What kind of custom is folding willow?

Folding willows is a traditional Qingming custom in China, which is described as follows:

First, the origin and significance of folding willow:

The custom of folding willows originated from ancient sacrificial activities and mourning activities. In ancient times, people regarded Tomb-Sweeping Day as an important moment to sacrifice ancestors and mourn their deceased relatives. As a special way to pay homage to the dead, folding willows is considered to convey people's grief and blessing for the soul of the dead. At the same time, as a tenacious plant, willow symbolizes the continuation of life and the rebirth of hope.

Second, the traditional methods and forms of folding willow:

The traditional method of folding willows is to pick twigs under willows when you are in Tomb-Sweeping Day. People usually choose the new branches of willow, because the branches are softer, greener and easier to bend and weave. When picking willow branches, people should be careful not to hurt willow trees. There are many forms of folding willow, such as weaving into rings, twisting into knots, hanging and so on.

Third, the cultural connotation and emotional significance of folding willow:

Folding willow is not only a custom, but also carries rich cultural connotation and emotional significance. Folding willow is the continuation and inheritance of traditional culture. By participating in the activities of folding willows, people can deeply feel the importance attached by China traditional culture to family ties and respect for life, and folding willows is an emotional catharsis and expression. At this special time in Tomb-Sweeping Day, people often miss their deceased relatives and ancestors.

Fourth, the modern evolution and development of Salix psammophila:

With the changes of society and lifestyle, the traditional custom of folding willows has also undergone some evolution and development in modern society. Due to the acceleration of urbanization, the number of willows in cities has decreased, and people's behavior of folding willows has also been restricted to some extent. In some places, willow or willow branches planted artificially will be used to meet the demand of folding willow.

The meaning and value of verb (abbreviation of verb) folding willow;

As a traditional custom, folding willow is not only a simple act of picking and decorating plants, but also has far-reaching cultural significance and emotional value. It is the inheritance and continuation of traditional culture, the memory of the dead, and the expression of respect and grief for life.