THE YEAR OF THE OX 2009

Chinese New Year begins on the second new moon after winter solstice. The year of the Ox began on the new moon eclipse of January 26th, 2009 at 2:55 AM EST. Here on the West Coast, this new moon was on January 25 at 11:55 PM PST.

Oxen and all cattle are blessed by the compassionate Chinese goddess Quan Yin because of their gentle, peaceful nature. In Buddhism, the white Ox is symbolizes contemplation and wisdom. According to an ancient Taoist legend, we humans have a special relationship with Ox. In early agricultural communities, people often went for days without eating and feared starvation. To aid suffering humans, the gods and goddesses removed Ox from heaven, where she was a star, and sent her to earth. The divine ones instructed Ox to tell people that with her help they would avoid starvation and eat every three days. But Ox misunderstood and told humanity that they would eat three times a day. Ox had to make her words true, and that is why Ox must labor so hard and endure many burdens without complaint.

Therefore, Ox year is a time of  hard work, duty, and discipline. Like an Ox plowing the fields, we must contribute during an Ox year. This is not a time for laziness. Success is attained through diligent labor and conscientious effort. Begin by putting your affairs in order, especially your home. Stick to tried-and-true methods, careful actions, and routine behavior. Wild new concepts will not be well received; save them for the following Tiger year 2010.

Those born in Ox year (1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1997, 2009) are methodical, dependable, hardworking, patient, and ethical. They won't take action before having carefully thought out the entire project and planned every detail. They believe in achieving goals step by step. Once an Ox sets a goal, they won't relent until the objective is attained. Possessing high moral standards, Ox has integrity and can be trusted. Ox makes a loyal friend or partner and is independent, steadfast, and cautious. If you have a friend born in Ox year, don't be offended when they bluntly point out your flaws. Ox is not afraid to speak candidly ad won't soften criticism to spare your feelings. It's just the Ox way of showing that they care.

Ox correlates to the Western sign Capricorn.

YOUR FORTUNE IN OX YEAR

If you don't know your animal sign, read all about your zodiac animal, the animal whose spirit lives in your heart.

RAT  2008 was the year of the Rat when you gained clarity about what works and what doesn't work in your life.  What works can now be developed during Ox year. This year year has few hardships or troubles for you because Rat and Ox are good friends. Your luck continues as you expand and capitalize on gains made in the previous Rat year. But a larger contribution may be expected in your career because the Ox-year influence indicates hard work. All in areas of life, Ox year is lucky for the Rat.

Looking for love in Ox year? Rat is most compatible with another Rat, Monkey, Dragon, and Ox. Horse is least compatible.

The Way of the Rat:
Quick mind, good bargainer, and a natural charmer.
1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020.

Rat is the first sign of the Taoist zodiac. Rat represents the beginning of the winter season (winter solstice) and the seed of new growth. Because Rat is number one, the ability to be first in all things is a Rat trait. This first of the twelve earthly branches represents December, the eleventh month in the Taoist lunar calendar. December is the time of Sagittarius, Rat's western counterpart.

Clever, magnificent Rat is honored in Asian culture, unlike the western stereotype of Rat as a plague-carrying vermin to be exterminated. In Japanese lore, a white (metal) Rat is the symbol of Daikoku, the god of wealth and prosperity. Therefore, Rat has the natural ability to be successful. Although some translations refer to Rat as mouse, this is misleading because Rat's personality is rarely meek and mousy. The most significant Rat character trait is their cleverness. A Taoist folk tale recalls how Rat outsmarted Ox and became the first animal of the Taoist zodiac:

There was a contest in a Chinese village to select the twelve animals of the horoscope. Ox was working on a farm when Rat came to see him. Rat told Ox about the contest because he wanted to ride on Ox's back to get to the village.

Ox trudged for miles over difficult terrain with Rat on his back. Ox struggled as he swam across a mighty river with Rat on his back. When Ox and Rat finally arrived at the village, people saw Rat riding on the back of Ox. They were so impressed that they made Rat number one in the sequence of the twelve animals.

