Time to broaden your horizons, let go of the past, and move towards a world of freedom, justice, and transformation. This year of the Jiǎ Chén 甲 辰 Wood Dragon in 2024 begins on February 4 in the solar calendar (the true astrological date) and on February 10 in the Lunar calendar (the more commonly celebrated date).
Dragons are mostly inherently yang earth in nature at its core making them much like a mountain, solid, reliable, grounded and trustworthy. They do possess yin wood and yin water qualities as well, allowing them to be intuitive and sensitive to the community at large.
The dragon is often thought to be the luckiest animal in the Chinese zodiac, one that is bold, powerful, expansive, and holds a revolutionary energy that can change the world. The dragon is a mythical composite animal- part bird, snake, tiger, fish, ox, deer, and others. Because of its many parts, it was considered a representation of the emperor of China, a leader who could see the many views of society and hone the interconnectedness that we all are.
We are in a Yang wood year, which is strong, growing, and stands tall like a redwood tree; it comes with that large visionary quality. Yang wood looks to the betterment of society by standing for justice and righteousness in the world. Being quick and impulsive means attention to detail could be lacking.
Big yang wood energy also comes with aggression frustration and even anger if it turns to excess. When wood energy is in balance, it is kind and benevolent. Wood controls the earth, which could break down the earth’s energy, so we might see more earthquakes on land.
Conflict and war are on the menu, but ultimately a positive change will come from it, especially in the second half of the year leading to greater harmony and a better collective experience for all. The economy should be more stable then as the world finds more peace.
Another thing that dragons are good at is letting go of what no longer serves and in that release of negativity, our hearts could swell with joy and love. Dragons are innately powerful from this kind of spiritual brightness, tapping into internal power and activating consciousness. We too on an individual level could be going through a metamorphosis just as we see this taking place on a collective level. Enlightenment is possible in the time of the dragon.
We’ll want to prepare our health by paying attention to our digestion, eating at regular times, and engaging in grounding practices such as forest bathing or qi gong. From the large yang wood energy, our livers and gallbladders are more likely to have pathologies occur, so it is wise to do cardiovascular exercise or movement practices that circulate our energy effectively, so we are less likely to stagnate our livers and experience emotional irritations. When the liver qi is constrained, the digestive system suffers. Also, the wood element can exhaust the water energy (kidneys) if a person is too active and driven.
Another aspect of the liver is its role in our deeper immunity; therefore, supporting our immune system, protecting Wei Qi, and establishing healthy boundaries will contribute to a well-rounded supportive approach to this year’s energy and how it manifests in our bodies.
Any profession with artistry at its core will do well this year, such as designers, engineers, painters, and musicians. If your profession is not commonly thought of as artistic, bring a creative flare to what you do, for your work to be well received by others. Dragons are creative by nature and we all will do best when we engage in activities that resonate with our hearts. Wealth will more likely come when we follow our bliss. Since this year is community-orientated, we may be called upon to work more with others. Companies with social consciousness and sustainability will do well.
Dragons tend to be very passionate; therefore, this could be the year to find that great love or go deeper with the relationships you already are in. Compassion is a quality that will permeate all of our relationships and the approach we take with them.
Enjoy the auspicious ride of the dragon as a big revolution, universal awareness, connection, and transformation is upon us in 2024!