Major Cold

Edited by Andie (XI Yue)

It’s our 8th episode of 24 Solar Terms & Health! 

MajorCold, the last one of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms, arrives. It’s the coldest time in Hangzhou, yet also a reminder that shortly after the freezing season, comes a vibrant spring. The winter is not an end, but a prelude to a new beginning. Enjoy and cherish every moment of this enchanting period.

Health tips from our Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) physician:

Add Cinnamon to Your Diet: In TCM, cinnamon is known for its warming properties. It helps to invigorate the meridians, dispel cold, and guide the fire back to its source. Add this fragrance to your soups, coffee, or desserts to simultaneously tonify Yang and enhance your vitality.

Maintain an Adequate Indoor Temperature: Many people set their air conditioners too high, making the indoor environment uncomfortably warm. This might cause Yang energy to leak, leading to symptoms such as dryness, oral ulcerations, and night sweats. It's important to keep the indoor-outdoor temperature difference within a reasonable range to help the body conserve Yang for the year ahead.

Practice Tiptoe Exercises: One of the key movements in the traditional Chinese exercise Baduanjin is standing on your tiptoes. By repeatedly rising up and down or holding the position for as long as possible, you can strengthen your legs and tendons while benefiting the kidney meridian.