In a Buddhist version of this Taoist folk tale, the first animal to the bedside of the dying Buddha would be made the first animal of the zodiac. Rat rode on Ox's back. Then, as Ox approached the bedside, Rat jumped off and got there first. Rat has been the first animal ever since.

The year of the Rat is a time of plenty, bringing abundance and good fortune. In this auspicious year, some of Rat's prosperity can influence everyone, regardless of one's birth animal. Expect a powerful year when people are firm about their goals, passions, and aspirations. Although there may be fluctuation in world economies, it is an excellent time to start a business, buy property, invest in long-term plans, or accumulate wealth. All ventures begun in Rat year will prosper if well prepared. But it is not a time for foolish risks. Save those for Tiger and Monkey years. Rat loves the pack, so it is also a time for socializing, entertaining, and enjoying ourselves.
 
Learn more about the Rat.

OX   Ox year 2009 is your time to shine! You are empowered by experiencing  the chi of your own year. Expect a positive and productive cycle when your hard work will be rewarded.  Excellent year to marry, move, begin new endeavors, or start a family. Fortune is best next winter, after the harvest, so stay steady the course and be true to your Ox sense of integrity.

Looking for love in Ox year? Ox is most compatible with another Ox, Serpent, Phoenix (also called Rooster), and Rat. Sheep is least compatible.

The Way of the Ox:
Steadiness, perseverance, and determination.
1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021.

Ox is the second sign. This phase represents the beginning stages of a plant's growth, the seed's struggle to break out of confinement and sprout. This determination and perseverance in struggle are Ox qualities. This second earthly branch represents January, the twelfth lunar month. January is the time of Capricorn, Ox's western counterpart.

Oxen and all cattle are blessed by the compassionate Chinese goddess Kwan Yin because of their gentle, peaceful nature (Kwan Yin is known as Kwannon in Japan). The ancient Taoists harnessed the Ox, but didn't milk it, for they honored this strong, hardworking animal. The mythical golden-haired Ox king, Niu Wang, protected cattle from epidemics. In the Buddhist tradition the white Ox symbolizes contemplation and wisdom. Some translations refer to Ox as buffalo, water buffalo, bull (male), or cow (female).

According to an ancient Taoist legend, humans have a special relationship with Ox. In early agricultural communities, people often went for days without eating and feared starvation. To aid suffering humans, the Gods and Goddesses removed Ox from heaven, where she was a star, and sent her to earth. The divine ones instructed Ox to tell people that with her help they would avoid starvation and eat every three days. Ox misunderstood and told humanity that they would eat three times a day. Ox had to make her words true, and that is why Ox must labor so hard for people and endure many burdens without complaint.

The year of the Ox is time for hard work. Like Oxen plowing the fields, we to must toil during this year. Success is attained through diligent work and conscientious effort. Begin by putting your affairs in order, especially your home. Stick to routine, tried-and-true methods, and conservative actions. Wild, new concepts will not be well received. (Save them for the following Tiger year). Ox year is not a time for laziness. Everyone is expected to work and contribute. But if we refrain from rebelling, follow the rules, and obey authorities, there will be a bountiful harvest. Expect conservative politics.

Learn more about the Ox.

TIGER  This year could bring minor frustrations because Ox's influence requires Tiger to be patient, serious, and work hard. Advantage can be had if Tigers control their temper and don't rebel. This may not be a lucky time to start new endeavors. Instead, try to be patient and steady as an Ox. Your luck returns and you will experience the start of a new fortunate cycle in Tiger year 2010.

Looking for love in Ox year? Tiger is most compatible with another Tiger, Horse, Dog, and Pig. Monkey is least compatible.

The Way of the Tiger:
Vigor, leadership, and courage.
1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022.

Tiger is the third sign. This phase is symbolized by the vigilant new sprout that has just broken free from the earth. People born in a Tiger year share the same positive and upward-reaching qualities as a growing sprout. This third earthly branch represents February, the first lunar month. February is the time of Aquarius, Tiger's western counterpart.

