Advertisement

Explainer | Understanding ‘grain rain’, one of 24 solar terms in Chinese calendar, signifies start of new cycle of growth

  • Ancestors observe weather, plants, animals, divide year into 24 solar terms
  • It is believed drinking tea on ‘grain rain’ day can ward off evil spirits

Reading Time:3 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
The “grain rain” period is one of 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar and signifies the start of a new cycle of growth. The Post explains how ancient “seasons” dominate life on the mainland. Photo: SCMP composite/Shutterstock

There is an old saying in China, “Everything is born in spring, grows in summer, harvests in autumn, stores in winter.”

Advertisement

The changes in the four seasons bear many similarities to human habits throughout the year.

Spring is when many people often feel energised and are likely to start exercising more often, particularly outside because of the warmer weather, which makes it a more pleasant experience.

Summer often means hard work and high temperatures. Generally, the light and heat from the sun have a positive psychological and physical affect on people, which can make them more productive.

In autumn, we tend to slow down as the days get cooler and may eat more to prepare for winter, which is traditionally a season for rest and extra sleep.

Advertisement

As a guide to living life according to the changes in climate, plants, and animals’ habits, the ancient Chinese divided the year into 24 solar terms.

Advertisement