Solar Terms Wellness: The Spring Equinox (Chunfen)

As the sun reaches the celestial longitude of 0°, we welcome the Spring Equinox (Chunfen), typically falling on March 20th or 21st. An ancient Chinese proverb states, "At the Spring Equinox, Yin and Yang are halved; thus, day and night are equal, and heat and cold are balanced." This solar term marks a pivotal moment where daylight and darkness share equal duration, offering a unique opportunity to harmonize the body’s internal Yin and Yang energies.

The Season of Growth 

There is a popular saying: "After eating the Spring Equinox meal, one grows an inch a day." Following Chunfen, human metabolism accelerates, blood circulation improves, and respiratory and digestive functions strengthen. Crucially, the secretion of endocrine hormones, particularly growth hormone, increases significantly. This makes the period after the Spring Equinox the optimal time for children’s height growth.

Dietary Choices: The Fragrant Toona 

A seasonal delicacy during this time is Toona sinensis (Xiangchun). Known for its rich aroma, tender texture, and crisp taste, it is both delicious and highly nutritious. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Toona is considered bitter in taste and cool in nature. It is prized for its ability to clear heat, detoxify, strengthen the stomach, and regulate Qi (vital energy).