Tiger is grand, daring, and powerful. Four mighty Tigers guard the four directions. North is guarded by the black (water) Tiger who represents winter. East is guarded by the green (wood) Tiger who represents spring. South is guarded by the red (fire) Tiger who represents summer. West is guarded by the white (metal) Tiger who represents autumn. The center is guarded by the yellow (earth) Tiger who represents the sun.

The Chinese god of wealth, Hsai Shen, rides a tiger for Tiger brings good fortune. All Tigers scare off thieves, ghosts, and fires. Therefore, Tiger is a formidable animal totem to contact in the shamanic realm to assist in banishments and purifications.

The year of the Tiger is explosive, wildly creative, big, and bold. All of life's activities will be experienced on a grand scale. It is a time of extremes. Tempers flare, drama and excitement reign, and crazy dreams can become reality. Expect massive social change, political rebellions, and military coups.

Learn more about the Tiger.

HARE  Hare and Ox are both gentle yin signs, so this compatible temperament is fortunate for the Hare.  Still, anticipate some difficulties due to unrealistic standards from others. Hare may experience feelings of frustration because rewards are delayed or projects take much longer than anticipated. Why? Because Hare does not like hard work and repetitive labor like and Ox. Not an auspicious time to move. Hare survives unharmed.

Looking for love in Ox year? Hare is most compatible with another Hare, Sheep, Pig, and Dog. Phoenix (Rooster) is least compatible.

The Way of the Hare:
Friendliness, diplomacy, sensitivity, and adaptability.
1903, 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023.

Hare is the fourth sign. This phase is the beginning of spring. It symbolizes the effortless growth of plants in warm, magical spring light. The gentle qualities of springtime are traits of those born in Hare year. This fourth earthly branch represents March, the second lunar month. March is the time of Pisces, Hare's western counterpart.

The legend of the moon goddess Ch'ang-o is associated with the Hare. Ch'ang-o was the wife of an archer named Ki. Brave Ki shot down ten suns when the suns rose together to scorch the earth. Although Ki was courageous, he was a ruthless man. In reward for shooting the suns, Ki was given a brew of immortality. One day when Ki was out hunting, Ch'ang-o drank his brew in an attempt to stop his cruelty. When Ki returned and realized what happened, he tried to kill Ch'ang-o. But she escaped to the moon and was protected by the moon Hare. Afraid to return to earth, Ch'ang-o lived happily with the moon Hare and became a moon goddess and protector of children. Hare's lunar connection is that it takes 28 days, one lunar month, before newborn Hares are ready to leave their mother.

Translations occasionally render Hare as Cat or Rabbit (do not confuse Cat with Tiger, who has very different attributes). Hares differ slightly from rabbits in that rabbits are born naked and blind, whereas hares are born with a coat of fur and good vision. Hares run faster than rabbits and do not freeze when confronted by danger. Hares symbolize long life, as do cranes and turtles.

The year of the Hare is a time of peace, calm, leisure, and rest after the chaos of previous Tiger year. People enjoy the arts, gourmet food, and luxuries. Money can be made easily, but it is spent easily. The Dragon that follows will be a wild and exhausting time, so enjoy a Hare year as an opportunity for relaxation, pleasure, family gatherings, entertainment, and comfortable travel. Expect political compromise and diplomatic peace-making on a global level.

Learn more about the Hare.

DRAGON  Expect a steady year of progress and the reaping of activities begun in the previous Rat year. Problems of those surrounding Dragons needn't effect them. So do not stick your Dragon claws into others business and expect them to accomplish tasks in a grand way like the Dragon. Release control and co-dependency. Under Ox's influence Dragon must work, not just dream, so if Dragons apply their formidable skills to practical endeavors, they have better chances at success.

 Looking for love in Ox year? Dragon is most compatible with another Dragon, Rat, Monkey, and Phoenix (Rooster). Dog is least compatible.

The Way of the Dragon:
Power, passion, and drive.
1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024.

Dragon is the fifth sign. This phase happens when plants are growing and vigorously expanding. The life force, the yang part of the universe, is very strong. This powerful life force is fully visible in people who are born in the year of the Dragon. This fifth earthly branch represents April, the third lunar month. April is the time of Aries, Dragon's western counterpart.

