The Snake in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 12, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

The Waiting is Over

For the Snake, the waiting is over. You’ve showed us everything; things we never dreamed of or believed possible. The year of the Snake told us stories that were true, and many that were not. The Snake revealed things we should have already known, and maybe we did know them – for years, but we didn’t acknowledge it. Snakes made that acknowledgement impossible to avoid.

The Snake is a symbol of secrecy, withdrawal and magic; the occult. We could talk forever about all the secrets that came to light last year.

When I say the Snake was waiting, it might have been for credit or acknowledgement – a favor in return? Maybe now you’re back to enjoying the benefits of not being perceived. Staying under the radar has its delights too. There’s more time to research and study for one thing.

To get more acknowledgement requires a more public life. The Snake’s ability to hide out in plain sight means they are always an important player and maybe they don’t want everyone to know what they are doing. Maybe they feel safer being “invisible”. This is the paradox of Snake.*

Another paradox of the Snake is that they are the little Dragon, the one whose magic sometimes gets out of control. The Snake possesses the occult knowledge the Dragon craves; the Dragon will teach the Snake about wielding the magic safely, that is without harming themselves.

The Dragon, being a better communicator than the Snake sometimes steals the Snake’s fame by presenting the Snake’s work without acknowledgement. Maybe they just forgot that it wasn’t their idea? Maybe Dragons feel so much bigger than the Snake that it makes sense to them. You’ll see this in nature.

First Principles

What inspires me say all these things I just said about the sign of the Snake? Am I just making sh*t up? The answer is no.

I work with original Chinese sources for all of my divination. First principles are what I rely on: the original meanings of the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, Wu Xing and yin/yang. I study Chinese characters and I can tell you that the ideograph 巳 is sometimes interpreted as a fully formed fetus. I can also tell you why people say it is a fetus at seven months of gestation.

To get more specific, I know that the Hexagram which corresponds to the year of the Wood Snake (2025) is 49 Ge – sometimes translated as molting. Sometimes it’s translated as Revolution, Skin, or Change. The lines of the hexagram describe three kinds of change, none of which regard snakes shedding their skin. The first kind of change is related to ritual animal sacrifice by skinning, i.e. painful changes resulting in death. Sound familiar? This hexagram also describes a magical changes invoked by a shaman, and political change or revolution.

Shedding Your Skin

Knowing what I know, you didn’t see me talking about Snakes or anyone else shedding their skin in 2025. That metaphor doesn’t quite work. I find it annoying when memes dilute the ancient meanings of these concepts.

As a person who works with metaphors, I think people could “shed their skin” every year because shedding your skin is a metaphor for change and renewal.

For me, to call what happened last year shedding your skin glosses over the gravitas of the events; another spiritual bypass. It’s another metaphysical McNugget for your comfort and consumption.

I’m open to talking about all of the deaths and the skinning of America. If you want to talk about the year of the Wood Snake as a year of storytelling, transformation or shape shifting? Yes. If you want to say we saw people’s true faces, that their masks came off, I’m here for it.

Now that I’ve said that, let me make the logic fuzzy. If you had skin problems in the year of the Snake, that’s pretty typical for the clash of Fire and Metal, and some people may have shed literal skin in the year of the Snake. Those problems may continue in 2026. It depends on your bazi. Welcome to my world.

This is the final Animal Fortune for 2026 and I’m feeling a little fiery about it. Can you tell?!

Small Advantages (and Disadvantages)

Snakes did gain advantages as the Tai Sui or year boss of 2025 and even though that timing has ended, you sill have some small advantages. Your attitude and approach to challenges will make a big difference. I’m not talking about positive thinking, I’m saying that you can decide to leverage your good luck through action and planning.

Slow down and be understood. Communication will be important for you Snake, just like everyone else. In your case, focus on truth and facts. Avoid making false reports that are backed by good intentions. Your year of being protected as the source of powerful tricks is over. If you stir the pot, people are going to know it was you. There will likely be consequences. Keep your information network protected. As Hannibal said to the Minnesota Shrike “they know“.**

Crime and Punishment

There are potential legal problems to solve for the Snake in the year of the Fire Horse. You’ll know what this applies to by the position of the pillar in your chart and what the Snake means to you. It’s not great news unless you’re a lawyer or an investigator and litigation is your work. Even if that’s not your job, you probably have skills in these areas, being a Snake.

Snakes have potential “breakups” with plans, contracts, relationships and family. If you are a beneficiary of a trust, make sure you understand the terms.

Educate yourself if you haven’t already done so. Know that there will be lots of changes this year. If you feel like life is too unstable Snake, I suggest you speak to others about it. You’ll find out they feel the same way. Take courage and do what you were planning to do anyway.

Snakes will find they have a big workload and yet there could be a minor loss of wealth. If you feel hopeful anyway, you’re in the flow of the year.

The Special Sauce of the Fire Horse Year

It’s going to be a quieter year, but don’t sleep on those relationships you nurtured in 2025. Most of your wealth opportunities in the year of the Fire Horse come from friends and other people you know. People want to help you, so make sure they can find you. Alternatively, go find them. If you’re not on a team, you may be lessening the magnitude of your success this year. Get advice and give it. Consider donating your expertise to a good cause.

For Snakes who are entrepreneurs, your reputation is everything. This year you can enhance it through your actions. Rely on your actions more than words in this aspect. If you’re a Snake who is an employee, you could get promoted this year. Keep your eye out for helpful Noblemen that will be around all year, certainly you can’t miss them in May.

If there really is a special sauce of the Fire Horse year, you will probably be sampling it. If you want to learn to be a cook, or want people to recognize your cooking abilities, then cook!

The Fire Horse brings you a fairly smooth path, good food and drink and a small boost of fame. Maybe that last one is what you’ve been craving most. It’s not too big, not too small. It’s just right.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Speaking of what’s just right for the Snake, is the timing Alexandria Ocasio Cortez has been waiting for here?

AOC was born in an Earth Snake year (1989) and she has the self clash of Horse. Her day pillar matches the year pillar of 2026. In a bazi matching pillars are called Fu Yin and it signifies a “crying event”. The question is whether the crying will be happy or not. I think this timing could be just right.

Ba Zi of Alexandria Ocasio Cortez
b. October 13th 1989 11:50 am

Life House

Yin
Fire

丁

丑

Hour

Yang
Wood

甲

午

Horse

Day

Yang
Fire

丙

午

Horse

Month

Yang
Wood

甲

戌

Dog

Year

Yin
Earth

己

巳

Snake

Big Fate

Yin
Fire

丁

丑

Alexandria is currently experiencing second Fu Yin – her Life House matches her Big Fate which runs from 2017-2027. That means it ends in 2027 which is a Fire Sheep year. It’s going to be a big deal. Her values and principles could be tested.

I wonder if the Fire Sheep could bring her more of the popularity that would help her accomplish her goals in the government.

I think AOC is conflicted about popularity, but she may have finally landed in a place where she understands the power of it, and she feels strong enough to intiate big changes. What she wants to do will entail huge personal risk. This has been a problem for her all along. I don’t think she will cave now. Her career luck is pretty good, but this year there could be tension in her marriage.

What stands out to me is that AOC really wants Metal which is her success element, however, she would prefer not to be transformed by it. I think she has had to confront that energy over and over.

What politicians get for transformation these days is wealth and I’m sure it’s tempting. Many politicians have made promises and then once they got elected they transformed, because that’s how politics work in the USA. If you want to get things done, you have to go along with whoever is at the top of the food chain. Then you can be nearer the top of the food chain too.

Unfortunately, you could still be eaten by your colleagues if they change their minds about you.

I guess we will have to see what happens when AOC gets to her next big Fate of Earth Tiger. She will be experiencing the Fire Penalty but I’m not sure that’s a negative for her. In this same timing AOC will become a dominant Fire person. She’s going to experience a ton of Fire. I will be watching to see if it’s enough put her in a position to run for President in 2028.

If you want to be in a position of power like that, it helps to have a strong self. Stay strong on the ethics too AOC!!!

*Pam Bondi was born in 1965, a Wood Snake year.
Jeffrey Epstein rides the cusp between Water Dragon and Water Snake by the way.
RFK Jr. rides the cusp between Water Snake and Wood Horse.

**The television series Hannibal is from a Water Snake year.

The Dragon in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 11, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

Rinse and Repeat

Dragons have been through a big power cycle, and now it’s ending. Your natural frenemy the Dog is more favored than you this year. Shocking I know – it’s been a while since that happened. You’re not clashed this year Dragon, but expect change anyway. There will probably be more ups and downs than usual in the year of the Fire Horse. That might be good if you play basketball or you’re a professional diver. Unfortunately that doesn’t apply to most of us.

Maybe avoid trampolines this year? Dragons are riding the wheel down now, but it’s really not so bad.

Take heart. Know that if you run into problems, they can be solved and dissolved. Heaven is on your side. Now is the time for Dragons to explore new iterations. You might not like it, but the ups and downs of the year give you a small advantage. Being the big creature you are, I know you can leverage it.

