Q&A Sunday: Chinese Astrology for a Horse in a Rooster Year

This year of the Fire Rooster has been really tough for me so far. Big snow making getting to work difficult, 3 squirrel infestations in my new Nissan Rogue (wires chewed...in shop three times). I'm a Wood Horse. Please advise me how to improve my luck. Maybe a dragon in the entryway?

Shauna R., Abbotsford , British Columbia, Canada

Hi Shauna

I’m so very sorry that you have been having such a challenging year. It’s actually been a quite challenging year for many others as well. As far as the relationship between Horse and Rooster, it’s actually neutral. It may be useful for you to consult directly with a Chinese Astrology expert as it sounds like this is where your interests lie, and there are great astrologers I can recommend. Beth Grace, Doris Ingber and Yasha Jampolsky are all Chinese Astrologers you can hire. They can look at your specific natal chart, based on the time of your birth, in relationship with the energies of this specific year. Without seeing your actual birth information, there’s not much more I can advise in terms of your astrology.

As far the feng shui aspects to improve your luck, the founder of BTB feng shui, H.H. Professor Lin Yun always advised to first take of the mundane issues. That simply means what are the practical things you can do to improve the situation. Luckily the winter has passed, but as far as the squirrels, is there something you can do to prevent this happening again in the future? Then, I have a sense that you should start with the most basic feng shui adjustment of making sure your bed, desk and stove are in the commanding position. You can find more information about that here, here and here.

As far as the car damage, you can look at the feng shui of your car. It represents how you connect to the world, right? And the electrical wires are akin to your blood and nervous system. It maybe helpful for you to check that out. It might be interesting to also look at symbology of the squirrel. The squirrel is associated with playfulness but also preparation. The presence of so many squirrels may be a sign to take life a little less seriously and have more fun. However, it can also be a note to take a look at your preparations in life and ensure they are all in place. On a less obvious level, the squirrel can also be a reminder to remain mindful. Squirrels only find 10% of the nuts they hide for winter, but all of these unfound nuts do develop into larger plants and trees. So be mindful of what you "plant", because it will inevitably come back up!

Since the damage was carried out by nature, you can also create a shrine to invite the nature spirits to appease them. You can create a special place, ideally outdoors, where you make a humble offering to the nature spirits so they are happy and feel invited into your home. This would include water, liquor, rice and a small rock or statue. Do this to dedicate a small space for magic from the universe in your life, and be sure to ask nature to visit your home! There's more on that here

Finally, you inquired about a dragon in the entryway. I’m assuming you’re suggesting this because the Dragon is the best friend of the Rooster. In BTB feng shui we advise you carry on your body a three-dimensional dragon in the Year of the Rooster. So this is the adjustment, to carry it on you. It’s not the same to have it in the entryway. If you had another reason, let us know so we can comment on it. You can purchase the charm in the Holistic Spaces shop, and it will definitely help you have a more auspicious year. Since the Dragon is the best friend of the Rooster, the Rooster will see the dragon charm and bestow good luck and protection. 

Thank you for submitting your question, and I hope the rest of your year improves! 

by Anjie Cho


Thanks for reading our "Q&A Sunday".  We will be answering questions submitted by our readers. Click here to submit any Feng Shui or Green Design questions!


Your Nine Star Ki for 2017, Year of the Fire Rooster

Happy Chinese New Year!

On Saturday, we celebrate the Chinese New Year, and the following week, on February 4, 2017, the new lunar year, The Year of the Fire Rooster begins. The energy has already begun to shift for the new year, though, so it's time for yearly energy readings! Be sure to check out our podcasts with Doris Ingber and blog post from Beth Grace for individual zodiac horoscopes, as well as what kind of energy to expect from the Year of the Rooster. 

In combination with the Chinese zodiac astrology system, I also like to use the numerology of the Nine Star Ki to prepare for the coming year and stay energetically balanced. This practice was developed in ancient China, so it only makes sense that it goes so well with feng shui, and is based on a number system of nine rather than the animal system. It also closely aligns with the five element principles and the I-Ching. 

Holistic Spaces has worked with Andrea Giordano, from AromatheraChi, again this year to create custom aromatherapy blends for each Nine Star Ki number in the Year of the Rooster. Each aromastick is created to provide support and enhance the energy for your individual number in the coming lunar year, and they can be used in conjunction with feng shui!

