A Chinese proverb states that all creations are reborn on New Year’s Day, providing hope and energy for good things to come into your life.

Chinese New Year is a 15-day celebration, beginning on the second lunar new moon following winter solstice. The festivities begin on January 23rd, 2012 and end two weeks later with the full moon and Lantern Festival on Feb. 7th*.

Today, Chinese New Year is the most widely celebrated festival of the Chinese calendar. In China, it is known as “Spring Festival”, heralding the start of a new cycle both in the earth and in human affairs. There are many customs and traditions associated with this occasion. While some may seem odd to us in the West, they are steeped in ancient logic and custom.

In a nutshell, everything associated with New Years day should represent good fortune. It is especially auspicious to be with people you love and who bring you joy. Be careful with your actions, be selective of what you eat and be mindful of what you say on this day to ensure good fortune. For single people good fortune may mean love and romance; for others it may mean good grades, increased prosperity, a job, better health, or improvement in existing relationships. As you prepare for this holiday, think of the changes that you want to make in your life, then let the power of the new moon, and the New Year, make them happen.

To help you find your good fortune for 2012 I have put together the following guide to some of the Chinese New Year’s celebrations and customs.

The days leading up to the Chinese New Year are busy with preparation. The countdown begins on January 17th with the Kitchen God or God of the Stove ritual. The Kitchen God is a domestic deity, who reports yearly to the Jade Emperor (the mythical ruler of the heavens). The Kitchen God is represented by a paper image and is hung throughout the year near the family’s stove. Long considered the soul of the Chinese family, the stove is where all is seen and heard. About a week before Chinese New Year at a special family dinner, the Kitchen God is taken down and burned so that his report can be taken to the heavens. To encourage a good report, some families will smear his mouth with honey hoping to sweeten his tongue. When New Years arrives, a new Kitchen God is posted to replace the old one for another year of observation.

The following week is then very busy with settling old debts, buying new clothes (particularly new shoes), getting a haircut (but be careful—salons in Hong Kong traditionally charge twice as much starting 30 days before Chinese New Year!), cleaning house, enjoying year-end dinners with colleagues, giving out lucky red packets, and preparing traditional holiday foods. Lucky slogan banners are written and hung, especially on the front door. Many people may purchase bamboo, or blooming trees (much like we have a Christmas tree), because flowers denote fruit and wealth.

Cleaning the home is serious business. It starts with cleansing out stale energy; this means going through cupboards and closets, disposing of unwanted items, and arranging remaining contents neatly. All the rooms of the house should get a good clean. In many homes in China effort is made to sweep the whole house with a broom, hence sweeping away the old energy. This cleaning must be completed by New Years Eve; the broom and cleaning supplies are then hidden till after New Year’s Day, as sweeping on New Year’s Day could sweep out the good, new energy. (Note: very few modern families follow all the cleaning traditions.)

Before January 23rd 2012
While some of these traditions are specific to China, many can be adapted to the same effect:

• Give your home a thorough spring-cleaning. Clear away the clutter and mess to welcome in new Qi for the New Year.
• Decorate your home with auspicious symbols.
• Decorate with bright red (happiness) and gold and orange (wealth and happiness).
• Decorate with fresh flowers. Plum blossoms, peach blossoms and water lilies are considered particularly auspicious.
• Purchase red banners or couplets with prosperous New Year wishes and blessings and symbols of good fortune.
• Get your haircut and buy new clothes, preferably in red, for a brand new you when the New Year arrives!
• Pay up all your bills and begin with a clean slate. DO NOT start the year laden with debt!
• Clear up old disputes and arguments, start the New Year with moving forward.
• Prepare food. Chinese New Year’s Day is not a day for work. It is a day to eat food especially prepared for the day, often with names which mean good luck, fortune and plenty of money. Ideally, vegetarian food is taken on the first day of the New Year, and the most traditional dish is “Loh Hon Jai”, or Buddha’s Delight, a casserole prepared from a host of dried and fresh ingredients, most of them with names that have auspicious associations.Some auspicious foods for the New Years Eve and New Year’s Day feasts and their symbolic association are
  o Fish – abundance (typically served on New Year’s eve)
  o Long grain rice – long life
  o Oranges/mandarins – gold plus good health and long life.
  o Oysters – prosperous business; “good things”
  o Peaches – longevity
  o Pineapple – prosperity
  o Pomegranates – children
  o Sticky rice balls – gold
  o Noodles – longevity ( they should not be cut)
  o Chinese New Year and prosperous cakes, (they look like golden nuggets.)
  o Persimmons – happiness and wealth
  o Tangerines with leaves intact – long lasting relationships, fruitful and multiply as in having children.)
  o Circular candy tray – candy for sweet, circular for togetherness.)
  o Lettuce – fresh new money
  o Celery – perseverance and the capacity for hard work
  o Dried seaweed, known as “faat choy” – increasing wealth

On the Eve of Chinese New Year January 22nd

• Get together with close family members for a “reunion” dinner. A big, delicious dinner creates good luck for the family throughout the year. It also keeps the family close together.
• Pay respect to ancestors including household gods. Acknowledge the presence of ancestors because they are responsible for the fortunes of future generations.
• At the stroke of midnight, it is customary to use firecrackers to engage in pot banging to scare away evil and old energies by sound. Open windows and doors to allow the old year to leave and the New Year to enter. Celebrate with lots of noise and merry-making!
• Watch the words you use; use sweet words and avoid foul language. Talk about your future and dreams, focus on positive thoughts.