“Bad” News First

More and more I’ve been making an effort to stay away from the terms “good” and “bad” when what I’m really talking about is what I want/prefer and what I don’t want/prefer. It’s all going to come regardless, so the comfort of knowing about potentials up front is that I can make a plan. I can take preventive measures and if they are successful, I’ll never know. That sounds great.

In that spirit, Dragon, let’s talk about some of the challenges you will face in the year of the Fire Horse and how you might mitigate them.

Dragons can make a preemptive strike on blockages through their ethics. Just because you might be getting a lot accolades, don’t be fooled into thinking you are infallible. Something tells me you could be accused of theft of intellectual property. Deliberately steer away from that by giving others credit where credit is due.

You do know what is right and what is wrong, but if you need help with that Dragon, summon your Secret Friend the Rooster. I think their perspective will be pretty black and white, not to mention they understand you for better or worse. The Rooster will provide a good balance to your potential arrogance. In the Fire Horse year a lack of ethics and good judgment could attract legal troubles.

Dragons who are looking for a framework to support their morals and values could find a lifelong solution in seeking a spiritual path this year.

There may be some losses of wealth, accidents or injuries. Slow down and your luck will be better. Get strategic advice from the Rat whose native element is Water.

Sweet Relief

Dragons will find relief this year, mostly by way of seeking Water. In these fiery times you’ll find that being on a team is quite beneficial. A team might be your family and/or it might have to do with work. It might not be easy to find the perfect team this year, but if you have one, cherish it. Let it replenish you. When you team up, Water will naturally be produced.

Seek Water because it’s very likely you’re going to get too hot, both literally and metaphorically. When that happens, access Water by way of communication. Sharpen your communication skills. That doesn’t necessarily mean talking more. Instead, focus on the act of communicating. Say what’s important and leave it at that unless asked. Listen. Pay attention to whether people are listening to you. If they’re not, why not? Communication is an energetic exchange, maybe you need to change your currency sometimes. Don’t insist on people adopting yours.

Fans and Flames

If you have more fans, you get more flames. Dragons can become more well known in the year of the Fire Horse.

In the year of the Fire Horse Dragons are going to want to show off and this is part of the problem because that activity is also related to Fire. Because you do have things to crow about, keep your display subtle and casual. Seeking Water will help with this too.

Dragons will probably have a lot of fans, and certainly a lot of resources. Some Dragons recently published books, knowing they could become more popular in the Fire Horse year. It will be easier than usual for you to increase your connections and fame. Being around so much Fire means you’re meeting and running with the “right” people for career advancement. Fire is your resource element.

In a bazi, resource is the element that births you. It’s your training, your health, your parents, and ideas. During the first half of the year, keep track of your wild ideas. This is a special kind of creativity that you can explore this year.

The Dragon is yang Earth and Fire is what creates Earth. Here’s a funny thing about that: I don’t think Dragons really need Fire except for health and creativity. Even so, too much Fire can be a problem. Like the Dog, the Dragon doesn’t want to get too hot or dry; a dried up Dragon is in trouble. That isn’t something Dragons usually have to worry about but in this particular timing…stay hydrated. Seek Water.

The Influence of Water

You have probably noticed by now that I keep telling you to seek Water Dragon. Water is the element you store up and the element that is crucial to your magical powers. In this year of the Fire Horse, the conflict of Fire and Water is where the action is. If you want to be there too, you can! The magnitude of the increase of your fame in 2026 will depend on your capacity, however, the energy of the year supports your influence. People may look to you as as an expert on beauty or admire your good taste. In modern times, this is influencer energy.

Erika Kirk

A current influencer born in the year of the Earth Dragon whose fame (infamy?) will continue to increase in the year of the Fire Horse is Erika Kirk. She has been in a 10 Year Luck period of Earth Sheep since 2022. The Earth Sheep pillar matches the current 10 Year Luck of the United States, also the day pillar of Donald Trump.

Ba Zi of Erika Kirk
b. November 20th 1988 酉 hour

Life House

Yin
Metal

辛

酉

Rooster

Hour

Yin
Water

癸

酉

Rooster

Day

Yin
Earth

己

卯

Rabbit

Month

Yin
Water

癸

亥

Pig

Year

Yang
Earth

戊

辰

Dragon

Big Fate

Yin
Earth

己

未

Sheep

I’ve estimated the hour for Erika’s time of birth. My estimate of the hour may or may not be correct but…maybe some day I’ll find out.

Living in the Void

The Rooster is Void for her. If her relationship with by her children is distant, I could be right. Erika doesn’t strike me as a hands on parent. I think she has other priorities. Getting power is a top priority, or getting power from men perhaps.

You’ll see a Rooster in Erika’s Life House too, which I find very fitting, however, that calculation will depend on getting the hour correct and I could be wrong. Supporting evidence that I am right would be Erica’s career in beauty pageants as a big part of her self clash. Some of her outfits are kind of telling too – especially the things she wore for mourning. She’s all about output or “talent”, appearance and at the same time these things are empty for her. She must be very frustrated.

All of that is speculation for now. What stood out first in her bazi is that her husband is in a vulnerable position – any husband. With her spouse palace of Rabbit, she has the Tao Hua or Peach Blossom star in the year of the Fire Horse, indicating a possible new romantic relationship. Given her current Fate, maybe it will be someone from her workplace? I’ll be watching for signs, especially in April and November when she has a self clash.

After all, it was very near the beginning of the Pig month in 2025 when she gave JD Vance a special hug at a TPUSA event. Just saying.

The Rabbit in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 10, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

Good Luck!

In the year of the Fire Horse, Rabbits are pretty lucky. That luck will continue into the year of the Fire Sheep. Being lucky doesn’t mean you have no problems at all, and even though you’re riding the wheel down Rabbit, the next two years could bring a lot of things you’ve been looking for and waiting for. If you want the luck, it’s action time. Things are going to move very quickly in the year of the Fire Horse. If you want to keep up, you’re going to need to rest. Work on your sleep habits to magnify your good luck.

Maybe you already know that the Rabbit’s time is early morning. The Rabbit hour is 5-7 am. The element of Wood is the first to begin the day. When Wood is coming, the Sun can’t be far behind. The Sun brings the Fire.

Because the Rabbit and Tiger carry the energy of Wood, which precedes Fire in the creative cycle of elements, the Rabbit and Tiger both have what I call “waking up” energy. The Wood is waking up the Fire. When the sky lights up, we wake – at least that’s how it’s meant to be when you’re healthy. Imbalances can interfere with health.

Excess Wood or Fire can translate into periods of insomnia for Tiger and Rabbit. I’m afraid that may be an issue this year. Waking up too early? Having trouble with your sleep patterns? Your bedroom could be a contributing factor.

Bed Rules

If sleep is not going well, make the yin/yang balance of your bedroom a priority. Here are some important things to consider:

Do you let the qi come into your bedroom in the daytime by opening the curtains and door? Is your bedroom yin enough at night? What I mean is, is it dark and quiet? Would adding heavy curtains help?

Don’t let your bedroom be too hot, or too cold. Some people say they have health issues when they are exposed to air conditioning and they may be right. From a Chinese medicine perspective, if you have air or cold air blowing on you while you’re sleeping, you may be setting yourself up for chronic health concerns related to Wind or the Wood element. If you go to bed with wet hair and a fan blowing on you – don’t?

Little Bunny Fou Fou

Although I’ve studied and read bazi for many years, I never understood that the Rabbit could be violent when pushed too far until the Water Rabbit year that was 2023.

The set up of the Water Rabbit pillar is similar to the set up of the Ingratitude Penalty which involves the relationship of Water and Wood, and power inequities. Sometimes it invokes generational conflict. We went through many Water years, from 2019-2024 Rabbits were inundated. Even though it may have brought some good things, an extended experience of any element can have a big impact. It can wear a bunny down. Now it’s time for the Rabbit to dry off and show off.

Guess what? It turns out you’re not crazy, you just needed a moment.

Maybe even moreso than in your own year of the Rabbit, you are a boss this year. You stand behind the Horse as the one who does the work of governing. You probably see this as a service or a privilege. You are capable of enacting changes in a way that a figurehead is not.

Money and other forms of Wealth

Quite a few masters are saying that the Rabbit will be one of the luckiest signs in the year of the Fire Horse because the Rabbit has Fortune Virtue and plenty of work opportunities. I don’t disagree – people do want money. Since most of us are not trillionaires, getting more money would be a big deal. It is good luck. Just don’t forget that when you have wealth stars, that’s probably going to involve more than money. You might want to spend your luck on the kind of wealth that lasts longer than money.

Some Rabbits will have luck with property and real estate. That could mean getting some, but you might also work with people in those businesses. You’re a natural networker who will receive more invitations than usual to meet up. You will probably find yourself in the same crowd in the Fire Sheep year as you do in this Fire Horse year. Knowing that, how might you shape your actions other than networking?

