As we head in to the the Chinese New year of the yang earth dog of 2018 on February 16th, we are expecting a calm, stable completion of what was stirred up in previous fire rooster year. A dog by nature is loyal and fair; honest communication is the foundation of this creature’s integrity. What you see is what you get. With its strength in character and moral conviction, social justice will ring throughout the nation and those that stand up for such things will be heard.
Dogs are intelligent pack animals, so this is not necessarily the year to go out on your own. Development of family and “man’s best friend,” are the ones who matter most. Each pack also has an alpha male and alpha female, so those that fit this leadership bill will be the ones who stand out coupled with the notion of true service for the good of all. A dog is a protector after all, so those that understand and value what is good for the pack will step into that alpha role.
We are also in what is considered a yang earth year, which alludes to the notion of being calm, strong and stable, like a mountain. This energy is very slow moving, but sturdy. Planning things out will be of great benefit and yield even more results throughout the year. People’s opinions could be a bit more stubborn, which could lead to conflict due to an eruption of convictions. Aiming for peace would be the ultimate resolution. The challenge of this year will be setting healthy boundaries without putting up walls. Living with and sensing some fear is common for a dog. This will not be the year for fake news, faux-facebook friending, or bullies to have a field day. People’s honesty and realness will be what builds trust.
Being a yang earth based year, we are more likely to see natural earth-like powerful shifts such as earthquakes and mudslides. There is also a great likelihood of renewable energy sources to be on the rise, such as solar and wind. The agricultural industry will take off and things related to the structural home and real estate. Anything green or of the environment will be in the limelight but this could also lead to territorial disputes.
Romance and relationships are bound to be stable and strong. A dog’s loyalty results in a wonderful joyous commitment, feeling the need for affection and touch from it’s mate. Those who are single are more likely to meet a partner through their pack, so it may not be the best year for online dating. Stick close to your friends for that special intro.
Body language will speak volumes, so stay grounded. Take walks in nature to restore and align yourself with the energy in the air. The earth element in Chinese medicine refers to the spleen, which has a lot to do with pancreatic and stomach function. This could be the year we see more digestive issues, so keep a diet that is healthy and mild, no overeating or dampening foods such as dairy or excessive alcohol. The emotions of the earth element when out of balance are ones of worry, rumination, and obsession; when in balance they are generous, loving, and care-giving while not jeopardizing ones own self-care. Definitely a year to enhance your meditation practice for a stable happy mind.
Stick with your pack and share your resources with friends, family and coworkers. Positive reenforcement will go along way, and those dogs around you will bound to be your new best friend.