On New Year Day January 23rd
Many festive celebrations follow all day long.

• Start the New Year with new, bright-colored clothes, especially auspicious red! One’s appearance and attitude today is believed to set the tone for the rest of the year. Dressing all in black or white is a not considered auspicious.
• Ensure your first taste of the day is something sweet so that the year will bring you much good news.
• Greet everyone with kind words and happy wishes as this is thought to bring in a year of Peace. Be careful not to curse or gossip. The Cantonese greet each other with “Gung Hei Fat Choy” which means “Congratulations! Your Wealth Increases!” Or “Sun Neen Fai Loh”, which means simply, “Happy New Year!”.
• Never cry or complain on New Year’s Day. It is believed that if you cry or complain on this day.. that it is an negative omen of what’s to come for the rest of the year. It is best to not gossip, argue with or malign anyone today, (really, isn’t it best to be like that every day?). The focus of today is upon the future, so engage in thoughts and activities of what you would like to see happen and remain positive.
• Keep all doors and windows open throughout the day to allow the new luck to fill your home. Keep every part of your home well lit to ensure maximum luck!
• Don’t sweep the floor, remove garbage or use scissors or get your hair cut today! This signifies sweeping or cutting away your good fortune. Some would go so far as to not wash their hair today; this may be washing away their good luck for the year.
• This is a day of celebration and visiting, paying respect to ancestors. This is not a day to work. Factories and workplaces in China to this day remain closed for the two week period of Chinese New Year’s.
• Many Chinese will be giving offerings to the God of Happiness; in the West you might be more comfortable practicing Gratitude. Create a place in your home with flowers and beautiful things as an altar to symbolize all that you are grateful for.
• Give two Lai See (Red Envelope with money enclosed) to each child. Because happiness comes in twos, do not give just one. This is the way of passing good luck to the next generation. (In some Chinese communities, all married folks give Red Envelopes to all the unmarried children they know and meet during the New Year period. This can be quite a change and a burden for newly married couples!]
• New Years Day is traditionally a Vegetarian Day, signifying no killing on the first day of the New Year

On The 2nd Day January 24th
Pay your respects to your elders and ancestors. Visit your in-laws. (Strictly, speaking, on the first day a family visits the father’s parents; on the second day, the mother’s parents.) It is customary for the son in-law to give the father in-law a present. This invokes the luck of previous generations for the married couple. Married daughters visit their parents and give presents to them and Red Envelopes to the unmarried brothers and sisters.

On The 3rd Day January 25th
This is a day to stay home and relax. However, floors may be swept today to make room for the new. It is felt that quarrels, disputes and controversy is likely to occur if you meet with relatives or friends. Further, there is a superstition that if you see someone on the third day that you did not meet on the first or second day, then you will tend to have bad relations with that person all year.

On The 5th Day January 26th
Today is traditionally a day where the weather indicates the upcoming year’s fortune. Stores and business open again for the first time in the New Year. Bosses will give Red Envelopes filled with money to the staff. The 5th day is also considered a good day to put out your new wealth vase for the year.

On The 6th Day January 27th
The 6th day is as well a lucky day to visit relatives and friends. Bring some mandarin oranges; oranges are considered an auspicious gift to give at New Years.

On The 15th Day Full Moon February 7th
The 15th day is the Chinese version of Valentine’s Day known as Lanterns’ Festival. This is the first day of the Full Moon. Lanterns are hung to symbolize the light and warmth of spring. Many years ago yams would be eaten on this day by the peasants of China. They are sweet and it was believed that eating yams satisfies the soul and prevents it from leaving life to join the ancestors. The Lanterns are considered signposts for the ancestral spirits to guide them home for the lunar celebrations. It is considered that today the God of Destiny rises to fulfill desires, and the Goddess of Sea is ready to accept wishes. Offerings are tossed into the river.

Single women go to the river and throw mandarin oranges with the hope of finding a good husband. Fragrance of apples is offered for wives. Longans are offered for descendants (Longans are a type of fruit, similar to Lychee). Red dates are offered for all things good. Pebbles are offered for a house and Coins are offered for Treasures.

These are some of the customs and rituals that are practiced by millions of Asian people.

It is my sincere wish that you have fun with these rituals and customs, and I wish you all the very best for a healthy and prosperous 2012

These are some of the customs and rituals practiced by millions of Asian people. Have fun—make them your own! I wish you all the very best for a healthy and prosperous 2012.

Gung Hei Fat Choy!

Marlyna Los
marlyna@fengshuiconsulting.info
www.fengshuiconsulting.info
604 339 8878

Hello and Happy New Year!

On January 23rd, 2012 the world celebrates the beginning of a new lunar year. In the Chinese calendar this is described as the 4709th year, the Year of the Water Dragon. The Dragon is the fifth animal in the 12 year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac. People born in the year of the Dragon are said to possess exceptional qualities. They are bright refined, respectable and have a distinguished air about them (read below for more).

