Month: January 2022

12 Animal Fortunes for 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

How To Use The Animal Fortunes

If you already know your Four Pillars click on the animal name or your birth year in the table below to go straight to your Zodiac Animal nature and forecast. If you don’t know your four pillars please ask me. You’ll want to read the fortune for all four of your pillars. The position of each pillar will tell you how the fortune relates to your life.

Year Pillar

Has to do with your physical body and what you do with it, ancestors, family traits. In terms of luck the year pillar is said to take the first “hit” of any event, good or bad.

Month Pillar

Relates to career, work environment, training, age mates and peers, siblings, exes and your modus operandi.

Day Pillar
Yourself and your partner; relationship.

Hour Pillar
The innermost you, your children, future, dreams.

These forecasts don’t take into account the dynamic interaction of the Four Pillars that make up your particular natal chart, your elemental flow or favorable elements. Do you want to learn more about how to use your BaZi for timing and other purposes? Visit my Services page if you’re ready for a reading.

Are you setting up your house for the Year of the Water Tiger? You may also want to read about Your Good Directions in 2022 and 2022 Feng Shui Basics.

Happy New Year!

2021 Animal Fortunes

Tiger 1938 1950 1962 1974 1986 1998
Rabbit 1939 1951 1963 1975 1987 1999
Dragon 1940 1952 1964 1976 1988 2000
Snake 1941 1953 1965 1977 1989 2001
Horse 1942 1954 1966 1978 1990 2002
Sheep 1943 1955 1967 1979 1991 2003
Monkey 1944 1956 1968 1980 1992 2004
Rooster 1945 1957 1969 1981 1993 2005
Dog 1946 1958 1970 1982 1994 2006
Pig 1935 1947 1959 1971 1983 1995
Rat 1936 1948 1960 1972 1984 1996
Ox 1937 1949 1961 1973 1985 1997

The Ox in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

Postpartum

Oxen have now completed their two year cycle of power. Other signs may spread out their power years but not the Ox. When it’s not an Ox or Rat year, Oxen generally stick to the course that they chose during those two years. Maybe this is why the Ox is always worried that there isn’t enough time to complete all of the things they would like to do.

If you’re an Ox who is not finished with the changes yet, I want you to know they are still possible. You always have a choice. Just because it’s not as easy to change doesn’t mean you can’t. Knowing you, you’ve got something underway but you haven’t shared the news widely. It’s likely a long term project.

The Ox in 2022 has probably taken on a new role in the last couple of years, thinking that it would possibly be a position of power and prestige. For many an Ox, this is exactly what happened. Even so, now the Ox may feel uncertainty about their choice to commit to this particular gig. The Ox is going to be doing a lot of thinking about the commitments they made or didn’t make during the last two years. If your Ox is in the day branch, it could be your significant other is having second thoughts about commitment too. That’s what being in relationship is like isn’t it? You’re not the only one.

Your uncertainty wouldn’t be such a big deal if you didn’t feel like now there is no way to move yourself out of the place you’re in. Remember this is a feeling and not necessarily a reality. The Tiger energy penetrates and pokes you and your problem with commitment may be about that. The dynamic nature of the Tiger makes commitment scary. For the Ox, commitment is demanding and uncomfortable unless it’s routine. This year is asking you to get out of your comfort zone. Make spontaneity and flexibility part of your routine.

If you’re dissatisfied with your current situation, it’s likely because you have come to the conclusion that it is not as advertised. Maybe it’s not all bad, but the Ox has rules and a big one is fairness and fair play. If you want to thwart an Ox, just do them dirty. They may be hurt and angry, but they will also try to see it from your side, even though this only increases their frustration. Those are the rules.

In February, make a conscious decision to either grab the Tiger’s tail or hide out in plain sight. Whatever you do this month will set the tone for the year. I don’t think your efforts to fake cooperation will be helpful for you at all. Try to commit to a course of action or non action. This might be your year to read Melville’s short story Bartleby the Scrivener, that is, unless you’d prefer not to.

In July, because the Ox has a lot of rules, many of which are unspoken, the Ox will run into people who are irritated by them. The Ox maintains the expectation of everyone following their rules, regardless of what they make explicit. This is especially annoying to the Sheep, who put up with plenty of that kind of stuff last year. The Sheep sees rules as a prescription for belonging. You follow the rules, they have to let you in. Once you’re in, there are no rules. Those are the rules.

The Ox’s relationship to the Tiger (both neighbor and Year Boss), is one of the most fascinating of the Chinese Zodiac for several reasons. First of all, many don’t realize the deep bond these two signs are capable of sharing. Secondly, the Tiger has very few “predators”, but the Ox is one of them. Every hidden stem within the Ox and Tiger combines. These two signs can experience a deep understanding but I doubt it’s warm and fuzzy. The Ox is capable of taking over the Tiger at times, this year it’s the Tiger taking over the Ox. This relationship could be deeply intimate, overly controlling, or both at the same time. I wouldn’t call it love though, not unless someone cares to be responsible for the outcome.

Relationships in general may be rough for the Ox in 2022 because of disagreements about what commitment and compromise might look like. You may have lost interest in trying to keep certain relationships going, possibly your partner has too. While we only exist in relationship, that doesn’t mean romantic ones are the only ones that count, so cherish them all. Let go of any that are placeholders to make room for what you want.

The Sheep, who also has an “interesting” relationship with the Tiger, might not see the Tiger coming, but the Ox lives next door. What may strike the Ox to the core in 2022 is the sudden urge to retreat. That might not be the worst idea, but are you sure you are cut out for the rural life? With your position on the compass in 2022, you might be feeling like you can’t get back to a quiet place quickly enough. The feelings of the world are so noisy as to be overwhelming. It’s hard for you to sift out your feelings from those of others’ whether they are far or near, and I know you’re exhausted like everyone else. Know that those sacred and quiet moments of clarity will come. Let the feelings come and go as they may.

Feeling consumed by the Tiger? You have the tool to get yourself free. That’s your Metal. Since Metal is weak, this is doable but likely an uphill battle. Timing wise, make your move in May if you need to get free early on. Wait until the fall if you want it to be final.

Should you choose to leave your employer, take your knowledge and training and the opportunities you’ve had in the last two years and put them together to make the kind of business you want to do, or home in on the position you want. Prior to making any move to change the status quo, define what you want to get out of the change. What are your rules? Express the most important ones. Give all the unspoken ones a rest. Prioritize your demands. Define. Try writing your own job description.

If you are an Ox who has landed in the wrong place and need to stay for a bit, find your niche. Create space or wiggle yourself into one. Again, Metal is the tool you need to change your situation this year. Use your words as a tool to cut through obstacles. Shape the situation as much as you can. Lean on your persistence.

If nothing else satisfies, many Oxen can find satisfaction in spiritual pursuits where they have premises and ideals to follow. You are in the role of Nobleman this year and spirituality or religion may be a part of how you experience that. If people come to you for advice, it may be about more abstract concepts and philosophies. Be aware that the Water Tiger might tempt you to compromise your integrity, so be careful of offering your services as a coach unless you have specific training and plenty of experience. Consider that what you have to offer could be example more than advice.

