TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Wednesday is Lichun (立春), marking the start of spring on the lunisolar calendar, and numerology expert Hsiao Meng (小孟) has shared five traditional taboos for the day.
Hsiao Meng cited the ancients as saying, "When the Spring equinox arrives, eggs stand upright," indicating that on Lichun, people can try to balance eggs upright, per ETtoday. This practice represents the start of spring and also symbolizes the importance of maintaining upright moral character.
For good fortune, Hsiao Meng recommends the “bamboo chopsticks method.” As the saying goes, “The year starts with spring, when all plants gradually begin to grow.”
He suggested taking two bamboo chopsticks to represent trees, placing them in a bag or on a desk for a day or two, and then using them to eat. This is believed to bring abundance and wealth for the year, as the Taiwanese phrase “有春” (ū-tshun) symbolizes plenty and prosperity.
Hsiao Meng also listed five taboos on his Facebook page that people should observe to avoid misfortune in the coming year.
1. Do not move into a new home
The first day of spring marks the transition of old energy into new. Therefore, one should hold off on moving to avoid disturbing the energy inside a home. The beginning of the year also represents a time of turbulence, which is not considered conducive to a move.
2. Do not argue
Arguing with others will taint the good luck of the first day of spring and spread to the whole year. It is thus advisable to try to maintain harmony with others for at least this one day.
3. Do not lie down the whole day
On this spring day, yang energy gathers strength, and the temperature begins to rise. One should exercise the muscles and joints to promote blood circulation and stay fit.
4. Do not do strenuous exercise
Lichun marks the approach of a new year, a time for health preservation. Although some exercise is important on this day, one should not overdo it. If one exercises too strenuously, this could involve yang energy that drains health.
5. Do not overindulge in games or watch TV dramas
This is a time to begin making plans for the whole year. Spending too much time playing games or watching TV dramas, while failing to plan, may prevent one from achieving great success in the rest of the year.
Things to do on Lichun
Lichun is traditionally an opportunity to engage in activities that bring hope for a prosperous new year. People hold ceremonies to welcome the new year and eat dishes such as spring pancakes, radishes, and a platter of five spicy vegetables (onion, garlic, pepper, ginger, and mustard).
Families often go on outings to see flowers in bloom and to enjoy scenic spots. In ancient times, people used to smash a clay ox, and good luck would go to the person able to snatch the head.
