THE YEAR OF THE FIRE PIG
The Chinese have a unique calendar system commonly known as the ‘Farmers calendar’ or the ‘Hsia calendar’. It is an enthralling system that provides us with information about prevailing elemental influences at any given point in time. It makes use of the five elements –water, wood, fire, earth and metal- and their cycles, to determine the various aspects affecting the world.
In Chinese astrology, the pig, being the twelfth animal to hear the call of Buddha has many attributes that make up its character. The pig is honest, simple reliable and hardworking. The pig is also one of the most easygoing personalities yet with a strong loyal streak.
Yes………..2007 is the year of the Fire Pig and it is influenced by two elements – fire and water. This coming year is represented by the image of Yin Water sitting below Yin Fire. In accordance with the destructive cycle of the five elements – Water conquers Fire. Therefore, they are elements in conflict with the water yielding the most influence as it is in the foundation. This elemental relationship represents a time less peaceful than 2006 with tensions, agitation and unrest. These two elements together can also bring about more accidents involving trains, airlines and shipping. There is also the possibility of fire disasters, bombings and explosions.
The Yin fire sitting atop the Pig reflects a year of struggles. However, the wood hidden within the Pig indicates new beginnings and the possibility of ‘something better’ to come. The Pig also brings with it, in general, more travel than last year.
The Chinese calendar moves in cycles of sixty years. So, the last time we experienced the Fire Pig was in 1947. The Second World War was over and yet, if history is anything to go by we could see 2007 as a little more turbulent. Whilst the past tells us that overall there was more co-operation in 1947, the Cold war between Russia and America began as did the battles between India and Pakistan.
The industries likely to perform particularly well during the year of the Fire Pig are those related to the elements of Earth and Metal. Some of the industries connected with the Earth element are Mining, Property, Insurance, Hotel and the Chemicals sector. The Metal industries such as Skincare, Machinery and Hi-tech/Computer businesses ought to see strong activity. The Wood industries, which include fashion, textiles, publishing, paper, forestry – will be productive but not as strong as in 2006.
In general, the stock market will fare well from about February till the middle of the year. Despite this positive beginning, investors would do well to be cautious after this point.
The businesses most likely to be challenged during the coming year are those of the Water and Fire elements such as shipping, communications, entertainment, airlines and energy.
Traditional Chinese medicine is also based on the five elements and their cycles. Fire rules the heart whilst Water governs the kidney. However, Yin Fire in particular, also represents the brain, eyes and nervous system. Consequently we may see an increase in health issues relating to anxiety, depression, insomnia and even an increase in obesity. As a result, we need to pay attention to heart and mental health issues this coming year.
It is also vital that this year, everyone gives their health greater consideration than in the past. Improving the immune system should be a top priority in the event of any widespread epidemic. So, ensure that you take steps to manage and decrease your stress levels, eat healthily and find some exercise that you enjoy participating in on a regular basis.
In Feng Shui, good health is always given a top priority for without your health it is difficult to have the energy to maintain harmonious relationships, stabilise your wealth, and particularly to create more wealth.
From a Feng Shui perspective, during 2007, there will be the energy of sickness that dominates and, in conjunction with the year of the Fire Pig – extra caution is required. Once again, if we look at the past – by 1827 when both the sickness energy was ruling and the Fire Pig year was upon us, at the same time, Cholera had become the most feared disease of the century. Rather than remaining contained in India, it had begun to spread, via the merchant trade and travellers throughout the world. There were also epidemics of Dengue fever in Cuba and the Americas with epidemics of smallpox noted in California and Edenton.
One of the most serious outbreaks of an epidemic was the Black Death in 1347. This was indeed the year of the Fire Pig and whilst there wasn’t the energy of illness dominating – there was another energy that is considered worse in Feng Shui combining with that particular year.
During 2007 there will be a clash that occurs for those born in the year of the Snake. For example people that were born in the years of 1929, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001. These people should wear the symbol of the Tiger for protection. It also means that Snake people may feel restless and want to move house, change career and even travel more regularly. However, it is recommended not to travel in the Northwest direction for this period of time.
For those born in the year of the Pig – this does not automatically equate to a good year. For, as a rule, Pig people confronting a year of the same animal can stimulate frustrations. And this can sometimes manifest itself as putting in a great deal of effort into a particular project and yet not receiving much reward. Therefore, it is also advisable to carry or wear a Tiger pendant or charm.
For those born in the year of the Rat, 2007 will bring more opportunities to develop friendships and relationships. So, if you are born in the year of the Rat; for example, in the years of 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984 and you are single – this is the time to be proactive about your social life.
It is likely that people born in the years of the Rooster and Ox can also expect movement and changes in their lives. The years associated with these two animals are; 1921, 1925, 1933, 1937, 1945, 1949, 1957, 1961, 1969, 1973, 1981, 1993.
With respect to Feng Shui you will find a troublesome influence coming from the Northeast bringing with it difficulties and obstacles. If this part of your home or business is very active such as an entrance, family room, passage or living area then this energy needs to be dealt with by placing an all-metal wind chime or metal prayer bell in this area particularly in the months of February, August, and November.
The Centre resonates with the force of sickness during 2007. Therefore you will require a string of six metal coins to be placed in this area, and this is particularly important if your kitchen or a major thoroughfare is located in that sector.
An energy of arguments is located in the Northwest and so it could be valuable to place a red object or the more traditional option of red paper in this area to help minimise this influence.
Another destructive influence is arriving from the North. Hence, it is best to place Four bamboo stems (only those that grow in water) in a clear glass vase within the North sector.
Finally, do not sit with your back against due West, especially whilst you are working. It is also advisable to not carry out large-scale construction work in the Northwest for the coming year, as this is the location of the ‘Grand Duke’. Should your home face Northwest then place a Dragon Tortoise to face the same direction.
I hope you all stay well and happy during 2007
© Copyright Juliana Abram (Feng Shui Centre) - All Rights Reserved
|
