The lotus flowers in full bloom across China during the peak of heatwaves. (PHOTO: VCG)

By Staff Reporters

As mid-summer arrives and temperatures climb, Chinese people are welcoming the 11th solar term in their traditional calendar — Xiaoshu, also known as "Minor Heat." This year, the solar term falls on July 7.

Just as its name indicates, Minor Heat signifies the hottest period of a year is approaching, but the extreme hot point has yet to arrive. Chinese people call the hottest and dampest period of the year "San Fu," which usually lasts more than one and half months and begins from the Minor Heat. Heat is not the only character this solar term has. After Minor Heat, rainfall and thunderstorms become intensive and the amount of precipitation will rise across the whole country.

The rising temperature often imposes negative impacts on the human body, causing fatigue and poor appetite. Chinese have come up with some smart solutions. One is to take advantage of seasonal heat-dispelling foods, like juicy watermelons. But the most popular dish is Green Bean Soup. Green beans, according to Chinese medicine, are considered to be able to get rid of heat and toxic substances. Minor Heat is also an excellent time to get close to nature. The elegant lotus flowers only reach full bloom during the peak of heatwaves.