Millions of people (and not just Chinese) are studying and reading the Chinese almanac and calendar seeking to understand and work with the energies of 2012. The ancient Chinese were masters at observing and recording the patterns of the natural world, creating metaphysical systems that to this day provide insights on everything from global trends to individual fates. Knowledge is power, and strategy is the key to applying knowledge productively: if you understand what’s coming you have choice. You can choose what, how and on where to focus your attention. If you know what to expect, you can act rather than blindly react. (Getting ready – taking bookings for 2012 readings and updates – see last page for details).

The year of 2012 is very different from 2011. Each year a chart is drawn based on the first day of the year using the solar calendar. This system is called BaZi and is more commonly known in the West as Four Pillars. The four pillars are the year, month, day and hour. Each pillar consists of yin and yang variations of the five elements, you know these as the 12 animals (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig).

This year is composed of the Water Dragon year, Water Tiger month, Wood Sheep day and Wood Rooster hour. When I look at the elements for this year, the elements of water and wood are strong and the elements of earth and fire are weak. This indicates a general theme for 2012 of healing as water produces wood, and both elements are associated with health and well being. Water is powerful energy. There will be enthusiasm and energy directed in peoples lives for progress and changes as well continued social and political reforms.

The energy of earth is weak and water is strong this year. In five element theory which is the basis of Feng Shui, water controls earth, this indicates earth related problems such as earthquakes and natural disasters associated with flooding.

Water is the strongest element and represents trade, communication and shipping. Expect these areas to do well. A lot of people are likely to change jobs in 2012, as water represents change.

The Earth element is relatively weak and represents property and real estate. Predictions out of Hong Kong see in general the real estate market to have little growth and perhaps even a slight drop in 2012. However Vancouver is an anomaly when it comes to real estate as so many mainland and Hong Kong Chinese continue to invest here, the slow down here is not expected to be significant.

The Fire element is weak and represents technology, I.T., oil, gas and electronics. These markets lack stability in 2012 and will likely face problems.

Metalrepresents finance, banking and insurance. The metal element is also weak this year again indicating problems in these areas.

2012 is seen to be more a year of healing than stability. Be prudent and careful with your money.

In five element theory; Fire represent Joy and Passion, Earth is Meditation and Stability, Metal is Melancholy and Integrity, Water is Fear and Wisdom, Wood is Anger, Growth and Kindness. Water and Wood are the elements of strength this year; Fire, Earth and Metal are weak. Meaning, the emotions of Joy and Passion are weak and Fear, Wisdom, Anger, Growth and Kindness are strong. Next year 2013 is the year of the Water Snake, the Snake is Fire. The following year 2014 is the Wood Horse, the Horse is Fire. People are happiest and most optimistic in years where the Fire element is strong. Towards the end of 2012 we will begin to see stability and growth which will continue with strength into 2013 and 2014.

Just as the Animal has changed in 2012, so auspicious locations and directions have changed. This year the northwest has the strongest positive potential energy; people who are able to activate and use this energy will find they have more opportunities and luck coming their way. Conversely, this year, the southeast is the location to be cautious of. If possible, keep this area quiet to avoid invoking unpleasant surprises. In general the Dragon favours the Rooster, Monkey and Rat and is at odds with the Dog. Set out below are some brief forecasts animal by animal, for the year.

Animal Fortunes

The Chinese have an amazingly accurate unique calendar system that incorporates lunar and solar cycles. It not only records time, but also provides information on the prevailing cosmic energetic influences at any given time. It is based on the “Heavenly Stems”, which correspond to the Five Elements of Water, Wood, Fire, Earth and Metal, and the “Earthly Branches”, which correspond to the 12 animals of the Chinese horoscope. Together, the interaction of the Stems and Branches describes the dance of life in the context of people, place and time. Note that, with 12 Branches and 5 stems, this means there is a total of 60 possibilities—60 energetic templates.

Each of us is born at a particular minute, hour, day, month, and year. The Chinese take four of these time points—hour, day, month, and year—to construct their “Four Pillar” astrological charts, also known as “BaZi” or “Four Pillars of Destiny”. Similar to Feng Shui and Chinese Medicine, this system is based on Five Element Theory combined with Yin and Yang. Each pillar has two components: one Heavenly Stem and one Earthly Branch. Each stem and branch consists of various combinations of five, wood, earth, metal or wood. The Elements affect the nature of each Animal, and the unique combination and placement of the Elements and Animals in the chart represent our inherent nature as well as how our nature will develop over time. Thus, the Four Pillars Chart gives us clues to understanding our own unique character and to predicting probabilities. Note that, while we look to the Animal of our birth year for characteristics and predictions, in fact each of us has four Animals in our birth chart; the other three Animals—and their placement in the chart—will also have influence, and the predictions for these Animals can be read for guidance.

In case you don’t know which Animal governed the year in which you were born, following this note is a chart showing the Animal signs of particular birth years. The solar year begins on Feb. 4th. This means that if you were born between Jan. 1- Feb. 4th, look to the year prior for your Animal sign. For example, if you were born on January 20, 1967, you were born in the year of the Horse (not Goat).

Table indicating Animals by Year

Note: All four pillars chart consist of a year, month, day and hour. The animals of each pillar contribute to the overall picture of who you are. The tables below indicate not only the year, but month and hour as well. You need a Chinese 10,000 year calendar to determine the day. Broadly, the year animal refers to grandparents and ancestors, the month to parents and work and your hour to your children and creativity. To know your Four Pillars or BaZi chart is to know you. The chart is a template describing the qualities of who you are, where you have been and where you might go: but the specifics of how that destiny is fulfilled remain your choice.
All charts are influenced by time. There are 10 year cycles and annual cycles. For a full understanding of your chart, potential and probabilities a complete chart and interpretation is required.

