As we approach the Lunar New Year, let us take some time to review and reflect on the year that has passed. One approach that can be employed to usher in the New Year would be to evaluate one’s zodiac.

The Chinese Zodiac is a continuous cycle of 12 years, where each year is represented by an animal. Each zodiac sign is attributed to certain characteristics. Depending on the year ahead, certain attributes such as health and romance will be “influenced”.

This has intrigued many, thus resulting in the mass following of zodiac predictions or readings which is prevalent in the community. For those of you who seem lost at this point in time, fret not! Let us provide you with a brief overview of what the Chinese Zodiac entails.

Photo credit: China Highlights

There are 12 zodiac signs and the order goes like this: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Each animal has its own unique characteristics.

Interestingly, the Chinese Zodiac came about when the Jade Emperor wanted to select 12 animals to be his guards. He proclaimed that the earlier one arrived, the better rank one would have. Therefore the order of zodiac signs that we know now was supposedly the order in which the animals arrived. Well, this is all ancient mythical history. Now that we know the origins of the Chinese Zodiac, let us move onto the juicy parts.

Each Chinese Zodiac animal is believed to portray certain personality attributes and the Chinese believe these traits are reflected in the people born in that particular zodiac year.

Depending on various factors, experts would suggest the dos and don’ts for each zodiac sign for the year ahead. Ranging from lucky numbers, lucky colours, lucky flowers and lucky direction, these are believed to influence different aspects of one’s life. Experts would also provide advice on work, wealth, health and love. You can find out more by going online, visiting temples or even your neighbourhood malls where comprehensive explanations can be seen being put up along with CNY decorations.

Even though zodiac readings may predict your luck and fortune for the coming year, it is down to the individual’s day to day actions and attitude that determines the majority of outcomes. The essentials of working hard and taking care of one’s health will continue to be key for everybody.

With all these being said, we would like to wish everybody a prosperous and bountiful year ahead. Gong Xi Fa Cai!