“Only people know just how to change the world,
only people realize the power of people,
so come on, get it on!”
– from Only People by John Lennon
Chinese Astrology is an integral part of an ancient culture that seeks balance in and connection to the world around them. As an acupuncturist, I see our bodies seek the same as we move along our individual and collective journeys towards physical and emotional well-being. Chinese Astrology is a fun and interesting way to learn more about how we relate to the world, ourselves and each other by exploring the nature of our Chinese animal signs.
Ancient legend tells us that the Buddha summoned all the animals to come bid him farewell before he departed the earth. According to the story, twelve animals came and he named a year for each animal in the order of their arrival…..the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and lastly the boar. Each animal represents one year of five separate twelve year cycles composing the Chinese lunar calendar. The lunar calendar was introduced by the Emperor Huang Ti in 2637 BC.
The Year of the DRAGON, which began on January 23, 2012 and ends on February 9, 2013, is characterized as an energetic period, a time for innovative change, setting goals, and achieving one’s purpose in life. The Dragon is a symbol of dazzling beauty, vitality, and strength. This magical, mythical creature is focused on the challenges and issues at hand and is extremely loyal to his family and friends. He is confident in his abilities and powers, and is always ready to take that proverbial leap of faith. Dragons, though outgoing and even outspoken, do have a sensitive side and quietly appreciate knowing others trust and believe in him. The decisiveness and motivation of the fire-breathing Dragon suggest that 2012 is a time to take advantage of this energy, move forward, and make positive changes in our lives. It is high time to move beyond the reserved nature and subtlety of 2011’s Year of the Rabbit! The Year of the Dragon is a time to speak out and explore change on all levels. It is time to move forward in your career, open a new business, start that non-profit you have been thinking about, write that best-seller, ask out that cute guy/gal, move to a new town, make a difference…! Don’t just think about your cause…DO something about it! And for those of you out there feeling stuck and afraid….take that LEAP OF FAITH! And remember, change may feel uncomfortable, but movement in one’s life is typically a very positive journey. The Dragon is not ruled by his fears….but by having a purpose, a goal, or a mission to strive for.
Dragons, due to their high energy and eagerness are typically better leaders than followers. They may be outspoken, but rule fairly and are able to meet deadlines and get projects done. By their charismatic nature they are well-liked and effectively earn the respect of their peers. Their no-nonsense and sincere nature directs them to careers in many areas requiring a strong leader including politics, finance, medicine, academics, and business management. It would be common to find a Dragon successfully organizing a non-profit business, running a publishing company, being a chief of surgery, managing a busy restaurant, teaching a classroom of students, coaching a basketball team, or instigating political change. The Year of the Dragon is a good time to be dynamic, flashy, creative, and motivated…..Dragons are doers, not observers….2012 is a time to make things happen!