Friday, February 12th is the start of Chinese New Year, and we will be welcoming the year of the Metal Ox until January 31, 2022!

2020 was the year of the Metal Rat, which typically signifies renewal and the opportunity for success in new ventures. As we now know, the world did go through a distinct changing of the times, but not in the way anyone had hoped. Political turmoil, social unrest, economic decline, and a once in 100-years global pandemic severely altered our lives. While 2020 may seem like it was an epic disaster, the year of the Metal Rat did present us with a new opportunity: to change the world for the better.

From the Chinese Five Element Stem-Branch calendar, the name of 2021 Chinese Zodiac Year is Xin-Chou. Xin is Female (Yin) Metal and Chou is Ox. Yin Metal is connected to gold, silver, jewelry, and fruits. The Ox is connected to farmland, fertile soil, and working hard. The Yin Metal Ox is usually pictured as a golden ox pulling a cart of fruits or treasures. The Ox has strong magnetism and people are attracted and want to gather around. This signals a year of good social opportunities and traveling with a high profile.

The message of the Metal Ox is clear: Success will come to those who work very hard. Follow your goals with confidence, persistence and determination. The Ox needs to be diligent and hardworking before enjoying a luxury and joyful life. In agricultural societies, oxen are reliable and strong work animals. They were responsible for the survival of humanity. What was happening in 2020 continues over into the Ox year to complete it, ground it, bring it to its resolution.

Whatever plans you have for the year of the Metal Ox, I hope it is full of wonderful things. As we say in Chinese, 新年快樂! (xin nian kuai le), or Happy New Year to you all! I wish you a prosperous, happy, and healthy year.

Filed in Current Health News