In traditional Chinese cultures, the practice of maintaining a balanced and health-conscious lifestyle extends beyond just food and exercise. It also includes how and when they drink water. This Chinese water drinking schedule is in harmony with our circadian rhythm and the functional principles of the body. Below is a summary of Chinese Water Drinking.

1. Drinking Warm Water in the Morning

The Chinese tradition typically starts the day with a warm glass of water, often with a squeeze of lemon or a slice of ginger. This gentle morning hydration is believed to kickstart your metabolism, aid digestion, and remove toxins from the body. The warmth of the water is important for body absorption. Your stomach has to warm up cold foods and liquids before they can be broken down and used.

2. Sipping Water Throughout the Day

Rather than gulping down large quantities of water in one go, the Chinese approach involves sipping water consistently throughout the day. This practice is believed to support the body’s ability to absorb and utilize water more efficiently, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels and promoting better digestion.

3. Avoiding Ice Water

In Chinese culture, ice water is often discouraged, as it’s believed to shock the stomach and slow down digestion. Room temperature or slightly warm water is preferred to maintain the body’s internal balance.

4. Timing Water Intake away from Meals

One of the unique aspects of this tradition is not drinking much during meals and waiting for about an hour or two after eating before you start sipping your water again. This practice is believed to prevent dilution of digestive juices and to ensure optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. What if I chug a whole bottle of water? Fine, just wait 30 minutes before eating. Don’t do it around meals.

5. Herbal Teas

Chinese herbal teas are an integral part of this tradition. These include chrysanthemum tea, green tea, or jasmine tea, each with its unique benefits. These beverages not only provide hydration but also offer a range of antioxidants and therapeutic properties. If you wake to urinate at night, stop drinking tea after 6pm.

How Acupuncture Aids Hydration

In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is seen as a way to help the body absorb and eliminate water effectively. It works by keeping the body in balance, which in turn enhances digestion and the absorption of nutrients. Acupuncture targets specific points in the body related to digestion and fluid regulation, helping to ensure that the body processes water efficiently. This aligns with the principles of the Chinese water drinking schedule, which aims to maintain overall health and bodily equilibrium. To explore this further, it’s a good idea to consult with an acupuncturist who can provide guidance tailored to your needs.

The Wisdom of Balance

The Chinese water drinking schedule is fundamentally about balance and harmony within the body. It emphasizes hydration as an essential part of well-being, promoting digestion, detoxification, and overall health. By not drinking with meals and waiting 2 hours after eating, this practice aims to optimize the digestive process and nutrient absorption.