Healthy sleep is key to maintaining bodily functions, especially waking up in the early hours may reveal underlying health issues. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, waking up between 1-3 am and 3-5 am is closely related to the functionality of the liver and lungs, corresponding to the active periods of the liver and lung meridians.
Waking up between 1-3 am is often closely linked to liver health. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that the liver is responsible for emotional regulation and smooth flow of energy. Emotional suppression and excessive stress can hinder liver function, leading to nighttime sleep disturbances. Improvement measures include increasing intake of green vegetables and fruits, reducing spicy and greasy foods, drinking chrysanthemum, wolfberry, or rose tea to clear the liver and reduce internal heat. Moderate exercise and psychological relaxation, such as yoga and meditation, are equally effective in alleviating this type of early awakening. In severe cases, consulting a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for suitable herbal remedies like sour jujube seed and silk tree bark for nourishment is recommended.
As for waking up between 3-5 am, this is usually related to lung and respiratory system issues or inadequate qi and blood. Treatment strategies should focus on nourishing yin and moistening the lungs, consuming foods like lily bulbs, tremella, and pears, supplemented with donkey-hide gelatin, red dates, and blood-tonifying qi-nourishing substances. Strengthening lung exercises such as jogging, swimming, and deep breathing practices can enhance nighttime respiratory quality. Maintaining appropriate indoor humidity levels by using a humidifier or water basin is also necessary. When needed, under professional guidance, one can take Ophiopogon and Adenophora roots to moisten the lungs and calm the spirit.
In addition to dietary therapy and exercise, acupuncture and tuina massage can be used to specifically regulate organ function and improve early awakening. Maintaining a regular schedule, optimizing sleep environment, reducing external stimuli, and eliminating bad habits such as limiting alcohol and caffeine intake and addressing health issues like frequent nocturia are all supportive measures.
In conclusion, paying attention to personal health details and cultivating scientific lifestyle habits are the cornerstones of overcoming early awakening and enjoying high-quality sleep, making each day vibrant and hopeful.
