As the Lunar New Year of 2024 is approaching, the first month of the lunar calendar, known as "Zhengyue," represents a fresh start and new energy for the year. People can refer to the traditional Chinese almanac to choose auspicious days. Come check out the 2024 Zhengyue special feature on Huayi.com to see what good days are available!

Why Can't You Cut Your Hair in the First Month of the Lunar Calendar

It is believed that cutting your hair means cutting off your own blessings. The Spring Festival is an important traditional Chinese holiday, and people hope to have good luck in the new year. Therefore, during the first month of the lunar calendar, it is believed that cutting your hair might cut off your good fortune.
Keeping your hair is also a way to show respect to your parents. In ancient times, people believed that hair was closely related to the vitality of their parents. Therefore, keeping long hair was a sign of respect and filial piety towards parents. So, cutting your hair in the first month could be seen as disrespectful behavior towards your parents.
Another explanation is that during the Spring Festival, the body's energy field is more vulnerable, and cutting your hair might lead to illness or other bad things. Therefore, to avoid such negative outcomes, people do not cut their hair.

What Should Not Be Done in the First Month of the Lunar Calendar

Do Not Discuss Difficult Issues
The old saying goes, “Stay calm and avoid difficult issues.” During the first month of the lunar calendar, it is not appropriate to discuss complicated matters because it is a time for family reunion and joy. Focusing on difficult issues may cause dissatisfaction and disrupt family harmony. Do Not Eat Cold-Natured Foods
The first month of the lunar calendar is a cold season, and the body is more vulnerable to illness. It is important to pay attention to diet hygiene and proper food combinations. During this time, you should avoid eating cold-natured foods such as raw fruits and cucumbers, as they can increase internal coldness and harm your health. Do Not Break Things
It is not allowed to break anything during the first month of the lunar calendar. If something is broken, say “碎(岁)碎(岁)平安” immediately. This serves as a reminder to stay cautious and not get too excited during the New Year, in order to ensure good luck. Do Not Wake Someone Up Early
On the first day of the first lunar month, it is not appropriate to wake someone up early. Also, on the first day of the lunar new year, sleeping late is not suitable, and some places require that no one should take a nap. According to folk customs, being woken up early on the first day of the lunar new year is considered unlucky. Do Not Eat Fish Head or Fish Tail
Fish is a must-have dish during the Spring Festival, symbolizing “having more than enough.” When eating fish, you should leave the head and tail uneaten, which signifies that there will be more than enough food and clothing next year. Do Not Ask for Debt
According to traditional beliefs, whether you are asking for a debt or being asked for one during the Spring Festival, it will bring misfortune throughout the entire year. Therefore, it is taboo to ask for debts during this period.