Now let's figure out your number and what's in store!

You can calculate your principle number by using your year of birth. Beware: this requires a little elementary math ;)

As an example, if you were born in 1986:

  • Add: 1+9+8+6 = 24

  • Reduce to a single digit: 2+4 = 6

  • Subtract from 11: 11-6 = 5

*if you were born between January 1 and February 4, subtract from 12:  12-6 = 6

If you were born in 1940:

  • Add: 1+9+4+0 = 14

  • Reduce to a single digit: 1+4 = 5

  • Subtract from 11: 11-5 = 6

*if you were born between January 1 and February 4, subtract from 12:  12-5 = 7

Here's what all that calculating means for the Year of the Fire Rooster:

If your principle number is 1, in 2017 you will be in the year of Fluctuation. This year will feel a little chaotic, as this is a time of renewal and rebirth. You many need to reinvent yourself this year. It’s a great time to let things go that are no longer serving you. 

If your principle number is 2, in 2017 you will be in the year of Prosperity. This year will feel strong and prosperous. You will begin to feel confident and be recognized for your knowledge and skills. There will still be a lot of effort, but you shall finally be harvesting the fruits of your labor.

If your principle number is 3, in 2017 you will be in the year of Celebration. This year will feel celebratory and playful. It is a great time to relax and pat yourself on the back for all the hard work that you put in the last few years. Enjoy yourself, rejoice and have some fun.

If your principle number is 4, in 2017 you will be in the year of Stillness. This year will be much quieter than the last. It will be a time of stillness, like climbing up a mountain to meditate in isolation. This is a great time to focus inward and do some self-cultivation.

If your principle number is 5, in 2017 you will be in the year of Recognition. This year you will be in the house of fire, where you have the best opportunities to be seen and recognized by others. It is a great time to receive any promotions or any other projects that you want publicity for. Be careful, as all things, good or bad, may be unveiled to the public.

If your principle number is 6, in 2017 you will be in the year of Planning. This year will feel quiet and is a time for planning. In the winter, it may appear that everything is dead on the surface, but underneath there is much life and activity. Similarly, it may feel slow, but take this time to reflect, review and plan for the future.

If your principle number is 7, in 2017 you will be in the year of Germination. This year will be the time to plant seeds. When you plant a garden, you germinate many more seeds than you need. Do the same this year. Put all your ideas out there into the universe and share them with others. Plant the seeds and see what comes up! 

If your principle number is 8, in 2017 you will be in the year of Sprouting. This year will be energetic and full of new beginnings as you catch sight of seeds that you planted last year begin to sprout and grow. Be open to new ideas and cultivate the projects that you start at this time.

If your principle number is 9, in 2017 you will be in the year of Rapid Growth. This year will be a continuation of last year where you see your sprouts grow into strong, grounded trees. This year will be busy and active, so please take care of yourself and be careful not to get burnt out.

How is your coming year looking? Are you excited? If you're interested in learning more about Nine Star Ki, check out this Holistic Spaces podcast, and take a peek at the blog, too, for ideas on how to celebrate the Chinese New Year! No matter what your number or animal, don't forget to take care of yourself during the Year of the Fire Rooster! One great way is to grab a three-dimensional dragon charm to carry with you at all times for protection and support. Since the Dragon is the Rooster's best friend, carrying this charm will keep you in his good graces. :)

by Anjie Cho


Chinese Zodiac for 2017: Year of the Fire Rooster

I'm thrilled to welcome Beth, of Beth Grace Design, back for this year's Chinese Zodiac readings. The Year of the Fire Monkey gives way to the Year of the Fire Rooster on February 3, and we can look forward to an optimistic, elegant year of protective energy, light and potential healing. Beth has once again provided insight for each of the Chinese Zodiac animal signs for the new lunar year, and this year, she's included times and dates for two more of the four animals in your chart! Her original readings, the first in a series of three, can be found on Beth Grace Design here

No matter what your sign, BTB Feng Shui recommends carrying a three-dimensional dragon charm at all times during this year. The Dragon is Rooster's best friend, so a dragon charm will provide protection and good luck throughout this Year of the Fire Rooster. Holistic Spaces has dragon charms in six colors, as well as a 2017 Chinese New Year Kit, which includes a dragon charm, orange essential oil Happy Mist and a custom aromastick for support. 

