Approximately starting form 12/07 to 12/21, is the 21st solar term—the great snow (fall.)  On this day(12/07), the direct sunshine is exactly on the celestial longitude of 255 degree.  The great snow refers to a colder weather and a more severe snowfall season; during this period of time, it’s the coldest days of the year, yet it’s also the time for the submerging energy to surge. 

In terms of TCM, when Yin (the dark side energy) reaches its plateau, it starts to decline; and the Yang (the bright side energy) will then start to surge out.  The Ying and the Yang maintain in a relatively balance situation.

During this period of time, the winter syndrome—depression—is commonly seen.  And therefore psychological or emotional related symptoms pop up from time to time.  To minimize the psychological symptoms, excitement or emotional tension should be avoid and the best way to do so is to get outdoors as often as possible and to engage in social activities that one preferred.

During this period of time, catching a cold, having bronchitis or asthma, having rheumatoid arthritis or the worst case scenario of getting a stroke due to HBP, T2DM or high cholesterol are very commonly seen.  If you are over 55 and above, you need to pay attention to your health and maintain a regular harmonious daily life.

During this period of time, over-eating salty food is the worst habit.  Suitable food or vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, daikon, beets, napa cabbage, dry berries, nuts, small portion of lamb chop, Russian Borscht etc. are all good choice to have.

If you have any cardiovascular condition, you need to keep warm and avoid going out especially before and during the snowstorm.  A sharp change of barometers sometime can be fatal.  Instead of putting up heavy coats or sweaters, several thin layers of cotton clothes are more practical especially when engaging in moderate exercises.