1. Jumping Out of Bed Too Quickly – Disrupting Qi and Blood Flow
Some people have a habit of jumping out of bed as soon as they wake up. However, during sleep, the circulation of Qi and blood slows down, and blood pressure is low. Getting up too quickly can cause dizziness and lightheadedness as the body hasn’t had time to adjust. In more severe cases, it may even lead to cardiovascular incidents or strokes.
Upon waking, it is advisable to lie still for about 30 seconds, gently stretch, and then slowly sit up. Those with high blood pressure or atherosclerosis should be especially mindful of this.
2. Smoking Right After Waking Up – Damaging Your Lungs
Many smokers light up first thing in the morning to “clear their heads.” However, according to Eastern medicine, the morning is when the lungs govern the Qi of the whole body. Smoking at this time directly damages the lungs, causing Qi and blood stagnation, leading to coughing, phlegm, fatigue, and shortness of breath over time.
If you can’t quit smoking, at least avoid smoking on an empty stomach. Drink a warm cup of water and move around for a few minutes before lighting up to reduce the harm.
3. Drinking Cold Water on an Empty Stomach – Harming the Spleen and Stomach
Drinking cold water first thing in the morning is a practice that many believe to be effective for “detoxification.” However, Eastern medicine holds that “the Spleen prefers dryness and dislikes dampness.” In the morning, when Yang Qi is just beginning to stir, the Spleen and Stomach are still weak, and drinking cold water is like pouring water on a newly lit fire – it can easily damage the Spleen Yang. Over time, this can lead to abdominal distension, poor digestion, and bowel irregularities.
It is recommended to drink warm water in small sips, allowing the body to adjust. If you tend to have a sensitive stomach, you can add a few slices of ginger to your water to warm the Spleen and Stomach.
4. Holding Your Urine and Staying in Bed – Harming Your Kidney Qi
Some people wake up but continue lying in bed, scrolling on their phones, even if they need to urinate. Eastern medicine believes that “the Kidneys govern the two openings,” and holding your urine for too long can disrupt bladder function and affect the Kidney Qi. This can lead to urinary tract infections and prostate enlargement, especially in middle-aged and elderly men.
It is advisable to urinate as soon as you wake up. If you tend to urinate frequently at night, try eating more taro, lotus seeds, and walnuts to tonify the Kidneys and reduce nocturnal urination.
Suggestions for Morning Self-Care
Hand Rubbing and Kidney Warming: Rub your palms together until they feel warm, then place them on your lower back (where the Kidneys are located) and gently massage for 3-5 minutes to stimulate Qi and blood flow and warm the Kidney Yang.
Warm Breakfast: Opt for warm and easily digestible foods like porridge, eggs, or steamed buns. Avoid fried, cold, or raw foods.
Gentle Exercise: Go for a walk, practice Tai Chi, or perform the Eight-Section Brocade exercises to promote Yang Qi development and avoid sluggishness throughout the day.
