The Year Of The Secretive, Seductive Snake!

“Vibrating with her reptilian presence the arid air released pungent scents of musky sage, as raindrops scattered on the parched earth.

Warning of the eminent Summer monsoons, deep-throated thunder rumbled in the distance, in contrast to her graceful desert dance….”

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 SNAKE began on February 10, 2013 and ends on January 30, 2014.  The SNAKE is a symbol of tenacity and elegance.  Snakes are typically independent and illusive, but also are provocative creatures focused on achieving their goals.  They have powerful internal energy and will effectively move past anyone and anything that stands in their way.  The Snake, may be skeptical at times, but typically keeps his suspicions to himself…constantly watching and evaluating his surroundings whether for safety or opportunity.  Generosity is another prominent quality of the Snake, who is always ready to offer up a place to stay or to cook an elaborate meal for friends.  He is alluring and irresistible to others.  In decision-making, he will quietly weigh his options, observe the situation, gather his information, and then strike when ready.  Snakes lie quietly hidden beneath a pinon pine tree or sandstone boulder….waiting, evaluating, plotting….they appreciate their privacy and quiet moments.

In love, Snakes are seen as seductive, serene creatures.  They have a distinct feminine nature and attract partners who are initially drawn to their magnetic, alluring energy.  Snakes appreciate beauty and elegance in their surroundings in the form of fine fabrics, flickering candles, creative art, and sparkling jewels.  But deep down Snakes are primarily seeking complete devotion from their partner, and a strong emotional and physical connection.

In the career-world Snakes are typically effective at whatever area they pursue as they have a high sense of purpose and responsibility.  In light of their finely-tuned observational skills, Snakes often pursue careers involving problem-solving.   Snakes may be found in health-related fields, such as psychologists, nurses, massage therapists, etc. as they are enjoy taking health histories or evaluating their clients’ diagnosis and needs.  These same skills are helpful in research-based or business/political careers as Snakes never miss out on details, taking in all the information presented to them,  The Snake is easily stimulated by elegance, intelligence, and expression, and is therefore attracted to the creative arts including photography, theater, writing, modeling, acting, etc.  It is no coincidence that well-known personalities including Oprah Winfrey, Audrey Hepburn, Edgar Allen Poe, Picasso, Carole King, and Greta Garbo are members of the Snake family.

The sky is the limit for Snakes in career, love, and spirituality…if their intensity does not get in their own way!  2013 is a time to take advantage of the Snake’s tenacious energy and make masterful changes in life.  It is time to move beyond the unyielding energy of 2012’s Year of the Dragon and explore the depth of the possibilities that exist.   Creativity is on the forefront during the Year of the Snake so pull out those watercolors, your writing journal, or try out for a role at the theater.  Explore the depths of who you are!   So take a relationship workshop, read a Buddhist or Christian text, join a meditation group, schedule an acupuncture session, or take a Yoga class.  2013 is a time to be conscious of your journey and discover a path to connect to your deeper self.