Chinese Zodiac – Year of the Dragon
In Chinese culture, each year is attributed to one of 12 animals: The Rat (鼠), Ox (牛), Tiger (虎), Rabbit (兔), Dragon (龍), Snake (蛇), Horse (馬), Sheep (羊), Monkey (猴), Rooster (雞), Dog (狗), Pig (豬). It is believed that each animal bestows certain personality traits to those born in their year.
Dragon horoscope for the coming year:
If you were born in 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, it is more likely than not that you were born in the Year of the Dragon. As a dragon, you are courageous and intelligent, with a quick wit. Unfortunately, this means that you also have a hot head and tend to act now, think later, or say things impulsively. Thankfully, most of the time you tend to be blessed with good fortune and land on your feet.
Those born in the Year of the Dragon are passionate and brave personalities. Dragons are seen as the most vital and powerful animal in the Chinese zodiac. This meant that in ancient times, it was believed that they would be best suited to becoming leaders. This year, you should double your efforts in whatever you do, and your natural talent and abilities will be revealed, with great results. However, you should keep that quick-temper and aggression under control, to prevent your hard-efforts from being spoiled!
According to Chinese astrology, it is believed that you are more likely to offend the gods in your own zodiac year, which means that you are more likely to suffer bad fortune. Dragons should be more careful during this year, for example; taking care when handling sharp objects to avoid unexpected injuries, and to pay closer attention to your health.
A dragon year will be tend to be marked by excitement and great energy. This also means you should prepare yourself for a year of unpredictability and drama; like the thunder and rain that are inextricably linked with the mythology of the Chinese dragon! Some say that dragon years are the best for starting new businesses or projects, as this benevolent creature brings fortune and luck.
Chinese New Year Customs
It is believed that one must start the year as they mean to carry on. Here are a few ideas on how to start the year on the right note:
- Do not argue or raise your voice to anyone to ensure a peaceful year.
- Don’t use scissors and knives early into the New Year as you may end up cutting your good luck short!
- Visit family and friends, to ensure that you have friends and family in your life throughout the year.
- Wear new clothes, to symbolise a new start and so that you might always have clothes to wear.
- Clean the house before New Year to sweep out bad luck and welcome good luck.
- Eat well. Eating lotus roots means that you will have food to eat every year, whilst eating prawns mean that you will have a year of joy and happiness.
Want to learn more about the traditions and folklore surrounding Chinese New Year?