With the passing of 2020, considering the pandemic and economic decline worldwide, most of us are excited to usher in the new year to turn over a new leaf. But now, we’re in 2021 and on Feb 12, will officially mark the Year of the Ox in the Chinese Lunar Calendar.
According to one myth, the Jade Emperor decided the order of zodiac animals in which they arrived to his party. The Ox was about to be the first to arrive, but Rat tricked Ox into giving him a ride. Then, just as they arrived, Rat jumped down and landed ahead of Ox. Thus, Ox became the second animal.
The ox is “grounded, loyal, gentle and trustworthy.” – Jupiter Lai, astrologer.
Picture: Japan Times
Ox has a strong root across cultures and religions. Back in the day, people relied heavily on agriculture. And the ox became a symbol of strength and fertility as it is used heavily during harvest.
So here are some of the things you can do to better yourself this 2021, according to this zodiac sign.
1. Don’t forget to celebrate!
Picture: Cottonbro
Huge gatherings are strongly discouraged worldwide. But that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate it in the ‘new normal’ style and surround ourselves with our loved ones (virtually, of course). Absence does make the heart grow fonder and if anything that 2020 has taught us is to appreciate the time we have with our loved ones.
We might not be able to gather with our families and visit the temple also not forgetting the ang-pows. But the practice of worship and familial bonding has evolved with technology with e-wallet and online ang-pows as well.
2. Be vigilant
Picture: Anthony Shkraba
Some of us with different zodiac might feel differently about this year. Although according to Levitt, this year will be about picking up what you started in the Rat year. He advised us to follow routines and avoid new things for the time being.
Ironically for oxen, Chinese superstition states that this might not be the best year for you although thankfully, it won’t be the worst. Keep your chin up, however as you can still have plenty of opportunities to save it. Astrologers advise wearing red to attract good fortune. Keeping a plant in your room is also a way to invoke positivity.
3. Clean up!
According to the Chinese calendar, to which rotations represented by animal year and elements – fire, water, wood, metal, and earth – this is the Year of the Metal Ox.
“In feng shui, the metal environment is clean, pristine, pared down, and shiny like metal.” – Susan Levitt, professional astrologer.
Maintaining personal hygiene has always been important but the habit intensifies during this pandemic. It is best to clean up your home and reducing the clutter. (Don’t lie, we all binge-shop during the long quarantine last year.) Focus on the bedroom as it is the place where you start and end your day.
4. Stay humble
Picture: Ekaterina Bolovtsova
Even to the skeptics, we all know how much 2020 has affected us in every aspect known to man. That includes astrology. According to Joanna C. Lee, readings have been
Ken Smith and Joana C. Lee, author of Pocket Chinese Almanac have told that last year has affected everything with ‘murkiness in the universe’ so much that it is difficult for a clear forecast. Lee advised everyone to be prudent and stay on their toes.
Whether you believe in astrology or not, it would be good to be careful and use this to better prepare yourself. After all, there’s still a long way until December.
Source: Japantimes, CNN Travel, Oprahmag
