Time marches on, and Minor Snow, one of the 24 Solar Terms, arrives gently today. At noon, a lecture on the knowledge of Minor Snow jointly organized by all Party branches was held at the Moral Lecture Hall and Mingde Hall respectively, introducing the origin, customs and daily health tips of Minor Snow to everyone.

Minor Snow is the 20th solar term and the second solar term in winter. Its arrival signals colder weather and increasing precipitation. “Minor Snow” is a metaphor: cold is not severe yet, and precipitation is light. Rain turns into snow, hence the name Minor Snow.

There are many folk customs for Minor Snow, including pickling vegetables and eating glutinous rice cakes. Today, glutinous rice cakes and honey grapefruit tea were specially prepared. While enjoying sweet cakes and light tea, everyone felt the warm atmosphere and received love and blessings.

The on-site quiz session was quite delightful. Participants could win delicate gifts and gain deeper understanding of the folk culture of Minor Snow.

“Spring breeds, summer grows, autumn harvests and winter stores.” Health preservation is especially important in winter. The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic states: “The three months of winter mean storage. Water freezes and the earth cracks. Do not disturb yang energy. Retire early and rise late, waiting for the sunlight…” Going to bed early and rising late reminds us not to stay up late, preferably going to bed before 10 p.m. Keep warm to avoid colds. There is also a saying in the book: nourish the liver in spring, heart in summer, lung in autumn and kidney in winter. Therefore, warm and kidney-tonifying foods are suitable for Minor Snow. More black foods such as black fungus, black sesame and black beans are recommended. Moderate exercise like Tai Chi and Baduanjin is also beneficial. We also learned the way to nurture our mind in winter: stay optimistic and peaceful, do not worry over trivial matters, avoid emotional harm, keep a calm heart, be kind and tolerant. Let go of greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, doubt, resentment, hatred, annoyance, irritation and vexation.

In the creative handicraft session, everyone followed the video carefully. Family members cut out paper snowflakes they envisioned, shared techniques and helped one another. Finally, they gathered all snowflakes into a tree loaded with blessings.

Chill grows deep in Minor Snow; thoughts drift far with passing clouds. Has it snowed where you are? With sincere greetings and blessings for every dear one afar, may your mood be like falling snow: washing away worries, unlocking joy and filling your life with happiness. May this love and care keep passing on.