Lunar New Year - Year of the Dragon

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A8 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024

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HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR 2024

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On February 10, 2024, nations worldwide will celebrate the Lunar New Year, a traditional lunisolar event tied to the moon’s phases, often referred to as Chinese New Year. It spans 15 days, commencing on the new moon between January 21 and February 20 and concluding with the full moon. Fireworks play a significant role, originating from the myth of “Nian,” a monster subdued by fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Burning fake money and gold bars honors ancestors, and is believed to bring fortune. Pre-New Year rituals include thorough house cleaning, family reunions, and avoiding taboos like cutting hair or arguing. Red envelopes containing money are given to children symbolizing the transfer of fortune to younger generations. The Chinese zodiac assigns one animal to each year, influencing aspects like career and relationships. The year of one’s zodiac animal, known as ben ming nian, is considered unlucky, prompting the tradition of wearing red throughout the year for protection. Chinese New Year captivates both Chinese and non-Chinese with its rich traditions and cultural significance.

1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

2024 YEAR OF THE DRAGON

Individuals born in the year of the Dragon are known for their adventurous and romantic nature, along with a mysterious personality that others struggle to grasp. Despite seeming unconcerned, Dragons can display exceptional ambition and energy when motivated. In Chinese culture, Dragons symbolize royalty, often associated with emperors. Paired with the phoenix, they represent harmony and balance. Though appearing laid-back, Dragons possess hidden dynamism, excelling in ambition once committed. This blend of mystery, ambition, and cultural symbolism makes Dragon individuals captivating and enigmatic. LUCKY THINGS FOR DRAGONS Colors: gold, silver, and hoary Numbers: 1, 6, 7 Directions of auspiciousness: West, North, and Northwest

- With files from Metro Creative

FENG SHUI LIFE HACK! Feng Shui is an Eastern philosophical system that’s been around for centuries and is based on the concept of arranging our surroundings to create positively charged energy flow. Feng Shui, which translates to “wind and water,” aims to create a harmonious environment that promotes good energy, to bring about happiness and prosperity in our lives. In simple terms, Feng Shui is like a life hack for our homes. It is a powerful tool that can transform our living spaces, making them more conducive to success, health, and happiness. By incorporating the principles of Feng Shui into our homes, we can create a space that not only looks beautiful but also feels great to live in. One of the main benefits of Feng Shui is its ability to create a peaceful and supportive home for you and your family. By arranging the layout, furniture placement and decor, we can optimize the energy flow to create a sense of balance and harmony. This balanced energy can help reduce stress and promote a feeling of calmness, creating a relaxing environment for everyone. In addition to creating a peaceful home, Feng Shui can also activate career opportunities and support better health and wellness

for the whole family. By placing certain objects and elements in specific areas of our home, we can enhance the energy flow in those areas and attract more opportunities for growth and success in our careers. Feng Shui principles focus on creating a clean and clutter-free environment, which can improve our physical and mental health. Furthermore, Feng Shui can increase opportunities for abundance and prosperity in our lives. By optimizing the energy flow in our homes, we can create a space that attracts positive vibes and abundance. This can manifest in different aspects of our lives, such as financial stability, career growth, and overall happiness. Feng Shui can also enhance romantic relationships. By creating a harmonious and balanced environment, we can improve the energy and communication between partners, creating a more loving and supportive relationship. For couples who struggle with arguments or conflicts, incorporating Feng Shui in their home can help create a more peaceful and loving atmosphere. The best part about Feng Shui is that it is easy to incorporate into our homes, and it can fit with any design style and budget. Feng Shui is the ultimate life hack that will positively enhance your life.

- Sam Plovie

HOROSCOPE

The Chinese Year of the Dragon Horoscope for 2024 is associated with the element of Wood; hence, it is known as the Year of the Wood Dragon. In Chinese tradition, wood symbolizes growth, vitality, and flexibility and is linked to the direction East, the Spring season, and the planet Jupiter. The Wood Dragon embodies the color green, high winds, and the mythical Azure Dragon, Qing Long. People born in the Year of the Dragon need nourishment and attention for exceptional growth. In 2024, the Dragon aligns with wood, signifying a time for new beginnings, hard work, and prosperity. Wood, the mother of fire, sparks passion, creativity, and innovation, analogous to a spark transforming into a flame. The green associated with wood signifies life and vitality, correlating with plants needing water, sunlight, and nourishment to flourish—similarly, we require care for our bodies, minds, and souls to reach our full potential and achieve prosperity. The Year of the Wood Dragon brings high energy, zeal, passion, and nourishment for personal, professional, and spiritual growth. The Wood Dragon’s year offers excitement, growth, and opportunities, emphasizing humility. People born in the Year of the Dragon should work at remaining healthy, humble, and use this year to create lasting success, happiness, prosperity, and health.

