Day 124 of 365 - Lunar New Year, Year of the Yin Earth Pig

Happy Chinese New Year!  Today we begin the year of the Pig.  The Chinese zodiac is based on the elements of water, wood, fire, earth or metal in what are called the ten heavenly stems.  There are ten because the elements are expressed in either active, yang form or passive, yin form.  The other component is the twelve earthly branches, which is the twelve animal signs.  The zodiac cycle runs for sixty years to express in each combination.  This year is Yin Earth Pig, which would last have occurred sixty years ago.

The yin earth element of this year is gentle and supportive.  The Pig represents abundance and good fortune.  Pigs enjoy life and have a positive, generous nature which bodes well for a year of more ease. The earth element is grounded and stable, supporting being more present in the here and now.  Success in Pig years is related to activities which make people comfortable in various areas of life.

The energy of the year applies to everyone but, you can also find a horoscope related to your own Chinese zodiac sign.  Individual signs are based only upon the year you were born.  For example I was born in a year of the Horse.  The Earth element was associated with Horse in the year I was born. Yang energy, or being active is also associated with Horse. Apparently, 2019 could be a year of opportunity for me in the areas of work, wealth and love, but I need to be mindful of my health.

It is easy to find your Chinese zodiac sign and forecast for this year online if you wish to do so.

Tied in to Chinese astrology is also the practice of the art of Feng Shui, which I've alluded to briefly in a previous post.  Since the Year of the Pig is associated with enjoyment, the riches of life and prosperity, there are some things you can do to enhance these energies in your personal spaces and life.

Make space for more abundance in your life by clearing and calming your mind, so that creative ideas can emerge.  Organize your finances to welcome more prosperity.

Bring more warmth and magnetism to your space.  The colors associated with this Year of the Pig are red and yellow.  Use them around your home or in your wardrobe or accessories to increase the energy.  Also, displaying or using lemons or other citrus has an energizing effect.

Clear your space of any energy you don't want.  This could involve doing a ritual with sage or incense, or simply cleaning your home with intention.

Do more of the things you enjoy and less of those you don't.  Slow down to enjoy them.  Choose kindness over confrontation.  Enjoy self-expression in whatever way works for you.  Be generous with others.

Be a Happy Pig! :)


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