Getting sufficient sleep is essential for maintaining good health, as it allows damaged tissues and cells to repair themselves while also restoring energy. In traditional Chinese medicine, the most crucial aspect of sleep is to take a nap during the designated periods known as the “zi wu” hours. The “zi” hour refers to the period between 11 pm and 1 am, while the “wu” hour refers to the period between 11 am and 1 pm. Adjusting one’s sleep during these periods can help maintain a balance between yin and yang and provide significant health benefits.
What are the benefits of taking a nap during the “zi wu” hours?
1. It can follow the circulation of meridians
According to traditional Chinese medicine, the body undergoes many changes throughout the day’s 12-hour cycle, and each hour corresponds to the circulation of different meridians. To improve the quality of sleep, it is crucial to follow the natural flow of these meridians. By nourishing the gallbladder meridian through sufficient sleep, the body’s energy and blood circulation can improve. A person with healthy gallbladder function typically exhibits strong decision-making abilities. Sleeping before the “zi” hour and waking up early in the morning can help clear the mind and enhance work or study efficiency. The heart meridian is most active during the “wu” hour, and a healthy heart can push blood circulation, giving people energy and a radiant complexion. Taking a 20-minute nap or simply resting one’s eyes during the noon break is beneficial for heart health.
2. It can maintain the balance of yin and yang
The “zi” and “wu” hours are the golden periods of yin and yang transformation. During the “zi” hour, yin energy is at its peak, while yang energy gradually rises. Deep sleep during this period can nourish yin energy. Conversely, during the “wu” hour, yang energy is at its peak, and taking a nap can benefit yang energy. Therefore, taking a nap during the “zi wu” hours can help maintain the balance of yin and yang.
How can one take a good nap during the “zi wu” hours?
1. Determine the best time to sleep
During the “zi” hour, the body is already in a deep sleep state, which usually takes about 30-60 minutes to achieve. One should go to bed around 10:30 pm and wake up at around 6:00-7:00 am based on one’s own condition. Taking a nap during the “wu” hour is ideal between 12:00-1:00 pm, and one should not sleep after 3:00 pm, no matter how tired they are, as this can affect nighttime sleep quality.
2. Pay attention to sleep duration
It is best to sleep for a full 8 hours during the “zi” hour. Sleeping less than 6 hours or more than 9 hours can negatively impact one’s health. One should avoid drinking too much water before bedtime to avoid frequent trips to the bathroom, which can disrupt sleep quality. If one snores frequently, they should sleep on their side and quit smoking and lose weight if necessary. A 20-minute nap during the “wu” hour is sufficient. If one has trouble falling asleep, they can rest their eyes for a few minutes.
3. Establish a regular sleep schedule
Going to bed and waking up at fixed times can help ensure sufficient energy. Therefore, it is important to correct habits such as staying up late, pulling all-nighters, or oversleeping.
Kind Reminder
In general, getting a good afternoon nap is the foundation of good physical health, so it is necessary to adjust your sleep. It is worth noting that waking up frequently between 11 pm and 1 am indicates that the gallbladder meridian is blocked. Therefore, it is necessary to actively nourish the gallbladder meridian, regulate emotions, maintain a calm state of mind, and frequently massage the outer side of the thigh to promote the smooth flow of the gallbladder meridian.
In addition to paying attention to taking a good midday nap, it is also important to focus on sleep quality and regular schedule, as well as maintaining the body’s internal meridians and blood flow, including the gallbladder meridian. It is also very important to maintain a happy and peaceful mindset, which can be achieved through appropriate exercise, relaxation techniques, and sufficient social activities. At the same time, if there are physical discomfort or sleep disorders, it is best to seek medical help in a timely manner.