In Asian cultures, the qualities of Dragon are the opposite of European interpretations. Dragon is not an evil, malefic enemy. Instead, Dragon symbolizes royalty, prosperity, wisdom, and benevolence. Dragon has magnanimous and spiritual qualities and is a protector of temples and monasteries. Dragon has magical attributes because Dragon can change shape and transform her/himself into any type of creature.

Dragon brings rain and represents masculine yang power. In China, the celestial dragon, T'ien Lung, protects the gods and goddesses in heaven. T'ien Lung flies through the sky, chasing the sun. Dragon is a mythological creature. In ancient times, primordial humanity may have worshipped, or been in awe of, serpents and the sun. The development of the imaginary Dragon fulfilled a role in the psyche of ancient peoples.

The year of the Dragon is a time of ambition, power, and daring. Events seem as if they are magnified threefold with increased intensity. The energy and vitality of Dragon year may make some people overly optimistic. Dragon year is an excellent time to start a business, marry, have children, and take incredible risks. On a global level, expect extreme earth changes, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tidal waves.

Learn more about the Dragon.

SERPENT Ox year is very lucky because Ox and Serpent are highly compatible. Your fortunes can change drastically for the better this year. Your skin easily sheds, giving you renewed vitality, and you can enjoy the practical, realistic, and determined energy of this Ox year. Under Ox's influence, Serpent will be asked to work, but Serpent's efforts will be rewarded. Just do not allow Ox's stubborn influence to make you unreasonable or demanding. Think before you strike: intelligent compromise benefits everyone.

Looking for love in Ox year? Serpent is most compatible with another Serpent, Ox, Phoenix (Rooster), and Monkey. Pig is least compatible.

The Way of the Serpent:
Wisdom, mystery, sensuality.
1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025.

Serpent is the sixth sign. During this phase, plants have completed their growth. This turning point brings the outward growth inward, turning vigor and power into wisdom. These characteristics are reflected in people born in the year of the Serpent. This sixth earthly branch symbolizes May, the fourth lunar month. May is the time of Taurus, Serpent's western counterpart.

The Chinese Serpent goddess Nu Kua formed the first people from yellow clay from the banks of the Yellow River. This creation myth is one of many Taoist tales starring magical, mysterious Serpent. The Serpent is associated with goddesses and heroines who assist women in childbirth and bless children with remarkable talents. Serpent heroines charmed and helped scholars learn the Confucian classics. Asian cultures respect Serpent and honor her feminine yin energy, unlike the West, which associates Serpent with cold-blooded evils.

A Chinese classic tale tells of a one-thousand-year-old serpent who practiced magic and transformed herself a beautiful woman. Through her charms, she married a scholar, and her life was happy and content. But a Taoist monk pursued her because he knew that she was not human. The monk was an expert at capturing shape-shifting animals who falsely assumed human forms. Wise Serpent outwitted him many times before he finally exposed her dual lives.

The year of the Serpent is a time of introspection, planning, and seeking answers. People will ponder and think before they act. Good taste and elegance will prevail in fashion, theater, film, and all the arts. Serpent wisdom influences contributions in the sciences through new technological inventions and discoveries. But this is not an auspicious year for gambling, investing, or taking any financial risks because the calamities of the previous Dragon year can continue into Serpent year. Expect political extremes, scandals, and the exposing of secrets.

Learn more about the Serpent.

HORSE  Expect easier and smoother circumstances than in the previous Rat year. Horse can start to make progress; slow progress, but progress. Horse succeeds by maintaining more control in personal interactions, although romantic relationships may be problematic. Ox's influence demands work, which is not Horse's favorite activity. Luck returns in Tiger year 2010.

Looking for love in Ox year? Horse is most compatible with another Horse, Dog, Tiger, and Sheep. Rat is least compatible.

The Way of the Horse:
Good humor, friendliness, carefree attitude.
1906, 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026.

Horse is the seventh sign. This phase occurs when the sun is brightest (summer solstice) and the plants are strong, having reached maturity. Horse people possess a sunny disposition and are bright, open, and cheerful. This seventh earthly branch symbolizes June, the fifth lunar month. June is the time of Gemini, Horse's western counterpart.

