Chinese Zodiac Forecast
Chinese New Year - 2010 Year of the Metal Tiger
February 14, 2010 to February 2, 2011

Chinese New Year starts with the New Moon on the first day of the new year and ends on the full moon 15 days later. The 15th day of the new year is called the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated at night with lantern displays and children carrying lanterns in a parade.

The Chinese calendar is based on a combination of lunar and solar movements. The lunar cycle is about 29.5 days. In order to "catch up" with the solar calendar the Chinese insert an extra month once every few years (seven years out of a 19-yearcycle). This is the same as adding an extra day on leap year. This is why, according to the solar calendar, the Chinese New Year falls on a different date each year.

New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are celebrated as a family affair, a time of reunion and thanksgiving. The celebration was traditionally highlighted with a religious ceremony given in honor of Heaven and Earth, the gods of the household and the family ancestors.

The sacrifice to the ancestors, the most vital of all the rituals, united the living members with those who had passed away. Departed relatives are remembered with great respect because they were responsible for laying the foundations for the fortune and glory of the family.

The presence of the ancestors is acknowledged on New Year's Eve with a dinner arranged for them at the family banquet table. The spirits of the ancestors, together with the living, celebrate the onset of the New Year as one great community. The communal feast called "surrounding the stove" or weilu. It symbolizes family unity and honors the past and present generations.

Kung Hei Fat Choi! (Happy New Year!)

To have a Tiger in the house is great protection against fire, theft and evil spirits.
The year of the Tiger is one filled with drama and there is often tension & unpredictability in the air. Events can happen quickly.
One of the most dynamic signs in the Chinese zodiac, Tigers are by turns fascinating, commanding, and exasperating.
They are patient but short-tempered, calm but rebellious, petty but noble, fearsome but affectionate, free spirits but fiercely territorial.
With their many & various personality traits, Tigers are also - not surprisingly - noted for a marked reluctance to make up their minds.
What makes them magnetic and commanding figures is the absolute loyalty and affection they show for those they love. With a natural air of authority, Tigers easily earn the respect and admiration of those who love them in return.
While domesticated Tigers are quite happy among familiar surroundings, they are just as apt to fly off on an adventure at a moment's notice. Unpredictable and emotional, they can become quite fearless when standing up for themselves or others, and often hold definitive views on how to right the wrongs of society.
At work, Tigers show natural leadership ability, but prefer to work alone. They usually excel as business managers, social activists, explorers, or travel writers.

Characteristics:
People Born in the Year of the Tiger are very lucky and very courageous. Tiger people are dynamic, attractive, lively, social, enthusiastic, intelligent, alert and optimist.

The tiger is very competitive with a wonderful fighting spirit. They are natural leaders with great strategy techniques. They can also be stubborn and impatient.

Compatible business partners
People born in the years of the earth dog, metal pig, water tiger, wood horse and fire dragons.

Good Careers for Tigers:
Artist, Acting, Comedian, Musician, Race Car Driver, Chauffeur, Aviation, Writer, Politician, Managers, Marketing and Sales

Compatible Friends:
Horses, Dogs

Most incompatible Friends:
Monkeys

Love Partners:
Best with: horse, dog
Conflict with: Ox and Monkeys

Tiger Holidays:
Tiger people love vacations filled with adventure and excitement. They love to soak up the sun as well as to enjoy an active night life.

Let’s take a look at each animal, their major personality traits and what the prospects are for 2010, the Year of the Tiger.

The following is a description of the positive and negative personality traits of the Chinese “signs,” with a brief forecast for 2009:

Rat (1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020)

Positive: Influential, charming, elegant and clever, sociable, imaginative, and charismatic. Rat people will always stay loyal to their family and friends. They’re also thrifty and very good with handling money.
Negative: Power-hungry, gossiping, indiscreet, and meddling. They can be a bit gossipy and prone to being distracted These individuals don’t always plan for the future.
Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Rat:  

The Rat may be feeling quite tired and deflated after 2009, which saw him keeping his head down, working and staying out of trouble. The Year of the Tiger is going to be fast-paced for the Rat, which in itself does tend to make them slightly uncomfortable. But it is essential that they go with the flow and seize opportunities and take adventures – this year is going to be important for them. A lot of Rats may have dreamt of travel in 2009 but were unable to take trips either due to financial or work commitments. This year will be so different! Travel will feature strongly for many and if there is dream destination in mind, it may become a reality during 2010. February and March can bring interesting work offers, while June to August and December will bring happy social occasions. Romantically, September and October bring tempting offers for single Rats, while those who are attached will find the summer most special. It is essential for all persons born under this sign to be extra thoughtful and caring throughout the year – an inadvertent remark or gesture could lead to discord with loved ones.

