*Whether astrology is science or magic, we’re open to most things, if they may be of benefit. ~ Ed.

Bonus round: the Tibetan/Chinese New Year and Don Season: 

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Cheerful Chinese New Year!

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is determined by the lunar Chinese calendar, which is why the date changes every year. This year, Chinese New Year begins on February 16, 2018.

Each Chinese year is characterized by one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, and 2018 is the year of the Dog—the 11th animal in the cycle.

Chinese Astrology signs last for approximately one year, unlike Western astrology where the signs last for one month. The traits for each sign directly relate to the traits of the animal in each sign.

If you were born in January or February, your animal may be different from the ones below, as the Chinese New Year can take place anywhere between January 21st and February 20th.

Please click here to find out your Chinese horoscope sign if you are unsure.

Below is the forecast for 2018 determined by your year/date of birth. May it be of benefit!

Rat:

1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008
Intelligent, wise, charming, complex, curious, energetic, cheeky, hyperactive, social, ambitious, timid, stubborn, enthusiastic, intuitive, optimistic, desires power

One of the main lessons that this sign will be learning in 2018 is patience. Rats are renowned for their inability to wait for things to happen in their own time, and this can be hazardous and detrimental as it causes them to rush headfirst before they’re fully prepared, or before other people or circumstances are ready for them. Leaning back into life and allowing a natural flow will benefit Rats greatly; however, this doesn’t mean that hard work, determination, and effort aren’t also required to ensure projects run smoothly. The same can also be applied to ensure their most meaningful friendships and relationships don’t fail.

As Rats are independent creatures, they may experience periods of loneliness, usually brought on by their own desire to navigate the world single-handedly, as they often feel that other people hold them back or wear them down. With the right balance and open communication, Rats can maintain their freedom and individuality so that they can venture out alone while remembering to regularly take time out to nurture and nourish the bonds and connections with those they deeply care about.

This sign is fiercely loyal and faithful, and once they have forged strong bonds, they aren’t keen to let them die. Therefore, despite having numerous commitments outside the home, when it really matters to them they know where their priorities lie and will go all out to prove their unwavering love and devotion. Their loyalty is likely to be tested this year, so they shouldn’t be hesitant to make clear where their loved ones stand. They won’t want to end the year with regrets, wishing they had spent more quality time with the ones who matter the most.

Rats have spent the past few years building firm foundations and this is the year where they will be reaping the rewards. Therefore, they can relax and let go a little, learning to enjoy simple and guilt-free pleasures, and knowing that they deserve everything they have helped manifest.

This year, there are two auspicious stars blessing the Rat’s path: Tang Fu (唐符) and Tian Jie (天解), each bringing positive energy, luck, and clarity of mind, helping enhance career paths and ensuring that whatever they focus on will come to fruition in the best possible way.

Most complimentary matches are the Monkey, Ox, and Dragon.

Ox/Cow: 

1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
Hard-working, loyal, honest, ambitious, high morals, stable, persevering, creative, determined, patient, stubborn, poor communicators

It is a year for cleansing, releasing, and letting go for those born under the sign of the Ox. Feng Shui is highly recommended to clear out cobwebs and realign energy in homes and workplaces to take full advantage of the positively charged new energy waiting to enter—once the old has been swept away.

Oxen aren’t always comfortable with expressing their emotions, but this is the year they’ll be challenged to step outside their comfort zone and let those closest to them know exactly how they feel, in some cases speaking out before it is too late. Fortunately for the Ox, they are genuine and authentic souls, so when they do communicate they do so with clarity and sincerity, which is the saving grace that prevents them from losing those they love.

The Ox holds tight to traditional family values and often old-fashioned views, which can cause them periods of turbulence as their beliefs are likely to be challenged this year by those closest to them. However, as the Ox is stubborn and resistant to change, if they stand firm and fight fairly for what they believe in they will discover renewed harmony within their relationships, particularly those at home. This is due to the people around them beginning to fully respect and appreciate their strong morals and ethics, and developing a fresh understanding of how Oxen operate both in heart and mind.

