话说惊蛰：春雷惊百虫，万物始复苏
The traditional Chinese solar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. Awakening of Insects, the third one, usually falls on March 5, 6 or 7. It brings warmer weather and more rain. Its name tells us that spring thunder wakes animals from their winter sleep, and the earth comes back to life. This term is very important for spring farming.
During Awakening of Insects, spring thunder is often heard. An old saying goes, “If the first spring thunder comes before this term, the weather may be unusual.” Modern science explains that warm wet air rises and meets cold air from the north, causing thunder. Since China is a large country, the first spring thunder arrives at different times in different places.
For farmers, this term marks the start of the busiest season. Temperatures rise quickly, often reaching over 10°C, with more sunshine. An old saying goes, “Once Awakening of Insects comes, spring ploughing never rests.” It shows how important this term is to farmers. They begin to plow the fields and prepare for planting.
Around Awakening of Insects, hibernating animals wake up, and so do fish. They swim from deep water to shallow water to find food and lay eggs. So it’s a great time for fishing. Many people, especially those living in cities, enjoy fishing in the countryside. They can relax by the lake and enjoy the beautiful spring. For them, fishing is a relaxing outdoor activity.