If you need assistance, look to the Snake or the Rat who could use yours too. This is not the year to start things from scratch unless you’re a baker.

Amulet: Pig

Summary: Maintain status quo or ride the Tiger’s tail? Your call.

January: Sums up 2021. For finishing things; setting in place.
February: Grab the tail or retreat?
April: Break ups
May: Craft the words you need to get more wiggle room.
July: The yin version of the Tiger. Careful of being hidebound.
August-September: Use your words.
October: A small axe.
November-January: The tail of the Tiger. Take care with health.

The Rat in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

The Wheel

Even though the Monkey is the year breaker, I think 2022 might be most challenging for the Rat who is coming down from a prolonged peak of power, strength and stamina. Why does it have to be right when you were hoping to dominate your current situation most?

This is why timing is important. Unless you understand that last year was for completion, and this year is for growth, you might be disappointed. You’ll need to depend on yourself more this year because the kind of support you had may no longer be available as consistently. There are many others looking for the same resources that you are looking for but they are not the kind of competitors you are accustomed to encounter.

Much of what the Rat experiences this year will be the outcome of what they’ve learned about power balance in relationship. How do you manage when you have the whip hand? Because you’ve had it for awhile now. You may have been called cold and sometimes maybe you are. People feel jealous of your comfort with discomfort, both theirs and yours. To you this is where you live. Consider these ideas if you want change. If the Rat is in your day pillar, this might apply to you and your current partner, maybe the feeling is mutual. Try learning their language before looking for someone new. If you need to leave, do it clean and in the open.

The Rat is the only sign to whom I will say: go with the Water Tiger’s flow. The Rat generally enjoys learning and transferring their esoteric knowledge. In 2022, that may be the best way to focus your energy. Start in February if possible. The work you’ve been consistently nurturing during these last three difficult years will become known more widely in 2022. Your work is out there and you can make money from it. Ride what you’ve already accomplished. Write and teach. Enjoy the success you can have from these endeavors. This is the part of 2022 that will be easy.

In 2022, what’s hard is Rats may feel used, used up, especially in February, March, June and July. What might be hard is having the warm relationship you crave without seeing it as a job, i.e. something you put up with for its other compensations. You might be fresh out of ideas about your next iteration. You’re at a point of completion and you know it’s time for something new, but what?

If it’s too hard to let go of the idea of being “the one” in your field for now, I think you can to trust that whatever you just gave birth to is going to be enough to sustain your momentum until you figure your next project. Let the year reveal it to you. It will require some long term commitment.

Water doesn’t have a regular form. Its shapes are endless and it is always shifting and moving. Maybe this is why the Rat is comfortable with the abstract. In a way Water is the most simple element, and yet, a snowflake can be quite complex. Try to hold onto Water and it will slip away. You can influence it, but you can’t imprint it. Like the Rat, Water wants to wash things away to make way for the new beginnings. Floods can devastate but can also return the land to fertility. A Rat can make these kind of choices too. Wait for the new pattern to reveal itself.

It’s a Rat’s vocation to give in 2022, but you might feel like that’s a bad idea because you don’t have as much support as you’d like. If relationship is your goal, do give even if you feel it weakens you. This might also sound contradictory, but make it your mission to seek opposition. Catch up with “opponents”. Find out what they are working on. This is where you will get ideas. Question everything you are sure is true. Steer clear of mining your own content and presenting it as new.

In case you receive difficult feedback about the credit you’ve taken for ideas and innovations you’ve presented, hopefully you have acknowledged your sources. If not, there are some embarrassing things that may surface publicly. If that should happen, take it as a reminder that it’s your approach to relationships that needs attention. If ideas about intellectual property and plagiarism emerge, ask yourself why. Are you cherry picking someone else’s work? Or is someone cherry picking yours? Is there such a thing as an original idea?

The Rat’s Water is both a Monkey’s tool and a Tiger’s support, so you’ll want to be careful of inadvertently being in drawn into their juvenile disputes in February and August. Steer clear of ideas about who is right and facilitate communication instead, but don’t get caught up in talk at the cost of action. As is my advice for all this year, cultivate flexibility. For a Rat, this might mean seeking a relationship with Fire as opposed to, you know, trying to put it out. If you’re caught between Tiger and Monkey, Fire is the way to go. Turn on the warmth. Trust yourself to act spontaneously. Practice that. Your turn at the top of the wheel is over for now so it’s time to change your strategy regularly.

I’m not sure there could ever be enough recognition for a Rat and I get it. There’s so much you do with out anyone asking or even noticing. There’s always that conflict between you wanting to touch others with your work, but also being unwilling or unable to be touched back. If this is true for you, consider that this has to do with your relationship to Fire. I want you to try being vulnerable to Fire in 2022. I know you can think of a million things that could go wrong, but that is true at any moment in time. You have the flexibility to make it work. Making the choice to be open to Fire could be as simple as taking on some realistic optimism and encouraging it in others. If you can learn that skill this year, I think it will save you substantial heartache in 2023.

After the first half of the year, it may be more difficult to express yourself. With the Pig in a more authoritative position than you, your normally strategic ways of communication may be too slow or go unheard. Pay more attention to the timing of your words and what you mean to accomplish with them. Maybe being right all the time is not always helpful. Predicting disaster is the low hanging fruit these days. Clash yourself by predicting happy events too.

If you want to continue to be recognized for your intentions as a helper, avoid raining on other people’s parades. If there’s anything to celebrate, let it happen. When does that future come where you say you will celebrate? Keep offering advice about caution, that is, caution as a strategy as opposed to “not doing”.

Most importantly, 2022 provides a big window opportunity to get in touch with children, parents and any estranged family members. Go with that flow, even in March when it will tend to be more fraught. 2023 will bring events and work to do in the context of family. If there are apologies to be made, or relationships to revive, break the ice now. In know you’ll be glad you did.

Amulet: Pig
Rather than thinking of an amulet as something to use, or something to protect you, cultivate the idea of a partnership with the energy of the Pig. Become versatile. Rise to the occasion. Transform yourself through spontaneity. Be seen and touched.

Summary: Bad behavior is learned through neglect. Good behavior is learned through example.

February: Take care with intellectual property, yours and others’.
March: Get in touch with family.
April: Draining.
June: Spontaneity and flexibility will make life smoother.
August: In case of conflict, careful of taking on more than you can handle alone.
September: Frustration with partnership may bring uncomfortable thoughts.
November: If it’s a creative bust, wait until next month.
December: Ending on a high note, but indiscretions of the year may be revealed.