Chúc mừng năm mới Happy Lunar New Year

MLA Mitzi Dean

MLA Rob Fleming

LOVE AND RELATIONSHIPS IN 2024

With its captivating personality and striking appearance, the Wood Dragon is an irresistible force in the realm of love. Despite possessing a few cautionary traits, falling deeply for a Wood Dragon is almost inevitable. The love life of this sign may seem unsatisfying as they tend to keep people at bay, avoiding external influences in their lives. Rather than establishing stable relationships, Wood Dragons may engage in a series of romances and marriages, lacking a solid foundation for life. In relationships, the Wood Dragon brings forth passion and zeal, although these intensities can be fleeting. They may tolerate a partner only as long as it remains convenient, as their preoccupation with their own world takes precedence. Dragons love intensely, captivating with their charm, yet are unlikely to settle in their youth, potentially breaking hearts as they move on to the next fascination. Despite the challenges, their allure remains irresistible. Adding to the excitement, Wood Dragons are curious and willing to experiment, making relationships dynamic.

CAREER IN 2024

Noble, resourceful, streetsmart, and sincere—Wood Dragons are poised for success in their careers, excelling in mentally challenging tasks. Their leadership qualities and commanding aura make them effective leaders, particularly in roles where they can implement their innovative ideas. Dragons thrive in collaboration with a team that aids in strategizing and refining their concepts. While their assertive and aggressive approach paves the way for success, it can also pose a hindrance to personal

development. Dragons are impervious to external opinions, forging ahead with their creative ideas despite criticism. Their originality and willingness to take risks garner appreciation, and financial abundance often follows their enterprising ideas. Generosity with money is a common trait, utilizing it as a tool to realize their goals. Wood Dragons are wellsuited for professions such as politicians, designers, managers, salespersons, and financiers.

WEALTH IN 2024

Entering 2024, financial prospects for Dragons present a blend of positive and challenging aspects. Influenced by their birth year and the weakening of unfavorable stars, Dragons may encounter financial challenges, including unexpected expenses and losses. However, auspicious stars in the professional sphere may bring about opportunities for salary increases and promotions. To capitalize on these opportunities, Dragons must remain diligent and dedicated in their work. By staying focused, there is a chance to accumulate personal wealth during this zodiac year.

HEALTH IN 2024

Wood Dragons exhibit robust health and balance. Their spirited and cheerful disposition ensures they do not overly worry about minor issues. However, their penchant for overburdening themselves with work can lead to health issues. The constant stress and frustration associated with their jobs may pose a risk to their well-being. It is crucial for Wood Dragons to strike a work-life balance, as neglecting their health could have long-term consequences. Regular exercise, meditation, and taking breaks for introspection and relaxation are vital for keeping physical and mental exhaustion at bay. Dragons, consumed by work, should prioritize self-care to maintain overall well-being.

MLA Grace Lore

Esquimalt-Metchosin Mitzi.Dean.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-952-5885

Victoria-Swan Lake Rob.Fleming.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-356-5013

MLA Ravi Parmar

MLA Lana Popham MLA Murray Rankin

Langford-Juan de fuca ravi.parmar.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-391-2801

In this regard helping others also aligns with Dragon teachings and Chinese traditions rooted in unity and determination.

UNLUCKY THINGS Colors: green, black, red, and purple Numbers: 3, 8, 9

Victoria-Beacon Hill Grace.Lore.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-952-4211

Oak Bay-Gordon Head Saanich South Lana.Popham.MLA@leg.bc.ca Murray.Rankin.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-472-8528 250-479-4154

Feng Shui Master & Chinese Astrologer Download Your FREE 2024 Feng Shui & Astrology guide


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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2024

HOROSCOPE 1927 1939 1951 1963 1975 1987 1999 2011 2023

1924 1936 1948 1960 1972 1984 1996 2008 2020

YEAR OF THE RAT

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Ox Best group: Monkey, Dragon Incompatible: Horse A year of possibilities awaits Rats in 2024. Opportunities abound for career growth and personal development. Leverage your natural intelligence and resourcefulness to navigate challenges and secure success. Forge new connections, and your social circle will play a pivotal role in your achievements.

1913 1925 1937 1949 1961 1973 1985 1997 2009 2021

YEAR OF THE OX

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Rat Best group: Snake, Rooster Incompatible: Goat People born in the year of the Ox are hard workers and have a strong sense of responsibility. Even if they run into difficulty during work, they’ll persevere through. They aren’t very romantic, but are patient and would never force themselves onto someone who doesn’t like them. They are usually quiet and keep their emotions bottled up inside. It’s hard for others to understand them. When they do lose their temper, it’s like an explosion and can drive others away.

