The first "dog days" period in the middle and summer of the China lunar calendar is from the beginning of July to the end of July every year. The initial stage is divided into three stages, each lasting ten days.
1. What is a dog day?
The dog days refer to the period with the highest and hottest temperature in summer. In ancient China, summer was divided into three stages: initial stage, intermediate stage and final stage. The first stage of the dog days is the initial stage. During this period, the temperature rises sharply, and the weather is hot, so people easily feel tired, thirsty and irritable.
2. The origin of the first crouching
The early emergence originated from ancient farming culture and folk beliefs. It is believed that during the initial period, the qi of heaven and earth is the strongest, and the yang is the most vigorous, which is the time when diseases and pathogens are most likely to spread. In order to prevent diseases and pray for health, people will carry out some special customs and activities during the first period.
3. Related customs and activities
During the initial period, people will pay attention to keep cool and healthy to avoid heatstroke or the adverse effects of hot weather.
4. Cool diet and drinks
During the initial period, people will choose cool food and drinks to lower their body temperature. This includes eating some cool fruits, such as watermelons, grapes and strawberries, and drinking herbal tea, iced drinks or ice cream. These foods and drinks can help people quench their thirst and keep their body comfortable and healthy.
5. Avoid high temperature activities
During the initial period, people will try to avoid high-temperature activities in hot periods. This means trying to avoid outdoor activities at noon, especially strenuous exercise. People can choose to do outdoor activities in the morning or evening to avoid the influence of high temperature.
6. Cleanliness and sacrifice
During the first period, people will also carry out cleaning and sacrificial activities to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace. People will offer sacrifices to their families and ancestors, burn incense and offer sacrifices to show respect and pray. At the same time, people will also clean the family and the environment, and sweep away the dust indoors and outdoors, so as to make the family happy and healthy.