End of Heat is the 14th solar term of the Twenty-Four Solar Terms and the second solar term of autumn. “The summer clouds fade away, and gentle cool breezes rise.” The name “End of Heat” means the retreat of sweltering heat; scorching weather draws to an end and summer heat begins to wane.

As End of Heat arrives, each branch jointly held an event for this solar term. Through PPT presentations and videos, family members learned about its climatic features, traditional customs, dietary wellness and related knowledge.

The three pentads of End of Heat: “In the first pentad, eagles start to hunt birds; in the second, heaven and earth turn solemn; in the third, grains ripen.” This means eagles begin capturing birds in large numbers; all things in nature start to wither; and crops such as millet, broomcorn, rice and sorghum mature.

Folk customs around End of Heat are mostly linked to ancestor worship and welcoming autumn. For instance, floating river lanterns to mourn the departed and pray for peace; farmers hold ceremonies to thank the God of the Land and scatter offerings across the fields to honour the land and crops. To this day, End of Heat remains an important time for ancestor veneration. Besides, as autumn deepens after this solar term, it is a wonderful time for countryside outings, enjoying autumn scenery and climbing heights.

The weather during End of Heat tends to be dry with little rainfall. It is advisable to drink plenty of water, have congee and eat juicy fruits to prevent autumn dryness, which causes tight skin, brittle hair and chapped lips. The human body enters a phase of physical recuperation and is prone to fatigue known as “autumn weariness”. Sufficient sleep with early bedtimes and early rising is recommended, and staying up late should be avoided. “Each autumn rain brings a chill.” Add or remove clothing in good time to keep warm.

The blazing summer fades away. To bid it farewell, family members handmade lotus lanterns to preserve precious memories of summer. They cooperated harmoniously and worked patiently. With simple folding and cutting, coloured paper took shape as green leaves and red blooms. Soon, one after another, the paper lotuses bloomed in breathtaking beauty.

Try these simple acupressure wellness tips! Press and knead several acupoints on your hands and face. Give them gentle care in your spare time for better health.

High skies, pale clouds; summer yields to autumn. May you reap abundant gains and stride forward confidently this autumn!