A solar term is a period of about two weeks and is based on the sun’s position in the zodiac. Solar terms form the traditional Chinese calendar system. The calendar follows the ancient Chinese belief that living in accordance with nature will enable one to live a harmonious life. This article series explores each of the year’s 24 solar terms, offering guidance on how to best navigate the season. Solar Term: ‘Winter Commences’ 2021 Date: Nov. 7–21 “Winter Commences” is the first solar term of winter. Far from being too cold to enjoy, now is the time for harvesting grains and roots, savoring cold-hardy chrysanthemums, and partaking of (or making) warming wines. The traditional Chinese calendar system recognizes winter a full six weeks earlier than most Americans know as winter’s start, but we can already see proof in the colder parts of the world that water is starting to freeze and …