奇速英语

播种期许，收获光芒：关于芒种的小知识

The Chinese solar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. Grain in Ear, the 9th solar term, begins on June 5 this year.

Rainfall increases during Grain in Ear compared to the previous eight solar terms. Regions in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River are about to enter the Plum(梅子) Rains season. Plum Rains, often occurring during June and July, refer to the long period of continuous rainy or cloudy weather. This happens to be the time for plums to ripen, which explains the origin of its name. Plum Rains are a good period for growing rice, vegetables and fruits.

“An Miao” (meaning seedling protection) is a traditional farming activity of southern Anhui province that has been practiced since the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Every year when Grain in Ear comes, they hold the sacrificial ceremony to pray for good harvests in the fall. People make different types of bread from wheat flour and color them with vegetable juice. The bread is used as a sacrificial offering to pray for a good harvest and people’s safety.

In ancient China, on the second day of the second lunar month, people welcome the arrival of the Flower Goddess. During Grain in Ear people hold sacrificial ceremonies to say good-bye to the Flower Goddess and show their gratitude. Today, this custom does not exist in many areas of China.

In South China, May and June are the season when plums become ripe. Green plums contain a variety of natural and high-quality organic acids and are rich in minerals. They can help clean blood, lower blood fats, remove tiredness and improve one’s looks. However, fresh plums taste sour and need to be boiled before serving.

Do not eat strongly flavored food during Grain in Ear. During this season, people are also encouraged to consume less lamb, pork, hot peppers, and onions if they are frequently feeling thirsty and tired. Vegetables and fruits of a cool nature are recommended, such as tomatoes, eggplant, watermelon and strawberries. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theories, they can help remove heat in the body and promote digestion.