Editor's note

The ancient Chinese created an agricultural solar system - still in use today - that is based upon their observation of crops, climate, astrology, and the study of animal and plant life cycles. The system guided farmers as to when to sow seeds and when to harvest them, and this system has now been in place for more than 2,000 years.

Today, with advances in science and technology, agriculture depends less on this ancient wisdom. But this seasonal calendar still operates as a reference guide for gourmands to seek out the best times for seasonal delicacies and for health experts to plan nutritious diets.

In a single year, the system features 24 "solar terms," each lasting one day and occurring every two weeks. Each has its own name and characteristics. The Global Times is presenting a weekly series examining which foods and delicacies are best enjoyed during these periods, as well as tips on preserving general health.

The roller coaster-like temperatures of late have been playing havoc with the health of people who have been eagerly awaiting the warmth of spring. And for the current solar period of chunfen (spring equinox), the Global Times has uncovered some invaluable tips on how to stay healthy in every aspect of living habits, exercise and nutrition.

"In terms of chunfen, the most important thing to pay attention to is balancing yin and yang in the body. And the liver requires the most care of all," He Yan, chief physician in the heart disease department at Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of TCM (traditional Chinese medicine), told the Global Times.

Spring chill

Typical early spring weather sees a big difference in temperatures between day and night. This time of year also sees an increase in heavy rains and strong winds meaning that keeping the body warm is of vital importance.

"Don't hurry to take off your heavy winter clothes just yet; you want to avoid catching cold," He added. "So for people who sweat easily and feel stuffy, an outdoor jacket is necessary to keep at hand in case of a sharp change in the weather. From the perspective of a TCM doctor, body heat can easily be lost while making the body vulnerable to cold and dampness, and this can pose a serious threat to health."

The elderly and infirm should avoid very cold water when washing during this time of year. And getting up very early in the morning is also not recommended because of the cool temperatures around, and just after, dawn. Opening the windows to let in fresh air after 9 am is advisable.

Head massage

Feeling very sleepy during spring is a common phenomena. In the winter, the skin and blood vessels shrink to prevent the emission of heat, which means more blood is available to be pumped to the brain. As the temperatures warm in spring, less blood is transported to the brain which can lead to lightheadedness and tiredness. 

To alleviate these symptoms, a simple self-administered head massage is highly recommended as follows:

Place both palms on the forehead, and use the fingers to knead the face, moving from the eyebrows out to the temples. Repeat this movement back and forth six times.

Then cover the ears horizontally with your palms and place the fingers behind the head. Gently "drum" the back of the head with the fingers around 40 times.

Finally, "comb" the hair with the fingers from the front of the hairline to the back of the head at least 10 times. Massage the scalp at the same time.

Gentle exercise

"People should do gentle and slow exercises during this season, such as tai chi and walking," He said. And he added that it is not a good idea to exercise too early in the morning.

Slow walking is suitable for the elderly, that is, at a pace of 60 to 70 steps a minute. For young, stronger people, an average of 120 steps a minute is fine. It's also recommended to carry out upper-limb movements while walking, such as rubbing the hands, kneading the belly, and lightly slapping the waist and back, which will all help to improve the circulation of the blood and the qi (the life force in TCM).

Flying kites has long been a traditional exercise during chunfen, and one that is known for stretching the whole body.

Be mindful that exercise should be curtailed when you start to sweat. So for this reason, any kind of intense sporting activity is discouraged.

The doctor also gave some advice about diet during chunfen. "Get away from heavy, oily food, and enjoy some juicy, sweet fruits during this season," He added, also suggesting certain herbal teas such as medlar, shizandra berry, dried roses and chrysanthemum.