Below is a brief summary of the general traits and trends I foresee for each sign in the coming year of the Water Dragon 2012. I emphasize that these are—necessarily – general; the trends for any individual will depend on his/her specific Four Pillars. I also emphasize that my interpretations are based on traditional Chinese beliefs; each reader must judge and use this information with discretion.

Dragon 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
Dragon Month: April 5th – May 5th
Dragon Hours: 7-9 am.

The keyword for Dragon is magical. The Dragon is considered one of the most powerful and lucky animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Proud, charismatic, and sometime haughty, the Dragon knows exactly what he/she wants and how to get it. People born in the year of the dragon are refined, respectable and have a sacred air about them. The Dragon is successful, inflexible, proud, and arrogant– and has a temper. She is well loved by friends and family for her courage, intelligence, charm, talents and generosity. She can easily influence others with her ideas and sound advice, but it is unlikely she will listen to anyone but her-or himself. If she can avoid becoming dictatorial and learn flexibility and tolerance, she can go much further. Being quite lucky, Dragons can achieve considerable material wealth; however, what they really want is power. They make solid leaders, too, knowing instinctively what needs to be done to stay on top.

It’s your year, but be prepared to take a focused approach on all major aspects of your life. While this year may be challenging its nothing you can’t handle. When a Dragon meets a dragon Year, it’s said to be a self penalty. This means that most of the problems caused this year are by your own doing; with self awareness and keeping yourself in check you will achieve success and happiness. The Dragon is proud and this is a year for humility. Your pride and ego are your Achilles heel. Be flexible and seek advice. Planning is important this year, be organised and break down projects into manageable steps. This is not the year to wait till the last minute to get things done. Work on yourself spiritually and physically. Nurture the relationships that matter and 2013 and good things will be here before you know it.

In general the more favourable months are August, September and December; the months to watch out for are January, March, April and October.

SNAKE 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2013
Snake Month: May 5th – June 5th
Snake Hours; 9-11am.

The keyword for snake is spirituality. The Snake is an aloof, cool, agile, mysterious, intuitive and highly intelligent animal. People born under the sign are very ambitious. Witty and popular, the Snake is an interesting blend of gregariousness and introversion, intuition and business savvy. Though sometimes perceived as lazy, the Snake is often merely observing the situation before deciding when to strike. When motivated, Snakes are hard workers; determined to finish the job, they expect the same from others. The Snake is retiring and gentle and does not wish to be rude or confrontational, but thinks nothing of striking when he/she feels wronged. The key is what they feel; Snakes are inclined to depend on their own sentiments and first impressions, whether correct or not, instead of listening to others’ opinions and logic. More mental than physical, the Snake is somewhat dangerous and seductive, and often irresistible to others. When challenged or criticized they can be a sore loser. They are usually cautious but generous to friends and family.

The outlook for the snake in 2012 is good; you have much to look forward to. Be alert for wealth opportunities that you can capitalize but be prepared to act quickly. Romance is definitely in the air for singles but also curiously expect to see family and friends less this year. The thing to watch for this year is your health, if you overextend yourself you will find yourself more vulnerable than usual to illness and as a result you may find you miss out on a valuable opportunity. Lead a balanced life, eat well, exercise and get enough sleep and you will find 2012 a stellar year.

In general, the more favourable months include Feb, July and Oct; the months to watch out for are January, March, June and December.

HORSE 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Horse Month: June 6th – July 7th
Horse Hour: 11 am – 1pm.

The key word for the horse is fellowship. The Horse is the symbol of freedom and is associated with grace and bravery. Exuding sex appeal, the Horse easily attracts people like a magnet. Horses are witty and exuberant, giving off an air of grand confidence. Secretly though, Horses often feel inferior to others. Horses are the nomads of the Chinese Zodiac, galloping from one project to the next, so a 9-5 job is not for them.

The Horse often perplexes those close to him/her with his or her dual needs. On the one hand he/she needs to fit in but also craves independence; he/she desires to be loved yet fears being trapped. Not the most patient of the animals, Horses can be insensitive to others by making quick decisions and running off without discussion. Horses can inspire others with their enthusiastic and fiery nature. With a little patience and perseverance, they can accomplish anything. The challenge is too defer gratification long enough to ensure they have a future.

2011 was a good year for you, and this likely caused you to slow down and take it easy the last few months. Success this year will come to the Horse who acts. This is a good year to socialize less and focus on self-improvement so that you’ll be ready to seize opportunities when they come. Be careful in and around water, you are prone to accidents this year. You have to work hard this year, but your hard work will pay off, people will be there to help you. Single horses will find 2012 a good year in terms of meeting the right person and it will happen when you lease expect it.

In general, the more favourable months are Feb, July, and October; the months to watch out for are March, June, December and January.

SHEEP/ GOAT 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003
Sheep Month: July 7th – August 8th
Sheep Hour: 1-3pm

The keyword for the Sheep is family. Stability and companionship are important to the Sheep. In addition, they are artistic, talented, sensitive and gentle. They make wonderful artists or teachers of the esoteric; they are the dreamers of the world.