Interesting Rat Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Garnet
Special Flower: Narcissus
Best Hours: 11 pm -1 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Black, White, Purple

Ox (1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021)

Positive: Diligent, stable, and possesses a strong sense of purpose. These people build long-lasting friendships. He is neat, tidy, quiet and studious, with a great love of his home. Music can be a great love. Family life and a loving partner are high on the Ox’s priorities. A wonderful loyal friend.
Negative: Stubborn and bigoted. Ox people aren’t often flexible, can show a fierce temper when agitated.
Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010for the Ox:

The Ox loves methodical planning and everything working out in the correct time. The Year of the Tiger will throw all this to the wind with it’s fast pace and unexpected developments! People born under this sign may find 2010 a challenge but in a good way. The Ox will have to adapt to new routines, delays and obtacles thrown in his way, but he will be well able for any task and may find new hidden talents and personal power he didn’t know existed. Hobbies, relaxing pursuits and friendships will all be beautifully highlighted during the Year of the Tiger and will provide a welcome relief to any stresses he may face. Home improvements and redecorating plans will move forward smoothly with excellent results. Career opportunities will present themselves from April to June, while exciting, intense romantic encounters are likely in July, August and December. An important aspect for those under this sign in 2010 is to be mindful and caring of loved ones. It will be crucial to listen to them and also to accept any help they may offer during this changeable year.

Interesting Ox Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Aquamarine
Special Flower: Carnation
Best Hours: 1-3 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Yellow, Black

Tiger (1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022)

Positive: Brave, strong, charismatic, and benevolent. Magnetic, passionate and grand! When the Tiger does anything, it’s noticed! Tigers are risk-takers and true adventurers. Flexible, honest and truly entertaining, one has a friend for life with a Tiger.
Negative: Impetuous and hot-headed. These people aren’t good at taking orders from others. Indecisiveness and stubbornness can mar the sparkle of the Tiger personality. On the one hand generous, on the other hand a little mean, it’s sometimes hard to know where one stands with the Tiger.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2009 for the Tiger:

Being the Tiger’s own year, 2010 holds great promise for those born under this sign, with exciting developments happening for them both personally and professionally. Some Tigers may be feeling disappointed and disheartened after 2009 and it will be important to leave the past behind and concentrate on the future, which is looking so bright! Financially, everything improves this year for those born under this sign and money-making thoughts and ideas should be fully explored and investigated. With the fast pace of this year for all signs, the Tiger needs to take extra care in planning and thinking all projects through – no rushing headlong into schemes during 2010! Tigers looking for romance will possibly see a friendship suddenly develop into something more personal with exciting consequences. August, December and January will see a very active and entertaining social calendar, but all of 2010 will see fun activities for the Tiger. The Spring months, March to May, will bring encouraging and interesting job opportunities, but the Tiger will still have to make sure he puts himself forward and gets noticed at work.

Interesting Tiger Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Sapphire
Special Flower: Violet
Best Hours: 3-5 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue, Yellow

Rabbit (1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023)

Positive: Tactful, intelligent, caring, considerate, and virtuous. Cuddly, warm and affectionate are the attributes of the Rabbit. Mysterious and a great party-giver and host, the Rabbit enjoys being the centre of attention once in a while. He is also one of the luckiest signs in the Chinese Astrology chart. Rabbit people don’t like conflict.
Negative: Pedantic and secretive. These people can appear a little cold and distant at times. The Rabbit is occasionally over cautious and can be a bit boring.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Rabbit:

