On January 25th we bring in the Chinese New Year! It’s the year of the metal rat!
The rat is the first sign of the Chinese zodiac. According to one myth, the Jade Emperor said the order of the zodiac would be decided by the order in which each animal arrived to his party. The rat tricked the dependable ox into giving him a ride on his back. Then, just as they arrived at the finish line, the crafty rat jumped down and landed ahead of the ox, finishing first.
The rat is also associated with yang or male energy so this will be a powerful and passionate year. In Chinese culture, rats are, for the most part, seen as a sign of wealth and surplus. And since rats are the first sign in the zodiac this is a terrific year to start a business or change jobs, or begin a meaningful relationship. One female rat can have up to 200 offspring a year so it will be a fertile year. This is a fast-paced year full of optimism and a terrific year to find true love, earn more money and save.
Here are some tips to ensure you are welcoming this successful new year with honor and respect.
- The day before, on January 24th take a broom and symbolically sweep to ensure you are sweeping away all the stagnant energy of last year. Open your front door and sweep away old ideas and any problems that were faced last year.
- Dress up to honor the new year. Since it is the year of the metal rat wear something silver or gold.
- Light candles symbolizing that you are lighting the way to new opportunities.
- Put out nine oranges, nine is a very auspicious number and oranges represent wealth because they look like gold. I put the oranges in a heart-shaped bowl representing all the love that will surround me this new year.
- I buy fresh yellow flowers in the color yellow representing good health.
Wishing all of y’all best wishes for luck, health, prosperity, and love!
Have any Feng Shui questions? Feel free to contact me at michelle@michellecromer.com and sign up for your Power Color or visit me on Facebook at Michelle Cromer Feng Shui.
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