December 7, 2022
Major Snow or Dà Xuě (Chinese: 大雪) is the 21st of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms and the last term before the Winter Solstice. Dà Xuě traditionally marks significant drops in temperature and heavier snowfall. Each solar term is divided into three pentads consisting of 5 (rarely 6) days, and describe the change of seasons in terms of Qi. The pentads for Major Snow are (1) Long-tailed pheasants cease to sing (鶡旦不鳴), (2) Tigers begin to mate (虎始交), and Water irises grow (荔挺生).
Here are some useful health cultivation tips for Major Snow:
1. As Winter peaks, Yin energy in the environment is at its highest. More sleep is recommended. Get to bed earlier and sleep later. Sleep is one of the best Chinese medical prescriptions for nourishing the Kidney and strengthening the Qi.
2. With the flu, RSV, and of course COVID-19 on the loose, it is more important than ever to be on guard against the outbreak of respiratory illness. Be sure to dress appropriately. Wearing a warm coat and a scarf to protect the neck and throat. It tends to be colder and colder during Major Snow, so be sure to drink plenty of water, but not too much, especially following exercise.
3. Rice congee is the perfect warming food for this time of year. Porridge has been known to nourish the body during cold weather and increase one’s internal heat. Common toppings for rice congee include cilantro, Chinese chives, scallion, dried shrimp, ginger, orange peel, celery, and goji berry.
4. During Major Snow, it is best to eat food with high calories to preserve the Yang in our body. Lamb, beef, venison, shrimp, and mussels are all appropriate foods to eat during Major Snow.. Also seasonal items, like nuts, especially almonds and walnuts tend to have more fats and contain more energy. Warming spices such as ginger and cinnamon nourish Yang and are welcome additions during this time of year.
For more information on seasonal health cultivation, schedule an appointment with one of our student interns or licensed practitioners at the Yo San University Blount Community Clinic. Tele-health consultations are also offered by our experienced senior practitioners. Call today. 310.577.3006.