They will finally begin to feel accepted, supported, and loved just as they are, which brings peace, harmony, and immense relief to this zodiac sign’s life. Things will be even more blissful if the Ox is also willing to be adaptable and see there are certain things they could change to create a tranquil existence for all concerned.

Two auspicious stars, Tai Yin (太阴) and Guo Yin (国印), will bring career blessings and enhance personal relationships, offering heightened romance and deeper levels of commitment.

Most complimentary matches are the Rat, Rooster, and Snake.

Tiger:

1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
Friendly, charming, tolerant, fair, generous, enthusiastic, ambitious, magnetic, restless, realistic, rational, confident, irritable, boastful

There are positive changes on the horizon for Tigers and their careers, which could include a promotion or a change of work environment with the opportunity for greater wealth. The only flip side to this is that relationships may get neglected as more time and energy is spent on their professional path. It’s vital that Tigers have a healthy work/life balance so that their romantic life doesn’t suffer and they don’t suffer from burnout.

Tigers are extremely energetic and have incredible strength and stamina, however this does not mean they are exempt from overwhelm and exhaustion. It is essential that they regularly take time out for some much-needed pampering and care for their body, mind, and soul.

This is the year that Tigers will become more intrigued by their spiritual health and well-being. They may find themselves meditating more, eating and drinking more healthily, dedicating more energy to yoga, or spending more time in nature.

Tigers may also find themselves more frequently in the roles of confidante and supporter this year. These situations will bring out Tiger’s caring and compassionate side and when the issues subside, those who received this support will recognize the magnitude of love and kindness Tigers possess. The experience will help solidify these bonds and Tiger will find a friend or partner for life.

The Tiger is the most independent sign of the zodiac, and the most likely to spend long periods in total solitude—this year is no exception. The only difference is that where once the Tiger may have felt pangs of loneliness, these are quickly dissipating and they are learning to embrace alone time and flourish, finding far more pleasure in deep thought, introspection, and contemplation than they do in busy crowds and chaotic social events.

Most complimentary matches are the Horse and Dog.

Rabbit:

1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Kind-hearted, friendly, tolerant, compassionate, understanding, empathetic, sincere, reserved, independent, intelligent, stubborn, discreet

2018 is an amazing year for Rabbits as they achieve success in almost everything they set their minds to. Plans and projects they have been working on or thinking about for some time will come to fruition.

The main theme will be finding out who is a friend and who is a foe, as Rabbits start to become sharper and more aware, and aren’t as fooled by masks and pretense as they used to be. This can become deeply painful at times, as they learn that people they trusted didn’t always have their best interests at heart. However, they would rather be surrounded by a few who are loyal and authentic, than dozens of fair-weather friends who could potentially cause great harm. Fortunately, the Rabbit is also optimistic and perceives the newfound awareness as lessons learned.

Stronger, sharper, and wiser than ever before, Rabbits will flow through the year resolving conflicts, overcoming difficulties, and navigating obstacles with ease.

Three auspicious stars, Yue De (月德), Tian De (天德), and Sui He (岁合), will bring blessings of love, health, and wealth for the Rabbit sign. Sui He is an immensely positive star for relationships, bringing a change in luck, particularly for those who are single or currently unsatisfied where love is concerned.

Most complimentary matches are the Sheep, Pig, and Dog.

Dragon:

1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
Successful, spiritual, courageous, innovative, imaginative, brave, honest, idealistic, proud, fiery, logical, curious, artistic, powerful, over-confident

The Dragon and the Dog signs are in opposition to one another, and as 2018 is the year of the Dog, it means that it isn’t the Dragon’s greatest year. But, as with everything, sometimes the most valuable lessons are learned the hard way, and sometimes when things appear to be going wrong, they are actually working out in our favor. This is why it is vital to stay in high spirits, whenever possible, as the year plays out. Dragons should aim to not get too caught up or attached to outcomes or sudden, abrupt endings.

