Does the Beginning of Winter Mark the Start of "Nine Nines"? In Chinese traditional culture, "Nine Nines" (Jiǔjiǔ in pinyin) refers to the period of nine successive nines, which begins on the first day of winter and ends on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. This period is considered the coldest and most difficult time of the year, and people believe that it is crucial to take extra care of their health during this time. However, there is no clear consensus on whether the first day of winter, which is usually around November 8th to 11th, marks the precise beginning of "Nine Nines". Some people argue that the period starts on the day of the Winter Solstice, which is the shortest day and longest night of the year, usually around December 21st to 23rd. Others believe that it begins on the day of the Minor Snow (xiǎo xuě in pinyin), which usually occurs around November 22nd to 23rd, when the weather turns significantly colder. One possible explanation for this difference is the regional and cultural diversity in China. In the past, different areas had different calendars and methods of calculating time, so the start and end of "Nine Nines" could vary accordingly. Moreover, different belief systems and folk customs also influenced people's interpretations of this period. For example, some people may link "Nine Nines" with the Taoist concept of three yangs and six yins or with the legend of the Double Ninth Festival, which also falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. Despite the variations in practice and interpretation, the idea of taking precautions during "Nine Nines" remains prevalent in contemporary Chinese society. People often eat nutritious and warming foods, such as hotpot, stew, and ginger soup, and wear extra layers of clothing to ward off the cold. They also pay attention to their immune system and mental health, by doing exercises, meditation, and socializing with friends and family. In conclusion, while the exact beginning of "Nine Nines" may be up for debate, the significance of this period as a time for personal well-being and cultural heritage cannot be ignored. As the cold weather and pandemic continue to pose challenges to our physical and emotional health, let us all take a moment to reflect on how we can best take care of ourselves and each other during this winter season.