Natural worriers and often insecure, Sheep can be overly sensitive, getting in their own way over inconsequential matters. They need plenty of reassurance and support from their friends and family. Perhaps because of this insecurity, Sheep are concerned about their appearance and always want to look their best. Sheep need time alone each day to ponder as they are day dreamers and more comfortable in their own minds. Above all else they desire acceptance from others and harmony.

The Sheep will do well to keep an open mind in 2012. Good fortune will come to those who are patient and prudent. There are positive opportunities out there for you, but you will have to find them. People of the opposite sex will help you. Be careful of your behaviour, you may find yourself the subject of gossip, so keep that in mind and think twice before you speak before you speak and act.

In general the more favourable months will be March, June and November; the months to watch out for are January, October and December.

MONKEY 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004
Monkey Month: August 8th – Sept 8th
Monkey Hour: 3 -5 pm.

The keyword for the Monkey is skill; people born under this sign are usually successful in any field they choose. Witty, capable and eager to learn new things, the Monkey often possesses above average intelligence and has a clever and strong-minded personality.

The charming and energetic Monkey is optimistic, clever, adventurous and fun to be around. Monkeys crave activity and stimulation, and love new ideas, trends and activities. Their agile minds make them excellent listeners and problem solvers. Monkeys cannot hide their feelings, but may not always speak the complete truth in order to keep the peace. Love affairs may not last long as Monkeys are self-indulgent and enjoy everything at least once. They may need to be careful not to over-indulge in alcohol and other pleasurable activities. Naturally curious, Monkeys are knowledgeable on a broad range of topics. Monkeys love to show off to their friends, who appreciate their creativity, energy, generosity, and charm.

2012, the year of the dragon is friends with the Monkey. The last couple of years have been a challenge and filled with changes, change in jobs, change in partners and changes in home. There is a possibility of moving home again this year, but the change will be positive. The thing to watch for this year is your own behaviour, don’t take anything for granted and treat people well. Be productive in achieving your goals and you will see success.

In general favourable months will be April and December; in question are February, April and May.

ROOSTER 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005
Rooster month: Sept 8th – Oct. 8th
Rooster Hour: 5-7pm

The keyword for the rooster is commerce. The Rooster is said to possess the five virtues—proficiency in the arts, dexterity in sporting activities, courage, benevolence, and trustworthiness.
Roosters are intelligent, candid, keen observers and meticulous in everything they do. People born under this sign usually have good foresight and perception. Roosters are known to appreciate glamour and flamboyance; appearance is important to them. Success often comes easily. Practical, successful and very consistent, the Rooster makes a loyal and good friend as long as you don’t mind being told how to live your life. The Rooster genuinely cares about humanity and will often go to great lengths to assist those in need. Roosters have an incredible eye for detail that makes them fantastic at any work requiring great precision. This perfectionist nature can make it difficult for loved ones, as they will be held to the same high, often unrealistic standards. The Rooster is one of the most reliable and trustworthy signs of the Chinese zodiac.

The year of the Dragon will be a welcome relief after the upheaval created by the year of the Rabbit of 2011. Obstacles, challenges and change were the themes of 2011, but that has passed. The year of the Dragon brings opportunities for professional and financial success. Any obstructions you come across this year can be resolved with the right effort and assistance. Your efforts will be noticed by others and you can expect to build alliances and connections with important people in the upcoming year.

In general the more favourable months will be January, April and May; in question are March, September, October, and December.

DOG 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006
Dog Month: Oct. 8th – Nov. 8th
Dog Hours: 7-9pm

The key word for Dog is property in the sense that they feel responsible for people and causes they believe in. Dogs are wonderful, discreet and loyal friends. They have a strong desire to root for the underdog and will fight injustice whenever possible.

People born in the year of the Dog are likely the most humanitarian of all signs. Dogs can be dogmatic and stubborn at times, as well as emotionally volatile. Like the Sheep, they need some time alone each day to process their feelings. Dogs make excellent business people because of their ability to discern the true motives of others. They are often homebodies and dislike casual cocktail parties. Rather they prefer to talk with close friends and family about their dreams and ideals. Serious and intelligent, no other animal is as committed to righteous causes. The Dog is always working on creating or fixing something that will make the world a better place.

The Dog is said to be in conflict with the Dragon. Conflict implies movement and change, either positive or negative. Thus, this is not a year of peace. Courage, hard work and effort are needed. This is not the year for you to rock the boat as the universe will be doing plenty of that already! Avoid overspending and be prudent with your finances. This is not a year to take undue risks, gamble or start new ventures. Focus on what you are good at. Pay attention to details, show love and affection to those around you (you will want their support). The Dog can improve her luck by being kind to others, doing regular exercise, eating and drinking less and engaging in meaningful spiritual activity. Guard carefully against being impulsive and/or greedy, the ground you stand on is not firm. Reason all things out carefully and plan, if you want to minimize mistakes and loss. This is a year to find the strength within yourself to do the right thing. You know the areas of your life that you need to focus on, and this is the year to give them attention. There will be travel opportunities during the year, and, with planning, time away will be a welcome break for you. This is a year for awareness. By remaining alert and adapting as necessary you will be able to make headway toward your long-term goals.

