24 SEASONAL POINTS

Posted by YINA BEAUTÉ on February 10, 2020

春雨惊分清谷天，夏满芒至二暑连，秋处露分寒霜降，冬雪雪冬小大寒。

The 24 seasonal points or solar terms, are part of the East Asian lunisolar calendar that originated from China in the Shang and Zhou dynasties (1600 BCE). This calendar was fully developed and integrated into the Chinese calendar system during the Qin and Han dynasties (221 BCE). For more than 3000 years, this wisdom has remained an integral part of living and cultural heritage for many.

In each season, there are 3 months (3 moons) and 6 seasonal points Each seasonal point is about 15 days long and adjusted to divide the calendar year evenly. Observing these 24 transitional time periods provides us with a closer record of seasonal changes. Every seasonal point has a name that helps us synthesize nature's voice by describing various natural phenomenons and astronomical events.

24 SEASONAL NOTES

1	Li Chun	Beginning of Spring
2	Yu Shui	Rain Water
3	Jing Zhe	Awakening of Insects
4	Chun Fen	Spring Equinox
5	Qing Ming	Pure Brightness
6	Gu Yu	Grain Rains
7	Li Xia	Beginning of Summer
8	Xiao Man	Grain Sprouts
9	Mang Zhong	Grain Ripens
10	Xia Zhi	Summer Solstice
11	Xiao Shu	Slight Heat
12	Da Shu	Great Heat
13	Li Qiu	Beginning of Autumn
14	Chu Shu	End of Heat
15	Bai Lu	White Dew
16	Qiu Fen	Autumn Equinox
17	Han Lu	Cold Dew
18	Shuang Jiang	Forest Descends
19	Li Dong	Beginning of Winter
20	Xiao Xue	Little Snow
21	Da Xue	Great Snow
22	Dong Zhi	Winter Solstice
23	Xiao Han	Little Cold
24	Da Han	Great Cold

These 24 seasonal points are used as a guide for agricultural production, weather patterns, maintaining health, ceremonies and rituals. These seasonal notes are found in the Tong Shu, the Chinese Almanac.

At YINA we are inspired by the 24 seasonal points and hope to share this wisdom of living in synchronicity with nature. We look forward to introducing each season, subscribe to learn more!