Happy Chinese New Year – Year of the Water Snake

Happy Chinese New Year!  Every year, the Chinese New Year arrives about one month after the calendar New Year.  I love this as I feel I have about a month to get my act together to firm up those resolutions, declutter from the holidays and begin anew.

I also love Chinese New Year as it foretells the essence of the upcoming year.  The calendar year involves no different meaning from one year to another, yet the Chinese New Year has distinct characteristics and a spirit as one year cycles to the next.

The year 2013 which began on February 10th is the Year of the Water Snake.*  If you think about the characteristics of the animal and the element, you can get a cursory feeling of the upcoming year.  The snake is a sensitive creature who feels everything by slithering across the ground, strikes at the right moment and who sheds its skin in transformation. The element of water is quiet and introspective.  It is connective and fluid.

According to Astrology.com, the Year of the Snake will be one of transformation and you will benefit the most if you do lots of research and gather all of the pertinent information before making a big decision. Also, you will have a more fulfilling year if you remain flexible and go with the flow.

Additionally, the yin element and sign will create an urge for solitude and introspection, however, the snake is very charming and at its best when working with others.  So teamwork and cooperation will be mantras for this year.

The snake is spiritual and very wise, so intellectual endeavors will be highly supported.  Snake is also a connoisseur of the finer things in life, but before you go spending a lot of money, the snake is also very thrifty so bargain shop for those luxuries.

And remember to be on the lookout for hidden messages.  Both water and the snake sign have hidden, underground and secretive energy, so again, careful research is in order. Listen to your intuition.  If you feel something just doesn’t add up, don’t ignore that feeling. You are probably right – this year especially.

Getting the most out of this year involves pursuing intellectual endeavors, collaborating with others, conducting careful research and remaining flexible.

Here’s to a great and transformative 2013.

* Each year is a combination of an animal and element. There are 12 animals and 5 elements for a cycle of 60 years.  The animals involve: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, & pig. The elements involve: water, wood, earth, fire, metal.

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Thank you Anastasia for the picture!