24 SEASONAL POINTS
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!