The Rabbit has no illness stars this year and a higher than usual potential for fame. Keep working on your health, as Rabbits are wont to do. Don’t let the fun and parties wear you out.

The Power of Peach Blossom

People are drawn to you this year Rabbit, especially the Horse who usually feels a sharp need for your energy. For example, a Rabbit might be an athlete’s personal trainer. The Horse (and others) will feel and express that you help them to move forward and regulate their energy expenditure. Rabbits will like this kind of praise, and why not? Just don’t get carried away with being “adored”. To wield your Peach Blossom energy – put your self and your safety first. Don’t start from the principle that you will inevitably be compromised or hurt. That’s not necessary for your success. I’m serious Rabbit.

An Ounce of Prevention

Go into the year with plans for boundaries and limits. Know that it will be best to change them as you go. Keep your flexibility. Set your goal beyond survival this year. With the Horse present, the Rabbit may be too quick to give their all and then withdraw due to having badly depleted themselves. That withdrawal may not be voluntary.

As much as you can, prevent and solve problems through your actions. Being passive, or sitting on the sideline means you are not grabbing onto the opportunities that are available. Take action in whatever capacity you can. Your reach may go beyond your physical capabilities.

Rabbits who have figured out how to exist in passionate relationships could be getting “married” or celebrating their commitments. Rabbits who enjoy but have trouble lasting in passionate relationships might have fleeting romances instead. It probably won’t be you doing the breaking up Rabbit.

For the Rabbit, there are very few downsides of the year. Potential annoyances include gossip about you, you worrying about being bigger than you used to be and who doesn’t like it, some uneasiness and depression. Your good luck will tend to prevent and dissolve these negative things that can accompany good luck. We always get a mixed bag in any year.

Kendrick Lamar

The sign of the Rabbit often signals a writer, and to be a hip hop artist often means you are using language in an artful way. We can see that this Fire Horse year, and the coming Fire Sheep year will be pretty intense for Kendrick Lamar. I’m hoping this means we are going to see more than one new release from him, however, I wouldn’t want him to burn himself out if it’s too much.

Ba Zi of Kendrick Lamar
b. June 17 1987 03:04 pm

Life House

Yang
Wood

甲

辰

Dragon

Hour

Yin
Fire

丁

未

Sheep

Day

Yin
Fire

丁

酉

Rooster

Month

Yang
Fire

丙

午

Horse

Year

Yin
Fire

丁

卯

Rabbit

Big Fate

Yang
Water

壬

寅

Tiger

Kendrick Lamar has been in a Big Fate of Water Tiger since 2021. It seems like his career has improved in this period. With the yang Water in the stem it appears he has been able to manage his tendency to addiction better. Now that the Fire Horse year is here, I think he is facing a pretty big challenge. In fact, this year may challenge many people who work with addiction in their lives. Kendrick has talked about his various addictions in the past.

Self Clash

His month pillar of Fire Horse matches the pillar of this year. There’s a concern that he could alienate some fans this year despite his good luck. For him I think it’s the Horse that is related to his sex addiction. The thrust of this bazi though is an energy that wants to save or rescue. Kendrick’s thoughts and actions around that are sometimes harmful – probably when he feels the frustration of not being able to change things as he would like. Can you relate?

Kendrick Lamar’s work protects him from that frustration, but if you are a creative person you know that sometimes you feel like you’re sending all your love into a void. It feels lonely even when you’re with people. His bazi is heavy on Fire, so he has a lot of “friends”. He runs into people in his life that want to share his money. Kendrick has to make decisions about that.

He has a big talent and when that is the case, it can look like an elemental balance. That’s what we see here. When you have an elemental imbalance, life isn’t as steady under your feet. You might go looking for things to prop you up.

The Rooster and Rabbit in Kendrick’s bazi will bring him some good luck this year. I would suggest he spends the summer basking by the water somewhere. Take a little break Kendrick!

For more Chinese Astrology visit the Serious Dailies.

The Tiger in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 9, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

Lights, Camera, Action!

Tigers are more than ready to get on with it. They are jettisoning long-term plans in favor of who they are now. Tigers have grown. The year of the Wood Snake that was 2025 changed the way Tigers think about life and how they want to live theirs. If you’re a Tiger, getting on with it means it’s time to do things. You will have success this year. You will probably knock some things down in the process.

Since 2022, Tigers have been drawn to predatory matters. I think the Water of that year encouraged some Tigers, such as Marjorie Taylor Greene, to buy into value systems for the sake of wealth, only to find that the justice part didn’t fit them at all. This wasn’t something they immediately acknowledged to themselves because Tigers like to have fun and games. It had been awhile since they had any. Not to mention, Tigers embody that constant growth energy that is sometimes called capitalism.

I know you’re thinking that not every Tiger is a capitalist, and you’re not wrong. Maybe it doesn’t matter. That phrase starting with “not every…” seems like an excuse these days – an excuse as to why one would refuse to align with people they know to be right.

Over the last few years, many Tigers contorted themselves to conform, to convince themselves they were on the right side, however, a glaring lack of justice in their ambush has brought Tigers to their senses. The Snake reintroduced you to Metal and all it has to offer you: power, discipline, being true to yourself. What are you going to do about that?

A White-hot Tiger

Many Tigers have gotten themselves into positions of power over the last few years, and they are capable of toppling these same towers if they decide to give a swat.

One of the ways we got here is that it’s hard for the Tiger to resist the urge to get the first spoils of any kill. American Tigers have one of the most paradoxical roles in the Chinese Zodiac right now. If the year pillar of the USA is Monkey and you are a Tiger, you’re a natural disruptor. If you know a Tiger, you know that cuts both ways. On the one hand, we benefit from Tigers disrupting the things we don’t prefer. On the other hand, we suffer when Tigers disrupt what we prefer.

This year, the Tiger is living with an energy that encourages fighting, disputes, accidents and injuries. For most Tigers, this probably means big changes are coming. The fighting and disputes can be channelled into making the changes you want, or changing things you don’t want. Slow down to avoid the accidents and injuries. Don’t rush your plans for knocking things down, but do make your bold moves. If you were lured away from your role as a noble leader, come back. I know the Horse would endorse that.

When we like what the Tiger is doing, we call it liberation.

A Team of Fire

When the Fire Horse arrives, the Tiger finds protection from the Fire Penalty which plagued them throughout 2025. On a team with Horse and Dog, the Tiger can find healthy ways to channel their aggression and avoid being wrecked by it. Stay intact through service – that is, leadership.

Tigers are natural leaders, but you can’t be a leader without a team. Now your team is here and of the three of you, I think you might have the best luck overall. It doesn’t make sense for the Horse to be the leader this year, despite their position as the year boss. If they fight you over that, it’s probably the self clash. The Dog has other lessons for now. Take your position and serve the team.

This team energy, which relates to relationships of all kinds, is what you want to lean on this year Tiger. Success may come easy with renewing relationships, making new relationships, and pulling the family together. The challenges you face will turn out better if you have teammates.

It may be that the best luck you have this year comes from movement and travel. Courtesy of the Fire Horse year, you have the Heaven Horse star. This means you can increase your wealth through travel, which is kind of obvious if you understand that wealth can be found in experience. Through travel Tigers may meet someone important, find opportunities or even find a new place to live. To activate the energy, travel. If you can’t travel far, get out of the house more. I think movement is something that usually keeps a Tiger safe.

Good Deeds

Tigers have the energy to seek revenge this year, and they have their reasons, but instead I am recommending you do some good deeds Tiger. Be creative with that.

Sometimes I think about how we could all do whatever we wanted with impunity as long as we directed it to good deeds. If you think about this for too long, you end up with the idea of people like Dexter, a “benevolent” assassin. Or is that just me?! I would associate Dexter himself with the Fire element, and the “Code of Harry” with the Tiger. Forgive is something a Tiger might do. Forget is not.

Tigers who are on the forgiving side, the ones looking to make reparations, repair their reputations or set things right will do good deeds with their destruction. When you have the power to burn things down, direct it to helping people. Tigers sometimes delight in the kill…if you’re going to do it, do it for a good cause. Above all, don’t hurt yourself. For a Tiger, that’s a good deed too.

Do yourself a favor by reinventing yourself Tiger. This will involve starting over in some way. I doubt that sounds like what you want to do, so if that’s not on the cards for you, you could help someone else do it. The best outcome could be a joint rejuvenation where you enter a long term commitment.

The bazi of the Fire Horse year expresses that it’s you Tiger who would reinvigorate all of us. Do whatever you want, but direct it towards good deeds. Have your fun. Don’t be the only one who benefits. Simple right?

Marjorie Taylor Greene

A Tiger I am going to be watching is Marjorie Taylor Greene, who was born in a Wood Tiger year. You probably don’t need to read any astrological analysis about MTG to know that her fame will increase this year. She’s trying to reinvent herself. She will try to profit from this. The question is, will she do any good deeds for the American people?

Would those good deeds be done on purpose? Or by “accident”? She should spill all the tea on behalf of the rest of us. We don’t want to buy her book anyway.