The focus will be on the Rabbit’s career and job prospects during the Year of the Tiger, with unexpected promotions and recognition very likely. Travel is also highlighted, with short breaks and spontaneous, fun trips featuring during the late Spring and early Summer. Healthwise, the Rabbit could find the speed of the Tiger year exhausting and it’s important he balance work with rest and relaxation. Promotion at work or in the Rabbit’s career will be sure to feature and they need to act quickly – no hanging back to see what happens! Some Rabbits will be dissatisfied with their current living arrangements and the perfect new home may appear most unexpectedly – they must act quickly and not miss out! Friendships will play a big role during 2010 with possibly one or two friends needing extra care and help. May and October to January will bring special and fun social gatherings. February and March will be significant and fortunate for those looking to change jobs while July and August will be most auspicious for single Rabbits looking for love – an unexpected liaison could result from a work related social event.

Interesting Rabbit Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Pearl
Special Flower: Jonquil
Best Hours: 5-7 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Grey, White

Dragon (1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024)

Positive: Successful, proud, lucky, and enthusiastic. Dragons are determined people and able to inspire others. Assertive, energetic and talented are all words to describe the Dragon personality. They generally enjoy robust health and tend to be very successful in anything they turn their hand to.
Negative: Rigid and easily infatuated. Dragon people don’t like routine. The Dragon has a tendency to be condescending and tactless without realizing it.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Dragon:

Dragons will find the quick pace of 2010 very much to their liking and they will be keen to spread their wings and look for new possibilities and opportunites. As with the other signs in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon must make use of all the openings and opportunities that present themselves during this year. Teamwork will feature strongly and the Dragon will progress further and faster in his career if he bears this in mind. The Dragon’s financial situation will indeed be rosy during 2010 with a possible increase in income as well as a sum of money coming to them during the year. They must be careful to be disciplined about spending and not make too many impulse buys! May to August will be lovely months for socializing with friends and possible romantic encounters. Dragons do need to remember that love needs attention and if it is taken for granted, problems can arise. May, September and November see the most interesting career changes. Dragons need to take time during the year to have a holiday or getaway with loved ones – with such a busy year, they must not neglect those who matter to them the most.

Interesting Dragon Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Amethyst
Special Flower: Sweet Pea
Best Hours: 7-9 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Black, Gold

Snake (1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025)

Positive: Intelligent and highly intuitive are two of the Snake’s many fine qualities. He makes an amusing and romantic friend with a definite flirtatious streak. Intuitive, wise, perceptive, and compassionate. The Snake is very lucky with money and is fond of the odd bet or two. He is quick-witted and enjoys reading, music and occasionally the paranormal side of life. Snakes prefer the finer things in life.
Negative: Lazy and extravagant. These people may have a problem with depending on others. When challenged or criticized he can be a sore loser.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Snake:

The Snake likes to make slow and steady progress and the Year of the Tiger will find him swept along with unexpected developments – they need to adapt and keep up the pace. On the career front, the Snake will have quite a bit of competition and needs to stay ahead of the game in order to be in line for any promotions or career advancement opportunities. He needs to seek advice from those who can help and not appear too independent – working with colleagues will pay off handsomely during the year. Money management will be crucial during the Year of the Tiger and with careful planning, they should have little to worry about. Time spent with loved ones, either on a well-earned holiday or at home, will rejuvenate the Snake’s spirit during a busy and intense year. February through April will favor work endeavors and promotion. July through December will offer many opportunities for single Snakes to meet a special romantic partner. Travel looks most likely during March and June through August, with fun and romance well starred. Snakes can be shy and loners, but the Year of the Tiger will ensure they have many happy social events to attend.

Interesting Snake Facts
Zodiac Stone: Opal
Special Flower: Passionflower
Best Hours: 9-11 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Brown Gold, Green

Horse (1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026)

Positive: Popular, engaging, refined, and persuasive. Fun, charming and attractive sums up the Horse’s traits perfectly. They love parties and crowds and being the centre of attention. The Horse is a considerate and protective friend and partner and when in his company, there will always be excitement around the next corner. Horse people are hardworking and independent.
Negative: Selfish and unscrupulous. These individuals may be rebellious and shun the advice of others. They can also be egotistical, hotheaded and impatient.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Horse:

