## “Why You Shouldn’t Indulge at the Third Watch” and “Midnight Snacking: A Warning”: Unraveling Ancient Wisdom for a Healthy Lifestyle
“Why is it said that ‘one should not indulge in desires at the third watch’?”
Interpreting the phrase literally, ‘the third watch’ typically refers to the period between 11 pm and 1 am in ancient times. During this time, according to our normal biological clock, the body starts releasing melatonin, indicating that it’s usually bedtime. Hence, it is advised that one should not indulge in excessive sexual activities as it could impact their health.
The reason lies in the fact that during this period, the liver becomes active and starts detoxifying the body by eliminating toxins. If one does not rest properly during this time, it can affect the liver’s ability to cleanse the body. Additionally, engaging in physical intimacy requires more energy, and in the ancient days, when houses were built with multiple windows and doors, the cold night breeze could cause health issues such as sudden strokes, leading to a dangerous condition called ‘upper horse wind’.
“What is the significance of ‘Midnight Snacking: A Warning’?”
In ancient times, without the convenience of clocks, people primarily relied on the rising and setting of the sun to guide their daily routines. Hence, midnight was a time of darkness, and eating late and consuming large portions could impact one’s health. Scientifically, it is known that eating a heavy late-night meal can cause digestive issues, leading to difficulty sleeping and potential harm to overall health.
“Midnight Snacking: A Warning” emphasizes reducing the burden on the stomach. In ancient times, people retired early, partly due to exhausting work routines and partly because they lacked entertainment options.
Additionally, late-night eating can contribute to obesity and weight gain, which are risk factors for various chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Therefore, it is essential to avoid overeating during late evenings or midnight to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
This information is for reflective purposes only
The Art of Home: Redefining Space and Its Inhabitants
“The allure of owning a grand home is a dream for many. However, as the ancient proverb goes, ‘A big house with few inhabitants becomes a desolate place.’ Why did our ancestors coin this phrase? In truth, this notion has sparked a myriad of joys and sorrows, unions and separations since time immemorial.”