The 7th Solar Term
Li Xia 立夏, the 7th solar term in the ancient Chinese calendar, ushers in the first true breath of summer. The traditional calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms, each marking a natural turning point in the cycle of seasons. Li Xia arrives when the Sun reaches the celestial longitude of 45°, signaling the rise of warmth and the stirring of life under the influence of growing yang energy. In 2025, this transition occurs on 6 May at 13:57 hours and lasts until 22 May, as the Sun journeys toward the 60° mark.
As Li Xia takes hold, yang qi 阳气 begins to rise with vigor. The fire element, a key force in the Five Element system, starts to flourish. This shift in the balance of yin and yang brings a noticeable change to the atmosphere—heat gathers, nature awakens, and within the human body, subtle transformations begin. It is common during this time to feel the effects of energetic realignment, such as fatigue, insomnia, headaches, digestive discomfort, or fluctuations in blood pressure. These signs are not to be feared but acknowledged as part of the seasonal flow. It is a time when one must live in accordance with the heavens.
To bring harmony into the home and soothe the shifting energy, small adjustments can work wonders. Freshly cut flowers placed in water help refresh and soften the energy of a space, while a thoughtful rearrangement of furniture allows air and light to circulate more freely—especially in corners where qi may stagnate. Fragrance, too, plays its part in nurturing the senses and moving the air. Diffusing essential oils such as eucalyptus, geranium, spearmint, peppermint, or lemon can uplift the spirit and restore clarity to a restless mind.
During Li Xia, the body's inner fire must be tended with care. Diet becomes a gentle medicine. Foods with cooling and moistening properties help to counterbalance the rising heat and keep the digestive system in harmony. Water, barley, mung beans, winter melon, black fungus, and Chinese yam are particularly nourishing during this time. For those who struggle with poor circulation or a weakened heart, nature provides support in the form of red dates, carrots, watermelon, and tomatoes, which help invigorate and replenish. Conversely, for those who carry excessive inner heat, bitter-tasting foods can pacify the fire within and bring balance to the heart.
Among the many traditions of Li Xia, one stands out with deep cultural roots—the tea egg, or 茶叶蛋. It is said that eating eggs during this solar term protects the body from harm and misfortune. This humble food, steeped in generations of belief, offers more than nourishment; it is a symbol of strength, stability, and blessing in the heart of transition.
This year, particular caution is advised. The day before and the day of Li Xia are expected to carry unstable and disorderly energies. These are not auspicious days for significant actions. It is wise to delay important events, such as moving house, launching a business, or beginning new ventures, until the energy settles and clarity returns.
Each solar term carries its own unique energy, guiding us to live in rhythm with the nature's deep and ancient wisdom. By adjusting your routine, refining your diet, and creating a supportive living space, you align yourself with the nature's qi and invite balance, health, and good fortune. Let Li Xia be a time of gentle transformation, where body, home, and spirit open to the fire of summer with grace and harmony.