Usage
Dictionary
Kanji: 冬
Hiragana: ふゆ、とう
Pronunciation: Fuyu, Toh, Tou
Meaning: Winter
Compounds
- 越冬 (ettoh, ettou) pass the winter
- 厳冬 (gentoh, gentou) severe/ hard/ harsh winter
- 立冬 (rittoh, rittou) the beginning of winter; the first day of winter according to the lunar calender
- 冬至 (tohji, touji) the winter solstice
- 冬季 (tohki, touki) winter season
- 冬眠 (tohmin, toumin) hibernation
Kun
- 冬休み (fuyu-yasumi) winter vacation; winter holidays
- 冬山 (huyu-yama) wintry mountain
- 冬囲い (fuyu-gakoi) enclosure around a house or tree to protect it from the cold during the winter; an enclosure to prevent tree branches from breaking under the weight of snow; burying vegetables and other food in the ground for winter food; bring a boat ashore and cover it with a mat during the winter
- 冬支度 (fuyu-jitaku) preparing for winter
Column
Yuzu Bath: Japanese Custom in the Winter Solstice
In Japan, there is a tradition of taking a yuzu bath on the winter solstice, which typically falls around December 21 or 22. This practice has a rich history and several benefits:
Origins and History
The tradition of yuzu baths dates back to the Edo period. Yuzu, a type of citrus fruit, has been valued for its fragrance and medicinal properties for centuries. The winter solstice marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year, when the sun’s power is at its weakest. Taking a yuzu bath on this day is believed to warm the body and maintain health.
Meaning and Benefits
- Cold Prevention: Yuzu is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. Bathing with yuzu helps warm the body, making it less susceptible to colds.
- Improved Circulation: The aromatic compounds in yuzu promote blood circulation, helping to prevent chills. Soaking in a warm bath also provides relaxation.
- Skin Moisturization: Yuzu baths have moisturizing effects, protecting the skin from the dryness of winter.
- Good Luck: The Japanese word for yuzu (柚) sounds like the word for “to ward off” (融), symbolizing the dispelling of misfortune and bad luck.
How to Prepare a Yuzu Bath
Preparing a yuzu bath is simple:
- Prepare the Yuzu: Usually, 2-3 yuzu fruits are used.
- Wash the Yuzu: Rinse the yuzu to remove any dirt on the surface.
- Float the Yuzu in the Bath: Place the whole yuzu fruits in the bath. For a stronger fragrance, you can cut the yuzu in half or peel them.
A yuzu bath not only has a pleasant aroma but also enhances relaxation during the bath, making it an important tradition for staying healthy during the cold winter months.
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