The year of the Earth Rat

The Feng Shui Society helps us take a peek at what's in store

Whether you're a Tiger, Ox, Dragon, or any of the twelve signs, Chinese astrology can tell you lots about the year ahead. Chinese astrology goes back thousands of years, before the Western zodiac was developed. It fits in perfectly with the principles of Feng Shui, a complex art based on the Chinese understanding of balance and harmony. That's why it is practiced by millions of people around the globe.

Year of the Rat

The year of the Rat begins 7th February and the elements of metal and fire will be missing from that year. Missing metal suggests lack of strength and power, while missing fire means a shortage of creativity or intelligence. In global terms, we can expect friction between world leaders; not a good indication. At a more personal level, the presence of earth element in 2008 represents 'wealth luck', so perhaps a good year for money making schemes as long as they don't rely on creativity.

Most people know that the Chinese zodiac is based on twelve animal signs that relate to a year of birth, rather than a month of birth. You can find your sign from the chart >> here <<

Personal predictions

Rat

This coming year promises to be lots better, easier to achieve your goals. The really good news is that 'wealth luck' is going to be strong - so, check out those investments!

As for relationships, Rats will be on a high; it's an excellent year for networking and great for those tying the knot.

Ox

Your year of love and romance. Singles may expect to meet their love match, while marrieds can enjoy a rejuvenation of their relationship. But watch energy levels; no burning the candle at both ends.

Be warned, unscrupulous people may come into your life. Otherwise, things go smoothly and projects roll out to plan. Your 'prosperity luck' looks promising

Tiger

Love and good relationships are on the agenda. Socially, you will be quite a star, so make the effort to expand your social circle even more.

In work and business, expect competition, so keep the right people on your side. Money luck will be tied to important connections you make. Go for it, but watch your aggression!

A good year to start a family, but male Tigers beware of others trying to disrupt your marriage.

Rabbit

Plenty of opportunities to make money and achieve success, though the Declining Energy star threatens to spoil things. You may et things you want slip away.

Personal energy is in conflict with the wealth star, so you need loads of 'water energy' - try wearing blue and black more often and, perhaps, install a water feature in the East sector of your house.

Don't trust people too easily - keep an eye over your shoulder for envious friends. For the career minded this is the year for promotion, though it will take hard work.

Dragon

A non-stop year where you are full of ideas, often pulled in different directions. Refrain from being impulsive or distracted. You can achieve a lot, especially younger Dragons.

Dragons are blessed with the 'earth seal' this year, with potential to enjoy excellent luck that can be enhanced by wearing crystals.

If thinking of doing business with friends, this is the year for you. Think first, but be willing to take risks.

Snake

A highly energetic year, with lots going on and, fortunately, no extremes. Snakes pursuing their career will enjoy an exciting year, with promotion a strong possibility. 'Recognition' luck is greater then 'wealth' luck. The robbery star indicates a possibility of being cheated. Not a year to take risks or gamble.

Enjoy your triumphs and savour the fact that things are only going to get better next year.

Horse

A challenging year ahead, so avoid risks. Look on this year as a time to lie low, investing your time in learning and observing. Keep your eyes open and mind alert. Things that happen to you this year are completely out of your hands.

In short, take care over decisions and hold back rather than rushing ahead. Think of this year as preparation for better things to come.

Sheep

Not be an easy year for Sheep, with predictions of unfortunate luck at work, in love and health. There is a risk of being cheated. Expect obstacles to pop up, disrupting the smooth flow of projects and tasks at hand.

Wealth luck is not bad, though, but you will have to put in more than you get out. Do not invest in risky projects. You have business luck to build for next year, but do not expect any quick returns.

Monkey

Monkeys will find things difficult, but with foresight can quickly recover. Do not let arguments get blown out of proportion. Continue pursuing your ambitions as your good luck will ripen over the year. While 2008 does not start easily, things get better with material results in the third quarter.

In business, do not commit too much of your own money, but you will do well handling someone else's money. Your time for improved wealth will come next year.

Rooster

Your career is going to be great this year and your money luck is promising, but make sure everything you do is legitimate, otherwise trouble could brew.

The Rooster enjoys good 'mentor luck' this year. Don't forget to thank you your patrons when you succeed, you will need their help again sooner that you think.

Try to avoid confrontations this year; you are not on the winning end.

Dog

The year could be something of a challenge, with health the main issue. Remember to exercise, watch your diet and get enough rest. Dog-born people who celebrate happy events can further boost their luck this year.

Your work is recognised, but you may feel otherwise. As to wealth, there are moderate amounts of money to be made. Use time to plan before you act and take a well-deserved vacation with the family.

Boar

Things proceed smoothly this year, with wealth and success luck available for the Boar. The only restraint is physical strength and mental energy. Boars in high stress professions are in danger burn out.

This year favours acquiring new knowledge, studying and laying the groundwork for the future. A year with no major mishaps, when you can make steady progress towards achieving important aspirations.

OR CLICK HERE to send a friend their Chinese astrology sign

This article appears in Soul & Spirit magazine.

Feng Shui Society Workshops and Events Dowsing And The Deva With Alanna Moore Australian Geomancer And Dowser 14 September 2008 Making Your Business Grow -- Ingrid Collins FSSA 5 October 2008 Eight Mansions - Ba Zhai With Jayne Goodrick 23 November 2008 view all events >> Forthcoming Feng Shui Society Approved Courses Feng Shui For Beginners 'Approved Foundation' Course 13 July 2008 - 13 July 2008 Accredited Practitioner Training ~Module 3 (of 4) 13 August 2008 FSS Approved Foundation Course - 2days 13 September 2008 Feng Shui FSS Approved Foundation Course 20 September 2008 view all courses >>