Hello! Today's blog is going to talk about Shōsetsu, one of the 24 solar terms in the Japanese calendar. This year, Shōsetsu falls around November 22. It is the transition period from autumn to winter where the air grows cold; however, winter's bitter cold hasn't yet arrived. It is a soft prelude to winter.
With the temperatures acting so unpredictably this year, it is rather easy for sudden changes to affect our bodies. This is a time of year when attention should be paid to the activities that keep us warm and healthy. Let's see the characteristics of Shōsetsu and some practical tips for the incorporation of this seasonal wisdom into modern life.
What is Shōsetsu（小雪）?
A Seasonal Transition in Japan's Landscapes
With Shōsetsu, the illuminated autumn leaves fade out, and trees all over Japan shed their leaves to usher in winter landscapes. In the north, the first snowflakes begin to fall, and there are days with frosty mornings more often. As nature prepares for winter, we can also make small changes to ourselves to be healthy and comfortable.
Shōsetsu Living Well Tips
Here are three ideas that help one enjoy and embrace this season's unique characteristics while managing to stay cozy.
1. Include Warming Foods
Given that Shōsetsu is very cold, it is important for the meals to warm the body, seasoned with appropriate ingredients.
- Recommended ingredients: Winter vegetables like daikon radish, pumpkin, carrots, turnips, and seasonal citrus fruits like yuzu and mandarins.
- Cooking Tips: It's best to drink thick soups or stews with root vegetables. You can enhance their warming action by adding ginger or green onions to these dishes.
- Yuzu Bath: Floating yuzu in your bath will not only relax you but also aid in the prevention of colds.
2. Trendy yet Practical Winter Accessories
The important thing in Shōsetsu is to keep one's neck, hands, and feet warm; that is where furoshiki—the traditional Japanese wrapping cloth—comes in handy.
- Furoshiki Scarf: A furoshiki folded in a triangle can be tied like a scarf around the neck. This is a very fashionable and warm accessory; reversible or texture-differential fabrics are great for this application.
- Ideas for Use:
- As a scarf outdoors or as a lap blanket indoors.
- Brightly colored designs can add color to your winter wardrobe.
3. Nature Walk
Shōsetsu is a very good time to go for a walk since the weather has crisp, clear air.
- Tips for walking: Wear warm clothing and take in the winter scenery, the frosty grounds, and any remaining colorful leaves of autumn.
- Health Benefits: Walking promotes blood flow and body warming, refreshing the mind.
Furoshiki for Modern Lifestyle Tips
Furoshiki is provided with distinctive traditional Japanese wisdom, an ecological item that can be used conveniently as an eco-bag, for gift wrapping, interior decoration, and even to keep you warm in winter.
- As an Eco-Bag: Furoshiki adapts to the size of your shopping needs; hence, it is a handy substitute for the usual carry-on bags.
- Wrapping Presents with Furoshiki: Wrapping up gifts with furoshiki can add that personal touch, especially for the holidays.
- For Winter Warmth: Choose the thicker varieties of furoshiki to be used as your staple for winter.
Embracing the Spirit of Shōsetsu
Shōsetsu is the period of preparation for winter and maintaining balance in life. Days full of warm meals, winter styling with inspiration from furoshiki, and nature walks let you enjoy the seasonal transition as fully as possible. By living in harmony with nature, you can refresh your body and mind even on busy days.
May this year's Shōsetsu bring you health and comfort. Take your time to enjoy the gentle chill of this season before the full onset of winter!