At 16:27 on February 4th, Beijing time, we will welcome the solar term of "Beginning of Spring (Li Chun)," marking the start of spring in China. Since the Qin Dynasty, China has made it the first solar term among the twenty-four solar terms.

Three phases

The first phase, "East Wind Thaws", heralds the arrival of spring. As warm spring winds blow in from the east, the earth begins to thaw, laying the groundwork for the imminent burst of vitality.

The second phase, "Insects Awaken", occurs five days after the start of spring. Creatures that have been hibernating in their burrows during winter slowly start to stir. However, as the weather remains cold, they haven't emerged from their burrows yet. Nonetheless, the auspicious season is not far off.

The third phase, "Fish Swim Up and Carry Ice", arrives five days after the second phase. The ice in rivers begins to melt, and fish start swimming closer to the water's surface. There may still be patches of ice floating on the water, resembling fish carrying ice on their backs.

Customs

In ancient times, "Beginning of Spring" was an important sacrificial festival and a crucial period for urging farmers to prepare for spring plowing. Over time, it evolved into various folk customs that have been passed down for centuries.

Welcoming Spring: This is a significant activity involving preparation and rehearsal, commonly referred to as "Yan Chun" (Rehearsing Spring). It takes place on the day before "Beginning of Spring" with the aim of welcoming back spring and the deity of agriculture. "Welcoming Spring" involves the setting up of an official to represent spring and announcing the arrival of "Beginning of Spring."

Spring Outing: After "Beginning of Spring," people enjoy going on outings during the warm and blossoming days of spring. This is the main form of spring outing.

Driving Away Winter: "Driving away winter" involves "whipping the spring ox" to urge farmers to start plowing. There are two types of spring oxen: paper oxen and clay oxen. A person dressed as the deity of agriculture uses a whip wrapped in red silk to whip the spring ox three times, symbolizing driving away the laziness of winter oxen and urging people to start farming as spring returns to the earth.

Biting Spring: On the day of "Beginning of Spring," it is customary in Chinese folk tradition to eat radishes, ginger, spring onions, and pancakes, known as "Biting Spring." However, different regions have different customs. In the southern regions, eating spring rolls is popular. Another food item associated with "Biting Spring" is radish because of its spicy taste, symbolizing the hope for achieving various goals as suggested by the saying, "Once the radish is bitten off, all obstacles can be overcome."

Regimen

After "Beginning of Spring," as temperatures rise, people should gradually increase their outdoor activities to accelerate blood circulation and promote the flow of qi and blood. It's best to engage in light exercise during spring, aiming not to sweat or only sweat slightly. This season is suitable for rhythmic and gentle activities such as spring outings, flying kites, walking, jogging, practicing Tai Chi, and playing non-vigorous sports. It's important not to exercise excessively to the point of heavy sweating or breathlessness, as this may deplete bodily fluids, damage yang qi, and make one susceptible to wind-cold. Additionally, since the climate remains dry, it's essential to replenish fluids in a timely manner while exercising.

Translator: TANG Yuxin

Reviewer: JIANG Wenyi