You might be wondering, 'What day is spring this year?' It's a question that feels both simple and profound, especially as the days start to feel a little longer and the air a touch less biting. While we often associate the first day of March with the official start of spring, in the traditional Chinese solar calendar, there's a much earlier marker: 'Start of Spring,' or 'Lichun.'
This year, the 'Start of Spring' kicked off on February 4th and will continue its reign until February 18th. Think of it as spring gently lifting the curtain, rather than bursting onto the scene. It's that subtle shift where nature begins to stir, promising greener days and a palpable sense of renewed vigor. You start to notice the daylight stretching out a bit more, and the weather, while not exactly beach-ready, certainly hints at the warmth to come.
This 'Start of Spring' isn't just a date on a calendar; it's steeped in history and tradition. In fact, the concept of Lichun as a marker for spring dates back to the Spring and Autumn Period, over two thousand years ago! Back then, it was even considered the 'Spring Festival' before the lunar new year took that title in 1913. It's fascinating how these ancient observations still resonate with us today.
And with Lichun comes a whole host of delightful customs. Have you ever tried to stand an egg upright on this day? It's a popular belief that you can achieve this feat on the first day of Start of Spring, and if you succeed, good luck is said to follow. While scientists might point to mechanics and finding the egg's center of gravity, there's a certain magic in the tradition itself. It’s a playful way to engage with the changing season.
Then there's the joy of flying kites. Spring is practically made for it! This age-old activity, with its roots stretching back over two millennia, isn't just fun; it's believed to be good for your health, boosting circulation and metabolism. Plus, who can resist the feeling of fresh air filling your lungs after a long winter?
Other traditions include 'biting the spring,' where people enjoy spring pancakes, spring rolls, or even just a crisp carrot to welcome the season's flavors. In some regions, like Shaanxi, people wear fabric swallows, symbolizing prosperity and happiness, as swallows are seen as harbingers of spring. There's also the custom of 'making a Spring Ox' and posting spring calligraphy and paintings on doors, all aimed at welcoming the season and praying for a good harvest and good fortune.
Even appreciating plum blossoms, which bravely bloom against the cold, is a cherished part of this period. These flowers, alongside orchids, bamboo, and chrysanthemums, are celebrated as the 'four gentlemen' in Chinese floral culture, embodying resilience and beauty.
So, while we might have our own ideas about when spring begins, the 'Start of Spring' offers a beautiful, culturally rich perspective. It's a reminder that nature's rhythm is a complex and ancient dance, and we're invited to join in its unfolding.