Ba Zi of Marjorie Taylor Greene
b. May 27th 1974 申 hour

Life House

Yin
Fire

丁

卯

Rabbit

Hour

Yang
Metal

庚

申

Monkey

Day

Yang
Earth

戊

辰

Dragon

Month

Yin
Earth

己

巳

Snake

Year

Yang
Wood

甲

寅

Tiger

Big Fate

Yang
Wood

甲

子

Rat

I’ve estimated MTG’s hour of birth – don’t put too much weight on it, but let me explain my thinking a little.

A Monkey in the hour very much supports her life events of 2025 and where she is now.

She was a big MAGAt, then they cast her adrift when she showed the first signs of non-compliance. She started asking too many questions.

Marjorie was penalized in May 2025 when she announced that she would not be running for Senate in 2026. In November 2025 Trump withdrew his endorsement of MTG and she announced her early departure from office effective January 2026. She’s all the way out now, or so it seems.

Marjorie lost a lot due to her affiliation with MAGA. She will have to work to get people to take her seriously again. I would advise her to align with the Horse. Help get people put in jail, rescue the right ones, defend the people. Boundaries are a problem for her and so is the sign of the Dog.

In her current fate of Wood Rat, MTG has made a lot of money despite other downsides. In her bazi, Monkey Rat Dragon is a wealth combination – again this supports the hour being Monkey. Timing supports her wealth.

Because the hour calculation affects the Life House it could also be off if I’m wrong, however, there’s a Fire Rabbit in there. I find that compelling given her personality. Maybe she’s here on earth to learn how to balance her yang with yin? To be a mother? To learn about the feminine principle? The Snake gives her mixed messages about that. Maybe that’s why she got so confused.

I wish her clarity of purpose and thinking which I think is possible for her in the Fire Horse year.

For daily Chinese Astrology and Date Selection visit the Serious Dailies.

The Ox in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 8, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

Who Cares?

Here’s a question you may have asked yourself in other Horse years Ox: how do I deal with feeling like everyone is against everything I care about? How do I handle feeling like people don’t care about the same things that I care about so much? What is wrong with everyone?!

Have you heard of proxy conflict? How about tribalism? How do these things appear in a bazi? Through relationships of course. We only exist in relationship.

The relationship of 丑 Ox and 子 Rat is complicated and has a short cycle. They are Secret Friends, but after their two year association ends, both parties may feel like the relationship was cold and calculating. Nevertheless, the Rat is highly prized by the Ox and the Ox is not going to like the 午 Horse clashing with their bestie the Rat.

Beware Ox, the Horse feels the same way about your “enemy” the Sheep as you feel about the Rat.

Are you starting to get the idea that this year is all about friends, who likes your friends, and who doesn’t like your friends? For the Ox most of the year will be highly influenced by relationships and what “side” you’re on. You try to avoid this game in life – have you practiced enough to be good at playing when needed? The year of the Fire Horse is a perfect time to learn how to recognize proxy conflict and how to navigate it. The Universe is giving you the tools now.

First Do No Harm

Technically the relationship of the Horse and Ox is known as a 六害 Harm. One possible experience of a harm is a conflict that seems to be about one thing, but in reality there’s some reason or person you don’t know about behind it. Be aware of the way your actions ripple out, especially if you are in a position of power. I know you don’t want to be doing harm, but in this scenario you’re a suspect.

The harm may be something you are participating in without conscious thought, like a bad habit. Now it’s time for investigation. If someone’s secret friend doesn’t like you and they don’t want their friend to like you either, are you following the same model? Elemental rules say it might be you in the role of antagonist. Think about it.

To summarize, conflicts this year are probably not about what they appear to be about. They are based on loyalty and influence which are intangible things. How do we deal with friends or associates who don’t get along? In the Year of the Fire Horse, the answer probably isn’t avoidance. It’s communication.

Like everyone else, the Ox will do better in 2026 by working on communication. Detachment can’t always be the way! Find out what is going on. Ask questions. Get yourself into awkward situations and find out you are a diplomat. What if you could learn how to have outcome specific alliances with people you hate? Or people who hate you? There would be a revolution!

Talk about the Passion

The element that the Ox loves is Water and there won’t be much of it this year. I already mentioned communication, which is one way of invoking or seeking Water. Tapping into or sharing your emotions is another way to seek Water.

Seeking 水 Water is being open about relationships and what you care about. Reveal what makes you feel successful. Others may think it’s odd, but this is not offensive in itself, to say what you care about. Although some may not enjoy your bluntness you will find more allies this way. Our relationships and the things we care about reveal our vulnerabilities and passions. Take a chance on being embarrassed by sharing information about your life.

What we care about makes us both vulnerable and powerful – the most potent combination for relationship. If you want to be seen in a different light, or just be seen for who you are, start with your burnishing your reputation. You can do this now by way of Dragon Virtue.

Dragon Virtue

In the system of Bazi, there are four Stars that everyone would like to have in any given year. They are 太陽 Great Sun, 太陰 Great Moon, 福徳 Fortune Virtue and 龍德 Dragon Virtue. In a year where one of these four shows up in your bazi, you know there’s the potential of a special experience. For the Ox, this special experience in the Fire Horse year relates to fame, resources and your fans. By fans, I mean people who support you. You might increase those numbers through your actions.

Dragon Virtue is the star that enables you to change your reputation. It also relates to attracting Noblemen (helpers) that will assist with that. Expect a brighter light to shine on you this year, one which will be revealing regarding your intentions. Show them through your actions.

The year of the Fire Horse asks you to serve openly as a boss; to be a fair boss. If you’re doing boss business on behalf of someone else, try not to step on toes more than is necessary. You won’t be able to avoid them all.

Those who know and love you will still be there even if you come out with your power on behalf of people they don’t like. This is what I mean about the power of your vulnerability. Let there be some cracks in your formidable facade so people can see what’s in there. Your intentions could be your saving grace. This year will be challenging for sure, next year too.

Proceeding with Caution

There will be some unexpected setbacks this year for the Ox. I suspect it’s going to be the timing that is unexpected, rather than the particular setback. A possible setback involves illness, you could be prone to being in situations where you are exposed to viruses more. You do have choices about the outcome though. Wear a mask. Protect yourself and family members from contagious illnesses this year. Keep your immunity strong so you can protect theirs.

Oxen will also benefit by being prepared for natural disasters by way of emergency supplies or a go bag. This is helpful advice for all these days.

The Ox will be present where people need help this year, which isn’t new. Both Ox and Sheep can often be found where difficult events have occurred. You’ll find them helping people start over.

If it happens that the Ox needs to start over this year, which could happen in July, consider it practice for 2027. Start thinking about where you would like to land after 2027. Make plans throughout the year, adjust as needed. When we get to July you’ll be clearer about your future and the big changes that are coming. Pay attention to what is happening then and you might be able to accelerate your timeline – if you want that. When a lot of things are changing at the same time that often means we have more options than usual. Many doors are open, which one to choose?!

The Sad Clown

One of the original meanings of the ideograph 丑 Ox is clown. The character is associated with shame and ugliness or intoxication. When I hear a person described this way, my curiosity is activated. My question is: what happened to this person that led to them being described this way? How were they not cared for properly?

A modern interpretation of Ox for me might be a person with disability or chronic illness such as Long Covid. This is based on elements and not every Ox can be described that way. In my world, the Ox can be beautiful and proud and sober, also disabled or chronically ill. These things are not mutually exclusive.

Woody Harrelson

When I think of the Ox and both of these characterizations, I think of Woody Harrelson He does make people laugh as part of his work. He was very good at portraying what ugliness does to a person in his role on True Detective. He calls himself a former partier (addict?). I don’t think Woody would disagree with the negative characterization of the Ox as a clown, but he is also an example of how people can soften their own fate.

Ba Zi of Woody Harrelson
b. July 23rd 1961

Life House

Hour

Day

Yin
Fire

丁

巳

Snake

Month

Yin
Wood

乙

未

Sheep

Year

Yin
Metal

辛

丑

Big Fate

Yin
Earth

己

丑

Woody Harrelson’s early life was not kind. His chronic illness, if he has one, is likely mental or spiritual. Many people turn to self medication when they have this kind of challenge. Instead of focusing on the values around that, we could focus on the root causes and how to address them.

The clash of Sheep and Ox in Woody’s bazi tells you about his experiences of value conflicts that he couldn’t solve, that is, not until later in life. He is just a 戌 Dog away from the Bullying Punishment and in his life I think he has been on both ends of that.

Despite his difficult beginnings, he has found career success and meaningful relationships. These days he credits his wife and daughters for his growth as a person. They softened his fate. This makes me wonder if he has a Water element sign (Water Rat?) in his hour pillar.

Yin Woody

What’s in a name? It turns out, there’s a lot of intel! I use names for my divinations all the time. It might seem heavy handed or obvious but you’d be surprised at the accuracy.

