秋分 Autumn Equinox (Qiu Fen): Balance Between Light and Dark

What Is Autumn Equinox?

Autumn Equinox, also known as Qiu Fen, marks the moment when day and night are equal in length. Occurring in late September, it represents a point of balance within the seasonal cycle—neither expanding nor contracting, but evenly poised.

From this point forward, nights grow longer and yang energy continues its gradual decline, while yin energy becomes increasingly dominant. Autumn Equinox is a moment of equilibrium before descent.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Qiu Fen translates to “Autumn Division” or “Autumn Balance.” It reflects the precise division of daylight and darkness rather than a .........

白露 White Dew (Bai Lu): The First Signs of Autumn Dryness

What Is White Dew?

White Dew, also known as Bai Lu, marks an early phase of autumn when nights cool noticeably and dew begins to form more visibly on plants and surfaces. Occurring in early September, White Dew signals a clear shift from late summer warmth toward cooler, drier conditions.

While daytime temperatures may remain mild, mornings and evenings begin to feel crisp. This contrast highlights autumn’s arrival and the gradual inward movement that will continue through the season.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Bai Lu translates to “White Dew,” referring to the pale condensation that appears in the early morning as temperatures .........

处暑 End of Heat (Chu Shu): Releasing Summer’s Residual Warmth

What Is End of Heat?

End of Heat, also known as Chu Shu, marks the Solar Term when summer heat finally begins to recede. Occurring in late August, this period signals a noticeable easing of high temperatures and a gradual shift toward the cooler, drier qualities of early autumn.

While warmth may still linger during the day, mornings and evenings become more comfortable. End of Heat represents transition rather than conclusion—the heat withdraws, but summer has not yet fully departed.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Chu Shu translates to “Departing Heat.” Unlike Solar Terms that describe accumulation or intensification, End of .........

立秋 Beginning of Autumn (Li Qiu): The First Turning Toward Inwardness

What Is Beginning of Autumn?

Beginning of Autumn, also known as Li Qiu, marks the official start of the autumn season in the Solar Term system. Occurring in early August, Li Qiu signals a directional shift in seasonal energy, even though summer heat may still be present.

While temperatures often remain high, the quality of energy changes. The outward expansion of summer begins to slow, and the gradual movement inward characteristic of autumn quietly starts.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Li Qiu translates to “Establishing Autumn” or “Beginning of Autumn.” As with other Solar Terms that begin with Li, the emphasis is .........

大暑 Major Heat (Da Shu): The Peak of Summer Intensity

What Is Major Heat?

Major Heat, also known as Da Shu, marks the hottest period of the year in the Solar Term system. Occurring in late July, this Solar Term represents the peak of summer’s intensity, when heat and humidity are at their strongest.

Unlike earlier summer phases that build toward warmth, Major Heat is the culmination—conditions are no longer increasing, but fully present. This makes Da Shu a time of careful management rather than expansion.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Da Shu translates to “Great Heat” or “Major Heat.” It reflects the direct, observable reality of the environment rather than symbolism.

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小暑 Minor Heat (Xiao Shu): The Gradual Rise of Summer Heat

What Is Minor Heat?

Minor Heat, also known as Xiao Shu, marks the beginning of summer’s most intense phase. Occurring in early July, this Solar Term signals that heat is becoming more persistent, though it has not yet reached its peak.

Unlike Major Heat, which represents full intensity, Minor Heat describes a gradual escalation. Days are consistently warm, humidity may increase, and the body begins to feel the cumulative effects of prolonged summer conditions.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Xiao Shu translates to “Lesser Heat.” This does not imply mildness, but rather heat that is still building.

During Minor Heat:

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夏至 Summer Solstice (Xia Zhi): Peak Yang and the Turning of the Year

What Is Summer Solstice?

Summer Solstice, also known as Xia Zhi, marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. Occurring in late June, it represents the moment when yang energy reaches its maximum expression.

Although summer heat may continue to intensify after this point, Xia Zhi is a turning point rather than an endpoint. From here onward, daylight gradually shortens and yin energy begins its slow return, even while external warmth remains strong.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Xia Zhi translates to “Summer Extremity” or “Summer Arrival at Its Limit.” It reflects a precise understanding of seasonal movement: .........

芒种 Grain in Ear (Mang Zhong): Acting With Precision in Early Summer

What Is Grain in Ear?

Grain in Ear, also known as Mang Zhong, marks a busy and active phase of early summer. Occurring in early June, this Solar Term reflects a time when grains mature rapidly and must be harvested at the right moment—before they pass their peak.

Mang Zhong represents a period of decisive action, when timing matters more than force. Conditions are favorable, but only if effort is applied with focus and precision.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Mang Zhong translates to “Grain with Awns” or “Grain in Ear,” referring to cereal crops that are ready for harvest.

During Grain in Ear:

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