As one of the twenty-four solar terms, the Start of Winter (Chinese: 立冬) marks the beginning of winter. It is not only a sign of seasonal change but also contains rich cultural connotations and customs.
In China, the Start of Winter is a day with a long-standing tradition of customs. One of the most famous traditions is "winter nourishment," which involves consuming high-calorie foods on this day to replenish energy and prepare for the approaching cold season. Common foods include warm-natured items such as mutton, chicken, and various health tonics. It is believed that eating these foods before the cold winter arrives can strengthen their bodies and improve their resistance to the cold.
In addition to dietary customs, the Start of Winter also features traditional activities such as admiring chrysanthemums and ancestor worship. Chrysanthemums, known for their cold-resistant qualities, have become a symbol of the Start of Winter, and admiring them is one of the cultural activities during this period. Moreover, the Start of Winter is an important day for ancestor worship. People prepare sumptuous meals to honor their ancestors, expressing their remembrance and respect for their forebears.
Although some traditional customs have changed with the development of society, the Start of Winter remains an important part of Chinese traditional culture and continues to be widely celebrated. It not only embodies the concept of harmony between humans and nature but also reflects people's pursuit of a healthy life and their aspirations for a better future.
(By Yang Jiming/Qi Qian)