Powerful Horse has magical qualities, including the ability to fly. A white (metal) celestial cloud horse was sacred to the compassionate goddess Kwan Yin (known as Kwannon in Japan). Kwan Yin's white Horse flies through the heavens, bringing peace and blessings. The Horse is descended from a region in upper Asia, and the ancestor of all horses was the strong celestial charger of the horse king, Ma-wang. Horse breeding was a highly developed art and the hobby of Emperors in classical China, especially during the T'ang dynasty (a.d. 618 to 905). Great dynasties expanded and wars were won thanks to the horse, which is revered in China.

The year of the Horse is a time of victory, adventure, exciting activities, and surprising romances. Decisive action, not procrastination, brings success. Energy is high and production is rewarded. A Horse year marks the middle of the twelve-branch cycle and is the culmination of activities begun six years ago. Actions and achievements during this important year can influence the direction of the remaining years of the twelve-branch cycle. On a global scale, expect world economies to become stronger and for industrial manufacture to rise - or expect economic chaos and collapse, such as World War One in 1918, a yellow Horse year, or the Great Depression in the 1930s, which began in a white Horse year. Under strong Horse's influence, there is no middle ground.

Learn more about the Horse.

SHEEP  Anticipate a potentially challenging year because Ox is opposite Sheep in the twelve-year astrological cycle. Yet Sheep learns by developing the Ox traits of organization, thoroughness, patience, and perseverance. Sheep must accept the repetitive and mundane tasks of everyday life. Time to be more frugal and not "eat paper" (overspend). Good fortune and luck arrive in Hare year 2011.

Looking for love in Ox year? Sheep is most compatible with another Sheep, Pig, Hare, and Horse. Ox is least compatible.

The Way of the Sheep:
Artistic, gentle, and loves the good life.
1907, 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027

Sheep is the eighth sign. It is the phase when plants are ripening and all is peaceful. This gentle peacefulness is the core of Sheep's nature. The eighth sign symbolizes July, the sixth lunar month. July is the time of Cancer, Sheep's western counterpart.

In China, eight is a number of good fortune. Sheep is the eighth earthly branch and symbolizes good fortune, peace, and abundance. There is a Chinese saying, "Three sheep open doors to good fortune." Three Sheep in an extended family were considered extreme good fortune, and three Sheep together are a symbol of springtime. The gentle characteristics of Sheep were incorporated as part of Confucian ideology. The lamb kneels before its mother to nurse, as if obeying the correct filial manners of obedience to the parent.

Some translations refer to Sheep as Ram or Goat. This can be misleading. Ram is a symbol of masculinity, and Sheep is essentially feminine. Ram could be confused with the Western sign of Aries the Ram, and Sheep has little of Aries' fiery combativeness. (Instead, Aries correlates to powerful Dragon.) Goat may evoke the Western sign of Capricorn the Goat, but Sheep rarely possess the drive and ambition to ascend to the mountain top like Capricorn, which corresponds to Ox. Sheep correlates to the western sign Cancer, the sign of the mother and nurturer. In rare instances, Sheep is referred to as Deer, due to Sheep's gentle nature.

The year of the Sheep is a time of peace, calm, and contentment. Travel is highlighted as are relaxing vacations. Life's hectic pace is slowed and people are more caring, sensitive, and emotional. Family, close friends, and intimacy are valued. All the arts will flourish and creativity will flow, but such refined beauty and elegance is expensive, and debts may easily accrue. Sheep's love of peace prevents major political upheavals and severe weather changes.

Learn more about the Sheep.

MONKEY  Ox year chi is so different than how Monkeys creatively express who they are, so in an Ox year there can be difficulties that force Monkeys to restrain their ambitions. But Monkey can avoid Ox's demand for hard work by acting as a go-between, messenger, or liaison. Tiger year 2010 is also not good for Monkey, so 2009 and 2010 are years to maintain what you already have.

Looking for love in Ox year? Monkey is most compatible with another Monkey, Rat, Dragon, and Serpent. Tiger is least compatible.