In case you hadn’t noticed, a very important element for Woody is Wood. The Wood in his bazi tells you he has unusual thoughts, but this is also what helps him figure things out.

His portrayal of the character Woody Boyd brought him early success on the show “Cheers”. The show was about a bar and the regulars who went there.

Wood may be the most important element for Woody. Now he makes money from herbs and plant based intoxicants. You know, Wood things.

In 2022, a Water Tiger year, Woody started a high end cannabis dispensary. His name is Woody and he sells the “tree”! The reason his business caught my eye is that he is using a symbol for his logo that looks like the character for 木 Wood. His logo is a marijuana leaf but when I first saw it on a small screen, I though it was the Chinese character for Wood. Okay Universe.

In 2023, a Water Rabbit year, Woody Harrelson started selling “Holistic Spirits“. He sells alcohol too.

I can’t say whether Woody is an addict, or not. He doesn’t seem to be doing ugly things. He seems pretty healthy for these times. What I can say is it seems he has found a good path despite his challenges. This is the best we can do.

Woody’s Big Fate changes this year from Ji Chou to Wu Zi. He’s had this storage of his money element since 2016 but it appears he will continue to work anyway. I don’t think he’s ready to retire.

Find out when you have a lucky day by following the Serious Dailies.

The Rat in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 7, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

The arrival of the Fire Horse year brings the sign of Rat into focus as the 歲破 Year Breaker. The Horse is the year boss and the Horse controls the Fire frame. When the Horse arrives, the Rat is clashed. From an elemental perspective it’s a clash of Water and Fire. Technically Water can control Fire but in a Horse year a Rat may get a little dried up and discouraged. The Horse’s Fire is actually the success or wealth element for the Rat and the Rat can take in more when it’s robust.

This is important to know because some Rats are positioned to conquer anyway, but all are positioned for rapid and dynamic changes. You might recall that US Vice President JD Vance was born in a Wood Rat year. With the Rat in the position of Great Consumer, I expect we could see him spending a substantial amount of money. Water is his wealth element and it’s clashed.

Great Consumer

When the year clashes you, you’re called the Great Consumer. In 2020, a 庚子 Metal Rat year, the 午 Horse was the Great Consumer. Every sign gets a turn to be here at the bottom of the wheel, now it’s yours.

To work with this kind of energy, spend, let it be you that decides how the money is spent. Spend it on things you want, things that are more difficult to “lose” such as education or experiences. Invest in your home environment by remodeling or move house. If your Rat is in your year pillar or day pillar, that’s a likely outcome anyway.

Rat lore says that you always find them where wealth is. I find this to be true most of the time.

Nobleman Under Pressure

Rats are Nobleman this year, based on the natal chart of the Year of the Fire Horse. When you’re a Nobleman, you’re meant to help others. Rats are natural strategists which makes it easy to work in a consulting capacity. The prefer to stay out of the spotlight; being the brain behind the brawn is kind of perfect for the Rat. They might write that into their job description.

Despite what you might prefer, in the year of the Fire Horse, Rats are not going to be able to avoid scrutiny, and the attention of authority. Due to the focus of the year energy, it might feel like obstacles are constantly being put in your way. I’m sorry to say the Horse is going to interrupt your usual flow, however, important lessons will come from this if you pay attention.

Saying Rats are a little stuck in place could be an understatement or an exaggeration. Any Rat may feel imprisoned by the energy of the Horse year, but most will not actually be imprisoned. If you feel as if you are, know that the time will come when you are free again. You can figure out how and when, or use this time for something completely different.

In a clash year you can gather the raw material of creativity and the learning that will carry you into your next iteration. Whatever is meant to go, let it happen. Whatever is meant to come, look for it. You might be able to shape the outcome if you take that perspective.

Feng Shui and Acts of Gods

On the compass, the position of the Rat is in the San Sha, along with the Pig and Ox. As the boss of the year, the Horse is targeting the north. One way this will manifest in the world is that we will see more melting of ice, and hopefully of ICE.

In a literal and metaphorical sense, some Rats will be living in a “disaster area” – look to the position of the Rat in your chart for more information. For example, if it’s in your day pillar, you can expect some challenges with relationship or in your home environment.

Our environments are a model of our lives. By using Feng Shui, you may be able to mitigate the negative effects of the year. Start out by checking two areas: South and North. How active are these areas? Do they have exterior doors? What is located in these areas of your home? How do you feel when you are in these areas? Is everything there functional or are there broken things?

At the very least, make sure these areas are clean and there are no big repair issues. In a Horse year, you may have some leakage or other water issues. Plumbing repairs may be needed.

Don’t Keep Clam. Carry on.

With such a dynamic year, Rats may find themselves feeling a bit overwhelmed, sad or even depressed. As is the case for all of the Animals of the Chinese Zodiac, communication is the main thing that can help you to keep yourself healthy and safe. Clamming up or withdrawing could leave you too isolated.

Should you find yourself a topic of gossip or disputes, or having minor accidents, slow down. Take the time to talk with people. Take the time to tell your side of the story even if you’re afraid that people won’t believe you. Let them find out how much you prize truth if that’s what you do. If you don’t want to fight, don’t start a fight. Don’t stir up trouble unless you want some.

Your words will feed the Fire of the Horse and you have a say in whether you’re getting scorched or warmed. If you feel like everyone is picking on you it won’t be easy to muster courtesy and presence but you can do it. When you do, you’ll find out that most of the oppression is an illusion. I say all this as if it’s simple…

Praise those who deserve it. Don’t worry so much about people praising you this year.

A Two Year Plan

For the Rat, I suggest working with a two year plan. Mind your own business. What kinds of changes are you looking for in the next two years? Where do you want to land in 2028?

Once the year of the Horse is over, you’ll be riding the wheel up, but the Sheep (up next) isn’t that fond of you. They are the best friend of the Horse. One way to think of the Horse year is to not do things that will have the Sheep blocking you again in 2027.

To facilitate your two year plan, let’s focus on what you have going for you in 2026. First off, in spite of your potential money issues, there is someone who will act as a mentor to you, bringing career and business opportunities. This energy will be present all year, however, it may not be especially vibrant until winter. If you want to get in touch with it earlier, seek it. Ask for it.

One of the most powerful blessings for the Rat this year is related to spiritual pursuits. To best enjoy it, focus on the positive. Don’t ignore the negative, but focus on what is happening that you prefer. Speak about what you would prefer. This year your words have a special power when it comes to bringing things into existence, both those you want and those you don’t want. Rats are directly connected to the energy of the Universe now. How will you engage with this energy while it lasts? Some Rats are about to do things people didn’t think were possible.

I hope one of those Rats is Lindsey Vonn, but why does she have to tempt fate like this?!

Lindsey Vonn

I saw that this year competitive skier Lindsey Vonn, who was born in a Wood Rat year, is returning to competition in the Winter olympics. I have to say, I’m scared for her. She’s a survivor, but she has already had many devastating injuries in her career. I’m afraid to watch her ski.

Ba Zi of Lindsey Vonn
b. October 18th 1984 02:26 am

Life House

Yang
Metal

庚

午

Horse

Hour

Yin
Fire

丁

丑

Day

Yin
Wood

乙

酉

Rooster

Month

Yang
Wood

甲

戌

Dog

Year

Yang
Wood

甲

子

Rat

Big Fate

Yang
Metal

庚

午

Horse

Lindsey Vonn is in a 10 Year Luck period of 庚午 Metal Horse, which matches her Life House pillar. Most of her big achievements in the world of skiing happened between 2007-2017 when she was in the luck of 辛未 Metal Sheep. During that time she also had many serious injuries but she keeps coming back because she is a yin Wood day stem person. Despite that, it seems the Wood element is not lucky for her.

Lindsey retired in 2019, an 己亥 Earth Pig year. She decided to return to competitive skiing in November 2024 after having a partial knee replacement in April 2024. 2024 was a 甲辰 Wood Dragon year.

Her current 10 year luck ends in 2027. These next two years, Horse and Sheep, are Void for her. Having Fire as a Void element (Horse) can be a good thing , but when Earth is Void (Sheep) it’s not so great no matter what your day stem.

Lindsey Vonn is in a timing that looks better for staying in broadcasting, but it must be hard for her to be around athletes knowing she might still be able to beat them. I think she has this in common with Fire Horse Mike Tyson. Despite everything, she persists. She doesn’t seem able to enjoy her success. Perhaps that relates to all the injuries, right?

So far with her comeback, things have gone well. Right now, there are only short timings of Wood* to mess with her, but if she qualifies for the Olympics she will be competing in the Tiger month when the year of the Fire Horse begins.

It’s hard for Lindsey to avoid the guidance of her Metal Horse luck. I guess some people are just naturally inclined to wreck themselves in order to change.

I wish her the best of luck. May Lindsey be the Rat that does things people didn’t think were possible – in a good way!

*Update: Lindsey Vonn tore her ACL on a Friday January 30th, a 甲辰 Wood Dragon day. She has qualified for the Olympics and decided to compete anyway. Now it’s Tiger month. The 寅 Tiger is Wood.

