. This is a good time for intellectual activity and physical exertion. - 11 AM – 1 PM (Heart Meridian)
Organ: Heart (心经)
Peak activity: Emotional well-being and blood circulation are strongest. It’s ideal to avoid stress during this time and focus on restful activities. - 1 PM – 3 PM (Small Intestine Meridian)
Organ: Small Intestine (小肠经)
Peak activity: The small intestine processes nutrients. Taking a light meal and resting after lunch allows the body to absorb nutrients efficiently. - 3 PM – 5 PM (Bladder Meridian)
Organ: Bladder (膀胱经)
Peak activity: This is the time for metabolizing fluids and releasing toxins. Hydration is important to support the bladder’s role in eliminating waste. - 5 PM – 7 PM (Kidney Meridian)
Organ: Kidney (肾经)
Peak activity: The kidneys are vital for storing energy, regulating blood, and supporting bones and reproductive health. Early evening rest helps replenish kidney energy. - 7 PM – 9 PM (Pericardium Meridian)
Organ: Pericardium (心包经)
Peak activity: Associated with protection of the heart, this time is ideal for relaxation, fostering emotional connections, and social activities. - 9 PM – 11 PM (Triple Burner Meridian)
Organ: Triple Burner (三焦经)
Peak activity: This meridian coordinates all organs and energy systems. During this time, the body begins to settle down, preparing for deep rest and recovery.
This cyclic pattern of Qi is believed to guide optimal health practices, such as the best times for eating, resting, and physical activity, based on the body’s natural rhythms