The Year of the Tiger will be an exciting and lively year for the Horse. On the home and family front, there may be some changes with family members moving in, moving out or relocating to another location altogether. On the social front, the Horse will be in much demand with invitations to parties and gatherings increasing as the year moves on. Health wise, with such a busy year and added pressures, the Horse must ensure that he looks after his diet and gets adequate rest. Otherwise, irritability and heated arguments could arise unnecessarily. Those born under this sign will do exceptionally well career-wise this year. However, they must follow up leads and career openings with vigor in order to take advantage of the fast paced energy of the Tiger year. A word of caution for the Horse – they need to keep a careful eye on their finances as overspending could happen very easily. August through September will bring fantastic opportunities for those looking for love. March through May will be lucky for changing jobs or careers while November and December will bring fun and lively social gatherings.

Interesting Horse Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Golden Topaz
Special Flower: Rose
Best Hours: 11am-1pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Orange, White, Yellow

Goat (or Sheep or Ram) (1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027)

Positive: Sensitive, imaginative, and well-mannered. Goats are peace lovers who don’t like disagreements. Graceful and optimistic, kind and easy going, would describe a Goat personality. They can be charming without revealing their true feelings. The Goat is very talented and imaginative and can turn his hand to most creative pursuits.
Negative: Pessimistic and tardy. These people can let others take advantage of them too easily.  They can also be petulant and discontented, likely to throw the towel in at the beginning of a problem.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Goat:

The Goat likes balance and moderation in all areas of life and the Year of the Tiger will ensure that he discovers new aspects and strengths of himself he didn’t know he had! For the artistic and creative Goat, 2010 will bring offers, opportunities and encouragement, leading to new projects and job offers. If they can remain adaptable, open to change and focused, this year could have long lasting positive implications. Study and developing specialist skills is also highlighted for this year. For those wishing to change jobs or find employment, there may be many frustrating moments and it won’t be easy. But then, out of the blue, a job offer or an opportunity will present itself. Be ready! September to November will bring the best chances for work related success. May to September will have outstanding moments for making new, special friends and enjoying the company of loved ones. All Goats need to be aware that the Year of the Tiger is not the time for taking financial risks. If in doubt or worried, they need to be sure to get the advice of a professional.

Interesting Goat Facts
Zodiac Stone: Emerald
Special Flower: Larkspur
Best Hours: 1-3 pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue

Monkey (1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028)

Positive: The Monkey is playful, lively, fun and a quick thinker. Very inquisitive, curious, and witty with leadership qualities. They are ambitious and usually very good with investing money. Monkeys are popular people. With their quick wit and wonderful sense of humor, they are a great party guest. The Monkey’s life will never be dull and predictable!
Negative: Deceitful and self-absorbed. They get bored very easily and find it hard to settle down to doing any one thing. The Monkey can also be vain and offhand. These individuals can be childish and drawn to mischief.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Monkey:

The Monkey’s energetic nature will resonate well with the energy of 2010 – but he will definitely need to pace himself or he will burn out! Changes on the job front could startle the Monkey near the beginning of the year, but by adapting and staying calm, he should weather any storm. It would be wise to take a well-earned break mid-year as all Monkeys will be feeling the pressure that the Year of the Tiger is putting on them. Family expenses may very well increase this year and the wise Monkey will do a little bit of forward planning and budgeting to ensure a smooth passage through 2010. August to October will shine for romantic encounters and the unattached could possibly find the partner they’ve been searching for. July to November will be the best time to start making moves for anyone who wishes to change their job. All those born under this sign will appreciate the support they receive this year from loved ones and friends. Advice will be well-meaning and helpful; be sure to listen carefully.

Interesting Monkey Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Peridot
Special Flower: Gladiola
Best Hours: 3-5 pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: White, Violet, Green

Rooster (1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029)

Positive: Enthusiastic, dignified, and resilient. The Rooster is always popular, extravagant and creative. Roosters are well-organized and good time-keepers. They are wonderfully loyal friends and also give advice freely – whether they are asked for it or not! Family means the world to the Rooster and they are fiercely loyal to those they care about.
Negative: Bossy and pedantic. They can be brutally honest and generally like being showered with attention. These people are often a little too outspoken and hate being criticized.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Rooster:

