We have many calendars in use today. An interesting one is China’s Solar Calendar, with its Twenty-Four Solar Terms. These describe seasonal and climate changes, along with four terms – “Insects Awaken”, “Pure Brightness”, “Grain Full”, and “Grain in Ear”. These twenty-four terms reflect twenty-four segments of the sun’s annual cycle. This calendar was used by both farmers and “common people” for agricultural needs and to live a healthy life, by aligning with seasonal and natural circadian cycles.
In 2016, China’s “The Twenty-Four Solar Terms” was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. These terms developed over time from four major ones, already established in the Shang Dynasty (17th century BC – 1046 BC) and came into its fullness in the Han Dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD).
According to “The Twenty-Four Solar Terms”, the season of Autumn began on August 7, 2020. The hot summer came to an end with “The End of Heat” on August 22.
The next solar term is “White Dew” or Bai Lu. September 7 starts 10 days for harvesting. White Dew is when dew first begins to show up in the grass, as the temperature drops more noticeably after sundown. At the start of each period of a Solar Term, the Chinese traditionally shift their diet to reflect the seasonal change.
According to Wendy of Feng Shui Ism:
During this term the Longan fruit (sometimes called Dragon Eye) is in high demand with the sweet tasting berry offering nourishment, supporting the spleen (the immunity centre) and calming the nervous system. Dietary customs also focus on consuming food categorized in TCM, as a ‘cooling foods’. One such fruit is the king of the vines, the Grape, known to dispel internal heat and expel toxins. Another food consumed at this time of year is sweet potato which also ranks high in the first food for consumption at the beginning of this term. Hailed as the No.1 food for nourishing the spleen, it’s prized for protecting one’s immune system.
White Dew is a time for harvest, especially that of white plants such as White Hibiscus. White is the colour that corresponds with the season of Autumn. Planting and harvesting according to elemental, planetary, and other natural cycles can also enhance the quality of gardening and agriculture. This is part of the basis of Biodynamic principles.
To support the transition between seasons, we can also strengthen our earth element within ourselves, to ground and anchor energies to transfer to the new season. Part of the earth element includes the Spleen. This is our energy warehouse. This organ function energy also transforms solar energy into life force.
Jin Shin Jyutsu to Support the Spleen
A powerful Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help is holding our thumb. Take your time to explore the different parts of the thumb, and see what enhances the harmony already in your being in the moment. Perhaps its the base or the upper joint. Or the side of the thumb. Maybe the nail. The beauty of Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help is this journey of self-discovery, reconnection to the wonder and magic of who we are, and the awakening of Self.
During the period of White Dew, what will you be harvesting? In the process of harvesting, what will you be letting go and releasing from this cycle?