The Way of the Monkey:
Quick wit, many talents, lack of inhibition.
1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028

Monkey is the ninth sign. During this phase, crops are ready to harvest. That is why Monkeys naturally have so many developed talents and abilities. This ninth earthly branch symbolizes August, the seventh lunar month. August is the time of Leo, Monkey's western counterpart.

Asian folks adore Monkey. The famous Buddhist novel JOURNEY TO THE WEST (also translated as THE MONKEY KING), tells of a magical Monkey who assisted a holy monk on a pilgrimage westward. This story is so popular in China it has been included as one of the four BOOKS OF WONDER in Chinese literature. The story reveals the typical positive and negative characteristics of a Monkey individual.

One special magical Monkey, Sun Wukong, was born from a stone. He was born with supernatural abilities and soon was crowned king of the Monkeys. This magical Monkey was smart but overconfident of his tricks. He was so fearless and arrogant that he even challenged Buddha. He bet that Buddha would never be able to catch him. Sun Wukong jumped on a cloud and traveled to a place thousands of miles away. When he came upon a five-peaked mountain, he took a rest. While he happily congratulated himself for outsmarting Buddha, the five mountain peaks suddenly turned into Buddha's five fingers.

To teach this wild, magical Monkey humbleness and selflessness, Buddha requested that Monkey accompany a monk to India to bring the Buddhist sutras (teachings) back to western China. During the journey west, the magical Monkey experienced many adventures, including his fearless battle against the evil bull king, ruler of the underworld, who tried to stop the monk. Due to the events of this journey, the magical Monkey learned to turn his quick wit into wisdom and his rebellious character into leadership skills and courage.

Fabulous Monkey is unlike any other animal of the Taoist zodiac, a fearless hero who is much loved and celebrated. Countless Taoist folk tales recall this clever trickster's abilities, and crafty Monkey even found a way into great religious literature. The Ramayana, a Hindu epic, tells of the brave Monkey hero Hanuman, a devotee of Rama (an incarnation of the god Vishnu), whom he fearlessly served in battle. Hanuman is honored all over Asia - in China, southeast Asia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

The year of the Monkey is a time of courage, action, anarchy, and true devotion to even the wildest of schemes. Success can be attained in business, politics, and real estate. Everyone wants to work the shrewdest angle, get the best deal, and win big. Now is the time to start new endeavors, for they are destined to succeed under Monkey's influence. But woe be to the dull or slow witted: Monkey will steal all the peanuts and leave nothing but empty shells.

Learn more about the Monkey.

PHOENIX (Rooster)  Expect a splendid year because Phoenix, Ox, and Serpent make a harmony triad in Taoist astrology. Both Ox and Phoenix share similar values of trust, integrity, and the importance of maintaining family ties. Phoenix can be happy, is triumphant, and recovers from past difficulties. Phoenix will work harder, but under Ox's influence, success is foreseen.

Looking for love in Ox year? Phoenix is most compatible with another Phoenix -- provided that they don't peck and fight, Ox, Serpent, and Dragon. Hare is least compatible.

The Way of the Phoenix:
Keen judgment, perceptive, and a good planner.
1909, 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029.

Phoenix is the tenth sign. This phase occurs during the month of harvest and prosperity. Responsibility, duty, and satisfaction for work well done characterizes people born in the year of the Phoenix. This tenth earthly branch symbolizes September, the eighth lunar month. September is the time of Virgo, Phoenix's western counterpart.

The rare and enticing Phoenix is a universal symbol of transformation, rebirth, and eternity. The Phoenix rose anew from the flames of purification and was not destroyed. In China, the Phoenix is honored as a symbol of the Empress, the earth, and feminine yin energy. The noble Phoenix is partnered with Dragon, a symbol of the Emperor, the heavens, and masculine yang energy.

An individual born in the year of the Phoenix has the potential to transform their soul. By overcoming obstacles - trial by fire - s/he can become a new person. Phoenix has opportunities to remedy actions from past lives and bring this new awareness into future incarnations.