The Year of the Tiger will have mixed fortunes for the Rooster, but by staying calm, observant and flexible, the Rooster will glide through 2010 coming out much wiser, stronger and with great success behind him. He will be in much demand for his sage advice and experience and, at work, this will come to the notice of his employer. Many will also decide to go back to college this year or completely change the direction of their career. Travel features quite strongly with the Rooster seeking out adventure, fun and new places to visit. A word of caution: all Roosters must ensure that they don’t overdo things – exhaustion and a depleted immune system will result if proper rest isn’t taken. Home life will bring many joys and will be seen as a cosy sanctuary throughout the year. The Spring months and November and December will be excellent for intimate romantic encounters. March and July to October will be the optimum time for making career decisions or to change jobs.

Interesting Rooster Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Citrine
Special Flower: Aster
Best Hours: 5-7 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Orange, Green

Dog (1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030)

Positive: Intelligent, loyal, fair, and constant. The Dog is wonderfully hard worker, a perfectionist and someone who loves the small details. Dogs are always willing to listen to others’ problems, one of the most honest and loyal signs of the Chinese zodiac and will always go to bat for a worthy cause. The Dog is a fantastic listener and his advice is usually very intuitive.
Negative: Cynical and tactless. These people don’t always forgive easily, especially those who cross them.  He is also a bit anti-social, pessimistic and stubborn.

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Dog:

The Year of the Tiger will be an excellent one for all Dogs with a significant improvement in fortune all year long. They must leave the past behind, for the Ox year was a challenging one, and look forward with optimism and determination. There will still be challenges this year for the Dog, as for all the signs, and it is important that he talk over any potential problems and worries rather than bottling them up. Socially, this is the Dog’s year to shine and many new strong friendships and alliances will be formed. The Year of the Tiger will see increased finances for the Dog with many receiving bonuses or even gifts throughout the year. However, it is important that he takes his time regarding financial matters, checking details and ensuring that he has read all the fine print. May to August will be very significant for single Dogs and all invitations should be carefully considered! September through November will have crucial career opportunities – don’t miss them! Recreational activities and hobbies will also feature strongly, with some able to turn their hobby into their career with great success.

Interesting Dog Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Diamond
Special Flower: Marigold
Best Hours of the day 7-9 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Silver and Red

Pig (1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031)

Positive: Gallant, kind-hearted, and sincere. Pigs rarely lose their temper and always try to avoid arguing. The Pig is an innocent, sweet and lovable personality. The Pig loves the company of others, and adores parties, gossip and chit chat. They are highly intelligent, but prefer to keep this side of their nature under wraps. The Pig is one of the zodiac signs that is very lucky.
Negative: Materialistic and pig-headed. They can also be quite melancholy and over-sensitive. These individuals have a problem saying “no” -- to people, and to food!

Chinese Astrology Forecast/Horoscope 2010 for the Pig:

The Pig loves activity and challenges and the Year of the Tiger will certainly provide this. There may be additional financial pressure on the Pig this year, but with prudent spending and consideration, this need not be a problem. The Pig is an open, friendly soul and very trusting, but this year he must be wary. It’s possible that gossip may prove too tempting or that he may listen to false advice, causing upset and trouble. Be guarded and careful this year! The Pig must ensure that he follows up all correspondence or financial dealings – to delay or overlook details will prove costly. Short, fun, unplanned trips will feature throughout the year and will be excellent for off-setting any stresses and pressure the Year of the Tiger may bring. Interest in spirituality and self-development will be to the fore and any opportunity to study and explore these should be taken. November to January will provide excellent opportunities for changing career direction or to find a new job. August to December will prove particularly social, with many fun occasions and opportunities to make new friends.

Interesting Pig Facts
Zodiac Stone: Ruby
Special Flower: Chrysanthemum
Best Hours: 9-11 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Purple, Red, White

Note: The Chinese Zodiac forecast is intended for general information and entertainment purposes only. Much like the Western Astrology characterization based on the Sun signs, the twelve Chinese Zodiac animals describe broad cycles of influences that are thought to affect people born during certain times of the year. Other factors, such as the finer details of the person's astrological chart, education, cultural and environmental influences, feng shui, unconscious beliefs, conscious intentions, etc., determine any final outcome.

