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 early summer. Let us live by the flow.
7. Start of Summer (立夏)
Start of Summer, around May 5th, signifies the onset of warmer weather and increased agricultural activity.
This solar term marks a shift from the gentle growth of spring to the vigorous expansion of summer crops. Farmers begin transplanting rice seedlings and managing irrigation systems to support crop growth.
Cultural practices include eating eggs, believed to strengthen the body, and measuring weight to predict health and fortune for the coming months. Additionally, people celebrate by hanging silk sachets filled with herbs to ward off insects and protect against illness.
8. Grain Full (小满)
Grain Full, arriving around May 21st, indicates the period when grains start to plump up but are not yet ripe for harvest. This solar term is crucial for managing crops to ensure they reach full maturity. Farmers focus on weeding and pest control to safeguard their growing produce.
Traditions during Grain Full include offering sacrifices to ancestors and deities to pray for a successful harvest. It is also a time for consuming foods like green beans and cherries, which are in season and symbolize the vitality and abundance of early summer.
9. Grain in Ear (芒种)
Grain in Ear, occurring around June 5th, signals the time when grains such as wheat and barley are ready for harvesting, and rice planting begins. This solar term is marked by intensive agricultural activity, with farmers working diligently to harvest early crops and sow summer grains.
This is also the one solar term closest to Dragon Boat Festival — one of the most important traditional holidays. Not only do people eat sticky rice cakes in memory of the famous poet Yuan Qu, it is also the time to do mass cleaning of the home space and boost health, as this is the time in the year when insects are most active and thus most likely to affect one’s health status.
One of the traditional herbs considered to be most effective in insect cleaning and energy cleaning is wormwood. There is a long tradition of hanging batches of wormwood on the front door to keep the house safe, and burning wormwood inside the house for cleaning. You can also clear up your space and mind with Rewild — our wormwood incense stick, for a share of its cleansing nature and bring back a clear mind for work or study.
Cultural practices include holding ceremonies to honor the god of agriculture, seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest. People also consume herbal teas and foods like lotus roots to stay cool and healthy as temperatures rise, ensuring their well-being during the demanding farming season.