The Pig in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

Pigs in Space

This year the Pig’s mission, if they want it, is to examine their fears about intimacy and sharing space. If you feel there’s a conflict of interest for you around that idea, all the more reason to do it. The Tiger may have you feeling anxious and crowded, also smitten. Stop and consider whether that is the Tiger’s intention or just some part of their nature that’s in you too. Maybe you enjoy the scariness? In the case of secret friends Tiger and Pig, like calls to like no matter how it looks on the surface. The Tiger is probably the one person you find it difficult to exclude. This is not a problem for you with others. That alone will make for some anxiety – simply being unused to being that close to anyone.

Letting people in makes you worry because you are afraid they want to get close in order to make you more like them. That may or may not be true, however in the case of the Tiger, you might be right. In many cases, in partnership this is what the Tiger demands and what they get, or they leave. The Tiger will push you to keep up. What you need to know is not every Tiger is like this. There are going to be Tigers who show up who have learned not to make impossible demands of their partners, but you’ll have to take it case by case. On the plus side, the Tiger will be helpful in focusing your talents into one project and organizing your priorities.

2022 brings a lesson for the Pig about sharing space and making space for relationships. The Tiger and Pig are secret friends. This year it’s not so secret.

In a Water Tiger year, the lucky Pig has the most opportunities for alliance, and venues for their talent. 2022 is going to be a good year. I know you might not believe this, but I’m telling you that many things are going to go well for you. As the case seems to be for everyone this year, what is offered to the Pig is what can be learned in the context of relationship. When the Tiger meets the Pig, there are new directions for growth. What if I told you that you can fuel resistance or reduce it at will?

Pigs are off to a dynamic start right away in February, when the combination of Tiger and Pig creates the Wood element. How that manifests is unique to each natal chart, because in a Ba Zi a combination of Earthly Branches potentially creates or supports an element, and potentially reduces or removes another. What’s difficult for someone who is new to these ideas is that they think it has to be one or the other, when it’s usually both. It can be difficult for us to hold in our minds that more than one thing can be true at once. Maybe that relates to the Pig’s challenge in understanding there is no purely good or purely bad experience. My point is, if you have a Pig in your Ba Zi, you can expect some good things this year, even if Wood is not your best element. Maybe the most important lesson the Pig can learn this year is how to handle cognitive dissonance.

If at any point you realize you’ve taken on too much, make adjustments. Get advice from the Rabbit. If there are things you want to drop completely, it will be easiest in October. Unless you’ve reached a breaking point, try to hold out until then. Try not to retreat unless it’s strategic.

Although it seems like it would be obvious, when Pig and Tiger are together outsiders may not be able to tell which is which. People may perceive the relationship as one of control, but if that’s true, I think it might be mutual. Pigs empower Tigers by way of domestic resources. A smitten Pig might go so far as to buy clothes for a lover so they don’t have to shop – also because they want to decide what you wear. Pygmalion? On the other hand, the Tiger empowers the Pig, but also wants to change their nature. It is possible to control by way of support. The Tiger may want you to do better so they can look better. Appearances, including showing up, are more important this year for you. Work on your timing with that.

What I don’t recommend is letting yourself be consumed. The lesson of the Tiger for the Pig isn’t that they should “succumb” to relationship. It’s a lesson about how it’s possible to maintain your own identity and still have the intimacy you crave. Do you still not realize how resilient you are?

Keep in mind that the outcome of the breaks you get in 2022 likely won’t arrive until 2023. Until then, keep cobbling those synergistic talents and projects together. Don’t be premature when it comes to putting your product out there, but know that March will give you a preview of 2023; what it will be like when the time is right. The most happy Pigs I’ve run into are the ones who have two or three small(ish) projects that feed each other. They change them up from time to time, but whatever they do relies on their multiple talents. This suits the versatility of the Pig, who could be successful in almost any career. That’s what also makes it difficult for the Pig to settle on any one thing. Who was it that told you that you have to? Maybe it was a jealous Snake.

If the Pig is in your day pillar and you’re single, 2022 may bring a new partner. Partnered Pigs may also find someone new in their life (a baby?). It’s likely that throughout the year you might be considering a break up or overhaul of your current relationships. That energy will peak in February and November. If the Pig is not in your day, you might be exploring these same concepts in the context of other alliances: family, parents, siblings, children, employees, co workers or colleagues.

What might get a Pig into trouble is over communication or indiscretion. The Pig’s straight shooting manner is sometimes perceived as too blunt to be friendly or promote trust. The Tiger leads the Pig to be more expressive and aggressive. Be careful of alienating others through carelessness with your words. If you want to avoid hard feelings, don’t share another’s secret without their explicit permission. Like the Dragon, you are a catalyst. Acknowledge how you can soothe or stir conflict at will. If you have not realized this before, check your natural tendencies in May and do some experimenting.

No year is without its difficulties, however, this is the year to act like you know that 2023 is going to bring the peak you’ve been waiting for – because it is. What you want to keep at the front of your mind is everything that goes right this year. Make your internal narrative a balance of planning and preparation for 2023, and counting up all the breaks you’re receiving. The biggest risk this year lies in you not realizing how lucky you are. Maybe you’ve got used to thinking of yourself as the opposite. Consider whether this is a habit because if it is, you might be sabotaging yourself. Don’t do that.

Amulet: I don’t think you need one.

Summary: In the driver’s seat.

February: Potential partnerships abound. Believe it.
March: Preview of 2023’s success
May: Do you want to stir or soothe conflict?
October: Cull and harvest in preparation for 2023.
November: Possible losses. Take care with bathing and indoor swimming. If you are depleted, seek support.

The Dog in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

Personal Best

In a Tiger year the Dog can experience support and empowerment and promotion, however, it looks like a fairly quiet year. Funny how this Tiger year has very little that is special for you other than the work you can do on relationships. It’s almost like the universe is telling you what needs attention in your life. Dogs are being asked to make a lasting change about their allegiances at a time when that might not feel right to them.

In 2022, rewards may not be as big as you’ve come to expect, at least not in the public arena. What the year has to offer you is by way of alliance so the question is how have you been treating your partners and associates? How have they been treating you? As part of the Fire Trio of Tiger, Horse and Dog you are in the company of those who can make you successful, but they don’t have to. What can you bring to the table as a group member? As with all other signs this year, the most important thing for you to pay attention is to your values in relationships.

First things first: Question who wants to empower you and why. Know who you are working for. The Tiger is capable of being the master manipulator of the Dog because being part of the same group, the Dog assumes they want the same things. This is not always true. If you’ve been fooled in this way in the past, you’re in good company. Even a Dragon can get taken in when it comes to the Tiger. The Tiger is generally empowering you to work for them, not for you. Dogs who are entrepreneurs will especially want to keep that in mind.

The return of Fire in 2022 brings you support, but this year know that the price might be that it reinforces your stubbornness. Strong Fire seems to give the Dog baked in ideas about their behavior, making it difficult to change. In 2022, overestimation of the importance of your fans could interfere with the class and social mobility the Dog likes to know is always available. Don’t let approval blind you to what you know is right or wrong.