1926 1938 1950 1962 1974 1986 1998 2010 2022

YEAR OF THE RABBIT

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Goat Best group: Pig, Dog, Sheep Incompatible: Rooster People born in the Year of the Rabbit are sensitive, facing challenges in competitive or aggressive settings and feeling anxious when urged to take risks by others. Their delicate inner world responds adversely to unsettled or unpredictable circumstances. Innately, they create serene environments, reminiscent of rabbit dens, displaying hospitality and attentiveness as per Chinese astrology. Those born in the Year of the Rabbit tend to favor a secure lifestyle, emphasizing their sense of security. However, this preference for safety over risk may lead to missed opportunities. It’s crucial to note that these individuals are not deemed irresponsible. When committed to a cause, they exhibit seriousness, perseverance, and capability. 1917 1929 1941 1953 1965 1977 1989 2001 2013

YEAR OF THE SNAKE

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Monkey Best group: Rooster, Ox Incompatible: Pig

People born in the year of the Snake are idealists. On the outside, they may seem cold but, deep inside, they are warm and enthusiastic. Their desire of exclusive ownership is very fierce. It irks them if they can’t fully understand someone. Snakes are devoted and determined, but their worst enemy is laziness. Snakes usually have a negative diction and are symbols of witchcraft. However, the creator of the world in Chinese mythology, had a human’s head and a snake’s body.

1918 1930 1942 1954 1966 1978 1990 2002 2014

YEAR OF THE HORSE

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Goat Best group: Tiger, Dog Incompatible: Rat People born in the year of the Horse are never one to surrender. They are always positive and energetic, pushing themselves forward. Their biggest desire is to have the freedom to do what they like and be able to express themselves. However, they also have various negative traits. Horses are bad at keeping secrets and lose interest quickly. As the head of the six domestic animals, horses are crucial in transportation and war. They represent speed and freedom. Many Northern ethnicities, such as the Mongolians and Manchurians, revere and worship the horse.

1919 1931 1943 1955 1967 1979 1991 2003 2015

YEAR OF THE GOAT

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Horse Best group: Pig, Rabbit Incompatible: Ox People born in the year of the Goat have a pure and kind heart. They’d rather suffer silently than argue and ruin someone else’s mood. However, even in silence, they still hold onto their own opinion. In regards to their passions, they will do anything possible to fulfill their wishes. Though kind, Goats have tricks up their sleeves as well. They are skilled at using soft power, able to patiently and politely persuade others into their favor. Xiè Zhì is a mythological one-horned goat. It was the assistant of Gāo Yáo, god of Justice. The Goat is also the symbol of filial piety. 1920 1932 1944 1956 1968 1980 1992 2004 2016

YEAR OF THE MONKEY

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Snake Best group: Rat, Dragon Incompatible: Tiger People born in the year of the Monkey do things based on interest. If it’s something they don’t quite care for, they’ll do the work sloppily. If it something they’re interested in, they’ll put their entire

heart into it and work until they succeed. They live a long life full of energy and curiosity for the world. Monkeys also value relationships. However, spoiling children may be their weakness. There are multiple legends about the Monkey as humans’ ancestor. Monkeys also like eating peaches. Peaches are symbols of longevity and, with time, monkeys also became associated with long life. 1921 1933 1945 1957 1969 1981 1993 2005 2017

YEAR OF THE ROOSTER

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Dragon Best group: Snake, Ox Incompatible: Rabbit People born in the year of the Rooster are able to sense what the other person is thinking or feeling. They have quick reactions and high EQ. They make great friends, although some are cunning. Roosters are creative and talented in the arts, although few find a career in that field. They have foresight and plan everything carefully. According to legends, roosters are able to protect against evil spirits. In ancient times, sworn brothers must swear to the heavens, then drip rooster blood into wine and drink it all.

1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018

YEAR OF THE DOG

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Rabbit Best group: Tiger, Horse Incompatible: Dragon People born in the year of the Dog are conservative and full of justice. Because of their loyalty, Dogs are valued in the workplace. They rarely break rules, except for people important to them. In life, they only wish to live quietly with their family. In the Qin and Han dynasty, the Stone Dog was worshipped by the people. In the Guangdong province, it is still popular to name dogs Wàng Cái. It means “prosperous wealth” and comes from dogs’ barking sounds. 1923 1935 1947 1959 1971 1983 1995 2007 2019

YEAR OF THE PIG

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Tiger Best group: Rabbit, Goat Incompatible: Snake People born in the year of the Pig think logically and are able to fix whatever problem they’re in. They aren’t good communicators, but they’re kind and able to provide for the family. Most of them are wealthy. Their only obvious fault is that they lose their temper easily. Pigs are the symbol of wealth. Their chubby faces and big ears are signs of fortune as well.

HAPPY

LUNAR NEW YEAR

YEAR OF THE TIGER

COMPATIBILITY Best match: Pig Best group: Horse, Dog Incompatible: Monkey People born in the year of the Tiger are independent and have high self-esteem. They enjoy being the leader and protector of average people. They love justice and never back down in an argument. Recklessness is their biggest weakness, causing them to fail. However, they never truly fail. Tigers will always find a way to stand back up and succeed in the end. Tigers are the kings of all beasts. People believe that they are the guardians of children. In the past, infants were washed with water boiled with tiger bones to prevent diseases. Children also wear hats and shoes with tiger designs.

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