During the quiet months of winter, nature's energy gently shifts from Yang-Yin (autumn) to Yin-Yin.  In general this time of year can feel slow and inactive, as nature moves through a period of dormancy.  Because of the strong influence of yin energy in the environmental ch'i, it's not unlikely that it could affect your personal ch'i as well.  For instance, you may find your own energy directed increasingly inward, on yourself (yin), as oppose to directing it outwards, towards others (yang).

The energy right now provides an especially good time for self-reflection and inner contemplation, and making sure you're on your desired course.  Note:  It really is essential to make time for self-reflection because it helps to lay-the-ground-work for your personal growth and navigating your future direction.  [I've also noticed that the Universe has a funny way of creating time for inner-contemplation (e.g. through illness), if you choose not to make the time yourself.]

As in nature, this time of year appears quiet, reserved and seemingly uneventful, but the truth is that there is a lot of movement and germination happening just below the surface.  The seeds that you are planting now can/will have a profound effect on the upcoming year ahead.  As a reminder, winter (the North) represents your journey in life and is supported through the element of water.  The Chinese consider Water to be the source of all life.  It symbolizes fluidity, flow and spiritual attunement.  Hence, this season provides an ideal time to get your ducks in a row.

When the environmental energy is in an extreme stage as it is now in the northern hemisphere (Yin-Yin), it's easy to feel uncomfortable...  Not only because this is a season of isolation, but because many people become more vulnerable to depression, loneliness or illness, all of which are characteristic of extreme Yin energy.  Ironically, it can be this sense of vulnerability that encourages you to open up spiritually.

Some individuals attempt to offset the bleak winter months by incorporating a lot of Yang (active) energy into their routines.  Although this can be an effective tactic, the trick is to maintain a sense of balance.  Too much Yang energy can create 'holiday upheaval' or, feeling overwhelmed, frantic or stressed-out (usually) from over-committing yourself.  Remember, the Holidays in-and-of-themselves are not Yang, as they may appear, but your approach to them may have been so in the past.  One way you can create balance is by keeping things simple and staying clear on what the holidays truly represent for you.  Avoid getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season which can easily distract you from what's really important.

Contrary to popular belief, winter doesn't mark the end of a year or cycle but, rather, it marks a beginning.  It is a time for planning, preparation and charting your course for the New Year ahead…

Gong Xi Fa Cai ~ Happy New Year!

January 22, 2004 introduces the first day of the New Year according to the lunar (and Chinese) calendar. This year we celebrate the Year of the Green Monkey.  The Monkey, which is the ninth of the 12 Earthly Branches, represents a time of action, courage and devotion to your plans no matter how big or small. Success is attainable this year, and not only in politics, business and real estate, but in all endeavors.  So, use this time to chart your course, plant seeds of opportunity, and go for it!  

As a reminder, February 4, 2004 marks the beginning of the 'Age 8' and what is believed to be the most auspicious 20-year period within the entire 180-year cycle.  More good news, the arrangement of Stars in the 2004 L'o Sh'o is also favorable since all the Stars are in their own Houses this year.  (This means that you won't have to 'elementally offset' any unsupportive Stars in your Nine Life Aspirations/PaKua.)  

Do be mindful, however, of the Grand Duke Jupiter (or, 'Obstacles Star'), which will be residing in the Southwest/West sector this year, and of the 'Illness Star' (also known as the Yellow Five), which will be in the Tai Ch'i.  Keep both of these areas clean and uncluttered and avoid any major renovation or remodeling.  Remember, you don't want to disrupt the energy in these areas or align yourself with them.  Consequently, you may need to take time to reposition your bed or desk (or those of your other family members) so that you are facing and sleeping to one of your other beneficial directions.

2004 promises to be an exciting year with new classes and a new publication. Wishing you a happy and abundant Year of the Monkey!