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 mid and late winter. Let us live by the flow.
22. Winter Solstice (冬至)
The next Solar Term after the ones introduced in the last article, is the 22nd in the 24 Solar Terms.
The Winter Solstice, occurring around December 21st, is the shortest day and longest night of the year, marking the depth of winter. This solar term is a time for rest and rejuvenation, as well as preparing for the gradual return of longer days. Farmers take this period to repair tools and plan for the upcoming planting season.
When winter arrives and all flowers are still waiting for a warmer time to bloom, plum blossom, specifically “wintersweet”, comes to its full bloom. The seemingly delicate pedals are small yet full of its unique refreshing scent. The sweetness brings a sense of hope and soothes the frozen feelings, and is thus called “wintersweet”.
As the one and only flower that blooms in the coldest time of winter, wintersweet also embodies the precious quality of resilience in traditional Chinese culture. Besides being mentioned and praised in poems, it is also captured in traditional Chinese incense recipes to preserve such beauty of nature. At INCENZO, we follow such recipes for you to find the same pleasure in Refresh — our plum blossom incense stick.
Cultural practices include eating foods like dumplings and tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls) to symbolize reunion and warmth. People also celebrate with family gatherings and rituals to honor the return of light and the renewal of life.
23. Minor Cold (小寒)
Minor Cold, around January 5th, marks the start of the coldest period of the year. This solar term is significant for ensuring that homes and livestock are well-protected from the extreme cold. Farmers focus on maintaining warmth and preventing frost damage.
Traditional customs include eating foods like lamb stew and drinking ginger tea to stay warm and healthy. People also engage in activities like ice skating and enjoying winter landscapes, making the most of the season’s beauty. It is a time for conserving energy and staying.
24. Major Cold (大寒)
Major Cold, occurring around January 20th, signifies the coldest days of the year, marking the end of the solar term cycle. This period is critical for ensuring that all preparations for surviving the winter are in place. Farmers and families focus on maintaining warmth and preparing for the upcoming Lunar New Year.
In the coldest days of winter, human beings tend to stay inside the warm shelters and gather with family members for physical and mental warmth. It is also the time when woods are constantly burnt to warm up the indoor space, keeping the house away from freezing cold outside in the snow.
When asked what is a happy moment in winter, one common answer would be reading by the fireplace while laying on the sofa with a fluffy blanked covered. Most woody scents tend to give off a cool vibe, but sandalwood is one of its kind. The most premium sandalwood naturally has a hint of milk in its scent, making it softer and more on the warm side. If the winter ever feels too cold, try Unwind — our sandalwood incense stick with premium grade natural ingredients, to warm up your mind and soul.
Traditional activities include eating hearty foods like pork and warming stews to provide energy and strength. People also participate in rituals and celebrations to welcome the new year, reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the future with hope and resilience.
