In
the United States, the years are dated from the birth of
Jesus Christ. In traditional China, dating methods were
cyclical, cyclical meaning something that is repeated time
after time according to a pattern. The Chinese animal signs
are a 12-year cycle used for dating the years. They represent
a cyclical concept of time, rather than the Western linear
concept of time.
This cyclical method of recording years are the Twelve Animal
Signs. Every year is assigned an animal name or "sign"
according to a repeating cycle: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit,
Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar.
Therefore, every twelve years the same animal name or "sign"
would reappear.
The
year of your birth does not just indicate your age!
According to the Chinese system of Astrology, the
year of birth indicates a certain phase or aspect
of a sixty-year cycle of time. Three systems are
used for counting and classifying the years: The
ten Heavenly Stems, the twelve Earthly Branches
and the twelve Animals. The exact origins of the
twelve animal system remain unknown.
Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac are based in part
on the interactions of the 5 elements on one’s
destiny. These 5 elements of metal, water, wood,
fire and Earth have been a driving force in Chinese
culture for thousands of year.
Feng
Shui is based in the belief that creation of the
“perfect” internal and external environment
can cure both the body and the soul. Consequently,
only when the body and soul are in harmony can a
person be most successful. The basic principles
involved with Feng Shui include the 5 elements,
yin and yang, compass positions, the environment
and the solar system. The Chinese Zodiac relies
on the positioning of heavenly bodies as well as
the interaction of the 5 elements, yin and yang,
the 12 branches and the 10 heavenly stems.
Chinese Feng Shui attempts to harness the Earth’s
good fortune in an effort to determine one’s
destiny. It is not superstition as some believe.
It is very real and homeowners and business owners
alike are seeking Feng Shui experts to help create
environments that eliminate negative energy or “Chi”
and promote positive energy.
The
Chinese horoscope is consulted to determine more
specific details about the different objects and
materials that should be included in the room design
to promote the most positive energy. Based on the
traits of each of the 12 animals, calculation of
the elements deemed most suitable for that individual
including colors, numbers and proper positioning
(north, south, east or west) can be further determined.
Those who practice Feng Shui have seen their success
and their profits soar.
