Traditional Medicine Practitioner Do Minh Tuan of the Vietnam Traditional Medicine Association states that kidneys are not just excretory organs but the "source of vitality," crucial for a healthy body and reducing fatigue. The period before 7 AM is considered a "golden hour" for the kidneys to generate energy for the entire day.

"If this time is utilized correctly, blood circulation will flow smoothly, your back will be strong, your legs healthy, and your spirit refreshed," he adds.

Three essential practices after waking up to nourish your kidneys:

Waking up slowly

Many people immediately jump out of bed upon waking, which can be detrimental to health. This sudden shift, before "yang energy" (vital energy in traditional medicine) has fully risen, can leave the body feeling disoriented, often causing dizziness. To properly activate your body, follow this "slow awakening" method:

Remain in a relaxed lying position for one to two minutes after waking. Then, rub your palms together vigorously until they feel warm. Gently place your warm hands on your lower abdomen or lower back to gently stimulate "yang energy," allowing your kidneys time to "establish a foundation" for your body before you stand up.

Many people jump out of bed as soon as their alarm rings. *Photo: Pexels*

Warming the lower back

After getting out of bed, the first area of your body to care for is your lower back. If this region feels cold in the morning, you may experience back fatigue by mid-day, feel weak when standing for long periods, lack strength in your legs, and tire quickly during work.

Remedy: Use both palms to rub vigorously along both sides of your lower back. Ensure you rub thoroughly until you feel warmth penetrating deeply; avoid superficial rubbing. Afterwards, cup your hands lightly and pat both sides of your lower back evenly with moderate, not excessive, force.

This method helps your body awaken faster, significantly reduces drowsiness, eases tension in the lower back, eliminates stiffness, and makes your steps feel more stable and powerful.

Light movement

Many people sit still immediately after waking, grabbing their phones or rushing to their desks. This causes blood circulation to stagnate in the upper body (head, chest) instead of flowing to the lower body.

For good health, you don't need heavy or complex exercises. Simply perform light movements such as slowly stretching your entire torso to release muscle tension. Gently rotate your neck, shoulder, and hip joints. Walk lightly for a few minutes indoors. To enhance the effect, you can gently pat along both sides of your legs or lightly tap your feet on the ground.

"At this point, you will feel the soles of your feet gradually warming, your steps becoming steady, and your mind feeling exceptionally light and clear," the practitioner notes.

According to him, these three principles are suitable for everyone, especially those who often feel tired or sluggish upon waking. Individuals experiencing weak or fatigued backs, cold limbs, quick exhaustion during work, or shortness of breath can also benefit.

Thuy An