The Initial Four Solar Terms or Seasonal Points
Explore more about the solar terms and discover ways to nurture your well-being throughout each season:
The Initial Four Solar Terms or Seasonal Points
When segmenting the calendar into solar terms, we initially categorize time into four periods, each spanning three months. These periods correspond to the sun’s altitude:
1. The Spring/Vernal Equinox – Mar. 20th – April 3rd, 2024
During this solar term, there is a momentary balance between yin and yang. Subsequently, yang begins to ascend while yin diminishes. This period of rejuvenation is associated with the wood element, symbolizing the emergence of green shoots and buds after winter. It’s a time for shedding the old and embracing new growth.
2. The Summer Solstice – June 21st – July 5th, 2024
Marked by the longest days and shortest nights, this period witnesses the expansion of yang. Represented by the fire element, the summer season exudes vibrant energy akin to the sun, fostering celebration and outdoor activities. It’s an opportune time for social connections and outdoor play.
3. The Autumn Equinox – Sept. 22nd – Oct. 7th, 2024
In this solar term, we embark on a gradual descent into darkness and decay as energy transitions from yang to yin. Aligned with the metal element, this period encourages release and simplification. As energy cools, contracts, and descends, there’s a natural inclination to pare down and slow down.
4. The Winter Solstice – Dec. 21st – Jan. 4th, 2024
Marking the darkest days of the year, this solar term invites a quiet hush of winter, facilitating the cultivation of wisdom through receptivity and reflection. Depicted as the water element, it highlights the potency inherent in darkness. The stillness and deceleration during this time enable a connection with deep life forces.
The Subsequent Four Solar Terms or Seasonal Points
Following the initial four solar terms, the calendar further divides into eight periods, encompassing the aforementioned terms and the following four. These terms consider natural phenomena, such as climate and changes in the land:
1. Start of Spring – Feb. 4th – Feb. 18th, 2024
2. Start of Summer – May 5th – May 19th, 2024
3. Start of Autumn – Aug. 7th – Aug. 21st, 2024
4. Start of Winter – Nov. 7th – Nov. 21st, 2024
List of 24 Solar Terms or Seasonal Points for 2024
Concludingly, the remaining solar terms, totaling 24, are incorporated. These terms focus on significant occurrences such as crop harvesting, insect activity, frost, snowfall, precipitation, and dew. The majority of these solar terms are believed to have originated and been recorded during the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC–24 AD). Notably, the references to weather predominantly pertain to the climate of Xi’an, a city in Northern China that served as the capital during the Han Dynasty. It’s crucial to adjust recommendations based on our specific local climate, but despite this, the solar terms continue to offer a valuable framework.
SPRING
Beginning of Spring 立春 – Feb.4th
Rain Water 雨水 – Feb.19th
Insects Awakening 惊蛰 – Mar.5th
Vernal Equinox 春分 – Mar.20th
Clear and Bright 清明 – April 4th
Grain Rain 谷雨 – April 19th
SUMMER
Beginning of Summer 立夏 – May 5th
Lesser Fullness 小满 – May 20th
Grain in Ear 芒种 – June 5th
Summer Solstice 夏至 – June 21st
Lesser Heat 小暑 – July 6th
Greater Heat 大暑 – July 22nd
AUTUMN
Beginning of Autumn 立秋 – Aug.7th
End of Heat 处暑 – Aug.22nd
White Dew 白露 – Sept.7th
Autumnal Equinox 秋分 – Sept.22nd
Cold Dew 寒露 – Oct.8th
Frost Descent 霜降 – Oct.23rd
WINTER
Beginning of Winter 立冬 – Nov.7th
Light Snow 小雪 – Nov.22nd
Greater Snow 大雪 – Dec.6th
Winter Solstice 冬至 – Dec.21st
Lesser Cold 小寒 – Jan.5th
Greater Cold 大寒 – Jan.20th
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