The winter solstice is an extremely important solar term in China's 24 solar terms, marking the official arrival of winter. The advent of the winter solstice not only means a drop in temperature, but also represents the accumulation of life vitality and the gradual arrival of spring. On the day of the winter solstice, one can feel this subtle life force from the changes in nature.
The winter solstice is the day when yang energy grows, and it is also the day when yin energy gradually recedes. On this day, the Northern Hemisphere has the shortest hours of daylight and the longest nights. However, it also means that yang energy is slowly accumulating in preparation for the arrival of spring. Creatures in nature also begin to store energy at this time in preparation for the arrival of spring.
On this special day, there are significant differences in the customs of the north and south of China. People in the north like to eat dumplings, while people in the south like to eat tangyuan. This difference is not only due to the different eating habits of the north and the south, but also because dumplings and dumplings symbolize reunion and harmony respectively.
In the north, dumplings are an important holiday food. On the day of the winter solstice, family members gather to chat while making dumplings. The wrapped dumplings are cooked in a pot and then the family sits around to enjoy this sumptuous festive meal. This custom represents family reunion and harmony.
In the south, tangyuan is an indispensable holiday food. On the day of the winter solstice, glutinous rice flour and stuffings are prepared, and families sit around to make glutinous rice balls. The dumplings are cooked in a pot and then the family sits around to enjoy this delicious festive meal. Tangyuan represents reunion and happiness and is a symbol of family reunion.
Whether it is dumplings in the north or dumplings in the south, it is to celebrate the growth of yang energy and the arrival of spring. On this special day, people feel the power of life and the hope of spring by tasting delicious food. At the same time, these traditional practices also convey the importance of family reunification and emphasize the emotional bonds between people.
In addition to the gastronomic customs of the north and south, the winter solstice is also an important sacrificial festival. On this day, there are customs of worshipping ancestors and gods in many places. People pray to their ancestors and gods for protection and hope for a good harvest and happiness in the new year. This ritual embodies people's reverence for life and anticipation for the future.
In modern society, the winter solstice is still a much-talked-about festival. People celebrate this special day in a variety of ways, such as dinners, snow viewing, skiing, etc. These activities can not only make people feel the beauty and coldness of winter, but also feel the growth of yang energy and the arrival of spring. At the same time, the festival also provides an opportunity for people to be closer and united with each other.
In short, the winter solstice is the day of yang birth, a day full of hope and expectation. On this special day, let's taste delicious food, feel the power of life, and celebrate the arrival of spring!At the same time, we should also cherish the company of family and friends, so that this winter is full of warmth and love!