*Please note, if your birthday is between January 1 and February 4 your animal sign is the same as the preceding year.  
**In addition to your year animal, you can see which animals are in your chart based on the month and hour of your birth by simply following the date and time guidelines listed for each animal. Calculating your day animal requires assistance of either software or a Chinese astrology consultant, but it is easily obtained so just ask!
***Chinese months can shift a day or two each year, so if you are born on the cusp of the Chinese month you may need to double check.

Rooster

Years: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Month: September 8 - October 7
Hour: 5 pm - 7 pm

Rooster year people, this is your year, both literally and figuratively as the Rooster is one of the 2 luckiest animals this year. Those with a Rooster in their chart could see strong growth in their investments as well as a boost in power and authority making it a good year to throw your hat in the ring for a new position or new responsibilities. Those who have not established their career path or who want to make a change will have great luck for learning or training in new skills. Double Roosters however can increase the likelihood of you making a mistake or tripping yourself up, and petty people may try to pin problems on you, so make sure you have a thorough plan and keep your communication with others open and clear. This should be a stellar year for you so make the most of it!

Dog

Years: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006
Month: October 8 - November 6
Hour: 7 pm - 9 pm

The Monkey year was likely a challenging year for you but this year you could see some improvement and new opportunities coming your way. Just be sure to consider things carefully before making a decision and read the fine print. While you may find more people ready and willing to help you, the key for you this year is to be of use and helpful to others. Don’t be afraid to lend a hand or to do some pro-bono work as it will increase your visibility and create some good karma for yourself. What goes around comes around and you could become the one people look to in the future - in 2018 the year of the Dog, you could see the pendulum swing your way.

Pig

Years: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007
Month: November 7 - December 6
Hour: 9 pm - 11 pm

This year will not be without challenges for you particularly when it comes to your health as you are more accident prone this year. So take good care of yourself and if you do extreme sports be sure to take extra precautions like a good insurance plan. On the positive side, you have the Sky Horse star making this an ideal year for travel, especially travel that will help you grow your business or stake out new territory. If you find you can’t travel as much as you would like, then find other ways to expand your territory locally and do more networking. It’s a good year to get out of your comfort zone because you will likely meet helpful and well connected people who can help you make your mark!

Rat

Years: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008
Month: December 7 - January 6
Hour: 11 pm-1 am

While the Rooster can cause friction with the Rat this is not really a cause for concern as there is so much going your way this year that you can expect a rather positive year. Rats, you have one of the 4 most auspicious stars, the Moon star, on your side which will give you some serious earning potential. Rats are known for their shrewd calculations and this year the Moon star also gives you the power of innovation and original ideas. This creative and financial boost is especially useful if you are an entrepreneur or thinking of starting your own business.  However, what will make you happiest this year will not be business success, or money, but love. The Sky Happiness star does not necessarily bring love at first sight but it can bring long-lasting unions, love that may start slow but stands the test of time. Isn’t that the best kind?  

Ox

Years: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
Month: January 7 - February 3
Hour: 1 am -3 am

Overall this year should be a rather positive one for the Ox as you are part of a 3 Harmony combination with the Rooster and there is a lot of luck on your side. However, the year won’t be without difficulties particularly when it comes to dealing with others. You may find that people don’t like your ideas or plans and may give you a hard time. Don’t let negative experiences get you down though because hidden within them are many positive opportunities in disguise if you can look beyond the exterior. As they say, no mud no lotus, this year look carefully at the mud you may be surprised at what you find! Most importantly though, this is a year to focus on self-improvement, especially if it involves academic and artistic pursuits. So sign up for that class or training you’ve been thinking about, you never know where it might lead you!

Tiger

Years: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
Month: February 4- March 5
Hour: 3 am - 5 am

Tiger no doubt you are breathing a big sigh of relief with the departure of your clash year the Monkey, and what a crazy Monkey it was too!  Tigers while you normally eat Rooster for dinner you may feel too tired or drained from last year to give this plucky chicken chase, but best re-charge your battery quickly because there is much to do. This year you should focus on making money, especially if it comes from residual income, as the National Treasure star will give you a boost in this area. When your efforts begin to reap dividends however, be careful as people may take notice and ask to borrow money and it is best if you say no. One need not be miserly however, simply use your natural talents and connections to create good karma for yourself and find other ways to help.