Many opportunities are offered throughout the year. These are big and by nature may be difficult to take advantage of; it may be hard to rise to the challenges that will accompany them. I’m telling you this because I think you could be tempted to ignore the smaller, intimate and personal opportunities that are more important now. In business, progress is easy, but that’s not what will bring the change you might want. It’s process where the Dog often gets frustrated, thinking that all time is geological except for theirs. Let relationship matters unfold at their own pace. Choose what you want because you want it, not because you think it’s going to get you something you want. What I’m saying is that your private relationships are the foundation of your public self, not vice versa. I hope that makes sense.

In February, the Tiger sparks the Dog’s restlessness which will continue throughout the year. Take care with travel because you may be accident prone, especially at the times you are exhausted or depleted. Don’t drive unless you have all your faculties about you.

The Dog’s aspirations in 2022 start off strong, but what the year has to offer will likely be small. That’s not necessarily a negative if you’re interested in the repair and rejuvenation of domestic relationships. If you need healing, this is where you’ll find it.

In March you’ll want to learn how to get better at sharing. You’ll learn that being a provider includes domestic chores and other things, such as emotional labor. You may have thought these things were not your job. Younger Dogs seem to have these things well underway so perhaps this applies mostly to those of us who are older.

Dogs will become more prominent again in 2022. Look for this to peak in June. We’ll hear more in the news about Dogs and they will experience a resurgence of whatever fame they have had in the past. Be aware that the Tiger might be the first one to take that fame away or change it to infamy, too. If you leave yourself open to manipulation because what you like to feel most is approval, that is the potential outcome.

Don’t believe everything you hear or see. Dogs will benefit from taking advice from the Rabbit in 2022, because being alone with the Tiger’s brand of support makes them think they are infallible. The Tiger encourages the Dog’s tendency to keep making the same mistakes, over and over. This may serve the Tiger but it doesn’t serve the Dog. Don’t defer to another’s guidance just because you think they’ve attained what you want.

Of late, many a Dog has been fooled into thinking they are successful when in fact many of their efforts have been co-opted or used for someone else’s benefit; someone who doesn’t have their best interests at heart. Dogs who fell into this trap are starting to realize how they may have sold themselves out for a purported reward that never materialized. This kind of realization is what will lead you to rediscover who you really are. Stick with that even if it’s painful. Who did/do you want to be? Consider that if you’re finding success unsatisfying maybe you need to redefine it.

In April, remind yourself that nobody made you do anything you didn’t want to do. That could be painful but don’t avoid whatever feelings you’re having about that. Instead, let that energy loosen your routines. Accept a little instability in order to facilitate movement.

In July you’ll want to remember there is no one on earth that everyone likes and that includes you. However ill used you might possibly feel now, at this point in time you are far from being a victim. Be open about your hurts but don’t try to use them as a selling point or jumping off point for policy making.

In case of new (or returning) health issues this year, consider that you might be in a state of elemental imbalance. This implies you have agency, and you do. You can influence it. Stay hydrated. If you get too hot, know that bad judgment may accompany that state. Slow down and cool down.

When autumn arrives, if you haven’t been doing so already, cultivate peace through the regulation of your breath; consciously breathe. Take extra care with respiratory health this year. Consider air quality.

If you need to move aim for August. That means you’ll need to start planning now, but planning doesn’t mean you have to decide right away. August is the month you’ll be feeling the urge for travel, world events permitting. International travel may not be an option this year.

In 2022, seek leadership for what it is: a service role. Leadership is not achieved by way of compliance or surrender. Find out what people really need and provide it. Cut through obstacles and make space. Lead people, not corporations, countries or movements.

Amulet: Pig
Rather than thinking of an amulet as something to use, or something to protect you, cultivate the idea of a partnership with the energy of your neighbor the Pig. Look to the flexibility and adaptability of the people in your community for inspiration. Be ready to provide whatever is needed for family well being.

Summary: Life consists of small things.

February: Want to run? Slow down. Think and feel if you want change this year.
April: Boundary incursions. Is it an attack or an opportunity to learn?
June: Stay hydrated and open to the idea of your possible stubbornness. Business is good.
July: Break patterns around your power dynamic with those you see as weak.
October: Present something you’ve been working on for a long time.

The Rooster in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

Whistle and Whittle

Some Feng Shui masters have you down as the luckiest one in 2022 and part of your attraction and charm is that you’ve got something that others want. Maybe it’s your ability to put money together in difficult times. That’s often what people focus on for luck, isn’t it? If the Rooster is in your day pillar, maybe it’s you that others want – or maybe it’s your significant other! There may be a little covetousness in your vicinity this year. This is something to be aware of, not a curse.

I think Roosters will be lucky too, but not simply because of their relationship to money and power. Who would expect that a Rooster can both tame and inspire the Tiger? This year has the potential to convince you of that. Trust in whatever optimism you might have. You have reason to. The Rooster’s special gift this year is the ability to whittle away at potential obstacles before they have a chance to become unmanageable. To my way of thinking, that’s a good deal.

Caution: So much of the year is about money for you and how you might decide that it’s the solution to your problems. You’re not necessarily wrong, but there’s always more than one possible solution to any problem. Try to be more creative.

The Rooster’s fancy calculations may not be able to keep up with the Tiger’s constant changes of pace this year, so rely more on your natural charm. Be you, for real. Get to know who you are now, after these last draining years. Stop worrying about what happened in the past or who said what to whom. Let the future unfold. Locate yourself in the present or you’ll miss out. Now is good.

Just because things haven’t been easy doesn’t mean you haven’t been lucky. Others will stop trying to convince you of this if you grant yourself the peace of accepting it. When people think you are stubborn it’s because you don’t state your reasoning openly. This usually happens when you are afraid of others laughing at you. Unfortunately, staying mum means that you stay afraid and others continue to think you are obstinate. They don’t understand the underlying cause of your behavior is probably fear. State your case clearly and calmly and trust that others will understand.

Being a Rooster, you usually have pretty clear ideas about what it means to look good and to dress appropriately. In 2022 people will perceive you as more attractive than usual. If that sounds strange to you, I’m here to tell you I’ve seen it happen. Peach blossom is a better beauty enhancement than human intervetion. You’ll see.

Men born in a Rooster year may not be as lucky in relationships as women, which might sound like a contradictory thing to say if you know your elements. In a Tiger year, the male Rooster’s potential anger relating to family patterns could potentially spill over into every interaction.

When those difficult (ugly?) feelings arise, feel whatever you’re feeling without going through your list of past situations and reasons why you have stuff to feel. Stop reinforcing the link with your past experiences. You are not the same person and neither is anyone else. If you can’t give up the nostalgia, at least sync up your memories with the feelings you want to have.

One way a Rooster might deal with anger is by declaring an emergency, or failing to reveal an emergency. If this is you, I’m guessing you have probably struggled with lifelong concerns about attention deprivation. Sometimes I can see this in a BaZi. I don’t make causal conclusions, but I do think emergencies are sometimes a way of seeing who will show up. If you have a Rooster in your life and you want to support them, keep showing up, emergency or not. If you are the Rooster, be more direct more often about seeking the attention you want or need and there will tend to be fewer emergencies. How would you like to get noticed?