The Pig in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 6, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

You may not be ready for this Pig, but the Fire Horse makes it official: you’re riding the wheel up. Once you reach the year that clashes you, it’s rebuilding time. Let’s get to it!

Most of the Fire Horse year is much quieter than the Wood Snake year was. You won’t have to wonder why so many things are getting in the way of your travels. For someone making preparations to receive a lot of luck when the Fire Sheep arrives in 2027 this is very helpful. That someone is you Pig.

Lesser Consumer?

The year of the Wood Snake that was 2025 was expensive for all, but Pigs experienced the most significant impact. When the year clashes you, you’re called the Great Consumer. In 2019, the Snake was the Great Consumer. You see how this works. Everyone gets a turn, even Elon Musk who was born in a Metal Pig year and spent quite a bit on political endeavors. We might say he spent money to control the Wood Snake. He said he wasn’t going to do that any more, but he’s got more than one self clash in his natal chart and I don’t think he’s a good learner.

Now, the Great Consumer energy has moved on to the Rat, putting the Pig in the position of Lesser Consumer. Maybe you’ve already downsized? If not, you might look for ways to do that this year.

In this year of the Fire Horse, the Pig might be susceptible to losing money by way of giving/lending or being scammed. There may be some robbery energy in your vicinity. Although the spending may continue but you can influence it with your choices. Make donations or invest in things that can’t be stolen to mitigate this energy. Protect your valuables, get financial advice or work on your budget.

Anxiety of Influence, Influence of Anxiety

For some who have a Pig in their bazi, some of the choices that are pressing will be about letting go or detaching. It’s possible this energy is related to your ancestors and may create a feeling of anxiety. If anxiety is something you’ve experienced in excess before, start talking to someone about it now and shrink it down to its actual size. You’ve probably done this before. Think back and you’ll see I’m right. Resistance is futile and I mean that in the best way.

An important thing to remember about the Horse is that, like the Snake it’s Fire. Unlike the Snake the Horse doesn’t change to Metal at a moment’s notice. The Horse does not change its element in any combination. The Horse embodies your success element and asks you to take it on. How do you feel about that? Could it be that success makes you nervous? Your words and expression move things forward: speak about it, write about it, sing about it, take photos about it, paint about it…Work with it.

Communication & Preparation

Working with Fire requires communication – communication with others and yourself; communication between others and yourself. Communication will help you understand how to work with Fire. This year you are allowed to make mistakes without the intense scrutiny of the Snake. Success can be had at your pace and in your own way by way of communication.

My main message to Pigs this year is have a two year plan. Dare to reach for the success that is available now. You might surprise yourself even though this year is technically your warm up. Know that preparation is an ongoing endeavor and so the plan will change because things change. Changes will come from events you want and events you don’t want. This is fine. Being a creature of Water, you can adapt. Find out there is no scarcity.

Riding Your Luck

Pigs seem to be the ones who figured out the gig economy way before everyone else. If that’s you, you’ll want to know you have the potential to parlay your previous experience into multiple income streams; consider five ideas for that. This isn’t a year where paychecks are a strong support. If you’re looking for that, it’s coming but not for another year or so. Until then, be flexible and opportunistic.

What works now for the Pig is travel. With the travel star you will probably be moving around more and reaping the benefits: meeting people, getting gigs, making new connections in your mind, seeing the sights. In the year of the Fire Horse, in some capacity you are a Nobleman, that is, a consultant or giver of advice, it might be spiritual.

Your natural generosity is a great fit for the year. Perform these Nobleman duties through good deeds or donations of time, energy or wealth as well and by doing so you will make the year smoother overall. Any Pig can do this. If you’re a Pig in a position of power or very wealthy, your efforts will surely be magnified.

Kristi Noem

I hoping someone will pass on this advice to Kristi Noem. Let’s take a look at her bazi.

Ba Zi of Kristi Noem
b. November 30th 1971

Life House

Hour

Day

Yin
Earth

己

未

Sheep

Month

Yin
Earth

己

亥

Pig

Year

Yin
Metal

辛

亥

Pig

Big Fate

Yin
Wood

乙

巳

Snake

Kristi Noem’s current Big Fate of Wood Snake is in effect from 2024-2034. This is good to know if you’re not a fan. The Year of the Snake was the most important year of that decade – the one where she hit the big time. That was the peak of the cosplay for Kristi. Now it’s over and it’s looking like she could be fired from her position as US Secretary of Homeland (In)Security. I don’t expect she will completely disappear. Kristi might hang on in a lesser position until around 2029.

The Rooster is going to bring down a lot of justice then. Fingers crossed.

Kristi has the self-clash of Pig built into her natal chart. The Pig is a sign of her success and wealth, and she certainly seems to be driven by it. Her power element is not as timely now as it was from 2022-2025. In recent timing both of her Pigs were “taken out” by the clash of the Snake; a possible explanation of her good luck. Maybe you noticed her day pillar is the same as Donald Trump’s?

You know what they say about luck…it doesn’t last forever. Thank goodness.

The Dog in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 5, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

For the Team

In a Fire Horse year, the Dog participates in the Triple Combination of Fire. In the system of Chinese Astrology called Bazi, this team that creates Fire is made up of the 寅 Tiger, 午 Horse and 戌 Dog. The Tiger in the northeast is where the Fire is born, Fire peaks in the south with the Horse and goes into the “tomb” in the northwest when the Dog arrives. If you’re a Dog, teaming up is probably inevitable this year so choose your teammates wisely. Start in the Tiger month of February for best results.

It’s going to be a pretty fiery year for all, at least until around the beginning of November. That could look like a very distinct cutoff point. I find this a bit worrisome regarding midterm elections in the United States, but for now let’s focus on what all this Fire means for the Dog in the Fire Horse year.

First things first, my metaphorical and literal message to Dogs is don’t let yourself get overheated or dehydrated. Stay cool; learn to regulate Fire.

The Dog is a creature of Earth which is already dry, unlike the moist Earth of the 辰 Dragon and 丑 Ox. When a Dog experiences too much Fire, this can make them brittle and crumbly. Too much Fire can affect your health; it can make a Dog more aggressive or prone to cutting corners. Caring can get lost in impatience. If you’ve stopped defending people or you’ve lost your loyalty, that’s a sign that you’ve “caught” as they say on the Great British Bake Off. That means burnt.

Working With Fire

I know these potential effects of too much Fire sound bad, so I want you to know that you can make choices to offset the heat and the Fire. If you can be near Water this year it could help. Go to a lake or the ocean. Take up swimming maybe.

Another way to temper Fire is by communicating better. Your communication is related to Metal, and Metal creates Water which also happens to be the success element of the Dog.

To be blunt, Water will clash the Fire. Choose your words carefully so you get the right proportion of Water. Take things slowly and see how it goes. I doubt you will have to make efforts to speed things up. When you find yourself overworking or holding your breath, do some breathing exercises. Talk to someone you trust. Listen and take feedback. Let it shape your behavior. Poor behavior could get you kicked off the team. The well behaved get the treats.

Special treats are available to Dogs due to your alliance with Fire. For one thing, if you were born in a Dog month, two Blessings of the Moon are here for you for an entire year. This means that even in the face of adversity you’ll feel more optimistic than you usually do in such circumstances because you just know things are going to be okay. You also have a guardian angel watching over you; a force to save you from disasters. These are gifts of timing. If you do preventive actions (communication) you can magnify your good luck. Remember if your preventions work, you’ll never know!

Ways of Cultivating Luck

In the Fire Horse year, Dogs can prevent legal problems, depression, and illness through good communication, slowing down, and taking a deep breath. When you are feeling anxious, if you stop and think you will realize there is really not that much to worry about and that uncertainty is just that. The energy of the year supports this realization and so does communication. Yes it could be that simple, and yes it works. This is the mundane magic of free will. You don’t have to believe in it.

Being a Dog, your will is strong and in the year of the Fire Horse you have earthly luck that will help you solve and dissolve problems. In that capacity you are well supported. You are going to have some great ideas that strike to the core of your being. Be sure to keep track of these and work with them. Let them transform into a new kind of success as an additional way of cooling down. You have special ideas and special talents to share. Your intellectual and analytical skills are enhanced in the Fire Horse year. Turn your focus to these kinds of activities.

Throughout the year, stay open to those moments where you know that everything is as it should be. This is one of the blessings of the year for the Dog. That feeling is real, yet fleeting so don’t miss out. Remember nothing stays the same. Knowing that, you might cool it with the repetitive actions.

Trigger Warning

Speaking of repetitive actions, I’m sharing the bazi of Donald J. Trump again. I hope you can stand it, and thank you for your attention in this matter.

Ba Zi of Donald J. Trump
b. June 14th 1946 10:54 am

Life House

Yang
Wood

甲

午

Horse

Hour

Yin
Earth

己

巳

Snake

Day

Yin
Earth

己

未

Sheep

Month

Yang
Wood

甲

午

Horse

Year

Yang
Fire

丙

戌

Dog

Big Fate

Yang
Water

壬

寅

Tiger

Donald Trump is a yin Earth day master. Because of the way his natal chart is set up, most of the time all of the branches (in the bottom row) are creating Fire. They all have different roles in that but they look to me like a great team.

