Many people think as long as they sleep 7–8 hours, it doesn’t matter what time they go to bed. But according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it’s not just about how much you sleep, it’s when you sleep that also really matters.
You probably told best to sleep early, but how early?? Let's explore the TCM’s organ clock theory as it shows how our body repairs itself at different hours through the night.
What’s the TCM Organ Clock?
In TCM, Qi (energy) moves through 12 main meridians in your body within a 24-hour cycle. Every two hours, Qi focuses on one organ system to repair, detox, and restore it before moving to the next.
That’s why certain hours are considered “healing hours.” When you sleep according to this rhythm, your body naturally detoxes better, digestion runs smoother, and your emotions stay more balanced.
Ideally, you should be asleep by 11PM because that’s when your Gallbladder starts its work, followed by your Liver and Lungs later in the night.
What Happens When You Sleep Late
🕚 11PM–1AM: The Gallbladder Hour
The Gallbladder helps with digestion and decision-making.
If you’re still awake at this hour, your body can’t store and restore Qi properly. You may wake up with poor digestion, restless sleep, or feel uncertain or moody the next day.
🕐 1AM–3AM: The Liver Hour
This is when your Liver works the hardest to filter toxins, process emotions, and nourish your blood and Yin.
Sleeping late weakens your Liver Qi and blood, leading to fatigue, irritability, dry eyes, or even irregular menstruation. Emotionally, it can make you feel more impatient or easily triggered.
🕒 3AM–5AM: The Lung Hour
Your Lungs control your breathing, immunity, and skin health.
If you’re still awake around this time, your body misses its chance to recharge Lung Qi. This may lead to dry skin, weaker immunity, and feeling tired or dull the next morning.
So, Why Sleep Before 11PM?
Because your body has its own clock, not the one on your phone.
Sleeping late doesn’t just make you tired, it interrupts your natural repair time. When your Liver and Gallbladder can’t do their job properly, your energy, mood, and skin all are affected.
If you’ve been struggling with fatigue, poor sleep, or hormonal imbalance, it’s not just “stress.”
Your body clock might be out of sync.
Drop by for a consultation with our TCM practitioner to understand what's happening and consider doing acupuncture treatments as it can help realign your Qi flow so your sleep, mood, and energy naturally improve without relying on other medications.
