Everyone has a surname today, but have you ever wondered when they first originated? And why were ancient names before the Qin Dynasty so peculiar? This episode will clear everything up for you!
The Pan Chang Knot (The Coiled Long Knot) is a traditional Chinese handcrafted artwork, also known as the Coil Knot, Temple Knot, Yellow Flower Knot, or the 2x2 Mystic Knot. As a foundational type of Chinese Knotting (Zhongguo Jie), it symbolizes the oneness of mind and matter, infinity without beginning or end, and the harmony of Yin and Yang with the cycle of life. Characterized by its continuous, looping structure and dense symmetry, it is visually striking and often serves as the "master knot" for more complex variations. Historical records of the Pan Chang Knot being worn as an ornament date back to the Song Dynasty genre painting, The Grand Exorcism (Da Nuo Tu).
Spring Equinox (Chunfen), one of the 24 solar terms, typically falls between March 19 and 22. On this day, the sun shines directly on the equator, resulting in equal length of day and night—a phenomenon historically known as Rizhong (Mid-day) or Riyefen (Equal Division of Day and Night). Beyond marking the midpoint of spring, it is a pivotal astronomical event when day and night are balanced across both hemispheres. Following this term, temperatures rise and nature reawakens. Traditional customs such as balancing eggs, eating "spring vegetables," flying kites, and going on spring outings reflect the Chinese people's reverence for the season and their hopes for the future. This article focuses on the phenological changes, traditional customs, and holistic wellness practices associated with the Spring Equinox.
