The Rain Water (Yu-shui, 雨水in Chinese) is the 2nd term of the 24 solar terms (the supplementary system in the Chinese calendar to guide farm work) and arrives when the sun moves to celestial longitude 330°.

From the day on, rainfall and the moisture from the ground are increasing, but dew and frost can still be seen in the morning in early spring. And people are advised to take good care of the spleen and stomach during the period, according to the theory of the traditional Chinese medicine. Honey, Chinese date, Chinese yam and snow fungus can serve the purpose to nourish the two organs.

Traditional Customs
In old times, married daughter should go home and visit her parents on this day.Woman who already has children should bring presents such as canned meat, chairsto home to show their filial piety. Pregnant woman should wear a pair of red trouserssewn by her mother, which was to bless her baby being delivered healthy. Young girlshould find a god father which can help her grow safely and healthily. Nowadays, thiscustom is still quite popular in some of the countryside in China.

Healthy Living Tips
As the rainfall increases, dampness invades the spleen. It's very important to protectthe spleen during this period by eating foods that would help to dispel wind andeliminate dampness inside one's body. Honey, dates, Chinese yam, tremella are allvery good nourishment. On the other hand, raining often causes anxiety and people with high blood pressure, heart attack and asthma need to pay special attention to their health conditions.