Chinese New Year

The Chinese calendar is based on a combination of  lunar and solar movements. Their new year always coincides with a new moon. Since the lunar cycle is 29.5 days, every seven years a month is ‘inserted’ into the system to ‘catch up’ to the solar calendar.

In all cultures, a new year offers an opportunity for new beginnings. It is an auspicious time to release impediments of the past so that we may create the life experience we desire. For the Chinese, the New Year is also a time of thanksgiving, when special tribute is paid to the spirit of one’s ancestors.

Year of the Golden Rabbit

On Feb 3, 2011, we usher in the 4708th year in the Chinese calendar, the Year of the  Golden Rabbit. The rabbit is fourth in a cycle of 12 animals that represent the Chinese Zodiac. In Chinese mythology, Rabbit symbolizes graciousness, good manners, sound counsel, kindness, and sensitivity to beauty. He is also a symbol of endurance and longevity, and is said to derive his essence from the Moon.

The Rabbit Personality

According to Chinese astrology, people born in the Year of the Rabbit are said to share personality and behavioral characteristics associated with the rabbit. Rabbit personalities are described as being keen, wise, fragile, tranquil, serene, considerate, fashionable, and kind. In essence, rabbits are calm, gentle, and very persistent.

Socially, rabbits tend to be private and mildly introverted. Nevertheless, they are reasonably friendly individuals who enjoy the company of a group of good friends. At times they may be emotionally detached within their relationships, as they tend to need their own space. In dealing with family and friendships, they can always be counted upon for a sympathetic ear or a gentle hand to hold.

Quietly charismatic, thoughtful, and calm, rabbits are admired for their tactful and considerate dealings with people. They are most often depended upon for their wise counsel, and as someone who can be trusted in personal friendships or business interactions.

Rabbit personalities tend to avoid conflict at all costs, and will typically shy away from aggressive and competitive situations. If a conflict arises, a rabbit will approach the situation calmly and with consideration for the other party. He will rarely raise his voice or become visibly annoyed.  

Rabbits in Business

Despite their outwardly calm demeanor, rabbits are extremely shrewd in business dealings. Intelligent and quick, Rabbit can smoothly talk himself into or out of most situations. He is also quick to bolt from any perceived danger as he has a highly developed sense of self-preservation.

Rabbits are considered conservative people who don’t like to take risks. As one of the most cautious signs in the Chinese zodiac, they are slow to take action and prefer to rely on a strategic approach to the game of life.

Rabbits and Romance

Their cautious nature also influences their romantic dealings, as rabbits will not commit to any one person right away. Once they are settled down in a domestic relationship, however, no truer or sweeter spouse is likely to be found.  Rabbits are most comfortable being at home, which is always neat and organized. They are conservative in their decorating tastes and prefer to entertain at home.

Stylish and Diplomatic!

The Chinese Rabbit is one of the most stylish creatures of the zodiac, and his impeccable eye for color and line is evident in his tasteful fashion sense. His highly developed nature is also expressed in artistic pursuits, and he finds interest in different cultures.

Rabbit personalities are good communicators and make excellent diplomats and politicians. Other natural careers for a rabbit include writing, publishing, and being a doctor. They are relatively careful when it comes to their finances, using much of their money for practical possessions such as their homes, cars, or furniture.

Metal Rabbit

Animals within the Chinese Zodiac are further distinguished using the five elements: fire, earth, metal, water, and wood. Metal gives Rabbit more strength, resilience, and determination. Metal Rabbits are more intense in their actions, whether they are work-related or romantic endeavors.

What does it mean for all of us in 2011?

The Year of the Rabbit is traditionally associated with home and family, artistic pursuits, diplomacy, and keeping the peace. As we transition out of the tumultuous year of the Tiger, 2011 is expected to be a calmer, more temperate year, both on the world scene as well as on a personal level.

Because the Rabbit year is said to bring peace or at least a respite from conflict or war, it presents an excellent time to slow down and regain our center. Our intuitive capacity will be highlighted along with the art of negotiation. This year should be a congenial time in which diplomacy, international relations, and politics will be emphasized.

A time for Patience & Persistence

Within our personal and professional dealings we are encouraged to act with discretion and to make reasonable concessions. This is not a time to push or force issues, but instead to exercise patience and gentle persuasion to achieve our desired objectives. We may direct our focused attention towards what is important to us in our lives in a calm and persistent manner.

During the Rabbit year, law and order is expected to be lax. Rules and regulations will not be rigidly enforced, because people will be less inclined to bother with these unpleasant realities. In general, people may have a tendency to put off disagreeable tasks for as long as possible.

Potential for Prosperity and Refinement

In the year of the Rabbit, money can be made without too much labor. It is a good time to form shrewd and creative new business partnerships for the benefit of all. Many people will find/encounter circumstances that inspire them to greater personal happiness and professional success.

In 2011 we can create a more leisurely lifestyle, and it may seem possible for us to be carefree & happy without excessive and ongoing challenges. We are however cautioned to avoid becoming overly indulgent, as the influence of the Rabbit tends to spoil those who enjoy too much comfort, thus impairing their effectiveness and sense of duty.

The Year of the Rabbit is said to embody good taste, refinement, and appreciation of the arts which will be expressed on personal as well as societal levels.

Global Influence of the Rabbit

On a global level, in the Year of the Rabbit nations are likely to become more insular which may cause them to lock down their borders to protect against the “other”. At the same time, we are likely to see the birth of new art movements which will project a distinct national identity on the world scene.

Be like a Bunny

Like the Rabbit, if we strive to create a safe, peaceful, prosperous lifestyle, we will be able to calmly address and solve problems or challenges that may arise this year.

Happy Year of the Rabbit to you all!