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 winter. Let us live by the flow.
19. Start of Winter (立冬)
The next Solar Term after the ones introduced in the last article, is the 19th in the 24 Solar Terms.
Start of Winter, around November 7th, signifies the onset of winter and the end of the harvest season. This solar term is a period of rest and preparation for the cold months. Farmers store grains and winterize their equipment, ensuring readiness for the next growing season.
Cultural practices include making dumplings and other hearty foods to celebrate the harvest and provide warmth. People also engage in activities like winter sports and enjoying the first snow, embracing the quiet and beauty of winter. It is a time for reflection and gratitude for the year’s abundance.
20. Minor Snow (小雪)
Minor Snow, occurring around November 22nd, marks the beginning of light snowfall and the deepening of winter. This solar term is important for ensuring that livestock and homes are well-prepared for colder weather. Farmers focus on protecting animals and storing feed.
Traditional customs include eating foods like lamb and hotpot to stay warm and healthy. People also make preparations for the upcoming Lunar New Year, engaging in activities like cleaning and decorating homes to welcome the new season. It is a time for family gatherings and enjoying the coziness of winter.
21. Major Snow (大雪)
Major Snow, around December 7th, signifies heavier snowfall and the peak of winter. This solar term is crucial for maintaining warmth and ensuring that supplies are sufficient for the harsh weather. Farmers focus on protecting crops and livestock from extreme cold.
Securing warmth when moving into the coldest period of winter is immediately connected to fireplaces and bonfires, with the smoky woody scent lingering in the nostrils after the pit is burnt up. It is easy to connect such memories of warmth with the relevant scent, which is exactly what you can expect in Channel — our incense stick made with Cedar on an agarwood base.
Cedar is a type of wood on the lighter side yet still embodies all the calmness and grounding characteristic of typical woody scents. With a tip of flame, the natural smokiness in the incense would easily deliver the lightness in cedar and complexity in agarwood to every corner of the space, creating a fireplace risk-free.
Traditional activities include making and eating foods like sticky rice cakes to provide energy and warmth. People also participate in winter sports and festivals, embracing the beauty and stillness of the snowy landscape. It is a time for celebrating the resilience and strength of communities in the face of winter’s challenges.
