Starting 10 February 2024, the Year of the Green Dragon brings opportunities and challenges – an ideal time for a favourable change in your life.
Year of the Green Wood Dragon
On the day the Dragon takes over from the Year of the Rabbit, my mother, a lucky Tiger, is following the advice of Feng shui master Tong Pik-ha in her predictions for the 12 zodiac signs* for the coming year and taking me on a birdwatching holiday (birdsong increases our wellbeing*). On the way back we will visit my neice, a Metal Dragon, who will advance in her career by wearing red in this year of the Wood Dragon.
Why the Green Wood Dragon?
The Lunar New Year starts on the second new moon after winter solstice. It is also known as the Spring Festival, as it marks the end of winter and celebrations start with firecrackers on the eve and during the 15 days you will see red laterns, dragon and lion dances, family reunions and feasts.
The Chinese horoscope has a cycle of 12 animals, starting with the Rat and ending with the Pig. There are also five phases (elements) of the Chinese zodiac: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. These are derived from the Five Phase Theory – or Wu Xing – a philosophy used to describe the relationship and interdependence between all things. This teaching is all about finding balance and embracing the process. As one energy waxes, another wanes. All elements are interconnected and there is no hierarchy. This theory forms the basis of not only the Chinese zodiac but of other Eastern traditions like feng shui, acupuncture and herbs, divination (such as the I Ching) and martial arts. So, this year we return to the phase of Wood (relating to green, spring, Liver, anger) and the Dragon.
Predictions for the year ahead?
The Dragon symbolises power, nobleness, honour, luck and success in traditional Chinese culture. A supernatural being with no parallel for talent and excellence, the Dragon is the only mythical creature in the zodiac.
Beyond February 10, things start to become interesting, as Dragon years are epitomised by activity and reaction. The element associated with the 2024 Dragon is strong Yang Wood. In the five phase cycle, Wood fuels the phase of Fire, and thus the quality of the Dragon is enhanced. Be prepared for an unpredictable and volatile year ahead. “Never a dull moment” is the phrase for 2024!
If you have been desiring change yet have been unable to move forward, the energy of the Wood Dragon could serve your needs well, especially during the summer months. The downside is that we may witness continual unrest in many communities.
The luckiest Chinese zodiac signs in 2024 are Monkeys, Roosters, and Pigs, followed by Oxes, Rabbits, Goats, and Dogs. As you enter your year it is customary to wear red. Dragons should be prepared to step into the limelight, however its wise to be cautious and tread carefully to avoid any potholes, obstacles and setbacks.
What is my Zodiac phase?
The Zodiac phase changes every two years and and the five-step cycle repeats itself, this time starting on a different zodiac animal. After 60 years the zodiac completes a full cycle and returns to the Year of the Rat with Wood as the element. It is very easy to figure out your Chinese Zodiac Element because all you need to know is your birth year, specifically the last number of your birth year.
- Metal: Birth year ending in 0 or 1
- Water: Birth year ending in 2 or 3
- Wood: Birth year ending in 4 or 5
- Fire: Birth year ending in 6 or 7
- Earth: Birth year ending in 8 or 9
Further info:
* What the year ahead holds for your animal sign?
* What is my animal sign?
* Listening to the birds increases wellbeing