60 Year Cycle of the Chinese New Year Calendar

Unlike western calendars, the Chinese calendar has names that are repeated every 60 years.  Within the 'Stem-Branch' system is shorter 'Celestial' cycle of 12 years denoted by animals.  Furthermore, the Chinese believe that people born in a particular year take on the characteristics of the animal associated with that year. 

Another dimension of the Chinese zodiac is the 5 'Terrestrial' elements of metal, water, wood, fire and earth.

If the year ends in 0 it is Yang Metal.
If the year ends in 1 it is Yin Metal.
If the year ends in 2 it is Yang Water.
If the year ends in 3 it is Yin Water.
If the year ends in 4 it is Yang Wood.
If the year ends in 5 it is Yin Wood.
If the year ends in 6 it is Yang Fire.
If the year ends in 7 it is Yin Fire.
If the year ends in 8 it is Yang Earth.
If the year ends in 9 it is Yin Earth.

Superstitions and Taboos of Chinese New Year

House Cleaning

The entire house should be cleaned before New Year's Day. On New Year's Eve, all brooms, brushes, dusters, dust pans and other cleaning equipment are put away. Sweeping or dusting should not be done on New Year's Day for fear that good fortune will be swept away. After New Year's Day, the floors may be swept. Beginning at the door, the dust and rubbish are swept to the middle of the parlor, then placed in the corners and not taken or thrown out until the fifth day. At no time should the rubbish in the corners be trampled upon. In sweeping, there is a superstition that if you sweep the dirt out over the threshold, you will sweep one of the family away. Also, to sweep the dust and dirt out of your house by the front entrance is to sweep away the good fortune of the family; it must always be swept inwards and then carried out, then no harm will follow. All dirt and rubbish must be taken out the back door.

Personal Appearance and Cleanliness

On New Year's Day, we are not suppose to wash our hair because it would mean we would have washed away good luck for the New Year. Red clothing is preferred during this festive occasion. Red is considered a bright, happy color, sure to bring the wearer a sunny and bright future. It is believed that appearance and attitude during New Year's sets the tone for the rest of the year.

Children and friends, as well as close relatives are given lai see, little red envelopes with Chinese Coins or crisp one dollar bills inserted, for good fortune.
We sell envelopes and coins!

Bringing In the New Year and Expelling the Old

Shooting off firecrackers on New Year's Eve is the Chinese way of sending out the old year and welcoming in the New Year. On the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, every door in the house, and even windows, have to be open to allow the old year to go out.

New Year Activities Set Precedent

All debts had to paid by this time. Nothing should be lent on this day, as anyone who does so will be lending all the year. Back when tinder and flint were used, no one would lend them on this day or give a light to others.

Everyone should refrain from using foul language and bad or unlucky words. Negative terms and the word "four" (Ssu), which sounds like the word for death, are not to be uttered. Death and dying are never mentioned and ghost stories are totally taboo. References to the past year are also avoided as everything should be turned toward the New Year and a new beginning.

If you cry on New Year's day, you will cry all through the year. Therefore, children are tolerated and are not spanked, even though they are mischievous.

More New Year Superstitions

For those most superstitious, before leaving the house to call on others, the Almanac should be consulted to find the best time to leave the home and the direction which is most auspicious to head out.

The first person one meets and the first words heard are significant as to what the fortunes would be for the entire year. It is a lucky sign to see or hear songbirds or red-colored birds or swallows.

It is considered unlucky to greet anyone in their bedroom so that is why everyone, even the sick, should get dressed and sit in the living room.

Do not use knives or scissors on New Year's Day as this may cut off fortune.

While many Chinese people today may not believe in these do's and don'ts, these traditions and customs are still practiced. These traditions and customs are kept because most families realize that it is these very traditions, whether believed or not, that provide continuity with the past and provide the family with an identity.

A FENG SHUI NEW YEAR
by Kathryn Weber

It's important to start the New Year off on a positive, hope-filled note. This can include everything from stocking the refrigerator to clearing out old junk from the closets.

To greet the New Year, set aside a couple of hours to give your house, bedroom, or office a New Year Blitz. Just remember, you are inviting a very special guest to your house: the New Year.
So treat your house the way you would a very important dignitary.
This is a new year of your life, so welcome it in a grand way!

