A solar term is a period of about two weeks and is based on the sun’s position in the zodiac. Solar terms form the traditional Chinese calendar system. The calendar follows the ancient Chinese belief that living in accordance with nature will enable one to live a harmonious life. This article series explores each of the year’s 24 solar terms, offering guidance on how to best navigate the season.

“White Dew” is the 15th solar term and typically marks the single largest daily temperature changes. It begins when the sun reaches the celestial longitude of 165 degrees and ends when it reaches the longitude of 180 degrees. Although it’s already the third solar term in the autumn, the heat within earth still remains strong while yin energy is taking over.

The result is a dramatic drop in temperature between day and night.

During this solar term, dew can be seen in the early morning on the plants, and birds begin to adapt for the season. Wild geese and swallows begin to migrate southward, while other birds build their hoards in preparation for winter.

For crops that can be grown in both spring and autumn, such as rice, it’s their time to yield. If it rains, the crops may be damaged and unable to ripen or be properly harvested. The name of this solar term describes air vapors that have condensed into white dew overnight. It’s the ideal amount of water for crops during this solar term.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, our lungs and skin correspond to each other, as the lungs and our pores both release air and moisture. Because of this, they’re both sensitive to the temperature changes that mark this solar term. And the results are similar. We tend to have irritated skin or respiratory systems due to the frequent and significant changes in temperatures during White Dew.

The lungs are called “tender organs” in traditional Chinese medicine because they’re fragile and dislike when the weather is either too hot or too cold. The lungs are closely linked with our immune system, thus, taking good care of them and the respiratory system is particularly important in the pandemic season.

Foods to Eat: Cauliflower, chicken, goose, golden gooseberry, walnut, yogurt, onion, ginkgo berry, potato, pear, tofu, pumpkin, corn, mushroom, coconut, cereal, rice soup, and eggs. Avoid deep-fried foods, pickles, shellfish, and chiles.

Essential Oils to Use: Chamomile, niaouli, eucalyptus, cypress, pine, jasmine, frankincense, peppermint, neroli, and rosalina.