At 7:14 a.m. on Nov 7, China ushered in one of the 24 solar terms,Lidong,which marks the beginning of winter in Chinese culture.

But for Hangzhou, themeteorological winter,which requires five consecutive days with an average daily temperature below 10℃,doesn't begin yet.The real winter in the South of the Yangtze River will come about half a month after Lidong, while the real winter in Hangzhou will generally begin at the end of November and the beginning of December.

· Customs about Lidong

AfterLidong, cold air frequently struck from the north to the south.People have gradually formed the custom of eating certain traditional foods in order to resist the severe cold in winter.

On this day, in northern China, people usually eat Jiaozi in the hope of preventing freezing ears. It's the best wish for winter. While in the south, people often choose to eat some tonic dishes, such as turnip stewed mutton, ginger duck, sweet and sour fish.

In Hangzhou, people began to make cured ham, sausage, and bacon. Also, Hangzhou people start the custom of making winter pickles withbare-footed treading. Cold weather is suitable for brewing, soShaoxing rice wine is brewed from this day.

· Health tips for winter

In terms of diet, tonic food is particularly important in winter recuperation. Eat more nourishing food, such as beef, mutton, crucian carp, black chicken, lotus seeds, red beans, etc.

In terms of rest, it'sappropriate to go to bed early and get up late. Geeting sufficient sleepin winter isgood for health.

In terms of exercise, don't break a sweat when excising. It is recommended to go out and exercise properly to strengthen the immunesystem.