He has always had a great team of supporters, many of whom are women. There are prominent women who openly contributed to his career and then there are multitudes of women abused as girls silenced out of fear. These days there are women who are speaking out and living to tell.

In the year of the Fire Horse, Trump has what is called a self penalty involving Fire. Can there be too much Fire for someone like Donald Trump? If we want to find out, we can see what happens this summer.

I would say yes it’s possible for Trump to have too much Fire, and in his current fate, he has the clash of Water vs. Fire, a lot of Fire. There are times in our lives where big surges of an element, favorable or unfavorable, could be problematic. This is more likely in old age or when a person is very ill.

Of course we know he’s got some good luck too, just like every other Dog in the Fire Horse Year.

The 9th Fate

Trump had quite a bit of success with real estate in Period 8 which was an age of Earth. Now we’re in Period 9 which is an age of Fire. He’s looking crumbly.

Throughout his adult life, he has enjoyed the protection of his month pillar the Wood Horse, which allowed him to get away with anything. If you wonder why he has never gone to jail and probably never will, it’s because of that pillar and its relationship to him. He is protected by powerful enemies and friends. Opposition makes him stronger. He has enjoyed a long life with this good fortune, but now he is older and ill. He’s in a new timing where his powerful allies are penalized. This shakes the root of his bazi.

Trump’s Big Fate of Water Tiger began in 2024 and it seems that in general Water is not an element that he can work with. This is reflected in his decline with communication and cognitive abilities. If you agree with his agenda because your power/job depends on Trump, this is bad news. If you disagree with his agenda, this is good news. The Water in his fate is clashing his Fire. The clash of Water and Fire is a major theme of the Fire Horse year.

Best of luck to the people of the United States of America!

The Rooster in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 4, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

The Restoration

Since the year of the Water Rabbit in 2023, Roosters have been living a more dynamic life than they might prefer. You’ve gone from clashed, to combining, to directing the power of the year. It seems that you’ve changed. For Roosters who had been involved with shady business this has been a problematic timing, as I’m writing this, I can’t help but think of Sean Combs, born in 1969, an Earth Rooster year.*

For other Roosters, maybe it helps that having a clash is a way of ramping up to try new things. This is true for most of us and the Rooster sometimes is assisted by losing control temporarily. It’s in those moments that the Rooster’s attention becomes laser focused and they live in the moment.

The Fire Horse year is here for your restoration Rooster. Replenish the yin! This timing is a big deal for Rooster who is so yin that they become yang.

Double Fire

In the Fire Horse year, Roosters aren’t clashed, combined or directing the frame. These can be the most fun times for the Rooster if they understand a break from being in the center is healthy. Not to mention, there are other delights!

A Rooster’s experience of Fire is that it is seductive and promising, also it may want to consume and transform you. Fire wants you to talk more, it wants to know your secrets. Fire wants to make you sparkle and melt. In this year of the Fire Horse, these are the kind of experiences a Rooster can expect. Heaven and Earth want to change you. It’s up to you to accept the help or not and acknowledge what comes with either choice.

Telling Stories

This year I’m telling the Rooster the same thing I’m telling the Monkey: continue working on your communication. Listen more. Focus on speaking about important things if you want to avoid overwhelming people with your words because you’re going to have so many words to share! I reckon you’ll get to a point where you might like to stop talking so much but your current situation demands it. You’re in demand Rooster. It might be worth capitalizing on the minor popularity and fame you’ll have this year by using your words with gravitas.

Sometimes I think the experience of Rooster or Snake is a little like being Scheherazade – your words might keep you intact but you also might be tempted to make things up to save yourself. If you’re telling a story, make sure that’s clear up front and you’ll be safe. In this Fire Horse year, it could be that all you need to do is charm people (yes you can) and you’ll get whatever you want. Be charming, or charm. Be the witch that you naturally are. It’s probably time to stop pretending you’re not. Have confidence in your authority.

A Beautiful Nobleman

Knowing that everyone will be looking at you (and the Horse of course), you may want to spruce up your appearance and by that I mean, do you look how you want to look? That’s the important standard. Beauty has mostly to do with character obviously, but in 2026 you don’t want to end up worried about your appearance due to not thinking about it.

Why are there so many eyes on you? Roosters have quite a bit of luck on their side in the year of the Fire Horse. For one thing, they are highly sought after Noblemen. That means people want you and your advice. Knowing that, you don’t have to try as hard to be heard. You don’t have to be loud unless you want to.

Not only are you a Nobleman, you attract them.

Here’s a crazy idea: try taking on an apprentice if you’ve made it far enough in your career for that to make sense. Consider being the yin to their yang. I don’t suggest you do this willy nilly. Vet the person, especially if they will have access to things you consider valuable. It’s your responsibility to make the year more than an ego trip.

The Moon

When you’re working on restoring your yin side, the Moon could be just what you want. Some of the learning for Roosters this year could be about how to receive by being open to it. If you’re always bossing things, that’s probably not going to work. Your bossiness is a great asset, but not in every situation.

If you’re a Rooster trying to organize a fresh start, you’ve got special advantages courtesy of the 太陰 Tai Yin or Moon. This is helpful when you want to build network and infrastructure. Use up your good luck with all the small tasks and requirements. Sometimes I imagine this as the work a Sheep would do. If I’m “right” about that, this energy of the Moon could carry you through these next two years. Expect a lot of behind the scenes activities. Don’t expect too much action yet. Roosters who have been waiting to start their own businesses from the ground up: this is your year.

Metal Season

In the autumn. Roosters have special opportunities this year to improve or restore your health or simply to get a little more rest than you’ve been getting.

In Victorian times, maybe this is when you would “take the cure” somewhere far away from home. If you’ve been having problems with sleep, they should improve in the autumn. Sleep is vital because you’re going to want to make health a priority in this year of the Fire Horse. Your immune system will benefit from a permanent break from viruses. Make that a goal. Get support for your health early in the year if you haven’t already. Mask up as needed.

If you’re still not sleeping enough, that might be due to – ahem – romantic matters. That’s not a bad problem to have right?

Roosters have a special blessing this year when it comes to romance. Some of this luck may be related to a place of learning or an academic setting. The best romances often start with what I like to call the mind crush. What I mean is that it’s how the person thinks that attracts you. Careful of power imbalances or significant differences in age with this setup.

Also – if you’re a Rooster who thinks they will be satisfied without the mind crush…that might not last. Just saying.

Nothing Too Alarming

You have some of the best luck of the Zodiac this year Rooster. That doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges, and one of yours could be an old trauma resurfacing. In fact, it may already have done so. Possibly related: if you’re going to be in an environment where there’s heavy machinery, take precautions and keep your distance. Look both ways when crossing the street! Your cautious nature usually keeps you safe, but like I said earlier, sometimes the Rooster is so yin they are yang.

Jay Z

Like everyone else, Roosters are feeling the pressure of the current economic and political climate. Even those Roosters who are protected by their wealth could have more worries regarding these topics this year…you know, someone like Jay-Z for example.

It’s typical to find Roosters in the world of music. They’re usually the ones bringing in all the Monkeys.

Ba Zi of Jay-Z
b. December 4 1969 12:10 am

Life House

Yin
Earth

己

巳

Snake

Hour

Yang
Water

壬

子

Rat

Day

Yin
Water

癸

丑

Month

Yin
Wood

乙

亥

Pig

Year

Yin
Earth

己

酉

Rooster

Big Fate

Yang
Metal

庚

午

Horse

In the last Horse year of 2014, the infamous elevator attack happened at the Met Gala Awards show. That was the year Jay-Z did his On the Run Tour. His On the Run II tour ended when his current Big Fate of Metal Horse in 2 began in 2018.

I bet you thought I was going to say something about him going on the run again, or how being on the run seems like his preference. See how I did that.

In 2026 I have two questions about Jay-Z:
Will Solange want to punch Jay-Z again?
Can a person who clashes both of their Nobleman learn lessons?

His Noblemen are Rabbit and Snake.

The year of the Wood Snake which has now ended removes the protection of Jay-Z’s Nobleman. With Snake as his Nobleman, it also relates to his wealth, so perhaps the protection of wealth is bring removed for a time. The Snake is Fire and so it also relates to women in his life. Their protection could be lost too.

Even though the Snake clashes his career, it may have protected his reputation and his wife. Now that the Snake is gone and the Horse is here, whatever consequences there could be for Jay-Z’s actions relating to women harm his wife and clash his children. His strategies could be falling apart.

Jay-Z’s next Big Fate is Earth Snake, starting in 2028. It matches his Life House. This makes me think things like: do you think he would ever give away a great amount of money to help people he may have hurt? Can you think of circumstances under which that could happen…this is what diviners do.