What makes that question so relevant in 2022 is that timing brings Dragon Virtue to the Rooster. This means you can change your reputation. Even if it’s already shiny, you can give it a good polish by way of acknowledging that not only can you take care of yourself, you have your ways of taking care of others. Preferring the opposite doesn’t negate that truth. Instead of thinking you are loved out of duty, believe you are loved for your beauty. You might be the only one who doesn’t appreciate it. Your denials reveal your secret: you are worried that others feel obligated to love you. Even if they did, it’s still their choice. So let yourself be loved and cherished.

In 2022, a possible obstacle is that friends and associates don’t meet your definition of commitment. This is a timing issue more than a betrayal, but if it’s worrying you, then talk about it. Listen too. Maybe they are withdrawn out of hardship or illness. Since the problem mostly has to do with timing, you can either explore it in your relationships or wait it out. If you’re trying to wait it out, know it’s going to keep coming around. The peak of questioning the loyalty of others may arrive in January, March, April, and May.

In terms of your health, this year Metal is weak. Don’t be too worried about that, but do make sure you get plenty of rest. Don’t push yourself beyond your physical limits. If you do have health concerns, you may want to explore what Metal means to you. This will vary according to your day master element and the elemental dynamics within your BaZi. If Metal is weak that could potentially be helpful for you. Having a BaZi is the best way to understand what the weakness of Metal in 2022 means for you.

In February and March you may have money on your mind due to unforeseen expenses. Prices are going up. In March, you may have a concern that money is being spent on someone undeserving. If this has to do with supporting children by way of supporting parents, make a closer analysis before you decide what to do about that. If you feel the need to cut someone down to size, be aware that in a Tiger year, there will be a branch snapping back for you to dodge. Don’t hurt yourself by hurting others.

April brings the height of your charm. If you are looking for a business or creative partner, this could be a lucky month for you. Romance beckons for you, but your partner may not be so interested in physical intimacy. Explore other means.

In May you’ll want to have a care if you’re traveling, especially if you’re traveling with your usual traveling companions Monkey or Snake. Monkeys often enjoy driving and cars but in this year they may tend to be more accident prone. That goes for the Snake too. There’s an abundance of impulsive movement throughout the year for everyone. If travel is in the cards for you, make backup plans in case something breaks down.

In August the Metal element becomes timely but so does Water. This will be the month to focus on maintaining your stamina and endurance. Be sure to rest when it’s time. You may be feeling stronger, but don’t let yourself become depleted mentally, emotionally or physically.

All in all, it is a lucky year for the Rooster. Focus on what you can do to foster the reputation you want. Stop worrying about the small and petty things that really have nothing to do with you. Express your needs clearly. Pay attention to and listen to the people who love you.

Amulet: Ox
Rather than thinking of an amulet as something to use, or something to protect you, cultivate the idea of a partnership with the energy of the Ox. Practice emotional context switching. Seek endurance, persistence and stamina

Summary: Request attention. Don’t wait for others to do what you can do for yourself.

February: Continue to work to resolve last year’s issues. Trust optimism.
March: Consider your jealousy is unwarranted. Count blessings.
April: Promising partnerships but be clear about what commitment means to you.
May: Careful with travel.
August: Be aware of who you’re rolling with, who their friends are and where they’ve been.
September: Potential mistakes of thinking you have to pay for someone to care.
December: Stay warm and dry.

The Monkey in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

Like Skiing Through Trees

In a Tiger year, the Monkey is called the Sui Po or Year Breaker. The Monkey is the recipient of the Tiger’s focused energy and they are elemental opposites. The Tiger is yang Wood, the Monkey is yang Metal. Your clash with the Tiger is something you’ve handled for one month of every year you’ve been alive. The Tiger is present every year in February, which makes February 2022 special. February 2022 is a Water Tiger month, like the year. Expect February to foreshadow all of the possible events of the year. Pay attention so you can use that knowledge to your advantage.

While this clash isn’t new to you, what might make it harder this time is that it’s a year instead of a month. Don’t count on gutting it out. Take active measures to shape the changes that are coming because in 2022, the Monkey gets the lion’s share of the Tiger’s energy. Don’t forget the Tiger brings the renewal of the Fire element too. Monkeys will be challenged regarding money and success, and defined regarding power and agency. As it does for everyone else, the year brings a steep learning curve for the Monkey. Take advice purposely from a trustworthy source if you want help.

The Monkey is also one of the three branches involved in what is called the Fire Penalty. To summarize the meaning of the Fire Penalty, the Monkey may be more accident prone especially in February, May and August. The Fire Penalty is mostly about movement and transportation so if you’re a Tiger, Snake or Monkey, travel is something you might choose to avoid this year. There’s more to this energetic situation than I’ve mentioned here. If you’d like to know more about the Fire Penalty, read the Snake Fortune.

In the position of the Sui Po for 2022, the Monkey will face a constant need to clear obstacles that relate to their success and money. While this will probably be frustrating and even overwhelming at times, it will be important to remember that each obstacle fuels the Fire that forges you. Each obstacle improves your ability to say no; to stand up for yourself rather than letting yourself be injured. Metal is the weakest element this year, but Fire can make Metal more durable. Let it happen.

A good strategy for the Monkey in handling stress this year might be to consciously channel the idea of the obstacles as a challenge you’ve negotiated before. For example, if you’ve ever had a skiing lesson, you could think of the year as something like skiing through the trees of a forest. You can’t go too fast because you need time to steer your course, but going too slow will get you nowhere. Keep moving, but go at your own pace, even when you feel momentum. Let the process happen. Pizza AND french fries.*

What advice do I give about a clash year? Let yourself be changed. Choose the changes you want. If there’s going to be destruction, you choose. With a habit of turning to work (any kind of work) for solace, often what a Monkey is avoiding is emotional disclosure. This year emotions are easily accessible to you, so let the feelings come. Express them. Communication is the thing that will bridge the divide between you and the Tiger. If you’re looking to pacify, they may even feel supported by it. Don’t fake it though because the Tiger will know.

One problem in 2022 could be having to turn down opportunities. When it comes to making money, what you need to do is be very selective. There will be identifiable moments when Monkeys will need to challenge their own endurance, which might mean their workaholic nature. Monkeys may need to say no to short deadlines, and say no to always doing more. Saying no is not turning down your last chance, so ask yourself why you usually think it is.

In the Water Tiger year, Monkeys are going to have to push back against all these demands that take up too much space in their mind and therefore, in their life. Maybe it’s the Tiger who coined the term “monkey brain” – because the Tiger gets in your head. Take the challenge and turn it back on the challenger. There are both compromises and refusals to make. Maintain your gentleness as you can but stand up for yourself. Say no to violence.

