P. Sze 
Running on Empty? Let’s Fix That
It’s 3 p.m. and your brain is already foggy. You reach for another cup of coffee—even though the last one barely kept you awake. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) looks at fatigue differently. Instead of treating a slump with stimulants, it asks why your energy (Qi) is low: Is digestion chilled by iced drinks? Has your body clock drifted off-beat? Are you rushing through the day on shallow breaths?
TCM teaches that sustainable vitality grows from small, rhythmic habits that keep Qi and blood flowing smoothly. Below are four easy shifts—from the temperature of your breakfast to the way you breathe between Zoom calls. Each tip comes with guidance from our in-house therapist, Ms. Mai, who has helped hundreds of clients feel naturally alert without piling on caffeine or supplements.
Warm Mornings, Strong Digestion
Why your first meal sets the tone for the day
Between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m., the Stomach and Spleen hold center stage on the TCM body clock, transforming food into usable Qi. A chilled smoothie tastes refreshing, but it dampens this digestive fire. Swap the ice for a bowl of rice porridge, vegetable-ginger soup, or warm lemon water.
Ms. Mai’s practical note: “Try gentle, easy-to-digest options like porridge or soup. Warm foods support circulation and let your body create energy without extra strain.” Add fresh ginger or a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Takeaway
For the next week, make your first meal warm and liquid-forward. Notice whether your mid-morning focus improves—no extra latte required.
Ten Deep Breaths to Circulate Qi
The quickest recharge you can do at your desk
Stress tightens shoulders and shortens the breath, causing Qi to stagnate around the chest. Ten slow diaphragmatic breaths act like an internal massage pump: sit tall, inhale through the nose for four counts, let the belly expand, then exhale for six counts. Repeat ten times.
Deep breathing stimulates the vagus nerve, calms “fight-or-flight,” and redirects blood toward digestion and repair. Pair it with a shoulder roll or a one-minute stroll to the window for an espresso-free reset.
Takeaway
Book three “breath breaks” into your day—morning, midday, late afternoon—linking each to something you already do (waiting for the kettle, opening email) so it actually happens.
Align Work–Rest Rhythms with Natural Light
Sunshine, Baihui, and better sleep
“If your sleep schedule is disrupted, expose yourself to sunlight right after waking. Even on a cloudy day, a few deep breaths outdoors help reset your internal rhythm. Gently press the Baihui point (top of the head) two or three times to enhance the effect.”
— Ms. Mai, licensed TCM therapist
Daylight signals your brain to release cortisol at the right time, letting evening melatonin follow naturally. Pressing the acupressure point, Baihui (GV 20), calms yang that collects in the head overnight, so you feel grounded rather than groggy.
Takeaway
Within 15 minutes of rising, step outside (or simply lean out a window) for two minutes of natural light, deep breaths, and a gentle Baihui tap. Do it daily for a week and watch bedtime get easier.
Keep Qi Moving After Lunch
Gentle motion beats post-meal sluggishness
“Poor circulation of Qi and blood in the body can lead to persistent fatigue. Stress, lack of exercise, insufficient sleep, or even feeling cold can slow the flow.”
— Ms. Mai, licensed TCM therapist
A heavy lunch isn’t the only culprit behind the afternoon slump; stagnant Qi plays a starring role. A 20-minute walk or five minutes of desk stretches disperses that stagnation. Try the “Spleen-stomach walk”: place a palm just below the navel, breathe into it, and stroll at a relaxed pace, focusing on each footstep.
If leaving your seat isn’t an option, roll your shoulders, tilt your pelvis, or circle your ankles. Sip warm water or ginger tea to replenish fluids lost in air-conditioned offices.
Takeaway
Set a non-negotiable five-minute movement alarm 60–90 minutes after lunch. Your body will thank you more than any canned energy drink.
One Small Shift, Big Results
Warm breakfasts feed your digestive engine, deep breaths keep Qi flowing, morning light resets your clock, and gentle movement breaks up afternoon stagnation. Pick one habit—swap iced coffee for congee, or stand outside for two minutes of dawn light—and practice it daily this week. Energy builds like compound interest: quietly, then noticeably. Your coffee maker can stay, but it no longer has to shoulder the entire load. Here’s to brighter, steadier days—powered by simple TCM wisdom you can feel.
Try our Anti-Aging Gua Sha Tool designed to bring out your skin’s natural glow.
Best Gua Sha Product- Anti-Aging: The tool is designed to target 11 specific aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin. By following the 7-step routine, users can improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines naturally.
- Enhances Skincare Routine: It works effectively with serums and lotions, boosting absorption and efficacy of skincare products.
- Visible Skin Improvement: Users can expect a smoother complexion, reduced puffiness, and a more youthful appearance.
