A New Year, a new decade, and Chinese New Year. Happy all of it to you!
At least one-fifth of people on the planet celebrate the Chinese New Year. Determining the date of Chinese New Year requires some complicated calculations. In most cases, it falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice. In the Gregorian calendar, the solstice is around December 21st. That’s why Chinese New Year typically occurs in late January or during one of the first three weeks of February.
We just welcomed in the Year of the Rat. There are 12 Chinese zodiac animals, embodying a 12-year cycle of energy. They are, in order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. From the lunar new year perspective, as with so many other indicators, we are beginning a new cycle. Recent Rat years are 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, and 2020. If you were born in January or February of one of those years, you will need to check the internet or other source to see in which zodiac sign you were born. This year of the Rat started on January 25th and lasts until February 11, 2021.
It looks to be a productive year, a year great for business and making progress on important projects. People born in a Rat year are thought to be wise, wealthy and prosperous. They can be quick-witted, intelligent, resourceful, charming, social, practical, diligent, and thrifty. With rich imaginations and sharp observations, Rats can take advantage of various opportunities well. Their weaknesses are that they may be timid, stubborn, wordy, greedy, devious, power hungry, and love to gossip.
Regardless of your personal zodiac animal, 2020 is a great year to include accentuating the positive Rat qualities and noticing the less flattering downsides in your personality.
What does 2020 mean for you? What would like to accomplish, more than anything? Who would you like to connect with, get to know better, or simply spend some quality time with?
Do you have professional goals? What about family? Friends? A garden? A book? A project? What about fun? What would you personally truly enjoy that you can put on your wish list or goals to accomplish for this year?
January is cold and can sometimes be difficult. The holidays are over and the bills are due. Many start on their taxes this time of year. How can you offset the challenges of the month with some deep joy?
However you choose to answer these questions, or whatever other questions are more appropriate for you, wishing you a glorious 2020! Gong hei fat choy!