Greater Cold
The coldest term of the year, the closing solar term, the threshold before lichun returns.
In plain terms: Greater Cold is one of the 24 markers in the traditional Chinese calendar that track how the seasons change through the year — the coldest term of the year, the closing solar term, the threshold before lichun returns..
Energy of This Solar Term
The final solar term of the cycle. Cold reaches its maximum; the year prepares to turn. The next term, lichun, will bring the first stirring of yang again, completing the cycle.
TCM Seasonal Living
Kidney conservation continues; prepare the body for the coming spring activation; do not yet expand activity.
Foods to Emphasize
Lamb hot pot, dumplings, winter melon soup (paradoxically warming when properly prepared), eight treasure congee, and warming root teas.
Practices for This Period
Sleep is the most important practice of the year here; reflect on the year that closed at dongzhi; prepare lichun intentions but do not yet act on them; honor the deep rest the body requires before yang returns.