WISHING YOU ALL A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS YEAR OF THE FIRE DOG

The Chinese have a unique calendar 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 dog has many attributes that make up its character. The dog learns well, is an astute judge of character, kind, protectiveand fiercely loyal.

2006 is the year of the Fire Dog and it is influenced by two elements – fire and earth. This coming year is represented by the image of Yang Earth sitting below Yang Fire. In accordance with the destructive cycle of the five elements – Fire gives birth to Earth. Therefore, they are elements in support and harmony with the Earth yielding the most influence as it is in the foundation. This elemental relationship will be a welcome one as it will provide for a relatively more peaceful and harmonious year than we have seen more recently. Where Yang Fire is open, optimistic, warm and polite the Yang Earth Dog is the storage of Fire. It’s also considered to be a symbol of spiritual matters, which could produce a desire for further enrichment of this aspect of life. Consequently this carries the implication that this year, more people will be seeking religious solace.

The Dog is considered to be a symbol of spiritual matters, which could produce a desire for further enrichment of this aspect of life.

The Yang fire sitting atop the mountain of earth symbolised by the Dog reflects the possibility of explosions from the earth such as volcanic eruptions. It is also a generic representation of explosions or disasters involving fire and energy. The earth within the character of the Dog suggests that there could be an increase in earth disasters which include the prospect of more sudden disintegration of buildings, landslides and earthquakes.

The Chinese calendar moves in cycles of sixty years so, the last time we experienced the Fire Dog was in 1946 when the Second World War was finally over. If history is anything to go by we could see 2006 as being the time when countries begin to co-operate more with one another and in the main - harmony prevails.

The industries likely to perform particularly well during the year of the Fire Dog are those related to the elements of Wood and Fire. In general, the stock market will fare well and other fire industries include finance, entertainment, electronic goods, oil and energy related businesses. Some of the industries connected with the Wood element are fashion, textile, forestry, furniture, paper and publishing. The Water industries such as transport, travel, shipping, bars and communication industries see some improved momentum.

The businesses most likely to be challenged during the coming year are those of the earth and metal elements such as mining, property, chemicals, heavy industry, motor vehicles and hi-tech.

Traditional Chinese medicine is also based on the five elements and their cycles. Fire rules the heart whilst earth governs the stomach.

The Dog, being of the earth element and symbolising the stomach could also bring with it increased incidences of cancer, stomach complaints and diabetes. With Yang Fire representing the heart and blood circulation we may see an increase in diseases of these organs. Issues associated with the kidney may also arise given the ‘dryness’ that the Fire Dog year suggests.

During 2006 there will be a clash that occurs for people born in the year of the Dragon. Therefore these people should wear the symbol of the rabbit for protection. It also means that Dragon people may feel restless and want to move house, change career and travel more – however, it is recommended to not travel in the Northwest direction. For those born in the year of the Dog, Ox and Goat it is also advisable to carry or wear a rabbit pendant.

With respect to Feng Shui you will find a troublesome influence coming from the West 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 April, July, September and January. The Southeast will require a string of six metal coins to be placed in this area, and this is particularly important if this is the location of the master bedroom, kitchen or main entrance. Finally, do not sit with your back against due North especially whilst you’re working. It’s 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 this direction.