Take the list below in hand and check off the items one by one! Are you ready? Then, let's get ready for a new year! Remember to get everyone in the house in on the act.

OUT WITH THE OLD!

1. De-clutter. Grab a laundry basket. Next, set a timer and take it with you from room to room. Set it for five minutes. Now, start throwing out old papers, magazines, empty bottles of shampoo from the bathroom, old clothes you know you'll never wear again! Do it. Got CDs you never listen to? Throw those out or donate them to charity. Have some old coffee mugs that don't match, or odd drinking glasses still hanging around in your cabinets? Pitch 'em. When in doubt, throw it out. Don't forget to look under the bed, too! And toss that lipstick you haven't worn in two years! Remember to clean out the pantry, and toss that half-empty box of Rice Krispies that's gone stale.

2. Sweep or vacuum. Get the old energy out by making the floors clean.

3. Do the laundry. Don't have dirty clothes hanging around. You can throw in a load or two while you declutter. Be sure to fold and put the clean clothes away.

4. Clean the bathroom. Make it sparkle. You don't want a nasty mess to greet the next year of your life!

5. Empty all trashcans. Don't want last years' trash hanging around, do you? Toss, toss, toss.

6. Clean out the refrigerator. Got a half-empty jar of apple butter? Get rid of it. You don't want to go into the New Year with old food or a moldy science project lurking in the fridge.

7. Clear out visual clutter. Too much stuff everywhere? Clear off the counters in the bathrooms and kitchen. Clear off your desk and dust it. Pitch the sticky notes and papers and things taped everywhere! You can do it. Don't forget the refrigerator! Make it a blank slate. Make as much space as possible. You cannot bring in new things if there is no room for it and we want a fantastic year, right? Then make your space "open" for the abundance of the New Year!

8. Yard work. Make sure the yard is picked up and the front door step is swept and clear.

9. Change the sheets and towels. Put clean sheets on all the beds on New Year's Eve and clean towels in the bathroom and kitchen. New sheets are even better.

10. Clean the car. This is what gets you around during the year. Drive through a car wash, take out the trash and do a quick cleaning.

All done? Wow, doesn't that feel good! Now you're ready for the next step.

IN WITH THE NEW!

1. Fill your pantry and kitchen. Stock the refrigerator with food and make sure the pantry is also stocked. It's bad feng shui to have an empty refrigerator and pantry. If you have canisters in the pantry or on the countertops, be sure to fill these.

2. Got citrus? Oranges are excellent symbols for the New Year and the Chinese often celebrate the New Year by rolling oranges (symbols of gold) into the house. Place a big bowl of oranges in the living room or central location in the house next to dishes of nuts or candies to symbolize an abundant, fruitful home.

3. Buy a new plant. Put a beautiful new plant in the East (health & family relationships) sector of your house or office to symbolize a healthy beginning. You can also display some beautiful flowers here to symbolize your good health in the coming year.

4. Welcome good news. Place a golden bell in the NW corner of your home, office, or bedroom to bring good tidings from helpful people. Like old school bells? If so, place one of these in the NW corner of your yard for good news from helpful people.

5. Hang up new calendars. What better way to greet the New Year than by throwing out the old one? Take down all of last year's Calendars.

6. Fill your wallet. You don't want to go into the New Year with an empty wallet. Even ten $1 dollar bills is enough to put a bulge in your purse!

7. Invite a toad to your house. Place an old, broken clay pot upside down next to a water spout so a toad can make its home here. Toads are believed to invite money into the household; they're especially nice by the door. You can also place figurines of toads by the door.

8. Feed the birds. Birds are excellent feng shui and believed to bring good news. Fill your feeders or put out a feeder for the New Year.

9. Have fun and celebrate. Fun is good feng shui. A happy vibrant home or space is a good space. And a home or office with good feng shui is easy to spot: it's the one where everyone goes and doesn't want to leave! Make your space that kind of place!

(c) Kathryn Weber, reprinted, with permission, from the Red Lotus Letter. Kathryn Weber is a certified feng shui master practitioner in traditional Chinese feng shui and is the publisher of The Red Lotus Letter, the Web's largest weekly feng shui e-zine. 

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