It's gotten really cold.
These days, it's hard to get out of your warm bed.
This time we will talk about the 23rd season of the 24 solar terms, the winter solstice.
What is the winter solstice?
The winter solstice refers to the period from December 22nd to January 5th.
The shortest day and longest night of the year .
When evening comes, I realize how short the days are and realize, "Wow, it's already dark!"
The day when the sun's power is weakest in the year.
But "more than this day This day is also associated with a positive phrase : "There is no day when the shadow deepens, but the power of the sun is revived and becomes yang."
Winter solstice foods
Famous foods for the winter solstice are those that start with the letter "n."
It is said to bring good luck.
Carrots , lotus root, radish, udon, ginkgo nuts, agar, etc.
Why not try something that starts with the letter "n" for good luck?
The winter solstice is also known as the day to eat pumpkins .
The power of the sun increases on the winter solstice. It regenerates and becomes yang , that is, from yin (north) to yang (south).
There is a theory that the custom of eating pumpkin on the winter solstice began as a food that directs luck south, or as a food that came from the south .
Winter Solstice Flowers
The flower of the winter solstice is "Senryo" .
Senryo, famous as a lucky charm for the New Year, is also called "grass coral" because it bears bright red and yellow fruits in winter.
I am often asked, "What is the difference between Senryo and Manryo?"
They look very similar, but the difference is how the fruit grows!
The Senryo fruits are clustered together in a round shape at the end of the branches, while the Manryo fruits hang around the branches under the leaves.
Both are considered lucky charms for the New Year that bring happiness.
Winter solstice events
When it comes to the winter solstice, many people will think of yuzu baths!
Yuzu bath is a purification ritual to bring good luck. It is said to be a purification ritual .
Not only does it improve blood circulation, but the refreshing scent also has a relaxing effect.
It is also said that citric acid and vitamin C have skin-beautifying effects.
Cut it in half and float it in hot water, add just the skin, or just add it as is...
Why not take this opportunity to try it and get a feel for the season?
72nd generation
- Natsukarekusashozu : Summer withered grass sprouts
- Oshika no tsuno otsuru : A large deer sheds its antlers
- Wheat sprouts under the snow (Yukiwatarite mugi izuru) Wheat sprouts under the snow
*The 72 seasonal divisions (shichijunikou) are a system of representing the seasons devised in ancient China. They refer to the 24 solar terms further divided into three periods of approximately 5 days each.
Author: Sekido Edited by: Yui and Kambara
