In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there is a belief that Qi (pronounced “chee”, meaning “life energy”) flows through the body in a regular 24-hour cycle. Every 2 hours, the energy (Qi) is strongest in a particular organ system. This idea is known as the Meridian Clock or TCM Organ Clock.
- Each organ is most “energized” or “active” during its 2-hour window.
- This rhythm affects physical, emotional, and mental health.
- Knowing the body clock can help diagnose issues (e.g., if you always wake up at 3 AM, it might relate to lung health).
The cycle also supports lifestyle habits — suggesting when to eat, exercise, rest, or reflect, based on which organ is active.
| Time | Organ | Main Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 AM – 3 AM | Liver | Detoxification, blood cleansing, emotional processing |
| 3 AM – 5 AM | Lung | Breathing, oxygen exchange, immune defence |
| 5 AM – 7 AM | Large Intestine | Elimination, bowel movement, letting go physically/emotionally |
| 7 AM – 9 AM | Stomach | Digestion begins, ideal time for breakfast |
| 9 AM – 11 AM | Spleen | Nutrient absorption, energy distribution |
| 11 AM – 1 PM | Heart | Blood circulation, emotional balance |
| 1 PM – 3 PM | Small Intestine | Absorption of nutrients, decision making |
| 3 PM – 5 PM | Bladder | Fluid regulation, excretion of waste |
| 5 PM – 7 PM | Kidney | Vitality, hormonal balance, reproductive health |
| 7 PM – 9 PM | Pericardium | Emotional nourishment, relationship health |
| 9 PM – 11 PM | Triple Burner (San Jiao) | Metabolism regulation, body temperature balance |
| 11 PM – 1 AM | Gallbladder | Decision making, courage, bile secretion |
Note:
- “Triple Warmer” (SanJiao) is not a single organ — it refers to energy management in the upper, middle, and lower parts of the body.
- “Pericardium” is the protective layer around the heart, linked with emotional and relational health.
- “Conception Vessel (CV)” is a special energy pathway, not a specific organ.
How it works in daily life
-
Morning (5-11 AM): Best time to eat and work — digestion and energy absorption are strong.
-
Afternoon (11 AM - 5 PM): Good for physical activity and focused tasks.
-
Evening (5-11 PM): Time to slow down emotionally and mentally.
-
Night (11 PM - 5 AM): Body detoxifies, heals, and regenerates
Special Points
If you wake up at the same time every night, it could indicate an energy imbalance in the organ linked to that time.
Certain emotions are also tied to organs:
- Liver → Anger
- Lung → Grief
- Heart → Joy
- Kidney → Fear
TCM practitioners use this clock to guide diagnosis and therapy (like acupuncture, herbal treatments, and lifestyle advice).