If Dragons remember to expect the unexpected then nothing will catch them off guard, which means they will be mentally prepared to adapt and change and align to whatever cards life decides to deal them. Mostly, life will be challenging them to find ways to maintain inner peace in times of turbulent external circumstances.

To ensure a smooth ride this year, it is highly recommended that Dragons practice responding rather than reacting when other people trigger their unhealed emotions. If they take a few moments to calm themselves and consider where the other person is coming from, they will see that it’s much harder to be angry with other people when we can see things from their point of view. Otherwise, arguments and conflicts may take centre stage during 2018—and might even result in abrupt endings within close personal relationships.

Most complimentary matches are the Rat, Monkey, and Rooster.

Snake:

1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
Wise, sympathetic, suspicious, charismatic, organized, elegant, charming, captivating, magnetic, attractive, discreet, lazy, vain

2018 is going to be a fairly stress-free year for those born under the sign of the Snake. It will be a year of decluttering and closure as they go through a transformation and rid themselves of anything weighing them down or keeping them anchored to the past. This year is one of rebirth, and Snakes will regularly experience major shifts as they see clearly through the illusions surrounding them and witness their existence through crystal clear eyes.

They will be distancing themselves from anyone who is not showing up authentically, and disposing of all things superficial, including those who believe they are superior.

Snakes are sharp and intelligent creatures, and although nothing usually gets past them, when it involves matters of the heart they can be easily tricked as their emotions cloud their judgement. However, this year they will take no prisoners when it comes to seeing through those who have ulterior motives.

Four mighty auspicious stars, Zi Wei (紫薇), Long De (龙德), Hong Luan (红鸾), and Lu Xun (禄勋), are blessing the Snake’s path this year.

Most complimentary matches are the Ox and Rooster.

Horse:

1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Clever, energetic, strong, popular, ambitious, arrogant, adventurer, enthusiastic, optimistic, good communicator, confident 

The Horse sign is a companion of the Dog sign, and as it is the year of the Dog, those born under the Horse will also be having a successful, productive, and satisfying year.

The one thing Horses need more than anything is their freedom; if they do not receive it, they will bolt for the door—if not physically, at least emotionally. They simply cannot stand to be stifled and trapped, so even if it appears that they have been tamed, their inner world tells an entirely different story.

The ideal partner for the Horse is someone who accepts that they have an inherent need to explore. If they find someone who is happy to keep up with them, conflicts will be few and far between. 2018 is the year they could become so restless that they no longer silence their desire to be free, however this does not mean they also want to be single. They simply want a healthy balance between the two—and this involves the kind of love and commitment in which they are trusted without doubt, and where there is loyalty, faithfulness, openness, and authenticity so that both partners can come and go without suspicion and jealousy getting in the way.

This is why Horse signs are at their best when they are either with someone who also wants to run wild and free, or someone who does not question them every time they need to stretch their legs and explore their surroundings.

Auspicious stars Jiang Xing (将星) and Tian Chu (天厨) will be enhancing finances for the Horse sign.

Most complimentary matches are the Tiger, Sheep, and Dog.

Sheep/Goat:

1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
Polite, calm, compassionate, imaginative, intuitive, emotional, timid, sensitive, sentimental, insightful, generous, refined, determined, gentle, pessimistic 

This is the year those born under the sign of the Sheep will finally learn how to say no—and mean it. They will also learn that no explanation or reasoning is needed, which has been difficult for them to accept in the past. But times have changed and they now see how much of their time, energy, and effort has been wasted trying to please other people, and receiving no gratitude or support when they need it in return.

Sheep signs are now putting themselves and those nearest and dearest to their hearts at the forefront of their lives. They will be spending more quality time with those they appreciate and who reciprocate their feelings.

To keep a stable footing, it is imperative that Sheep look twice before they leap, including when cementing new relationships, friendships, and also when faced with career decisions. This year could bring forth a few characters who are trying to take advantage or trip them up—namely those under the Rabbit or Pig signs—which could be detrimental to the plans Sheep have been working hard to achieve.

