We are into the Xiao Xue (小雪) solar term (节气) starting from 22 November to 6 December 2025. Xiao Xue is the 20th solar term out of the entire 24.
As the weather turns colder (or cooler for tropical countries like Singapore), many people may become more susceptible to a reduction in 肾阳 (the Yang energy in kidney).
Thus during this period, it is recommended to consume foods that can boost the Yang energy in our kidneys, such as walnuts, cashew nuts, chinese chestnuts (栗子), and chinese yam (山药).
As some of the above recommended foods have a warm thermal nature, do consume them in moderation and balance them with cooling foods, such as vegetables like radishes and fruits.
The dietary direction for this solar term is 益肺气，潜肾气. In simple terms, it means to strengthen both our lungs and kidneys’ Qi.
One food that is very helpful in strengthening Qi in our lungs and kidneys is chinese yam (山药).
Chinese yam not only offers great benefits for the lungs and kidneys, it also helps to strengthen the spleen, enhancing nutrient absorption in our body.
The following is a recommended porridge recipe that is suitable for most people during this solar term:
Ingredients (for 1 pax):
- Fresh chinese yam (30g)
- Walnuts (10 to 20g)
- Rice (preferably use mixed grains, 50g)
I like to use a thermal pot to cook porridge as it saves a lot of gas!
- Put the mixed grains into a pot and add lots of water (5 to 7 times the amount of water compared to cooking rice).
- Bring the water to a boil, then add fresh chinese yam (cut into pieces or slices) and walnuts.
- Let it boil for 4 to 5 minutes and remove from heat. Place it into the thermal pot, and the porridge will be ready to serve in an hour!
General Wellness Recommendation
Do take note that during this solar term, some people may have a higher risk of cardiovascular attack. Some foods that these people can consume are hawthorn, black fungus, and San Qi (三七 – this is a Chinese herb that has very strong properties in dispersing blood clots). These foods and herbs help to disperse clots in the bloodstream.
Getting enough sleep during Xiao Xue solar term is also important. Do make sure you go to bed earlier and wake up a bit later (if possible).
Another thing to watch out for is not to exercise too vigorously, especially during the early morning. Do your best to exercise only when the morning sun is out. If the morning sky is still dark, you can choose to do some light exercise indoors instead.
Hope you find this post useful!
Thank you for your post! Is now a good time to eat lotus root as well?
Yes, CJ. But take note that the thermal nature of lotus root is cold so it is better not to eat too much especially for people with weaker spleen (spleen qi deficient).