DrJoyWellness
Pericardium & Triple Burner (San Jiao)
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Five Element: Fire
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Color: Red
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Season: Summer
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Direction: South
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Taste: Bitter
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Corresponding Foods: Red-colored foods; foods that support circulation and emotional balance
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Supports / Governs: Chest, Blood Circulation, Fluid Pathways, Hormonal & Temperature Regulation
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Emotion: Joy and Emotional Expression (in balance); Emotional Suppression, Agitation, Mood Swings (when imbalanced)
Pericardium & Triple Burner (San Jiao)
Pericardium & Triple Burner (San Jiao) Meridian Clock
Xu Time (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Pericardium Meridian is in Command Xu Time, between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, is the time when the Pericardium Meridian takes command. The Pericardium is the membrane that surrounds the Heart, and in TCM, it serves to protect the Heart and maintain its proper function. It is said in TCM: “The Heart is free from external evils — it is the Pericardium that receives them.” Many issues that appear to be Heart-related, such as racing heartbeat or palpitations, may in fact originate from the Pericardium. As disturbances travel through the Pericardium Meridian, they can affect Heart rhythm and emotional balance. According to the Huangdi Neijing, the Pericardium is associated with the function of joy and emotional openness — “Joy arises from it.” That’s why this period is a great time for lighthearted interaction or gentle emotional expression. Laughter, music, and relaxed conversation can help nourish the Heart through its guardian, the Pericardium. 💡 Pay attention to subtle signs in the hands: Numbness in the middle finger may indicate Pericardium disharmony (as the meridian passes through it) Numbness in the pinky may reflect Heart issues A bluish palm mound (thenar eminence) may point to Lung cold Especially in the elderly, it's beneficial to observe and move the fingers frequently. Keeping the hands active supports the flow of Qi and Blood, and helps maintain vitality.
Hai Time (9:00 PM – 11:00 PM): San Jiao Meridian is in Command Hai Time, from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM, is the period when the San Jiao Meridian takes command. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the San Jiao (Triple Burner) is a unique and complex concept, distinct from physical organs. So, what is the San Jiao? It refers to the network-like membrane system that links all of the internal organs — the Heart and Lungs belong to the Upper Jiao, the Spleen and Stomach to the Middle Jiao, and the Liver and Kidneys to the Lower Jiao. The nature of San Jiao is warm and gentle, like a steady, simmering fire. It helps maintain the body’s optimal internal environment — not too hot, not too cold. The San Jiao’s function is to disperse Qi, regulate fluids, and ensure harmony between the different levels of the body. If the San Jiao is obstructed, illness arises due to disrupted communication between organ systems. The zodiac animal of Hai Time is the pig — symbolic of contentment and rest. After eating, it lies down peacefully. This image reminds us that this is the time to wind down and enter deep rest. Only when the body is in a state of comfort and peace can it begin to cultivate the Yang Qi that will rise at midnight (Zi Time). During Hai Time, let the body and spirit sink into the warmth of darkness, so that both life force and physical vitality can begin their renewal. 🌙 Creating this restful environment is the key to true rejuvenation.