Li Dong, also known as "立冬" in Chinese, is one of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar. It marks the beginning of winter and usually falls on November 7th or 8th each year. "Li" means "start" or "beginning," while "Dong" means "winter" in Chinese.
During the Li Dong period, the sun's position reaches 225 degrees of the celestial longitude, indicating that winter is about to arrive. This solar term reflects the changes in weather and natural phenomena that occur during this time in China. It is an important period for farmers to make preparations for the upcoming winter season.
As the days become shorter and colder, Li Dong signifies the start of the coldest period in most parts of China. It is a time when temperatures drop significantly, and people start to bundle up in warm clothes to protect themselves from the chilly weather. In northern China, snowfall is common during this period, and people often experience frosty mornings.
In terms of traditional Chinese medicine, Li Dong is considered an important time to adjust one's diet and lifestyle to maintain good health throughout the winter. It is believed that during this period, the body's yang energy starts to decline, and people should consume warming foods to balance the yin and yang energies. Traditional dishes such as hotpot, lamb stew, and ginger soup are popular choices during this time.
From an agricultural perspective, Li Dong is a crucial time for farmers to harvest the remaining crops and prepare for the winter season. They need to store crops and protect them from the cold weather to ensure a sufficient food supply during the winter months. Additionally, farmers also need to take care of their livestock and provide them with proper shelter and food to survive the harsh winter conditions.
In Chinese culture, Li Dong is also associated with various customs and traditions. For example, people in some regions of China would offer sacrifices to their ancestors during this time, expressing their gratitude for the harvest and seeking blessings for the upcoming winter. It is also common to see people enjoying hot drinks and foods, such as tea and dumplings, to keep warm and celebrate the arrival of winter.
In conclusion, Li Dong is an important solar term in the Chinese calendar, marking the beginning of winter. During this time, people adjust their lifestyle and diet, farmers prepare for the winter season, and various customs and traditions are observed. It is a time when people come together to embrace the changes in weather and celebrate the arrival of winter in their own unique ways.
