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.
As we’re approaching summer, we will start from the one that’s closest to present. Let us live by the flow.
10. Summer Solstice (夏至)
The one Solar Term that just passed by is Summer Solstice, the 10th in the 24 Solar Terms.
The Summer Solstice, around June 21st, is the longest day of the year and signifies the peak of summer. This solar term marks a period of maximum yang energy, with abundant sunlight supporting rapid plant growth.
Farmers focus on nurturing crops and managing water resources to cope with the heat. Traditional customs include eating cooling foods like mung bean soup and watermelon to balance the body’s heat. It is also a time for celebrating the natural world, with activities such as swimming and other water-based recreation to enjoy the height of summer.
11. Minor Heat (小暑)
Minor Heat, arriving around July 7th, marks the beginning of the hottest period of the year. This solar term is a warning for farmers to protect crops from heat stress and pests. Agricultural activities include irrigating fields and maintaining crop health.
Minor Heat is also the time when Jasmine starts to bloom. Jasmine is not only a flower with pleasant and tender scent, but also a great tea to drink during summertime. It helps soothe menstrual pain, boosts metabolism and relieves stress.
You can also find them in Immerse — our jasmine and honey incense stick made according to the famous recipe from Chinese traditions. The floral scent based with some soft and sweet honey helps soothes feelings and releases mental stress, easily refreshing the mind and body when summer heat kicks in.
Cultural practices during Minor Heat focus on staying cool, with people eating light and refreshing foods like cold noodles and drinking herbal teas to improve metabolism. It is also common to take afternoon naps to conserve energy and maintain health during the sweltering weather.
12. Major Heat (大暑)
Major Heat, occurring around July 23rd, represents the peak of summer heat, with high temperatures and humidity. This solar term is critical for ensuring crops receive sufficient water and protection from extreme weather. Farmers work to prevent drought and pest infestations, essential for securing the upcoming harvest.
Traditional activities include eating foods believed to dispel heat, such as bitter melon and mung bean soup. People also engage in outdoor activities like swimming to cool off and enjoy the last stretch of summer, embracing the vitality and energy of the season.
Major Heat is also the time when Lotus blooms to its fullest. Lotus is a flower representative of summer in Chinese culture, as gardens with ponds would usually grow lotus and build a temple in the middle or near the center of the pond, for a spectacular view in the summer for lotus watching.
Lotus itself is great for clearing away heat especially during the hottest period in summer. The seeds from lotus pods are also a great source of dispelling heat. The scent of lotus is very much the embodiment of its functionality, light and refreshing. You can enjoy a piece of such relaxation at any time during the year in Untie, our lotus incense stick.