Feng Shui Astrology: What Kind of Year to Expect in 2012?

Looking at the energies of 2012

It's the time of year again that we will look a change in the energy and the start of the new year!  Didn't we just DO this? Yes, but now we will be celebrating the Chinese New Year.

The Chinese New Year is actually two different dates. One, the most popular one that starts the celebrations, is actually the Lunar New Year. This year it is January 23rd and it changes every year. The "other" new year is February 4th, which is the Solar New Year and it is the same every year because it is the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox.

We are welcoming in the Year of the Water Dragon. Exciting! You might have seen some hype about it. I just read an article this morning that the Chinese government is predicting an upswing in births by at least 7% over normal. That is because the Chinese believe that those born in the year of the Dragon are successful in life. The Dragon is special and considered lucky.

The Dragon is the only mythological beast out of the twelve Chinese animals (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig). The Dragon is about power and authority – leadership. The fact that this year happens to be a Water Dragon (the years cycle through the 5 natural elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water, as well as the 12 animals, creating a 60-year cycle), means that this year is also about communication.

Because the Dragon is naturally an Earth element animal, although Water is in a conflicting cycle with Earth, it can also provide necessary boundaries to channel the Water. (More on the 5 element cycles here).

The Dragon is an indicator of change – someone or some group may step up to take leadership that will be pronouncing some new ideas. It is also about stability – not too much movement. The Dragon is a protector, so there is more stability in the air.

The sign of the Rooster is best friends with the Dragon, so if you were born the year of the Rooster this year should be good for you. Other compatible animals are the Rat and Monkey.