Overall, this will be a prosperous year for Sheep as they stand firmly in their power and discover a voice that can be used to benefit those who need support, particularly kindred spirits who have shared many similar experiences as them. This may mean taking on the role of a mentor, coach, teacher, or leader, as they inspire and motivate others when they open up and communicate from a place of knowledge, inner wisdom, and firsthand experience. Sheep must gather their courage, confidence, and capability to create radical change as they trust and share the insight they have discovered while navigating life’s ups and downs.

Sheep signs will be blessed by four auspicious stars in 2018: Tian De (天德), Fu Xing (福星), Ba Zuo (八座), and Ban An (板鞍), which bring luck as well as the ability to effortlessly overcome obstacles and difficulties.

Most complimentary matches are the Rabbit, Horse, and Pig.

Monkey:

1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Wise, intelligent, bright, charismatic, restless, skillful, funny, cheeky, lively, egotistical, arrogant, confident, humorous, endearing, witty, talkative, ambitious 

Finally! 2018 is the year when Monkeys will be learning lessons from past mistakes and discovering how to truly forgive and forget so they avoid repeating the same patterns and attracting dysfunctional relationships and negative circumstances into their lives.

There will be short periods of turbulence as this zodiac sign goes through conflict with those who are not willing to accept that their mind games and manipulation must come to an end. Monkeys are tired of constant chaos, and those who incite that chaos will attempt to pull them back into the circus. However, the Monkey has spent the past few years gaining wisdom, knowledge, and strength of character, which means they can free themselves from anyone who causes trauma in their lives.

Monkeys are learning to be resilient and to practice resistance, and they will do so with an optimistic and carefree approach. While they used to bounce in and out of undesirable encounters, they will now find themselves bouncing from one exciting experience to the next.

As Monkeys awaken to their past behavior, they will feel pangs of guilt and regret. However, open and sincere communication is all that’s needed in most cases to rebuild any bridges that Monkeys may have burned—but that’s only if they want to try to resurrect old connections, as some are far better left in the past.

Those born under the Monkey sign are likely to end the year on a high note—although life will throw a variety of trials their way, they are all beneficial ones that arrive for their highest good.

There are two auspicious stars blessing the Monkey sign, Yi Ma (驿马) and Wen Chang (文昌). Neither are particularly strong, but as this sign is intelligent, sharp, and wise, they are capable of making their own luck and happiness.

Most complimentary matches are the Rat, Dragon, and Snake.

Rooster/Chicken:

1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Kind-hearted, flexible, hardworking, independent, honest, flamboyant, persuasive, diplomatic, fair, eccentric, faithful 

During 2018, those born under the Rooster sign will find that other people are magnetically drawn to them, which means they will effortlessly make new friendships, both in their personal life and career. Single Roosters will likely attract a deep and meaningful romantic relationship.

This is a year of abundance for Roosters. They naturally manifest what they set their minds on, and often manage to effortlessly accumulate wealth of all kinds, particularly rich and rewarding heart-centred connections.

What this means for the Rooster is an eventful social life, in which they will encounter many new experiences and possibly travel far and wide, creating strong bonds as they go. It is also the year for trying new hobbies, which is likely where they will meet their love match or like-minded souls who they connect with on a deep inner level.

Overall, 2018 is enriching and rewarding, as the Rooster makes the most out of every new situation they unexpectedly find themselves in. They will feel confident and fearless, which makes them charismatic and attractive to others. It is no wonder that everyone they meet is pulled toward them, intrigued and fascinated by the positive energy radiating from them. This is also why this year may enhance the level of passion they share with their current partner, or strike up a passionate connection with someone they have yet to meet.

The auspicious star Mo Yue (陌越) will be highlighting all aspects of careers, so this is the perfect time to look at either changing positions, workplaces, or going for a promotion.

Most complimentary matches are the Ox, Dragon, and Snake.

