blog-horlogebiologique

The Biological Clock

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body functions in a 24-hour cycle divided into two-hour periods, during which Qi - vital energy - moves through the body's meridians: this is different parts of the human body connected to each other. This energy is punctuated by ebb and flow movements such as digestion, sleep and even memory. This mechanism is called the circadian rhythm.

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According to the biological clock of traditional Chinese medicine, the different systems of the human body are in charge of the essential and vital functions of the body, classified according to 5 major systems. Some organs are grouped in pairs because they share characteristics that are inseparable from each other:

  1. MOTOR (Liver and Gallbladder) → Spring meridian
  2. CIRCULATORY, NERVOUS & BEHAVIORAL (Heart, Small Intestine) → Summer meridian
  3. DIGESTION → Autumn meridian (Spleen, Pancreas, Stomach)
  4. RESPIRATORY & CUTANEOUS (Lung, Large Intestine)
  5. GENITOURINARY & BONE (Kidney, Bladder) → Winter meridian

Each organ has its own physical and emotional function . They are thus associated with another organ , but also a color, a flavor, a season, a fundamental element ( water, fire, wood, metal and earth).


The biological clock cycle

Each pair of organs has a 2-hour cycle where its energy will be at its maximum: this is the great circulation :

  • From 1 a.m. to 3 a.m., the liver transports blood to the muscles when the body is active. Thus, the appearance of cramps or spasms may be due to poor irrigation during this time slot. In addition, the liver has an effect on women's menstruation which can become painful during this period. Finally, the appearance of insomnia during this time of the night can mean an ineffective elimination of toxins and therefore the need to detoxify the liver.
  • From 3 a.m. to 5 a.m., toxic waste from the lungs is evacuated and eliminated. This is why a cough or an asthma attack can occur during this period: this reveals a high concentration of mucus that is difficult to evacuate through the lungs.
  • From 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., the large intestine will complete the digestion process. The morning will therefore be a period associated with transit disturbances: it is important to hydrate well to start the day while minimizing the risk of abdominal pain.
  • From 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., it's breakfast time: the energy flow therefore moves towards the stomach . It is essential to provide the body with energy for the day. Note that the stomach likes warm temperatures to help digestion: do not hesitate to consume a hot drink.
  • From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., the spleen will process breakfast foods. During this period, the spleen produces antibodies to interact with the immune system. If it does not work properly, allergies may occur.
  • From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the heart rate accelerates. A healthy heart allows for the production and proper circulation of blood throughout the body. During these hours, the heart ensures good balance and good mental health. Be careful of heat and exposure to the sun.

TCM biological clock

  • From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., energy moves to the small intestine which plays a key role in digestion because it sorts the different elements coming from the churning of the stomach. Bloating can therefore occur at this time of the day if the meal is not eaten before this time because food stagnates in this part of the body.
  • From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., the bladder is at its peak of energy. A feeling of fatigue may appear at this time, so it is recommended to avoid holding back. The bladder also allows the production of tears and sweat.
  • From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the kidneys will allow you to feel in good shape, in particular by managing stress thanks to its production of cortisol (steroid hormone produced from cholesterol by the adrenal glands, which helps the body to mobilize the various reserves of energy: muscles, brain and heart). If the kidney is not functioning properly at these times of the day, this will result in a feeling of lack of energy.
  • From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., the pericardium (envelope of the heart) ensures good fluidity within the body. To allow good digestion after dinner, it is recommended to walk a little to relieve the heart.
  • From 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., it is not an organ but a set of physiological functions that will work: we call it the triple heater . According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, this name comes from the three centers of the body ensuring the major functions of the human body: respiration ( upper), digestion (middle) and elimination ( lower). Thus, any disturbance (headaches, fatigue, drop in energy) during these two hours is linked to the “repair” of the blood vessels.
  • From 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., the gallbladder (linked to the liver) ensures the secretion, storage and release of bile which helps with digestion.

Little MYCELAB tip: observe your body's reactions for 24 hours, analyze them according to the biological clock above and give us your feedback on what you noticed!

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Bibliography:

  • Li WU, The organ clock, 2016, Macro Editions
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