Sometimes Phoenix is translated as Rooster or Chicken (the male referred to as cock and the female referred to as hen). We use the term Phoenix because we find it to be a more spiritual translation with the potential for personal transformation. When the spiritual journey of evolution and transformation is too great for Phoenix to bare, s/he may revert to the role of a rooster or chicken.

The year of the Phoenix is a time of practical endeavors, conscientiousness, hard work, and discipline. Politically, conservative police states gain power, and law and order are championed.

Learn more about the Phoenix.

DOG  Stay strong when dealing with minor problems and upsets. Make large problems small and make small problems nonexistent. Ox's influence brings conservative politics and restrictions, so Dog's revolutionary ideas may not be implemented. Luck returns to Dog in Tiger year 2010. Looking for love in Ox year? Dog is most compatible with another Dog, Tiger, Horse, and Hare. Dragon is least compatible.

The Way of the Dog:
Honest, idealistic, unselfish.
1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030.

Dog is the eleventh sign. During this phase plants gradually disintegrate and return to mother earth while the animals prepare for winter. This ability to diligently prepare and be responsible are qualities of those born in the year of the Dog. This eleventh earthly branch symbolizes October, the ninth lunar month. October is the time of Libra, Dog's western counterpart.

The Dog is a very valued in China, famous for exceptional loyalty to family and profound aggressiveness with strangers. These behavioral extremes are viewed as manifestations of the Taoist yin and yang. Dog exhibits yin behavior when faithful and devoted, and exhibits yang behavior when a fierce guardian.

The Chinese myth of Tien K'ou, the celestial red (fire) Dog who chases away evil spirits, indicates how valued Dogs were in traditional China. Taoist monks and Chinese nobles developed many breeds including the mastiff, the oldest breed of Dog in the world; the small Pekinese and shih-tzu; the sturdy Tibetan terrier and spaniel; and the fierce Chinese shar-pei, the Lhasa apso, and the chow chow. Taoist monks bred chow chows to chase away evil spirits and fulfill the important role as temple and palace guardians. Royalty bred chow chows to protect their property and to hunt.

The year of the Dog is a time of fairness and equality. Controversial issues are given their due, revolutions are successful, politics are liberal, and political oppression is opposed. Integrity and honesty are the values that lead to success under Dog's watchful and just influence.

 Learn more about the Dog.

PIG  Enjoy a good and harmonious year in which Pig's efforts are appreciated. There may be opportunities for career advancement and family success, although Pig must adapt to Ox's strong work ethic and work is not Pig's idea of a good time. The low-key approach is better for the Pig in an Ox year.

 Looking for love in Ox year? Pig is most compatible with another Pig, Sheep, Hare, and Tiger. Serpent is least compatible.

The Way of the Pig:
Peaceful, optimistic, sensitive.
1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

Pig is very intelligent, sensual, and self-indulgent. In China and Japan, the white (metal) Pig is associated with the moon and possesses the courageous qualities of a warrior. In the Chinese Buddhist novel JOURNEY TO THE WEST the good-natured Pig character, Zhu Bajie, symbolizes extreme sensual appetite. But Zhu Bajie is well-loved and respected because he openly admits to the indulgences that we all enjoy.

Pig is a strong animal known for its intelligence. A classic Chinese tale tells of a smart Pig who refused to work for the farmer who owned him. All the other animals labored: Ox plowed the field, Cat chased away Rat, Horse pulled a cart, Monkey carried the farmer's son to school on his back, Rooster crowed at dawn and Hens produced eggs, and Dog kept guard. But Pig just ate and slept - and ate and slept. Pig even complained about the quality of his food. Pig realized that he would have food whether or not he worked, so why bother to contribute? When Pig least expected it, the farmer sold him and his life of contentment ended. In this way, smart Pig defeated himself through his own cleverness.

The year of the Pig is a time of self-indulgence and fun. It is also a time of peace, understanding, harmony, and fellowship. Ease and enjoyment of the good life will be valued more than power and status. People can be kinder to each other in everyday interactions and feel little need for competition. Extravagant vacations, sumptuous meals, and lavish spending on luxuries and fine clothing are to be expected. Individuals tend to feel content and satisfied, ignoring the bills that accumulate over a Pig year. The following Rat year will be the time to face realities after Pig year indulgences.
 
