Year of the snake
We are leaving the Year of the Dragon.
The dragon is the only animal, out of 12 zodiac animals, that is not a real animal. The fact that the dragon is mythical lends to its strength: "I can fly without wings! I am fascinating simply because I exist!" Its mysticism rides on its ability to rapidly change forms and to shock and awe.
We are entering the Year of the Snake.
A snake is considered a terrestrial dragon - meaning that it is of this world - so change is still a main component of its personality, but it should play out very differently; after all a snake sheds their skin repeatedly throughout their life, BUT they are always still a snake. Translation: this is not a metamorphoses year, but we can expect a repeated refinement of the forces at play - both in the world and in ourselves - in comparatively subtle, but definitely visible, degrees. Therefore it is in our interest to stay flexible (like a snake) and be discerning (a snake only attacks when necessary) as we look to the new elements at play and the new opportunities presented.
Overlaying this snake year energy is a fire-element influence that will be in play for the next 20 years (it started in 2024). Fire helps things to move quickly and can spark creativity and tech advancements, but as we've seen over and over again, it can tear down existing structures at a devastating speed. While holding a lot of protective space for those that are suffering through fire now, we can keep in mind the more positive side of the fire element: if there are things you feel ready to shed, the fire energy will make that change easier.
As an acupuncturist, what I want you to know about fire is that we can be easily led in over-doing and over-scheduling because it is fun to follow that fast-moving energy. However, please keep in mind that long-term health in Chinese medicine is mostly about living within your energetic means, so most of us will need to be ruthless about building rest into our schedules and adhering to it just like we would any other appointments we make. If you are susceptible to feeling the relentless wired/tired combo, this is a big red flag for you!
Fire can also make symptoms and disease move much more quickly, so it's important to seek help as soon as you have a symptom or injury. Ideally, buy an acupuncture package and come for regular sessions so that you can keep yourself as calm and as strong as possible while moving through the elements.
To close on a positive note, fire is the element of the heart, so it can inspire great compassion and joy. Tap into any acitivites that bring these into your world.
Wishing you a Happy Lunar New Year
and a prosperous, healthy Year of the Snake!