Why Chinese fly kites during Spring Equinox

Spring Equinox is the fourth solar term of spring. Its arrival signifies the beginning of bright and sunny days. At this time, abundant rainfall nourishes the land, the chill of winter gradually fades, and all creatures enter a period of vigorous growth. The Spring Equinox is a natural turning point and a crucial time for people to nurture their well-being and maintain balance in life.

Solar Terms and the Universe is a special video series jointly produced by Hangzhoufeel, the International Education School of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, and the International Relations Office of ZCMU. Each episode provides you with intimate knowledge about Solar Terms and health tips.

Agoyliyeva Nazik, a Turkmenistani student from the Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, followed her teacher Gu Jingjing to Taiziwan Park in Hangzhou. By the crystal-clear pond with shimmering reflections, they experienced the joy of making kites by hand，and not only did they experience the elegance and warmth of traditional craftsmanship, but also learned about the cultural significance of the Spring Equinox.

In spring, the Bai Causeway by West Lake is a picturesque site with pink peach blossoms and lush green willows

What deeper meaning lies in flying kites during the Spring Equinox? How can we follow the natural rhythms to maintain our health? Let’s explore together!

Ready to embrace Hangzhou with lush grass and singing orioles

The cherry blossoms at the China National Tea Museumare in full bloom

During the Spring Equinox, the sun reaches zero degrees of ecliptic longitude, right in the middle of the second month. Because the Spring Equinox divides spring into two equal parts, it is named as such.

The three pentads of the Spring Equinox passed down by ancient people vividly depict the revival of all life in spring: First, swallows arrive. Swallows, as seasonal migratory birds, fly back to the north from the south, bringing with them the breath of spring.

Second, spring thunder cracks the sky. Rising temperatures, increased rainfall, and humid air signal the arrival of spring.Third, lightning occurs frequently. As rainfall increases, thunder and lightning follow, with lightning illuminating the spring night sky. The thunder and lightning awaken the earth, and the power of spring becomes ever more evident.

The Hangzhou Botanical Garden

In March in Hangzhou, it is neither cold nor hot, and mosquitoes are not yet a nuisance. Spring flowers keep blooming in waves. Locals in Hangzhou often boast that wherever they go, they are surrounded by scenic spots. Recently, Hangzhoufeel has also recommended many great places to enjoy spring flowers and visit tea plantations， such aswatching tulips at Taiziwan Park, experiencing tea-picking in Longwu Tea Town, and admiring red cherry blossoms in Linglong Town, Lin'an... In short, when exploring Hangzhou, your eyes will never get bored.

Why not fly a kite?

The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic, the Chinese classic on internal medicine emphasizes the importance of harmonizing with nature. As the yang energy rises in spring, it is the perfect time for some gentle exercise, which not only promotes physical health but also enhances mood and well-being. In this season, we also embrace the golden period for healthcare. Spring is the season to nourish the liver, so it is essential to maintain a cheerful mood through light workouts.

Nazik is flying a kite

Flying kites, as a traditional activity of the Spring Equinox, is not only a way to connect with nature but also carries profound cultural significance. Ancient people believed that flying a kite could sweep away the bad luck and misfortune of the past year, making way for new good fortune. As we fly a kite, the stretching of our bodies allows us to release stress, embrace the vitality and hope of spring, and achieve a sense of physical and mental harmony.
With nearly a week of clear skies to expectin Hangzhou,  just round up your friends and head to the park to soak up the energy of spring!
Source: Hangzhoufeel