Learn more about the Pig.  

TAOIST ASTROLOGY BOOK

Interested in astrology from Asia? Learn more in Susan's book Taoist Astrology.

FENG SHUI TIPS for OX YEAR 2009

PAY OFF DEBT:
It is very fortunate to start the Chinese New Year with no debt at all. Pay off all consumer debt on your charge cards. A mortgage or a school loan are not in this category, but make sure they are at a fixed low interest rate. If you are deeply in debt, Ox year is the perfect time to organize your finances and get out of debt during this Ox year.

ADD BEAUTY:
Bring in fresh cut flowers or a healthy plant for new year. Make sure plants have soft round leaves; no spiky cacti. If you bring home a lovely orchid, after the flower wilts, cut away the dead stalk and insert high-quality silk orchids into the pot.

CLEAN:
To welcome a new year of new opportunities, clean your home as if it is spring cleaning but done now. Move any piece of furniture that has not been moved during this past year to clean behind and below it. Be as thorough as you can. Do not start a new year and a new cycle in a messy or dirty home environment. If you have clutter anywhere, now is the time to get rid of it.

FIRST THING SEEN:
When entering your home, what is the first thing seen? Make sure that the first thing seen is inviting, clean, and inspiring when you enter. You do not want to see a pile of paperwork or any type of mess.

PAINT:
When the weather warms up this spring, add a coat of paint to an area that can use some sprucing up.
Paint colors correlate to the five Taoist elements of fire, earth, metal, water, and wood:

FIRE - HEART - LIVING ROOM
In Chinese medicine, the element fire is represented by the heart; the living room is the heart of the home. Your living room is best in bright and lively colors, or with bright accents, to stimulate conversation and activity.

EARTH - STOMACH - DINING ROOM
The element earth is the stomach; the dining room is where we eat and digest food. The dining room is best in earthen tones of gold, terra cotta, or other soft yin colors. Red paint in a dining area is too stimulating and people eat too fast.

METAL - LUNGS - BEDROOM
The element metal is the lungs; the bedroom is where we sleep and breathe deeply while resting. Best bedroom colors are white, cream, and soft pastels. Avoid bright big prints on bedding and drapery, especially in a child's room.

WATER - KIDNEYS - BATHROOM
The element water is the kidneys; the bathroom. Paint this room in a soft, quiet, and calm color for peaceful elimination of waste and for soothing bathing or showering.

WOOD - LIVER - KITCHEN
The element wood is the liver; wood is used in a kitchen to feed the cooking fire. The kitchen must be kept very clean because this is where food is prepared, but green accents or a plant is recommended.

To learn more about feng shui, read about the basic principles. Want more in depth? Read Susan's book Taoist Feng Shui or Teen Feng Shui.

LOOKING AHEAD TO TIGER YEAR 2010

Anticipate a dynamic year of sudden opportunities, bold actions, and for life experiences on a grand scale. Mighty Tiger brings a year of extremes when drama and excitement reign, tempers flare, and the wildest dreams can become reality. There is little restraint as the brave Tiger pounces on new endeavors. Expect massive social change, political rebellion, and military coups all over the world.

People born in Tiger years (1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010) have a regal quality and assume the leadership role whenever they can. Tigers naturally possess strength, determination, and charisma. No matter how many obstacles are in their path, they will courageously pursue their goals. Tigers are free thinkers and non-conformists like their Western counterpart Aquarius. But despite the independent and dynamic mask they wear to the world, underneath their fur the Tiger is sensitive and emotional. A Tiger demands much attention from a partner, but when given enough love and support, can turn into a gentle pussy cat.

Thank Goddess for the Women's Movement because Tiger daughters were not valued in sexist patriarchal cultures. The Confucian "Three Virtues for Women" state that a daughter obey her father, a wife obey her husband, and an elder obey her oldest son. But  female Tigers are warrioresses who will not willingly submit to rules; they bow down to no one. Tiger is a formidable animal totem to contact in the shamanic realm to assist in banishments and purifications because Tigers scare off thieves, ghosts, and fires.