In general the more favourable months will be February, March and June; in question are January, April July and September.

PIG 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007
Pig Month: Nov. 8th – Dec. 7th
Pig Hours: 9-11pm.

The key word regarding a Pig is home. To know a Pig is to know one of the nicest, most loving and caring people in the world. Generous and honourable, the Pig is nice to a fault and possesses impeccable manners and taste.

Pigs love the good life and believe in the best qualities of human kind. They care a great deal about friends and family and work hard to keep everyone in their life happy. Pigs make great friends and mates partly because they refuse to see the negative in people, but they need to be careful of wearing rose-coloured glasses that can cause them to be taken advantage of. Pigs can be self-possessed, resulting in being unreceptive to and uninterested in outsiders, which can cause them to appear unfriendly. The pig loves the company of others, but can be over-sensitive and moody. The Pig desires the best of everything, and this includes learning. They work constantly to improve themselves and others.

This should be a good year for you. Expect people to help and opportunities in both career and romance to come your way. The only thing to watch for is your health as it is somewhat fragile this year, but nothing serious.

In general the more favourable months will be March and July; in question are February, May, August and November.

RAT 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1984, 1996 and 2008
Rat Month: Dec. 7th – January 5th
Rat Hour: 11 pm – 1am

The key word for the Rat is creativity. Few can resist the charm of the Rat. Rats are energetic, charming, ambitious and intelligent. While they can be talkative, funny and outgoing, they are extremely private and will often keep their problems to themselves. They are quick witted, honest, confident, and stubborn. Rats are also perfectionists and live by their own rules, which can make it difficult for others to work with them. Rats are very organized and are good at business. They are thrifty, competitive, and quite observant of others, which helps them to achieve their goals. Rats have natural powers of charm and persuasion, which come in handy, but they must remember to not become too self-absorbed. Their keen mind gives them a deep love of learning. While not easy to understand, Rats are very loyal, devoted and generous to those in the “pack”, namely family and close friends.

Like the Monkey the Dragon is the Rats friend. Thus in the coming year, opportunities continue to come your way. Go out there and network, make connections where you can, you will benefit from the effort. Continue to show people what you are made of; with a positive and willing approach, you can achieve much over the next year. This is a year of expansion. Continue to focus on your career and/or to achieve what you have been hoping for. Opportunities are there for promotion, or you will be able to find that job. There are people there to help you. The Rat needs to guard against complaining and offering too many opinions. If the Rat is able to be ambitious, to improve his skills and worth, and to get out there, good outcomes are achievable. The more the Rat is able to find change the better. Money will come to those who are able to persevere and be goal-oriented, vigilant and discreet, low- key and honest. It is always wise to guard your health, but this year you will be tempted to be impulsive and impractical. All Rats this year show weakness in health, particularly in regards to digestion. You will get more results by practicing moderation in all things, especially in drinking, smoking and eating. It is a good year for finding new romance and marriage is a possibility.

In general the more favourable months will be January, April and August; in question are March, June, July and Sept.

OX 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
Ox Month: January 5th – Feb. 4th
Ox Hour: 1 -3 am

The keyword for the Ox is stability. The Ox is to be admired for his/her sincerity, endurance and work ethic. The Ox does not shy away from responsibilities. Ox energy is calm and diligent. The Ox will never back away from an obstacle; this energy is capable of achieving incredible success through patience, sheer tenacity and persistence. Oxen are filled with common sense and a strong belief in themselves. They have firm feelings about everything and everyone, and need to guard against being rigid. Usually calm and patient, Oxen are known to occasionally explode with anger.

Your overall outlook for 2012 is good. You have much to look forward to. You may bump into a few roadblocks around gossip and minor legal problems, but no need to worry as there will be people to lend you a hand and correct the problem. Expect an increase in income, either directly or through bonuses. Health outlooks for this year are good.

In general your more favourable months will be May, September and December; in question are April, June, July and Oct.

TIGER 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
Tiger Month: Feb. 4th – March 6th
Tiger Hour: 3-5 am.

The keyword for a Tiger is Authority. The Tiger, the most feared animal of the Chinese Zodiac, commands respect. His (or her) qualities include ferociousness, rapid movement, courage, acute vision, and long memory. Women born under this sign in China, to this day are not favoured in an arranged marriage as the Tiger is not submissive nor necessarily obedient. The Elemental nature of Tiger is Wood. Like a growing tree, the Tiger forges ahead with optimism, determination, and power. Charismatic and warm-hearted, Tigers have a raw appeal that makes them stand out in a crowd. Tigers love new adventures and challenges, and can be quite competitive. Knowing they are the king of the jungle, Tigers have an air of authority that prompts others to obey their orders. It is the energy of the Tiger that—in every year– presides over the first month of spring symbolizing new growth and determination to succeed. Ambitious and determined, Tigers will fight to the bitter end if the cause is worthy, and they rarely have trouble getting people to join them. Tigers demand loyalty, enthusiasm and praise but at the same time are deeply sensitive to and caring of their loved ones. The downside of this irrepressible energy and power is that Tigers need to learn moderation. Their passionate nature makes them prone to sudden emotional outbursts that can sometimes make others run for cover. It serves a Tiger well to learn some tact and diplomacy.

