Group 1 - The concept of "Shu Jiu" (Counting the Nines) begins on the Winter Solstice, marking the start of a period that lasts for 81 days, culminating in the arrival of spring [2] - The "Shu Jiu" method is particularly relevant to northern China, especially the Yellow River's middle and lower reaches, as it symbolizes the transition from winter to spring [2] - The 2026 Spring Festival falls on February 17, which is relatively late compared to previous years, due to the occurrence of a leap month in 2025 [2] Group 2 - The "Shu Jiu" folk song describes seasonal changes and agricultural life, reflecting the cultural significance of this period [5] - The phenomenon of "river opening" typically occurs when temperatures stabilize above 0 degrees Celsius, which may align with the timing of the Spring Festival in 2026 [5] - Traditional practices emphasize the importance of warmth and appropriate clothing during the cold winter months, highlighting health considerations during this season [5]

Group 1 - The winter solstice is the 22nd solar term and the fourth solar term of winter, starting on December 21, 2025 [2] - It marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, leading into the coldest period known as "Jin Jiu" [2] - The concept of "counting the nines" begins on this day, which is a method of tracking days and weather for agricultural purposes, lasting 81 days until spring [2] Group 2 - The "counting the nines" custom includes three main forms: "drawing nine," "writing nine," and "filling nine" [3] - "Drawing nine" involves artistic representations, often featuring plum blossoms, where participants color in petals daily until completion [3] - "Writing nine" consists of selecting nine characters to form meaningful phrases, with participants filling in strokes daily, reflecting both weather and anticipation for spring [3] Group 3 - "Filling nine" is a practical form where participants fill in a grid based on weather conditions, creating a record of the 81 days [4] - The evolution from songs to these visual representations illustrates the cultural significance and wisdom of agricultural practices [4] - Despite modern advancements, the cultural depth and life philosophy embedded in these traditions remain valuable for contemporary experiences [4]