Let yourself be changed and defined by openly disagreeing. Find the ways to do this that work for you, and it will build your self confidence. Wait for the right moment, it will come. If you are going to attack, do it openly and watch the obstacles disappear. This year you might think people are too thick realize when you are being aggressive but guess what? They are watching and they know, however, you can get away with aggression by confronting obstacles consistently, routinely, dependably, and warmly.

Because the Wood element is so strong, this year may feel a bit crowded for the Monkey. People will be trying to get in your space to get you to do things they want you to do for their benefit. Because there’s some kind of profit in it for you, you may be afraid to confront them when they go too far with their demands. When you don’t say no, it gives them a platform to continue with their bad behavior, nitpicking, consuming, and taking up all the space in the world; creating instability for everyone. Don’t let yourself be used for purposes that are against your values. To protect yourself, listen. People will tell you exactly who they are right from the first meeting.

If anxiety has been an issue for you in the past, it may show itself again this year, but there’s no need for despair or talk of relapses. As you have probably already learned, anxiety is not a permanent state. If there are moments of fear, don’t forget that you’re not the only one who is afraid. Consider that it might not be your fear that you are feeling, it might be someone else’s. Sort this out as much as you’re able. Each time the fear comes it might make you think there’s too much against you to push back, but in certain cases that will be the perfect solution. Make decisions because that is the way to get better at making decisions.

It might feel fake to act as if everything is going to be okay but like poison, in small doses it can be helpful. Embrace the heat of the Fire element. What I mean is, take the heat rather than comply with the demand that you constantly work, because this is what really defines you. Choose the Fire of initiation wherever you can. This may not be your year for physical risks, but those aren’t the ones you are afraid of, are they? Take some time off.

If you have bitterness stored up, focus on talk with trusted people. This might be anyone. It doesn’t have to be a therapist. You need advice less than you need some solid ground under your feet and someone who will listen, acknowledge and try to understand. That’s how you’ll know when it’s the right person to talk to.

Whatever you do, don’t suffer in silence. Instead, let people love you. You can try to keep your head down, thinking that people would make fun of you if they found out how fragile you can be, but that might prevent you from understanding what makes you special. It’s your combination of fragility and endurance that commands respect. Let yourself be defined that way.

Summary: The Lion’s Share

Amulet: Horse
Rather than thinking of an amulet as something to use, or something to protect you, cultivate the idea of a partnership with the energy of the Horse. Be tested by making decisions. Learn when to rush forward and when to run in the opposite direction. Your gentle authority is what can tame the Tiger.

February: Peak obstacles. Seek Fire.
March: You’ve got more power than you realize. Use it for cooperation.
April: The challenge is obvious and you’ve got friends and support. Talk.
June: Initiation is possible and likely. What do you want it to be?
August: Talk dispels potential bitterness. Push back with purpose now.
September: Finding your new form.
November: Possible money loss.
December: Ending on a high note. Back to work.

*The terms Pizza and French Fries are describing the position you want for your skis according to whether you want to go slower or faster.
Pizza: To slow down, the forward tips of the skis point at each other so it makes a triangle shape like a pizza slice.
French Fries: To speed up, keep the skis parallel, like two french fries lying side by side.

The Sheep in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

Reality Doesn’t Bite

In the Water Tiger year the Sheep can combine with the Tiger’s energy to grow their agency. Take on the fierce and independent nature of the Tiger and let it make you stronger. Let the past be the past. Consider letting go of old ideas about what it means to be part of the collective. This year you don’t have to be an insider to be important. Put your loyalty where it is deserved and reciprocated if you want change in 2022. Be your own counselor.

Learn how to find companionship where it is genuinely offered. It probably won’t be in the VIP section, but that is no longer a safe place to be anyway. This idea could be disappointing if you spent a lot of time trying to get in. Give yourself some time and you’ll find it liberating instead. Good news! What you want is not going to be found in a roped off area. In fact, you might already have it.

While the Sheep may be frightened or feel pushed by the Tiger, the elemental relationship of the two strengthens the Sheep and transforms the Tiger’s movement to stillness. A Sheep that knows this can take charge of the Tiger. Elementally speaking, the Sheep is the yin version of the Tiger. The polarities and proportions of their hidden elements are different, but they consist of the same three: Wood Fire and Earth.

As is the case with Tiger and Ox, the potential combination between Tiger and Sheep levels the playing field. It allows for new alliances and new definitions of power. It is described by Master Lily Chung as having “no caring and no leader, no authority, no dedication”. If that’s the situation, then in 2022 anyone can be a leader or an authority, probably by means of dedication. If that sounds scary to you, is it because you are afraid to lead? Do you have the dedication? Get off the bench and start setting examples. Start small if that feels safer.

Like the Tiger, you have the potential to be an insider this year. Take some time to think about what you want that to mean beyond the warm rush of inclusion. Don’t join to avoid being alone. Join only if it’s mutual. If you’re looking for a closer attachment or some kind of excitement, stay close to your secret friend the Horse. You understand each other because each of you is interested in getting close to power, but not so much in doing the heavy lifting. The Horse uses seduction, while the Sheep’s method is alliance. If you want new results, try new things.

In the beginning of the year, the Sheep may find themselves employed as a staunch supporter of the Tiger as they strive to continue to be part of what they thought of as their community. As we get into the last half of the year, the Sheep may find that ultimately the Tiger energy is not what makes them feel safe. This is why where you choose to give your support or not matters quite a bit in 2022, but when it comes to relationships in general, you may not be “feeling it”. Keep asking yourself if you are in the right place. Is it possible for your expectations to be met as you envision?

The Sheep’s fantasies have a potency that sometimes blinds them to the delight of what they actually have and experience. Sometimes they prevent the Sheep from seeing that what is actually being offered is something they would enjoy, or that it isn’t. If this is true for you, how will reality be anything but disappointing? Step back for a moment and take a second look. Maybe you’re in the right place after all.

The Wood of the Tiger empowers the Sheep, making it a good year for you to get to know who you are outside of your collective. It’s not that you don’t want to be part of the group, it’s that you might realize there’s not much about it that makes you feel forever enfolded and safe this year. If that feeling doesn’t make you give up, you’re about to take on more agency. We are never finished with growing up.

The year will tend to draw the Sheep to consider the role your parents have played in your current state of affairs. If you have Sheep children, you may be on the receiving end of the examination. This situation could generate some healthy and possibly much needed exploration regarding your role in group settings – who are you? The loyal one? The helpful one? The optimistic one? The falsely gullible one? Are you committed to being defined by the group you’re in? What about your definition?

The big question for the Sheep this year is: Who do you want to be for yourself? If you’re looking for more peace and love, then looking to apportion blame regarding why you don’t feel it now is a trap. It’s a dead end. If forgiveness is required, then give it and be free. The feelings you are working with this year may have their roots in family roles that play out as a result of decisions made, usually around a hurtful event in the past. We make a decision, that makes a pattern, and so we continue unless we’re interrupted.

If you want to break a pattern, expose yourself to the perspective of an outsider this year. Perhaps this will give you a clearer vision of what those decisions were that you made so long ago. Maybe you have never looked back. We all have unexamined family baggage, and yours will tend to front and center on family or parents in 2022.

