Ancient China was a farming society, and winter was the coldest season of the year. In the life of the ancients, wintering was an important job, and various preparations were needed to cope with the cold weather. The ancients had various ways and customs in winter, which are described from the following aspects.
First, the preparation of the living environment
In ancient times, people worked hard to prepare their living environment for winter. They will repair the roof and strengthen the building structure to prevent residents from being hurt by strong winds or snowstorms. The ancients also spread straw or straw on the roof to increase the insulation effect. In addition, they will block windows and cracks to reduce the exchange of indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Second, the choice of heating mode
The main problem of ancient people in winter is to keep warm, so the choice of heating method is very important. In ancient times, people used many methods to keep warm. One of the most common is the stove for heating. The ancients put stoves in their houses and lit firewood or coal to generate heat. In addition, some wealthy families will use stoves and charcoal fires to keep warm.
Third, the choice of clothing.
The ancients also paid great attention to keeping warm in the choice of winter clothes. They wear heavy clothes, such as cotton-padded jackets and fur jackets, to keep out the cold. When they are outdoors, they will add an extra coat or cloak to keep warm. In addition, ancient people used gloves, hats, scarves and other ornaments to protect their heads and limbs.
Fourth, the adjustment of eating habits.
The ancients also adjusted their diet in winter. Cold weather will consume human energy, so ancient people will increase the intake of calorie food to supplement energy. They will eat more high-calorie foods, such as sweet potatoes, beans and pork. At the same time, the ancients would appropriately increase warm drinks, such as ginger soup and jujube tea, to warm their bodies.
V. Winter activities and entertainment
In addition to keeping warm, the ancients also spent the winter through some activities and entertainment. For example, they will hold some traditional winter festivals, such as the winter solstice and the Lantern Festival, to increase the fun of life. The ancients also liked some indoor activities, such as playing chess, calligraphy and painting, to kill time and increase entertainment.
The above is a description of ancient ways and customs of wintering. The ancients actively responded to the cold winter from the aspects of living environment, heating methods, clothing choices, eating habits and activities and entertainment to ensure their own warmth and health. These traditional ways and customs of wintering not only reflect the wisdom of the ancients, but also witness the wisdom and diligence of the Chinese nation.