Dog:

1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
Friendly, faithful, loyal, courageous, adaptable, dependable, endearing, instinctive, intuitive, empathetic, overthinker, worrier, introspective

2018 is the year of the Dog, which brings luck and abundance to those born under this sign.

It is a year of reminiscence for Dog signs, so people from their past may reappear to rebuild bridges or simply catch up on life and renew and reaffirm friendships. Dogs will be extremely nostalgic, and this sentimental side may be responsible for them putting themselves in tricky situations where other people get their hopes up or think they are interested in more than a platonic connection. Therefore, a few uncomfortable conversations may arise as Dogs are forced to communicate exactly how they feel—something they would rather avoid when possible.

Dogs are the old souls of the Chinese zodiac, the grounded and intuitive mediator that wants what is right and fair for everyone concerned. They are empathetic and compassionate, and their caring, gentle nature is the reason they make such loyal friends, faithful partners, and trustworthy co-workers.

It takes a lot for Dogs to let people go—even if they are abused or treated unfairly—so when they terminate a connection it is usually for good reason. And when they let someone go, they aren’t likely to welcome them back unless their is clear evidence of change. When certain people try to reconnect this year, Dogs won’t feel guilty for refusing to reopen doors.

This sign is the most accepting and the one who has the greatest capacity for unconditional love, but they will also bite back if someone steps too far over the line too many times. Fortunately during 2018, those born under this sign will be prioritising themselves, as their sign is at the forefront of the Chinese zodiac. Dogs will proudly be celebrating themselves, recognising how far they have come, and receiving a glimpse of what they are capable of achieving in the future.

The incredible year of the Dog starts on a high and ends with peace, joy, and gratitude.

Auspicious star Hua Gai (华盖) will be bringing huge blessings for creative Dogs, so anyone involved in art, writing, music, theatre, dance, or design may experience magnificent creative inspiration, which will positively impact all aspects of their work. Many who currently create as a hobby will transition to their creative work becoming a rewarding career. This is due to illuminating stars Sui Jia (岁驾) and Hua Gai (华盖), which bring recognition and approval.

Most complimentary matches are the Tiger, Rabbit, and Horse.

Boar/Pig: 

1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Happy, easygoing, honest, trusting, sincere, optimistic, sociable, unrealistic, materialistic, sensual, creative, artistic

Those born under the sign of the Pig are often the most grounded, sincere, warm-hearted, and genuine signs of the Chinese zodiac. They are a pleasure to be around as they exude positivity, even when they are dealing with difficult circumstances.

Thankfully, 2018 is the year they will find more peace, which will relieve much of the anxiety and stress they regularly find themselves experiencing. They will learn to accept themselves, their past experiences, and of where life has currently placed them. Pigs will also find their wild side surfacing, leading them to crave adventure and exploration, particularly through forest walks and time spent in nature.

The main focus of this year will be maintaining inner peace and harmony, so Pigs may find themselves exploring mindfulness practices and trying out new disciplines, like Tai Chi, yoga, or meditation. The more they embrace calmness and serenity, the more they will find themselves getting addicted to the numerous realms of spirituality.

This newfound peace of mind will also determine the friendships and relationships they surround themselves with. Therefore, anyone who is overly negative or abusive toward Pig signs will be in for a shock as those relationships are quickly terminated. Pigs are tired of the mistreatment they have regularly received, so anyone who wants to unfairly criticise, put down, or dig into their unhealed emotional wounds will notice that their words now fall on deaf ears, as this sign finally learns self-love, worth, and acceptance. The moment they do this, the relationships that are harmful will naturally drop away, which leaves more time to spend focusing on authentic and meaningful relationships with people who appreciate, love, accept, nurture, and respect them.

Most complimentary matches are the Sheep and Rabbit.

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Relephant bonus:

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~https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-ld_Jd5ZLQ

Author: Alex Myles
Image: Wikimedia Commons
Editor: Nicole Cameron
Copy Editor: Catherine Monkman