Welcome to the Year of the Ox, beginning 4 Feb. The predictions are cautiously hopeful for a calmer year than last year, with a keen desire for helping our environment and for peaceful resolutions.
This is a good time to glance around the home to check what could be removed or added to beautify and to improve your energy flow, and Feb. 4 is the time to ensure you have prepared for the year ahead, to make life easier. I have summarized briefly, yet tried to include all the main influences that may or may not be significant in your circumstances. However, because renovations are quite significant, I strongly suggest you take note of the Feng Shui recommendations to avoid extra delays and hassle if major work is planned and call me if you are wondering what more you can do.
A set of metal chimes in the North will help to avoid obstacles and setbacks that the Star 5 is renowned for. If this is your main entry, add some extra metal objects. To avoid any effects from the ‘sickness’ Star 2, the classic cure is a set of six coins in the West. A ‘wu lou’ or metal gourd can be used if it is a bedroom or if there are existing health problems - it is a powerful symbol often represented on Shou, the god of longevity and Quan Yin , the goddess of mercy and compassion. Red objects or fire symbols are best avoided in both of these two sectors.
The Flying Star 3 can bring conflict or robbery and it flies to the NE this year, so ensure you have some small red object to reduce its effects. The Flying Star 7 can be treated in the East with Chinese Water Bamboo or even a vase of flowers, to avoid communication problems and gossip.
The ‘Three Killings’ is mainly in the East also (52.5 to 127.5 degrees), so coupled with the Star 7 it is wise not to disturb this with renovations or digging this year. The recommendation is to avoid sitting with your back to this energy and if your front door faces to the East, to place a set of Fu Dogs (not metal) or other protective guardians facing outwards.
In addition, the ‘Grand Duke’ needs to be respected. Coming from the NE, this is generally supportive energy, as long as we have him behind us and don’t confront him face on, eg. during lectures or sitting at our desk. Again, avoid major renovations and digging, particularly with the combination of the 3 Star being here this year. If this is your front door, a dragon headed tortoise or Pi Yao can be placed here, facing the SW, home of Tai Sui, another sector to be respected this year by making little disturbance.
After all these precautions, the auspicious star 8 in the SE could help romance and business in some buildings. Try adding crystals, a little red and your Money Frog for this year. Keep the area as clutter free as possible.
Finally, if you were born in the Year of the Goat, you may encounter many challenges and a Rat symbol will not go astray this year.
Don’t hesitate to contact me if you are confused about the annual changes, which of course will interact with each home in a unique way.
