In modern times, the 24 Solar Terms are still an important part of Chinese culture and everyday life of Chinese people. Some traditions related are still followed as a daily routine, and we still benefit from these ancient wisdoms.
We’ll dive deep into each of the Solar Terms to learn about their meanings, and how we can live by such ancient knowledge that concludes the essence of how the world around us changes.
Here’s the upcoming solar terms in late summer and early autumn. Let us live by the flow.
13. Start of Autumn
The next Solar Term after the ones introduced in the last article, is the 13th in the 24 Solar Terms.
Start of Autumn, around August 7th, marks the transition from summer to autumn, signaling the beginning of the harvest season. This solar term is a time for farmers to prepare for harvesting grains and storing crops. It is also a period of reflection and gratitude for the abundance of summer.
Cultural practices include eating foods that represent the harvest, such as melons and grapes, and conducting rituals to welcome the cooler weather. People also engage in activities like mountain climbing to appreciate the changing landscape and the onset of autumn.
14. End of Heat (处暑)
End of Heat, occurring around August 23rd, signifies the gradual cooling of temperatures and the end of the intense summer heat. This solar term is crucial for late-season crops, with farmers focusing on harvesting and preparing fields for the next planting season.
Although the summer heat is starting to pass away, there’s usually still lingering heat in the air that irritates the body and the mind, creating the perfect time to start adding some green from the woods into one’s life. This is also the perfect weather for woods like cypress to grow.
The scent of cypress naturally carries its grounding woodiness, while also being much lighter compared to stronger woods like sandalwood or acronychia wood. You can find the refreshing yet relaxing scent of cypress with a bit of greenness and woodiness in Engage — our incense stick made with the type of cypress that grows on cliffs, to release the underlying irritation from summer heat.
Traditional customs include making offerings to ancestors and deities to thank them for a successful summer. People also enjoy outdoor activities like flying kites and picnicking to celebrate the milder weather. It is a time for consuming nourishing foods like duck and lotus root soup to restore energy and prepare for the cooler months ahead.
15. White Dew (白露)
White Dew, around September 7th, marks the appearance of early morning dew as temperatures begin to drop. This solar term signifies the onset of autumn and the start of cooler, crisper weather. Farmers take this time to harvest mature crops and sow winter wheat.
Traditional activities include drinking white dew tea, believed to have health benefits, and eating foods like pears to moisten the lungs and prevent dryness. It is also common to enjoy moonlit walks and appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons, fostering a connection with nature.