Solar Terms Wellness: Rain Water

Rain Water, occurring around February 18-20, marks the gradual retreat of winter’s chill. Gentle breezes and light drizzles become more frequent, though the clash between warm and cold air can still bring sudden cold spells. During this transition, it’s wise to keep your back, abdomen, and feet well-covered. Protecting your back helps guard the Governor Vessel meridian, often associated with immunity. A warm abdomen supports digestion, while keeping feet warm helps maintain overall body warmth.

Health Tips

Spring is not only a time to nurture the liver but also to care for the spleen and stomach. As suggested in the ancient text Qianjin Yueling, congee is particularly suitable during this period. Here are three traditional recipes:

1.Rehmannia Congee: Nourishes the kidneys. Use fresh rehmannia juice added to cooked rice congee.

2.Fangfeng Congee: Helps dispel wind from the limbs. Decoct fangfeng (Ledebouriella root) and use the liquid to cook congee.

3.Perilla Congee: Made by stir-frying perilla leaves until fragrant, then decocting for congee liquid.