by Dana Yates
Each year around August 23rd, when the sun reaches the celestial longitude of 150 degrees, the solar term Chu Shu (处暑) arrives, and signals a significant seasonal transition. Literally meaning “End of Heat,” Chu Shu marks the end of summer temperatures and the gradual arrival of cooler days in the transition to autumn. As one of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunisolar calendar, Chu Shu holds both practical significance for agriculture and deep cultural meaning for communities across China and east Asia.
The Solar Terms
The 24 solar terms were developed during the Western Han Dynasty, over 2,000 years ago, based on careful observations of the sun’s movement and its effects on the natural world. Chu Shu is the 14th solar term in the cycle, falling between Li Qiu (立秋 Beginning of Autumn) and Bai Lu (白露 White Dew). Chu Shu usually lasts until around the 7th of September.
Historically, Chu Shu indicated a turning point for Chinese farmers. As the intense summer heat began to subside, crops like rice and corn neared maturity, and preparations began for the autumn harvest. The timing of Chu Shu was vital for organizing agricultural activities, and its arrival was closely watched by farming communities. Chu Shu marked the end of the “San Fu Tian” days (三伏天)—the hottest period of the year—and brought relief, both physical and spiritual.
Weather Changes and Natural Signs
In northern regions and highland areas of China, people begin to feel cooler mornings and evenings, along with earlier sunsets and a crispness in the air that hints at autumn. This transition is also seen in nature, with migratory birds beginning their journey southward. These transitions are sometimes captured in painting and folk tales, reflecting the deep respect for nature’s cycles in Chinese culture.
Chu Shu Customs and Traditions
Despite its agricultural roots, Chu Shu has evolved into a cultural observance celebrated in many ways across different parts of China. Some of the key customs and activities associated with this solar term are as follows.
Offering Sacrifices to the River God
In parts of southern China, such as in Zhejiang and Fujian provinces, communities historically and even today hold rituals to honor the River God during Chu Shu. These ceremonies involve offering food, incense, and prayers to ensure protection from floods and to pray for a bountiful harvest. This custom reflects the deep connection between the natural environment and rural livelihoods.
Dietary Changes
In traditional Chinese medicine, Chu Shu signifies the waning from Yang (hot, active) to the growth of Yin (cool, passive) energy. This means the focus shifts to mildly sweet, neutral, and moisturizing foods to balance the body’s internal environment.
It is believed that duck meat, which is sweet, neutral in temperature, and enters the Lung and Kidney meridians, helps to balance the body as the weather changes. Popular preparations include roast duck, salted duck, and duck soup with lotus seed.
Seasonal fruits like grapes and pears are often in abundance during Chu Shu. Eating these fruits is believed to replenish the body’s Yin and improve digestion. In particular, pears are seen as helpful for the Lungs to soothe dryness and prevent coughs during the changing weather. Our Chuan Bei Mu, Pears & Honey recipe is a perfect example of this tradition.
As autumn approaches, there is also a focus on replenishing Qi and Blood, and another delicious fruit, longan, comes to the fore. Longan is warm in nature, which is beneficial to the Heart and Spleen, and replenishes and nourishes Qi and Blood.
"Cooling Off" Activities
Even though Chu Shu signals the end of peak heat, many people still seek relief from lingering hot weather. Traditional cooling activities like drinking herbal teas, bathing in rivers, or making fans from bamboo are popular. Our Cooling Summer Teas recipe provides several options for creating flavorful teas perfect for hot temperatures.
Health and Wellness Practices
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pays close attention to seasonal changes, and Chu Shu is no exception. During this period, people are encouraged to nurture their Lungs and digestive system, which are more susceptible to dryness as autumn approaches.
Common wellness advice during Chu Shu includes:
- Eating lighter meals, avoiding excessive greasy or spicy foods.
- Hydrating with soups and teas, such as chrysanthemum tea or pear soup.
- Maintaining a balanced sleep schedule, as cooler nights may tempt some to stay up late.
- Engaging in light exercise, like Qi Gong or tai chi, to strengthen immunity and circulation. Read our article on how Qi Gong promotes health for some tips!
Chu Shu Today
With modern weather forecasting, climate change and agricultural technology, the practical necessity of observing solar terms like Chu Shu has reduced, as seasonal changes have become less predictable. But the cultural and symbolic importance remains strong, especially as people seek to reconnect with traditional ways of life.
Conclusion
Chu Shu is far more than just a date on the calendar—it reminds people of the deep connection between human life and the natural world. As the suffocating heat of summer begins to fade, Chu Shu invites a sense of relief, renewal, and anticipation for the golden season of autumn ahead.
References
- Seasons of China. China Cultural Center. https://www.ccchague.org/en/news-show-689.html.
- Yo San University. End of Heat Chu Shu. https://news.yosan.edu/end-of-heat-chu-shu-%E5%A4%84%E6%9A%91/
- August 22 marks Chushu, or End of Heat. CGTN. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-08-22/August-22-marks-Chushu-or-the-End-of-Heat-1wgHJDbDv5S/p.html
- https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E5%A4%84%E6%9A%91/488721
