Time to chill out

Replenishment

During the period of the solar term, most flowers are withering and falling, but chrysanthemums still grow and bloom. It is precisely because of this characteristic that the ancient literati cherished them. Yuan Zhen, a poet in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), praised chrysanthemums for their fearless and lofty character. Even to this day, people's love for the flower has not diminished. In many regions, chrysanthemum festivals are held at this time, and the flowers are often appreciated in the company of quality wine.

The Chrysanthemum Festival in Xiaolan township, Zhongshan, Guangdong province is among the most celebrated events in the region. It was founded in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). It is one of the oldest and largest chrysanthemum festivals in China. In 2006, it was included in the first batch of the national intangible cultural heritage list. Chrysanthemums also convey the meaning of auspiciousness and longevity, and were considered a symbol of vitality.

It is deemed an important time for "autumn replenishment" to prepare for the looming winter. Many places have a custom of eating beef and duck to build up resilience. In Yulin, Guangxi, people have fried beef noodles for breakfast and beef brisket pot for lunch and dinner. In Fujian province, duck is the preferred choice.

Guo Wenbin, a scholar of the 24 solar terms, says the focus of healthcare is to prevent cold, dryness and depression.