This May, we are proudly celebrating Asian Heritage Month in Canada. This is a time to recognize and honour the rich contributions of Asian Canadians to our shared culture and community. Throughout the month, we’ll be featuring and paying homage to Huaying (Ying) Feng, our co-owner and president, of Wending Home Winery. Ying stands as a testament to the enriching contributions of Asian Canadians, through her perseverance and commitment in helping to shape Canada’s diverse tapestry.
Traditionally, China did not have a designated Mother’s Day. Instead, many people honour their mothers on their mothers’ birthdays, they will celebrate with their mother and family: a party, special gifts, or traveling, etc. Same as this, some children will cook a special meal to show their love and gratitude on their birthday. It is widely believed that a mother endures great hardship during childbirth, and these acts of care are a way for children to repay and honour that sacrifice.
In this chapter, Ying invites you to explore some of the traditional Chinese customs that are often observed when a child is born.
Sitting the Month (Zuo Yue Zi)
- A postpartum tradition where the mother rests for about 30 to 40 days.
- Elder women (perhaps her mother or aunties) come to support her recovery.
- She follows a special diet (warming foods like chicken soup, ginger, and sesame oil).
- Avoids cold air, showers, and physical exertion.
- Emphasizes recovery and bonding with the newborn during this time.
The Full Moon Celebration
- Preparations for the baby’s one-month celebration. Held on the 30th day after a baby is born.
- The baby is officially introduced to extended family and community for the first time.
- Red dyed eggs and pickled ginger are shared to symbolize happiness and new life.
- Red clothing, joy, and blessings, captures both tradition and maternal pride.
- It honours the mother’s recovery and the baby’s survival through the first month.
Naming the Child
- Names are chosen carefully for meaning and luck.
- Elders contribute ideas, meanings, and suggestions based on family history or astrology.
- Names often include wishes for a strong, prosperous, or virtuous life.
Lucky Red Envelopes
- Filled with money and given to the baby and parents.
- Represents blessings, good fortune, and prosperity.
To close off this chapter we are reminded that for Ying, and for many in the Chinese community, these customs are more than rituals. They are acts of love passed from mother to mother, forming a timeless bond that honours both their heritage and the future they continue to shape.
