Welcome the Year of the Water Rabbit: Part 1
Photo by Gary Bendig on Unsplash
On January 22, 2023, the Lunar New Year, we celebrate the transition from the Year of the Tiger to the Year of the Water Rabbit. This shift in qi started late fall and is building up as we approach Lunar New Year, so you may have started to feel some changes already.
Each of the Chinese zodiac animals has its own relationship to the Rabbit, and your experience in the Year of the Rabbit will have a lot to do with your own birth year animal. There is a Chinese saying that the animal assigned to your birth year “is the animal that hides in your heart.” Some animals may have a more peaceful connection with the Rabbit, while other relationships may be a bit more challenging. Either way, the energy and experiences of 2023 offer opportunities to learn, grow and expand.
It’s also important to understand that the animal associated with your birth year only accounts for part of your overall astrological destiny. Your birth year is only one part of BaZi, or the Four Pillars, which also considers the hour, day, and month of your birth. In addition, your birth date and astrology is only one part of what influences your path and success in life. In the tradition of feng shui that we practice, we acknowledge that you can also shift what you experience by using feng shui, good deeds, hard work, and education. All of these things come together to create your unique and beautiful life. So, don’t worry if the year ahead looks like a more challenging one. Remember that everything is cyclical, and you will also have your day in the sun!
Overall, this is what you can expect from the year of the Water Rabbit:
Here are some qualities of the Rabbit:
- Sensitive
- Discerning
- Peaceful
- Cunning
And some qualities and energy of yin water:
- Nurturing like mist or rain
- Creative
- Resourceful
The Rabbit is well-mannered and kind, and they appreciate the beautiful things in life. The yin water energy of this year feeds the gracefulness and sensitivity of the rabbit.
What this means for each zodiac animal in 2023
Below, you’ll find a description of three of the zodiac animals, and what’s in store for each one based on the energy of this year. If your animal is not included below, stay tuned for our next blog post!
*Please note, if your birthday is in January or February, your animal sign may be the preceding year. If you were born on the cusp, we recommend you find your natal chart online.
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Rat 子
Resourceful, likes to be busy, can sniff out opportunities
Years: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Rats are best friends with Dragons, Snakes, and Monkeys, and generally have a neutral relationship with Rabbits. Rats and Rabbits are both cunning and calculating, and they tend to get along for the most part. If the Rat’s and Rabbit’s goals align, then they can work together successfully.
Overall energy of the year: Neutral
What to do: Align your energy with the peaceful Rabbit and use your resourceful nature.
You are most compatible with: Dragon, Monkey, Rat and Ox.
You clash with: Horse.
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Ox 丑
Steady eddy, hard working, plows through problems calmly
Years: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Oxen are great friends with Snakes, Roosters, and Rats, and they have a neutral relationship with the Rabbit. The Ox and Rabbit have different philosophies in life: while the Rabbit enjoys luxury and beauty, the practical, hardworking Ox has less patience for the Rabbit’s love of creature comforts.
Overall energy of the year: Neutral
What to do: Take some time to appreciate beauty in the world, and remember that art and beauty can be found in the everyday.
You are most compatible with: Rooster, Snake and Rat.
You clash with: Ram/Sheep.
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Tiger 寅
Dynamic, self-reliant tigers leap forward with creative ideas
Years: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
Tigers are friends with Horses, Dogs, and Pigs, and their energy doesn’t mix as well with that of the Rabbit. Their bold, dynamic approach can feel a bit aggressive for the gentle, diplomatic Rabbit.
Overall energy of the year: So-so
What to do: Get in touch with your peaceful, yin side and learn to appreciate the quieter energy of this year.
You are most compatible with: Horse, Dog and Pig.
You clash with: Monkey.
In next week’s post, we’ll share what’s in store for the rest of the zodiac animals. In the meantime, we hope you’ll make a plan to join us for our live online Lunar New Year’s Eve workshop!
Part 2 coming next Monday!