TCM Meridian Clock
In each of the day's twelve two-hour periods, one meridian's qi and blood peaks. Arranging your routine around the reigning meridian is the most economical self-care in Chinese medicine. The current period is highlighted live — tap any period for detail.
The hours govern more than routine
The two-hour period of your birth is also one pillar of your BaZi chart. See what your hour pillar holds — the calculator is free.
Free BaZi Calculator →Meridian Clock — FAQ
What is the TCM meridian clock (zi-wu liu-zhu)?
The meridian clock is a traditional Chinese medicine framework holding that in each of the day's twelve two-hour periods, qi and blood peak in one particular meridian. Living in step with it — sleeping when the Gallbladder and Liver meridians reign, eating breakfast in the Stomach hour, resting briefly in the Heart hour — is considered the most economical form of daily self-care.
What is the single most useful takeaway?
Be asleep before 11pm. Staying up through the Zi and Chou hours (11pm to 3am) most drains Gallbladder-qi and Liver-blood; over time the face dulls and one becomes irritable and tired. The first step of self-care is very often simply sleeping early.
Is this medical advice?
No — this page presents a traditional cultural framework for arranging daily routines. It does not diagnose or treat anything. For health concerns, consult a licensed practitioner.
Disclaimer
This tool is cultural and educational content on TCM wellness. Any formula doses shown are traditional reference amounts, not personal prescriptions. It offers no diagnosis and does not replace medical care. Consult a licensed TCM practitioner for any treatment; pregnant women, children, and those with chronic conditions or on medication must take special care. Never self-prescribe herbs from a reference.