Golden Rat Post
HAPPY YEAR OF THE METAL RAT!
The Metal or Golden Rat
As of today 2/4/20, it is officially the Year of the Golden (Metal) Rat! The Chinese Lunar New Year energetically begins with the new moon, which occurred on 1/25/20, however the official first day is today! I’ve been studying Chinese Astrology (known as Bazi or “4 Pillars” for many years, and have found it a useful map with which to navigate through the year. I would like to share some basic information with you here, but feel free to contact me if you are interested in an “in-depth” customized Bazi reading.
The Golden Rat is also known as the “Rat on the Crossbeam” and has the energy of both Metal (Golden) and Water (the Rat’s nature belongs to the element of water). The energy of Metal in this instance is Yang, very strong and potentially harsh in the way it behaves. Accordingly the Water of the Rat is also very strong Yang energy.
The energy of the year 2020, Metal Rat, is about Communication, and the nature of this communication can be difficult. Being careful with our words and how they come across, and the practice of holding back when the timing to speak isn’t right, and waiting until it is, will serve all 12 animal signs this year.
From a health perspective, generally the challenges this year will be in the realms of, lung, kidney, and stomach organ systems/meridians as well as mental health. This is because the excessive Metal and Water energy can impact these organs as well as create an atmosphere that could lead to depression.
It is up to us how we navigate the Qi of this year (as with every year) with all of its challenges as well as blessings.
· Pay attention to the health of your lungs with plenty of fresh air and exercise
· Mind the health of your kidneys with plenty of water, rest, and lower back support
· Support your digestive function with smart food choices and aids to digestive fire
· Take care of your mental health by making sure you prioritize doing things that uplift you
Below you will find a short summary of the year ahead its effects sign by sign.
RAT: (Born 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)
This year will be a fortuitous time for expressing yourself with your laser sharp observations and communication skills. Be careful what you wish for with words because the things you speak will have a heightened ability to come to pass this year.
OX: (Born 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)
The Ox has the potential for a very successful year in the year of the Metal Rat. Your solutions oriented approach will find you in high demand and you will be a strong leader and influencer. Use your power with wisdom and prudence for the benefit of all beings.
TIGER: (Born 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)
This year will be a busy one for Tigers. Because they are nocturnal, as are Rats, they will find little time for respite. Make sure you make time and space for yourself so you can retreat and recoup. Also have patience this year as plans may not always pan out as you hoped right away, but will eventually with perseverance.
RABBIT: (Born 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999)
The Rabbit in the Metal Rat year will most likely be looked to for advice and counsel. When appropriate it is best to speak your truth rather than hold it inside. It is a good year for you to pursue furthering your education or perhaps learning something new. Also be wary of a tendency to judge others past actions for the challenges of the present/future.
DRAGON: (Born 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000)
The world is ready for the Dragon’s Magic this year. Long term planning (at least 2 years out) will help you take advantage of this time for recognition. Watch out that you don’t get scattered or distracted. Use this lucky time to your advantage and stick to the plan!
SNAKE: (Born 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001)
After a year of movement, snake people are looking to land and find their place. It’s better to take time with this process and generally not be too hasty in all areas of your life, and you will have a relatively harmonious year.
HORSE: (Born 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002.)
Be Mindful! The horse sits opposite the Rat on the wheel of the year and is therefore is in a challenging “clash” with the energy of 2020. Balance your natural horsey inclination toward speed and spontaneity with careful planning—look before you leap! Also try to be motivated by growth and learning rather than outside approval and accolades, this orientation will allow your year will flow better.
SHEEP: (Born 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003)
It is important for community oriented sensitive sheep folks to be discerning about the people they help/align themselves with this year to prevent being taken advantage of. Make sure you make clear decisions that are your own, not swayed by others, and that you stay out of battles that aren’t yours to fight. If you can stay out of this type of trouble, you can have a peaceful and prosperous 2020!
MONKEY: (Born 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004)
The Metal Rat year will being a shine to those with Monkey energy, highlighting your strengths and successes. You will be building alliances, community, recognition, and support! This year you and your work will be take more seriously and will be understood and admired.
ROOSTER: (Born 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005)
For Roosters this is a good year to network with power players, forming alliances with higher ups in your work world that may help you in the future. You should focus on communication rather than outdoing others/being competitive, as well as listening rather than speaking.
DOG: (Born 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006)
The Metal Rat year demands financial frugality from those with Dog in their chart. Another theme for you this year is to cultivate forgiveness of self and others, which will free you up emotionally. Also if you are in a relationship, make sure you are open and honest with yourself and your partner.
PIG: (Born 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007)
Pigs love movement, yet this year it’s best to learn how to pace yourself, and quietly listen within. Having some sort of meditative practice to control a sensation of restlessness will be beneficial for you. Also it’s a good year for you to study; the pursuit of knowledge will be supported for you in the Metal Rat year.
May your flower emerge from the muddy water this year!