The Tiger will face somewhat of a challenging year in 2012. There may be problems at home or with your family as well as some risk of financial loss. This is actually a good year to get away and travel, particularly if its work related. Keep your wits about you and proceed carefully and you will do fine.

In general the more favourable months include June and October; in question are May, August, and November.

RABBIT 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, and 2011
Rabbit month: March 5th – April 5th
Rabbit Hour: 5-7 am.

The keyword for the rabbit is compassion, being a warm and affectionate soul. The rabbit is gentle and domestic. The rabbit loves a party and often has a wide circle of family and friends. Rabbits love to entertain at home and always make sure their home is comfortable and tastefully furnished. The rabbit enjoys being the centre of attention and is adept at networking. The Rabbit is sentimental and compassionate, but also often insecure and may give more than is realistic or healthy in a relationship. Rabbits dislike confrontation or conflict and will try anything to avoid a fight. Patience and vigilance is typical for the rabbit, they will think over every detail, weighing pros and cons, before making any decision or taking action. When feeling shaky, the Rabbit’s core group of friends help bring him/her back to centre, and the Rabbit rewards their support with great love and devotion. The rabbit is considered one of the luckiest signs of the Chinese Zodiac.

2011 was not the easiest of years for the rabbit. This year you can expect that to change. You will have opportunities to generate extra income and peace of mind will come your way. This is the year if you are feeling stuck to take action and move forward, your efforts will be rewarded. Be careful and clear in your communications with others as there is a tenancy this year to be misunderstood.
In general the more favourable months include July, Oct and Nov. and the months to exercise caution are April, June, Sept and December.

Get ready for 2012 – Taking orders

Energies in the natural world ebb and flow in natural rhythms and patterns. Money, health, relationships come and go with these rhythms. The Tao, with it’s applications in classical Feng Shui, is one system for describing and predicting these rhythms—a system with thousands of years behind it, thousands of years of providing practical pragmatic information. Meeting people’s needs is what good Feng Shui is about; its sole purpose is to make people happier. It seeks to find harmony in the three fundamental forces of place, person and time–Earth, Man and Heaven. To be in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing, with the right person – in essence being in harmony with time, your personal environment and your actions—is happiness.

It’s a new year; it’s a new time! Is it also time to bring Feng Shui and all that it has to offer into your life?

Booking now

• Feng Shui Tune-ups for 2012: Synopsis of what happens: I visit you for two hours, locate the new places to work, rest and play as well as the places to avoid or neutralize. I leave you with a list of things to do/an action plan. You will get a list of dates of when to activate what energies as well as some indications from your Four Pillars of what the year has in store for you. $300. (Note: In order to have a tune up, you would have already been seen by me before – other wise now is the time for a residential or business consult).
• Personalized Year Forecast: What’s coming for 2012? This report is an in-depth look at how the cosmic flow and energies of 2012 will affect you personally. Who are my typical clients? My clients for this service come from all aspects of life; typically business men and woman as well as people who are proactive about their life (This is just another tool that can gives information you may not have thought of). Analysis and guidance is given on wealth, health, relationships, overall probabilities plus whatever may be your personal concerns. $300.

Based on my expertise in Classical Feng Shui, I will share with you insights, tips and articles (What’s real and What’s not Real in the world of Classical Feng Shui?), helping you to understand and incorporate Feng Shui principles into your life and/or business. Each month you will learn tips and information on how the Chinese have used Feng Shui for thousands of years to unlock their potential and improve their lives.

I will share with you knowledge, local events and resources including training schedules for the programs and courses available at East West Academy.

I welcome your ideas and questions and look forward to getting to know you more. Please feel free to pass this along to a friend using the button below. In the mean time, I invite you to read on and get to know how Feng Shui connects to you.

Sincerely,
Marlyna Los, Consultant

Feng Shui – Introduction

Did you know that Feng Shui, a Chinese Environmental Science that studies the natural world, teaches that your home is interconnected with your life and even your destiny? If this is true, this means that changes to your home and space literally can change your life.

For as long as I can remember, I have perceived that some homes just do not “feel good” and I have wondered why? Sometimes it is obvious, the house is dark, gloomy and messy, but often even beautiful homes don’t “feel” right. As a child it was already clear to me that there are different types of homes; those that I loved to spend time, where I would come home excited and happy and others that left me feeling sad, angry and uneasy. Long before I knew about Feng Shui, I knew that rooms and houses had different types of energy that affected how I felt and behaved.

About Marlyna

Marlyna Los, Master Feng Shui Consultant
Director of Balancing Essentials Feng Shui Consulting

Marlyna Los is an internationally recognised Speaker, Consultant, Author and Educator in Feng Shui and Chinese Metaphysics.

Vancouver born to European Immigrants, she did not come to Feng Shui naturally. Her interest and study in Chinese Metaphysics began in the early 90′s. She has studied with numerous masters and teachers of Feng Shui around the world. Her belief, genuine talent, adeptness and relentless study into this ancient discipline has brought her international recognition and marks her as a practitioner and educator of quality.

Her focus has always been to understand and interpret the ancient knowledge and truths of Feng Shui to improve the lives of people.

Professional Feng Shui Certificate Program

A Professional Advanced Feng Shui Certificate Program designed for motivated professionals in the design real estate, architectural and professional development fields.

