Jingzhe, occurring after the "Lichun" solar term, marks the warming weather and the first spring thunder, which awakens insects hibernating in the soil. At this time, overwintered insect eggs also begin to hatch. Thus, Jingzhe is a solar term reflecting natural phenological phenomena. In traditional celebrations, people drink wine to fortify their bodies on this day, but drinking should be done scientifically, with health as the priority.
As March brings the Awakening of Insects, the weather warms and all things revive. The key to health preservation during this season lies in aligning with the rising yang energy and the beginning of all creation, allowing one's spirit, emotions, and vital energy to flourish and expand like spring itself. Among traditional Chinese seasonal practices for this solar term, choosing yellow wine to nourish the body and replenish energy is the preferred choice.During Jingzhe, the human body is most susceptible to cold. Simultaneously, the dry climate can lead to internal heat and toxin accumulation. Huangjiu warms the body while detoxifying it, effectively killing two birds with one stone. However, despite its health benefits, its consumption must not be reckless.
Works like "Admonitions Against Alcohol" and "Admonitions on Wine" repeatedly emphasize the principle of drinking "without reaching intoxication."Through centuries of lived experience, humanity has deeply understood the wisdom of "drinking without losing control," establishing "Three Prohibitions," "Five Resolutions," "Seven Taboos," and "Five Inappropriates."
【Three Prohibitions】
First: Avoid drinking early in the day. "Morning wine and evening tea are most harmful to the body." Drinking alcohol in the morning not only impairs daily work but also severely damages the body due to the intense stimulation on an empty stomach.
Second, avoid drinking in large quantities. While competitive drinking games like rock-paper-scissors can liven up the atmosphere, exceeding limits destroys the festive mood, damages the liver and stomach, and may even lead to accidents.
Third, avoid consecutive drinking sessions. Attending multiple banquets in a single day, even for those with high tolerance, is often difficult to manage.【Five Principles】
First, drink with savory dishes. Pair alcohol with nutritious, meat-based accompaniments, eating as you drink.
Second, drink seated. Enjoy alcohol comfortably seated; avoid acting drunk or dancing wildly.
Third, drink slowly. Savor each sip to appreciate the flavor; avoid guzzling.
Fourth, drink authentic liquor. Choose registered, genuine rice wine; avoid unidentified beverages.
Fifth, drink properly. Opt for trademarked, authentic rice wine; avoid unidentified liquors.
Third, drink slowly. Savor each sip to appreciate the flavor; avoid guzzling or gulping.
Fourth, drink authentic liquor. Consume only registered, genuine rice wine; avoid beverages of unknown origin.
Fifth, drink in moderation. Exercise restraint—stop when you feel physically and mentally most comfortable.
【Seven Taboos】
1. Avoid drinking cold wine.
2. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach or when enraged.
3. Avoid mixing different types of alcohol.
4. Avoid being pressured into drinking.
5. Avoid bathing immediately after drinking.
6. Avoid alcohol consumption during pregnancy or sexual activity after drinking.
7. Avoid allowing children to drink alcohol.
【Five Inappropriates】
1. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach. The body absorbs alcohol more slowly when full, but more rapidly on an empty stomach. Thus, drinking rice wine on an empty stomach leads to quicker intoxication. Experienced drinkers typically eat something beforehand to prevent drunkenness.
2. Avoid excessive consumption. Though rice wine has a mild taste, it remains an alcoholic beverage. Never underestimate its effects, as its after-effects can be potent once intoxicated. If you can handle half a jin of baijiu, limit rice wine intake to no more than eight liang. Moderate, regular consumption offers health benefits.
Three: Avoid hasty consumption. Savor huangjiu slowly, easing into the experience to fully appreciate its flavor—this is true drinking. Its rich nutrients are best absorbed when consumed gradually.
Four: Avoid mixing different types of alcohol. Combining various alcoholic beverages can lead to quicker intoxication and adverse effects like stomach discomfort and headaches. Therefore, mixing different drinks is not recommended.
Five: Avoid bathing after drinking. Bathing after alcohol consumption can deplete stored glucose in the body, causing a significant drop in blood sugar levels. This leads to a rapid decrease in body temperature and, in severe cases, may result in shock.
Beyond fortifying your health with rice wine, the Jīngzhé season calls for increased water intake, consumption of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, combined with moderate exercise. This dual approach of nourishment and detoxification lays a solid foundation for the year ahead.