This baggage might consist of feelings about who raised you, or who chose not to. What broke your trust when you gave your best? Was your love not enough to make someone love you the way you wanted to be loved? Who was it that “couldn’t be there” when you absolutely thought they should have? Maybe when that happened, you were too young to say something about it, but now that you’re not, it seems the statute of limitations has expired. You can’t change the past, but you can revise your story of the present.

Your current feeling of disconnect will spill over into other relationships too if you allow it. If that’s not what you want, examine your expectations about bonding and attachment and you may find miracles of intimacy are possible. Don’t forget to ask yourself if it’s you that you don’t trust. Is it you that hasn’t taken care of you? In short, what is your responsibility in the solution?

In 2022 you might feel abandoned by those you’ve tried to please and nurture, especially if you gave them support when they were down. You might be hurt because you feel they didn’t do the same for you when you needed them last year. Remember that our mutual support of each other has been inconsistent for reasons that go beyond the personal. You say you don’t want to be transactional but it’s hard to avoid because we all have needs and we’ve gotten into bad habits with our expectations of each other. I know you just want to be included. I want that for you too. See the support and love you have, rather than the support and love you don’t have. It’s there.

The Sheep is a Nobleman this year, regardless of whatever else is going on. If you want to counsel others, go ahead. This is one way of healing. Many a Sheep might act as a therapist, whether that’s in a formal or informal capacity, because we all tend to teach what we want to learn.

Bring back your light. Soften your eyes. The warmth is there, and you can get close to it if you want to. There is peace and love for you in this world if you choose to accept it.

Summary: Reality Doesn’t Bite

Amulet: Pig
Rather than thinking of an amulet as something to use, or something to protect you, cultivate the idea of a partnership with the energy of the Pig. Know that you can grow and change your shape and alliances as you wish. You’re strong enough to go it alone if needed.

February: Promising alliances with power. Expectations vs Reality
March: Challenge and solution arrive together for the flexible. Could involve money.
June: Peak support and spontaneity, but partner may be off the rails.
July: Potentially lonely. Make effort to strengthen the bonds that are important to you.
October: A mutual rejection clears the way for peace and love.
November: Rabbit year comes in early for you, heralding new alliances.

The Horse in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

The Meaning of Having It All

In the Water Tiger year the Horse is encouraged and lifted. It’s been awhile since your Fire has been strengthened so forgive yourself if it makes your legs shaky, almost like a newborn in your perspective. Go gently with yourself despite your urgency to prove that you are back. I doubt you are sure what that means but you will find out soon. Still recovering from the three year onslaught of Water ending with with a coup de grâce of Ox, you were the first to feel the quickening of Fire, maybe as far back as November. Believe it.

For the Horse, 2022 carries that psychedelic feeling of coming out of illness: colors seem more vivid, nature is a fascinating miracle, curious smells are everywhere, everything is new. It’s like falling in love with the world again. even as it is now. Especially as it is now. You can feel how much the world needs you.

The long term outcome of the Horse’s good luck this year will depend on how their relationship with Water has evolved over the last three years. Your work is not finished when yang Water is the Heavenly Stem of the year. Water to a Horse might be the potential disappointment that’s always on your mind these days. What if the Water is just trying to help or teach you? What have you learned about maintaining the relationships you want over the last three years? Just because Wood and Fire are strong now doesn’t mean you can forget all about Water. Stay in touch with all of those difficult emotions. Don’t forget how loss, or potential loss, may have clarified your values.

A secret the Horse keeps is that they crave alliance with Water. This is a mysterious attraction, frightening but irresistible. The Horse wants to bring their light to the dark and make a marriage. The Horse that learns to do this can sustain themselves through almost any difficulty. So my question to you is: have you figured out yet that your relationship to the darkness and your emotions is a partnership as much as a clash? Have you learned the alchemy of sustaining yourself in relationship? Or are you still afraid and ready to bolt? Gentle now for your own heart’s sake.

The Horse’s element is Fire and it’s been years since Fire has been as strong as it will be in 2022. When Wood and Fire are strong, that means you are too. You’re due for a big burst of forward energy in 2022. This is good news for the Horse in terms of planning and execution. You’ve got big aspirations, ambitions and ideas about turning things around quickly and this year you can do that. Your luck with career is strong. It will be easy for the Horse to get attention for their work.

And yet, as a Horse, you can expect to experience the usual tensions between personal and public. Why is there always this gap between who you want to be in your private life vs. how you want to present yourself to the rest of the world?

In June, Horses may be swept away by their exposure or at a low point of not wanting to be seen. Take time to get out of the limelight and rest in the shade. You’re probably going to be talking more than you want to, so guard your privacy if it matters to you. Your behavior is going to be observed and noted. Be careful of overexposure and burnout. June is the peak time for mistakes so be open to feedback about your pace.

Because you can move things forward quite far this year, I suggest you focus on things that you want for the long term. It would be easy to just bask in the light and let the cards fall where they may. Are you sure you want to do that again? Whatever you choose to do, do it acknowledging the potential outcome. In the short term, the Horse might get away with almost anything this year, but maybe away is the operative word here. I mean, if you want to get away, then do.

In 2022 it will be easier to ignore the things that are not going well because there will be so many things that are. That is to say, what needs attention is relationship and how you maintain it when other aspects of life feel more happy and satisfying. Both personal or business relationships will ask for your support this year. How you see that in relation to experiencing career success is your choice.

In the context of authority, stay in compliance with rules and regulations to avoid legal issues. This year, mostly what you need to do is give attention to things that aren’t “fun” or “going well”. Perhaps you feel like you’d like to be done with that but given that Water will always be your challenge, the solution is in relationship rather than resistance.

If the Horse is in your day pillar, consider making your most intimate relationship your highest priority in 2022. If that sounds tedious to you, all the more reason to do it. Either you or your partner may be in a frame of mind to look outside of your partnership for intimacy, emotional or otherwise. Start communicating now (and continue!) to mitigate potential flare ups in February, March and December.

There is enough time in the year to enjoy what is easy and apply effort to what is not. Soak up the recognition, you’ve worked for it. Because you have been waiting so long and trying to be a patient Horse it may be difficult to keep your foot light on the accelerator. We all tend to be seduced by what feels satisfying at any given moment unless we’re aware of that choice. Go ahead and harvest the low hanging fruit of public success. If you want personal success, cultivate relationship. If you’re afraid of missing out on something by being a caring and attentive partner, know that you won’t.

In March it may be that despite your best efforts, your significant other is feeling used up. A close friend or partner may disappear in search of companionship if you constantly make yourself unavailable. And if you do, that’s a choice too. I suggest Horses take time off of work in March to focus on relationship, however, know also that giving attention to relationship might mean ending it. If that’s what needs to happen, then let it. Horses might think there is only one partner for them and if it’s not this one, it’s no one. That’s just short sighted. There can be more than one satisfying relationship for a Horse.