Program begins with Module 1 of 7: Getting Started with Feng Shui. Weekend and Weekday Options available. Course begins September 10th/11th or Sept. 12th/19th 9:30 – 4:30

Academy Training Schedule in Vancouver

Feng Shui Practitioners Course
Fall program starts Sept 2011

Understanding Feng Shui in regards to Real Estate in Vancouver:
What makes a good house?
Classes start Fall 2011

For additional information:
Tel. 604.339.8878
Email. marlyna@eastwestacademy.ca

For your spirit to feel balanced and happy it is essential to find a place where you feel truly at home…

The spaces in which we live and work influence not only how we feel, but also how others interact with us, how productive we are, and our resulting life experiences. What I truly love about Feng Shui is that it provides remedy. Feng Shui provides analysis and remedy with ways to improve your life.

Happy Spring Everyone !

I Ching Perspectives and Guidance for these times

It is almost impossible to not feel fear and anxiety these days with all the recent and current tragic and unsettling events happening in our world. My heart and prayers go out to the Japanese people.

The I Ching (a Classic Chinese book that lies at the heart of Chinese Culture, Feng Shui, Chinese medicine and much more) is regarded as a guidebook for living. Through out its history (written 3500 B.C) it has been used to isolate time, forecast events and provide guidance on personal and global scales. Two hexagrams that pertain to these times are Deterioration and Exfoliation both implying destructive and unprecedented events. What is the guidance on how to live and respond to these times?

The teachings of the I Ching and Feng Shui regard our bodies and souls as connected to the environments we work and live in. There is this invisible force called Qi that inter – relates our personal lives, time, environments, hearts and destiny. We are all connected. These ancient teachings see Man as part of Nature and nature as part of man meaning not only does where we live affect us – we affect the earth. Our thoughts and vibrations are reflected in the events of the earth – As above – so below. For things to change we must change first.

Begin wherever you can, changing your environment with Feng Shui will improve your life. The desire for change and improvement is a good thing but do not focus only on the outside. Focus as well on the inside; as it is inner transformation that will have the most lasting effects. With awareness, choose actions that reflect improving your life.

Energy does not die, it changes from cycle to another. Everything is constantly in a state of transformation; nothing can escape the cycle of birth, growth, maturity, aging and death. Eastern metaphysics and Feng Shui provide us with ways to understand attune ourselves to them.

The Chinese character for Crisis and Opportunity are the same. Awarness and action that are the key to change.

What is Classical Feng Shui?

Feng Shui deals with how the environment affects us. The goal of Feng Shui is to find and situate people in environments that support growth. Environments that support growth provide peace and security, abundance, good relationships, and so on.

To the Chinese, luck is not a random event, luck is something you can cultivate; Feng Shui is used as a method of improving one’s opportunity. To the Chinese good Feng Shui is associated with good fortune, and bad feng shui associated with poor luck and misfortune.

The ancient practice of Feng Shui is the study and analysis of energy or Qi as it concerns the natural environment, buildings and time in relationship to people. Feng Shui is about the impact of the environment on people and provides guidance for human beings to enhance their lives and prosper. The principles of Feng Shui are based on the laws of nature, which are understood from centuries of observations and accumulation of experiences.

Feng Shui is both a logical and analytical science as well as an art form that involves impressions and anecdotal information. Form school Feng Shui interprets the physical environment; it takes into account the various shapes, forms, sizes and features of surrounding mountains, water, buildings and road features in relationship to the specific building. Compass School or Eight House Method determines the most auspicious sections and directions for individuals based on magnetic directions.

The Flying Star School of Feng Shui use calculations that bring time into the equation, calculations are made based on the age of the specific building and the specific compass degree it faces. All things change over time, buildings too. This is the most practiced form of Feng Shui in Asia.

Feng Shui is the search for balance and harmony with nature and our environments; what this means is that harmony is the state where yin, yang, and the five elements are in balance and where there is balance there is abundance of Qi. Where there is abundance of Qi, all good things exist.

While certain Feng Shui principles exist on a broad scale, the practice of Classical Feng Shui narrows down to the particular energies of individuals. Each of us has certain elements (the five elements of water, wood, fire, earth and metal) and magnetic directions that are favourable and unfavourable. All things, including people, time and space are associated with yin, yang, and the five elements. By aligning with our beneficial directions and elements, we increase the amount of Qi (energy) that comes our way, thereby increasing the amount of positive energy and opportunities that come to us. Four Pillars and Eight House Compass School are the methods used to determine the favourable energies, directions and times for individuals.

The tools of Feng Shui allow me to analyse the energy of physical environments and people. I then provide recommendations and guidance for my clients to create harmonious environments that support them to live their dreams and lead successful lives.

10 things to help the environment

1. Eat local and eat organic.
2. Turn off your car.
Next time you find yourself idling longer than 2 minutes, turn off your car.
3. Eliminate plastic bags, bring your own.
4. Use Green Cleaners.
5. Turn off the lights.
6. Reduce, reuse, recycle.
7. Turn off the taps.
8. Compost.
9. Use a refillable environmentally friendly water bottle.
10. Teach your children well!.

Services:

• Feng Shui Residential and Small Business Consultation (2-4 hours)
• Site Analysis
• Commericial and Business Consultations
• Pre Purchase Consultations
• New Property Assessments
• Personalised Four Four Pillars Consultations
• Important Date Selections