Daily Clocks, Circadian Rhythms Time Tested vs. Current Hype

Circadian Rhythms and Biorhythms are having their day in current health culture and hype.

Biorhythms were part of the lingo during the early ‘new age’ health movement. It classified three types of rhythms, physical, mental and emotional rhythms. The ‘science’ of the day discounted biorhythms as woo.

However tools of biological measurement got better and the more ‘scientific’ Circadian Rhythm was born. Interestingly biorhythm theory is still considered woo while Circadian Rhythm theory is legitimate in certain circles.

Circadian rhythm bu definition is your body's natural internal clock, regulating sleep-wake cycles and various other bodily functions, including hormone release, body temperature, and digestion, over a 24-hour period.

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Did you know that both Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine observed and created daily clocks based on the movement of subtle energy in the body and in the world?

Our main conversation for Episode 03 of Art and Heart of Menopause (unless we go off on a tangent which is always fun.)

* The tyranny of our unnatural rhythms in a world created by patriarchy and extractive economics harms our relationship to biological time.

* Similarities and differences between the Ayurvedic and TCM versions of the body clock.

* How living more aligned to diurnal rhythms supports us during menopause.

* Challenges of living in today’s world with a more aligned body clock with simple steps to overcome them

We explored how traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda interpret daily clocks and circadian rhythms, emphasizing the importance of aligning daily activities with natural cycles to promote health and well-being. We discussed modern disruptions caused by industrialization and technology, leading to lifestyle imbalances such as poor digestion, anxiety, and sleep issues.

Both emphasize the importance of eating the largest meal at midday, resting in the evening, and respecting natural signals of hunger and thirst.

The conversation aims to help busy women integrate these ancient principles into their modern lives for better health, focusing on the quality of life and longevity.

Show Notes

In this episode, Clarissa Kristjansson and I delved into the intricacies of circadian rhythms and how they impact menopausal health.

We introduced the concept of daily clocks in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, highlighting the role of clocks and time perception throughout history and how modern life disrupts natural rhythms.

The discussion covers organ systems, energy flow, and the importance of aligning daily activities with natural cycles for optimal health.

We emphasized practical tips for synchronizing with natural rhythms, particularly focusing on proper meal timings and simplifying daily routines to enhance overall well-being.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:43 Meet Clarissa and Chitra

02:27 Understanding Circadian Rhythms in TCM and Ayurveda

02:39 The Impact of Modern Life on Natural Rhythms

09:58 The Daily Clock in Chinese Medicine

15:03 The Daily Clock in Ayurveda

22:00 Comparing TCM Organ Systems and Ayurveda Tissues and Srotas Systems

33:41 The Importance of Meal Timing and Digestion

37:00 Balancing External and Internal Worlds

37:13 Impact of Work on Daily Routines

37:45 Nutritional Challenges and Sleep Issues

38:28 Psychological and Emotional Effects

39:10 Women's Work-Life Balance Struggles

40:11 Corporate World and Physical Activity

40:49 Service Jobs and Solo Entrepreneurs

41:38 Perimenopause and Menopause Challenges

45:25 Ayurveda and Emotional Imbalances

47:37 Daily Rhythms and Ayurvedic Principles

49:07 Practical Tips for Better Health

56:44 Adapting Ancient Systems to Modern Life

59:30 Intermittent Fasting and Natural Timings

01:01:11 Listening to Your Body's Signals

01:07:01 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics

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Fresh unconventional conversations from the world of Ayurveda and TCM. Discover what’s really happening during perimenopause beyond hormones. Join us for the next Art & Heart of Menopause live salon on Thursdays.