24 Solar Terms – "Rain Water" (The second solar term of spring)

• Gregorian Calendar: February 18, 2025 to March 4, 2025
• Lunar Calendar: From the twenty-first day of the first lunar month to the fifth day of the second lunar month
• Sun's Longitude: 330 degrees

As the Rain Water solar term arrives, temperatures warm up and humidity increases. The body can become congested with dampness, which can interfere with the circulation of yang energy. This makes it easy to catch colds, and symptoms like a runny nose and cough may occur. Dampness can also cause joint stiffness or pain. Additionally, a combination of dampness and insufficient yang energy may lead to fatigue and a feeling of sluggishness. The spleen and stomach functions can also be affected, resulting in loss of appetite, bloating, and indigestion.

Well-being:

Diet:

1. Light and spleen-strengthening: Eat foods that strengthen the spleen and remove dampness, such as red beans, coix seed, and yam. Avoid glutinous rice, taro, and other foods that may cause joint inflammation.

2. Protect from cold and nourish yang energy: Include appropriate amounts of warming ingredients such as ginger and scallions in your diet to dispel cold. Avoid eating too much raw and cold food to prevent damage to the spleen and stomach.

Daily Routine:

1. Keep warm: Although temperatures rise, it's still cool in the mornings and evenings, so adjust clothing to stay warm.

2. Exercise appropriately: Choose exercises like yoga and tai chi to relax joints and muscles.

3. Walk during times with fresh air: Maintain a pleasant mood to enhance positive energy and help the body and mind relax.

4. Maintain ventilation and dryness at home: Ensure your living space stays ventilated and dry during this damp period.

Aromatherapy: Use essential oil massages to promote blood circulation and enhance immunity, helping the body adapt to the humid environment.

1. Zusanli (ST36) point: Press for 5 minutes daily to promote spleen and stomach function, aiding digestion, absorption, and metabolism.

2. Sanyinjiao (SP6) point: Helps regulate qi and blood, and strengthens the spleen.

3. Yongquan (KI1) point: Massage lightly when soaking your feet to enhance yang energy.

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Essential Oil Usage Precautions:

1.     Do not ingest undiluted pure essential oils.

2.     Do not apply pure essential oils directly to the skin unless guided by a professional aromatherapist.

3.     Avoid getting essential oils in the eyes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately with water.

4.     Do not use single essential oils for long periods or in excessive amounts.

5.     Pregnant women, infants, the injured or ill, and those with chronic conditions should consult a professional doctor or aromatherapist before using essential oils.

6.     Individuals with sensitive constitutions should conduct an essential oil sensitivity test before use.