Overall, it’s a year to be patient with others and remember that your ideas about swiftness are demanding for everyone. If you’re a Horse who is still concerned that if you don’t win every race you’ll be forever rejected, the Water Tiger’s burst of Fire might harden that conviction. This year will tend to support any illusions you might have about success being a solo enterprise. Don’t go with that flow. If it is possible to have it all, the Horse can do it in 2022 if they are willing to put in the effort where it’s needed. Everything else will take care of itself. That’s the kind of luck you have.

Summary: Apportion efforts to support long term goals.

Amulet: Pig
Rather than thinking of an amulet as something to use, or something to protect you, cultivate the idea of a partnership with the energy of the Pig. Be flexible and ready to take care of maintenance in domestic matters. Support your support system.

February: Driven by ambition, aspiration. Balance aggression with kindness.
March: Prioritize relationship over work even if it feels like the worst possible time.
June: Peak of Fire. Keep reminding yourself what you want in the long term.
July: Others who support you may want to share your fame. Why not?
October: Count up the blessings of the year. Celebrate accomplishments.

The Snake in 2022 ~ Water Tiger Year

Posted on by Stephanie Stewart

Being Scheherazade

The Water Tiger year brings the Snake a wealth of ideas as well as opportunities to study or get new training. Snakes who can maintain a healthy perspective in 2022 can play the role of researcher and/or consultant. Since your reputation will be up for examination, you have the opportunity to increase it. This is a year for study and learning and your capacity for that kind of achievement will be higher than usual. What might be more challenging for the Snake in the Tiger year is managing stress and expectations. 2022 may feel quite crowded.

Since you’re the Snake, I know you will pay more attention to me if I acknowledge that yes, there is danger this year and there will probably be losses. I don’t want you to let yourself go through any difficulties just to prove you are correct. If you’re keeping up with current events you already know what the main source of your stress might be, but the Tiger makes you nervous that there may be some other trouble brewing.

Throughout the year you’ll want to remember that the energy of the Tiger gets in your head. That may tend to make any problems seem bigger or more threatening than they actually are. I’m telling you this now in the hope that it can prevent some of the insomnia, or even illness, you might experience in a Tiger year. Our bodies are not separate from our minds. Because this is true, any dis ease can potentially manifest as disease.

When it comes to being human, here’s the yin and yang of illness:
Everything is psychosomatic. Nothing is psychosomatic.

Avoid diagnosing yourself. Try to avoid environments where there is lots of air pollution or smoke this year.

With your best friend the Monkey as the year breaker, loneliness might be a problem for Snakes, especially those who are traveling or working jobs away from family. If that’s got you seeking emotional or physical intimacy, this year you’ll want to double check your potential lover’s “marital” status. They may already have a partner. They could be going through some serious conflict. Get to know them before rushing in.

You have a heightened luck with people skills so use it. It’s not your year to start something new, but you can help others with that if you want to.

The Snake has Moon (太陰) on their side which means whatever the problem is, you can put things in order. While this energy peaks in May, if there’s any point in the year where you don’t buy that, I challenge you to look at the facts and evidence again. When I think of Tai Yin and Snake together, Scheherazade comes to mind. If you think you need to protect yourself through some gentle manipulation of perspective and facts, remember to stay beyond reproach with your personal story. Rely on your honesty and perseverance if you need saving.

The strongest elements this year are Wood and Fire. Wood is your resource and Fire is your season but your hidden Metal is at the heart of the Snake branch. When it comes to the Metal element, the Snake is quite flexible. When it comes to Wood, a Snake might harden up, which makes a Tiger year the right time to soften up. Cultivate your flexibility and versatility. The flexibility of Metal gathers more data; the flexibility of Wood aspires to go beyond reason. What’s a Snake to do? Ideally, both of these things.

As a Snake, you’re not always forthcoming about your own concerns. Perhaps you prefer to hear others out instead, but if the year gives you anxiety, talk about it. Remember you have Four Pillars to rely on. You’ve got to use what you’ve got to choose what you want. Leverage what you can do even if it’s not your preferred application of your skills. Look to the position of the Snake in your BaZi for more nuance.

The Tiger might see the Snake as fickle because they know you are selective about what information you share. The Tiger’s secret friend Pig hates the Snake and the Snake’s secret friend the Monkey hates the Tiger. Because these four signs relate to travel and movement, when they clash it often has to do with mobility or transportation. When there’s so much movement, there’s more potential for accidents. Slow down.

Movement and moving house might feel like the solution to what’s ailing you, but some Snakes may find there is more travel than they like. Other Snakes may find themselves fixed in place. The months to be careful or even avoid travel are February, August, and May. November may be the time you want to move the most. This might be your best chance to do it if you’ve done plenty of planning and preparation.

When the Tiger, Monkey and Snake meet in a Ba Zi of a person or a year, it’s called the Fire Penalty. What makes the Fire Penalty so difficult is that it embodies both physical and psychological clashes. One aspect of the Fire Penalty is that the Snake, Tiger and Monkey could be accident prone.

Sometimes the Fire Penalty manifests as people passing the buck of responsibility, often by way of blame or accusation. Each party fears taking on a challenge (a hit or injury?) and in order to avoid being hurt, tries to pass it on aggressively to someone else. Generally speaking, the Tiger finds the Snake baffling and uncooperative. The Snake is usually able to avoid the Tiger’s attention when they want to, but this year you may be identified as a potential recipient of the buck.

In the first half of the year, focus on helping people. Make it your priority. That may require what feels like humbling yourself. It isn’t. Let this energy wake you up to your vocation if you’re not already there. Learn this new model of leadership. We need to have as many leaders as possible this year because we’ve got a lot of cleaning up to do. Who could be better at making plans to support those with long Covid than a Snake?

If your day or year pillar is Water Snake, get advice from others rather than trying to figure it all out on your own, especially as concerns business transactions and potential scams. If you were born in 1953, I’m speaking to you. Water Snake may have a susceptibility to robbery. If you have a Water Snake pillar and are a yin Fire day master, yin Earth day master, Yang Metal day master, or Yang Earth day master, take precautions in May when this potential energy is the strongest. You might even go so far as to make no major expenditures that month.

This is the year to learn the power of truth and how to accept it from others because in February, March and August you may feel certain you are right about your fears. But do you really want to be right? The power of suggestion is so strong that we need to be careful of whose opinions we are accepting, even our own. That is to say, there’s a graceful way out of any situation without you getting ill or injured. Let the story unfold.

Summary: 1001 Nights

Amulet: Pig
Rather than thinking of an amulet as something to use, or something to protect you, cultivate the idea of a partnership with the energy of the Pig. The Pig’s humility, versatility and flexibility is the solution to the Fire Penalty. Be cool.

February: Encapsulates the year. A lesson learned goes a long way.
March: Get advice from someone charming who’s been off the radar.
May: Take some time off for building health. No big spending.
August: Potential romantic alliance. Untruths are deal breakers.
September: Check facts and data.
November: Go home for the winter.

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