Q: This run of years from Snake 2025 -Sheep 2027 is problematic for Jay-Z. Can you see why?

A: He gets clashed 3 years in a row and when it happens, it hurts his family the most.

I wish him lots of learning in the year of the Fire Horse.

*Brett Ratner was born in 1969 too.

The Monkey in 2026 ～ Fire Horse Year

Posted on February 3, 2026April 25, 2026 by Stephanie Stewart

The Clapping Song

Monkeys – if you’re reading this, that means you made it through another year of the Snake! As is often the case in the relationship of 申 Monkey and 巳 Snake, there was a lot of action, and possibly some mutual suspicion, distrust or uncertainty. I hope you feel less anxious now. Experiencing the Wood Snake year could mean you’ve come out with a new flexibility.

Just in case you haven’t, I’ll give you the short version of the fortune up front:

Tips for Monkeys in the Fire Horse Year

The Fire Horse year is Fire from top to bottom. How do you work with it?

We can describe any relationship in a bazi by way of elements. This is sometimes called Shifting Palace or Transformation Stars. For the Monkey, a creature of Metal, Fire is the power and self discipline element. Fire represents your authority, which makes you a useful person.

Work with Fire more effectively by communicating better. Improve your communication to naturally take on or manage your power and authority. Volunteer to become more useful through the transformations the year has to offer.

Your analytical and academic skills are strong – lean on them. Travel will bring rewards, but take care with driving. Remember that a little withdrawal is needed from time to time, however, being too isolated is dangerous. Relationships are still the way.

Cultivate the flexibility you learned in the Wood Snake year. Experience is still the best teacher.

A Message to You

My most important message to you this year is continue working on your communication. Communication is a give and take: you speak AND you listen. This keeps you safe from unwanted and unforeseen consequences. Doing this one thing will help you to command the respect you desire, and wield your own authority.

Communication is the low hanging fruit of the year Monkey. It’s also your biggest tool for prevention and you know how that works. If you prevent trouble, you’ll never know!

The Business of Monkeys

Monkeys embody a type of crossroads energy; a tension between opposite principles. They are often teachers, therefore talkers.

When I say Monkeys will benefit from communicating better, I don’t mean you should talk more necessarily. Instead, communicate to confirm that you and your collaborators are working from the same principles. If you want more authority in negotiations, get agreements about what’s being negotiated up front.

Establish common ground in conversation through mirroring and feedback. A goal for any Monkey might be to focus on speaking about important things, as opposed to not talking because you don’t want to make small talk, or small talking because you don’t want to talk about important things.

Friend or Foe

The relationship of Monkey and Snake is complicated. There are two terms that we use for it: 六合 Secret Friends and 六破 Destruction. It’s a potent combination for both parties, which is why I would say that maybe in the Wood Snake year there were promises made to Monkeys and not fulfilled. Perhaps you felt betrayed, or you were called a betrayer. Did you fall in love? Maybe you figured out how to extricate yourself from patterns that are too old to make sense any longer.

In experiencing all these things, your certainty about right and wrong may have been compromised. Know that you’re not alone in that. The year pillar of the United States is a Fire Monkey and we are in a state of confusion. The United States still exists, but it will never be the same. Just like you Monkey.

Drive On

The Wood Snake year is in the rear view mirror now. The challenges that the Fire Horse brings Monkeys will be obvious and in your face, as opposed to last year’s “mysteries”.

Understand that when I say things will never be the same, I’m including both things you prefer, and things you don’t prefer. Now that the Fire is here, Monkeys are transforming and being refined.

It’s up to you (us) to decide what result we want from this process. In 2028 it’s the Monkey who will be the year boss. Let’s get it together so we can regroup by then. Obviously, the year of the Fire Horse is going to be an eventful year for the United States, but what might it be like for you Monkey?

Becoming Useful

Monkeys can expect a somewhat quieter year with the Fire Horse in charge. The challenges of the year have to do with making you more flexible (again) but this time around you probably have some ideas about what’s being forged. Redefine things. No plan lasts forever and it’s perfectly normal to change your mind. It’s said that Metal needs Fire to become useful. How will you use the Fire then?

Monkeys may benefit from making a lateral move this year if it gets them into a place where they can stay for at least couple of years. If you do it right, you would gain more of the independence I know you prefer. If you’re not thinking long term, you might feel like you’re settling or being demoted. That’s probably not entirely true. You’re certainly not starting from scratch. A couple of years from now you’ll realize that whatever this detour is, it was meant to be.

Finding Home

One likely change for Monkeys in the Fire Horse year is their location. You have some travel luck this year, meaning that travel could bring you wealth if it’s for business or work. You might even be exploring what it’s like to work or live in a different country. I don’t think this relates to moving house – yet. If you’ve got a Rat in your natal chart though, you might consider it.

Overall, the Monkey is riding the wheel up. It’s important that you are noticing what new opportunities that might bring. They are probably related most to your agency – what if you can do things that seemed out of reach until recently? You probably have more clout than you realize.

Can we fix it? Yes we can!

Monkeys fix things with their hands. They fix things by way of the connection between their brains and their hands – this is where the Monkey’s most magical creations come from. If you want to fix something this year, remember that it’s probably going to go better if you’re hands on.

I mention this idea of fixing things because in the year of the Fire Horse, you are a Nobleman Monkey, along with the 子 Rat. You have to love the paradox of being a Nobleman but also being clashed or feeling attacked/challenged. It’s not easy to help people who don’t seem appreciate it and I wonder if that is part of what makes Monkeys feel lost at times. There’s a pressure on Monkeys to produce, again. Not everyone adapts well to change, but this year you’ve got the range.

Nobleman act in the capacity of a consultant or teacher so if you have that kind of expertise and you want to be compensated for it. make sure people know what you can do. There are potential financial gains for the Monkey throughout the year. Every little bit counts right? In August, travel brings financial rewards or support for your work.

Don’t Shock the Monkey

What I’ve noticed about Monkeys is that sometimes they get lost due to early trauma. Often they find their success later in life than others, after they’ve formed relationships that keep them anchored and safe.

Some Monkeys are singers, like 1968 Earth Monkeys Celine Dion and Al B. Sure. You could say Metal is what they do. The Monkey with the most Metal is the one born in 1980. You might say Metal is what they are.

People born in Monkey years often enjoy gaming, driving, cars and travel. You’ll often find them involved with music, or people who make music.

When a Monkey is not at their best, one of their favorite games is called Chicken.

Wait a Minute

Famous (or infamous) Metal Monkeys Ray J and Kim Kardashian knew each other when they were young, and Kris Jenner might even say that Ray J helped her launch Kim’s career.

Unfortunately, there has been sad news about Ray J lately. It seems like the year of the Snake brought home the consequences of the many ways he has abused his health. It’s a sad story. The heart relates to Fire and he is having trouble with his.

Rooster Attraction

The Rooster is attracted into both Kim’s and Ray J’s natal charts. For Kim, the Rooster is her money. Her beauty is her money. Some of the things she has done for it have left her deeply injured.

For Ray J, the Rooster is his self control and self discipline. He gets taken over by the Rooster – the Rooster bosses him. Ray J has a lot of inner conflict and he thinks the Rooster gives him a break from that.

If you study bazi with me, you will learn that one meaning of the Chinese character for Rooster 酉 is “wine jug”. The Rooster hour is from 5-7 pm, which used to be known as Happy Hour in America. Quitting work and having a cocktail is what people did in the Rooster hour.

Sometimes the Rooster is a sign of addiction, sometimes it’s the solution that helps you get out of it.

Kim Kardashian

In contrast to Ray J, Kim seems to be still going strong. Due to the Fire of the year, her current Fate (and current “body trends”) you’re going to see her Metal stretching out. Kim’s not going to be as curvy as she used to but she will continue to be a well known beauty influencer.

Ba Zi of Kim Kardashian
b. October 21 1980 10:46 am

Life House

Yang
Earth

戊

寅

Tiger

Hour

Yin
Wood

乙

巳

Snake

Day

Yin
Fire

丁

卯

Rabbit

Month

Yang
Fire

丙

戌

Dog

Year

Yang
Metal

庚

申

Monkey

Big Fate

Yin
Metal

辛

巳

Snake

Kim Kardashian’s current Big Fate of Metal Snake started in 2024. This ten year cycle will be all about her kids. One of them may need some extra support for their health. Remember what I said about the relationship of Monkey and Snake? I feel empathy for Kim.

I don’t think Kim will want to be a momager the way that Kris does it. I expect she’s feeling big conflicts around what she wants to do for work and the unglamorous life of raising children. In 2026 she may have to figure out how to become useful, whatever that means in her life.

Some accusations about her children could be coming her way. All I will say about that is that being a parent is one of the most challenging and important jobs, and yet, hardly anyone would thank you for being a good parent, or even notice you. We should change that.

By the time your children are adults, it’s too late to parent them. That’s when you find out how you did – when you don’t have much influence on the outcome any more.

When prevention works, you’ll never know.