Chinese New Year: What to expect from the year of the Rooster?

MARIE FRANCE ASIA: WHAT DOES THE YEAR OF THE ROOSTER SIGNIFY?

2017 is the Year of the Fire Rooster. The Rooster is metal element and the fire element sits above. This is a controlling influence, as the fire melts the metal. It also represents the energy of the heaven crushing to the earth position. This indicates imbalance and disharmony. The elements are also yin, which makes this metal pliable. The elements of metal and fire can represent, amongst other things, firearms. So, there is the potential for shootings, explosions and terrorist attacks again in 2017. Saying that, this year should be a little calmer than 2016, as the energy of 2016 was pure yang, whereas the energy of 2017 is yin and hence a little bit slower. Fire and metal are also elements that can relate to the stock market and investments. The fire melting the metal can indicate fluctuations and a certain unpredictability around the markets. So, it’s best to spread the risk in 2017.

MFA: ANY SPECIFIC AREA THAT THIS YEAR IS GOOD/ NOT SO GOOD FOR?

The 5 Yellow Star is in the South this year, so take care of the South position. Try to keep it quiet and inactive. There can be a lot of problems and sickness in Southern countries, such as Africa in 2017. The 2 Black Sickness Star flies into the North-West position. The 2 star is more controlled in this direction, but it can still cause problems, particularly for women, relating to the stomach or female problems. The Centre has good energy this year, making the centre position of your home, town or city good. The SE is also auspicious this year for people wanting to start a family.

MFA: WHAT SHOULD BE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF/ BE WARY OF THIS YEAR?

The Rooster is a sign of commerce. The direction of the Rooster is in the West, which relates to metal – commerce and trade. But, being a yin sign it can also be connected to women’s interests, such as fashion or women’s magazines. So, these areas can see a boost this year. The Rooster also relates to leisure activities, such as music, fine arts and general entertaining, so all these areas are likely to flourish in 2017.

MFA: WHICH ZODIAC ANIMALS ARE COMPATIBLE WITH THE ROOSTER AND HOW WILL THAT AFFECT THE YEAR?

The compatible zodiac animals are the Dragon, Snake and Ox. This is a particularly good year for the Dragon. The Dragon is standing in a very strong position for 2017, so this is a year to move forward, look for promotion and pursue your goals. For the Snake, it’s a good year to enjoy some fine dining, but you will need the support of close friends or allies to make progress. The Ox is also standing in quite a strong position. They could find themselves more in the spotlight this year, taking to the stage or whatever platform is appropriate to them and even the potential to receive valuable recognition for their work.

MFA: ANY PARTICULAR SIGNS THAT WILL BE AFFECTED BADLY THIS YEAR?

In the Chinese Zodiac the Rooster clashes with the Rabbit. So, it is the Rabbit who is most adversely affected. In addition, those born in the following years can find that it is a difficult year for them: 1933, 1942, 1951, 1966, 1975, 1984, 1993, 2002, 2011. For people born in the year of the Rabbit or in the years listed above, it is best to avoid risky activities and dangerous places and also take the more conservative line this year. To mitigate this energy a little they can give a blood donation or make a donation to charity. For these people, it is not a good year for making decisions or big changes in their life, as their decision making is not as clear. Health-wise, there is risk to the liver, neck, eyes and lungs. So, these people should take the necessary health and safety precautions to minimise the potential for accidents and to look after their personal wellbeing.

Nikki Bishop is a UK-based BaZi Master and Feng Shui Consultant offering BaZi Readings, Feng Shui Consultations, Auspicious Date Selection and I Ching Readings; as well as being a teacher across many Feng Shui disciplines. For more information, please visit her website.