The traditional Chinese lunar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. Major Snow (Chinese: 大雪), the 21st solar term of the year, begins this year on Dec 7 and ends on Dec 21.
During Major Snow, the temperature drops significantly.
Plum blossoms usually flower in mid-to-late December in Ningbo, and sometimes bloom even earlier. The plum blossom, which originated in China, is revered in Chinese culture for its resilience during severe winters.
Along with the pine and bamboo, the plum blossom is considered one of the Three Friends of Winter.
Lamb is a favorite food during Major Snow. It's excellent for nourishing the body, promoting blood circulation and providing protection against the cold.
Besides, it's customary to eat red bean porridge on the first day of Major Snow and eight-treasure porridge on the eighth day of the last month of the lunar year.
During Major Snow, it's drier and colder, so people should drink more water. But you should not drink too much water at once. At the same time, don't drink cold water after exercise.
By Jin Lu