11:00 PM – 1:00 AM (子时) | Gallbladder (胆)

Theme: Decision-making, courage, recovery

The Gallbladder supports judgment and works closely with the Liver.

What supports the Gallbladder now:

• Being asleep before midnight

• Avoid late-night screen use

If you are awake:

• May reflect indecision, stress, or poor sleep habits
• TCM insight: Sleeping during 子时 is critical for long-term health and vitality.

1:00 – 3:00 AM (丑时) | Liver (肝)

Theme: Detoxification, emotional processing deep Repair

During this window, the Liver is most active, filtering blood, metabolizing toxins, and regulating the smooth flow of Qi and emotions.

What supports the Liver now:

• Deep, uninterrupted sleep
• A cool, dark sleeping environment
• Avoid alcohol, heavy meals, and late‑night snacking

If you wake during this time:

• May reflect Liver Qi stagnation, stress, anger, or overwork
• Gentle breathing, journaling earlier in the evening, or stress‑reducing practices can help

TCM insight: Chronic waking here is often linked to emotional overload or poor detox capacity.

3:00 – 5:00 AM (寅时) | Lung (肺)

Theme: Oxygenation, immunity, grief release

The Lungs govern breathing, immune defense (Wei Qi), and the rhythm of life. This is a powerful time for cellular renewal.

What supports the Lungs now:

• Clean air, good ventilation
• Sleeping on your side or back with open chest posture
• Avoid dry air and dehydration

If you wake during this time:

• May be associated with unresolved sadness, grief, or weakened immunity

TCM insight: Early‑morning coughing, congestion, or asthma often reflect Lung imbalance.

5:00 – 7:00 AM (卯时) | Large Intestine (大肠)

Theme: Elimination, letting go

This is the body’s prime time for bowel movements and clearing waste.

What supports the Large Intestine now:

• Wake gently and hydrate with warm water
• Establish a consistent morning routine
• Light stretching or walking

If elimination is difficult:

• May indicate dryness, Qi stagnation, or emotional holding on

TCM insight: Healthy elimination here sets the tone for the entire day.

7:00 – 9:00 AM (辰时) | Stomach (胃)

Theme: Digestion, nourishment, energy intake

This is the most important time of day to eat a proper, warm breakfast. The Stomach is strongest now and best able to receive and break down food.

What supports the Stomach now:

• Warm, cooked foods (congee, eggs, oatmeal, soup)
• Eating mindfully without rushing
• Avoid cold drinks and raw foods

If you skip breakfast:

• May weaken digestion and lead to fatigue or cravings later in the day

TCM insight: “Morning nourishment builds the foundation of Qi for the entire day.”

9:00 – 11:00 AM (巳时) | Spleen (脾)

Theme: Transformation, focus, productivity

The Spleen transforms food into Qi and Blood and supports concentration, memory, and mental clarity.

What supports the Spleen now:

• Focused work, studying, problem-solving
• Light movement between tasks
• Avoid excessive snacking or sugar

If you feel foggy or tired:

• May indicate Spleen Qi deficiency or dampness

TCM insight: Overthinking and worry directly weaken the Spleen.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (午时) | Heart (心)

Theme: Circulation, joy, connection

The Heart governs Blood circulation and houses the Shen (mind/spirit). This is a peak time for social interaction and emotional expression.

What supports the Heart now:

• Balanced lunch
• Positive conversation and laughter
• Brief rest or mindful pause

If symptoms appear:

• Palpitations, anxiety, or restlessness may reflect Heart imbalance

TCM insight: Excess heat or emotional strain can disturb the Heart Shen.

1:00 – 3:00 PM (未时) | Small Intestine (小肠)

Theme: Absorption, discernment

The Small Intestine separates the pure from the turbid—physically and mentally.

What supports the Small Intestine now:

• Light activity after lunch
• Decision-making that requires clarity
• Avoid heavy desserts or overeating

If you feel sluggish:

• Digestion may be overloaded

TCM insight: Difficulty making decisions may mirror Small Intestine imbalance.

3:00 – 5:00 PM (申时) | Bladder (膀胱)

Theme: Fluid metabolism, stamina

The Bladder works with the Kidneys to regulate fluids and maintain endurance.

What supports the Bladder now:

• Hydration
• Physical activity, exercise, walking
• Stretching the back and legs

If you feel drained:

• May reflect fluid imbalance or Kidney strain

TCM insight: This is an excellent time for movement and training.

5:00 – 7:00 PM (酉时) | Kidney (肾)

Theme: Essence, longevity, restoration

The Kidneys store Jing (essence) and govern growth, aging, bones, and willpower.

What supports the Kidneys now:

• Nutritious but light dinner
• Gentle activities
• Avoid excessive stress or overwork

If you feel exhausted:

• Chronic fatigue often reflects Kidney deficiency

TCM insight: Evenings should protect, not drain, Kidney energy.

7:00 – 9:00 PM (戌时) | Pericardium (心包)

Theme: Emotional connection, relaxation

The Pericardium protects the Heart and governs intimacy and emotional safety.

What supports the Pericardium now:

• Quality time with loved ones
• Calming routines
• Reduce screen exposure

If anxiety increases:

• Emotional boundaries may be strained

TCM insight: This is an ideal time to unwind and emotionally reconnect.

9:00 – 11:00 PM (亥时) | Triple Burner (三焦)

Theme: Hormonal balance, preparation for sleep

The San Jiao coordinates body temperature, fluids, and endocrine balance.

What supports the Triple Burner now:

• Begin sleep routine
• Dim lights, warm shower
• Avoid stimulants and late meals

If sleep is difficult:

• Hormonal or circadian imbalance may be present

TCM insight: Proper rest here supports the Liver’s detox phase that follows.