Rabbit

Years: 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Month: March 6 - April 4
Hour: 5 am - 7 am

Rabbit folks the Rooster is your clash year so this could be a particularly trying year for you. As such you are more prone to accidents and injury so keep the risky activities to a minimum and take extra precautions. The best thing you can do this year is to be very well prepared and to keep a low profile in general. Sometimes the challenges a clash year brings are the catalyst for changes that need to happen so keep calm and try to see how these changes can actually be for your benefit. Sometimes change means moving and clash years can bring moves as well. The best thing you can do is cultivate a practice that will help you stay centered this year and prepare for the Dog year in 2018 which should bring better days!

Dragon

Years: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
Month: April 5 - May 5
Hour: 7 am - 9 am

The Monkey year was likely pretty good for you and the Rooster year is looking even better as the Dragon and the Rooster have a tight relationship! This year you will be noticed as you have more sex appeal and you are more attractive to others than usual. You should capitalize on this ability to attract others by networking more as you also have the Emperor Star with you helping you to connect to important and high status people. These high level people would do well to listen to what you have to say because you could be the solution to their problems. You have the ability to solve problems and to turn negative situations into positive ones which could likely bring you a promotion or new responsibilities when others see your uncanny ability to turn things around. Overall the wind is in your sails this year and there seems to be nothing stopping you!

Snake

Years: 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
Month: May 6 - June 5
Hour: 9 am - 11 am

Last year luck was on your side but you may be feeling a bit let-down this year as your luck is not so favorable. While the Snake is generally supported by the Rooster, this year you may find challenges and obstacles more prevalent. You should give yourself peace of mind by preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. Keep a positive mind set and focus on what is working for you and put your energy there.  The key for you this year is to look at the other animals in your chart as they will provide you with the solutions to your problems and will show you the best strategies to use to get through the year. Don’t forget human luck or right action is a big part of our luck, make the most of yours.

Horse

Years: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Month: June 6 - July 6
Hour: 11 am - 1 pm

Horse, this is your year to shine as you are one of the two luckiest animals this year. If you have been working to procure a big deal this could be the year when you land it as the Treasure Star means that financial windfalls in general could come your way. You may also find yourself out socializing more this year meeting new people and attending more parties. As a social butterfly you will have plenty of opportunities for romantic connections as well, they may not be deep or lasting but they could be steamy and fun. Unfortunately, your success and visibility could bring you haters but don’t let their jealousy of your good fortune get you down. Enjoy all the blessings of this year with your head held high which as a Horse, you know just how to do.

Goat

Years: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1991, 2003, 2015
Month: July 7 - August 7
Hour: 5 am - 7 am

This could be a challenging year for you. You will need to plan and be on guard against financial losses so this is a good year to save for a rainy day and have some contingency plans at the ready. Your biggest lessons this year may come from personal relationships as people may be offended by you without you being aware of it. Tread carefully with others and be especially courteous and thoughtful. If you find yourself in a sticky situation look to your most trusted allies to get you through the rough patches and be sure to reciprocate in kind. This year try to have extra patience, listen more than you speak and be prepared to turn the other cheek, preserving good relationships with others is more important than pride.

Monkey

Years: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Month: August 8 - September 7
Hour: 5 am - 7 am

Well, last year was probably a lot of monkey business for you and this year is not looking much easier. In fact, you could rightly feel like the least lucky animal this year. Troubles seem to come from many fronts as your health outlook is not strong and there is a chance for some legal issues popping up. You are also more prone to forgetfulness especially when it comes to important matters, so this is a good year to develop or refine your system of organization. Be sure to keep a detailed calendar and make lists and reminders for yourself often. With all of the challenges this year may throw your way it is important not to let them get you down and affect your mental balance or make you feel discouraged. There are times to advance and times to retreat, this year is your year to pull back and lay low. Be sure to make time for inner work and self cultivation so you will be stronger when the time is right to get ahead.

Thanks so much to Beth, again, for sharing her suggestions for the Year of the Fire Rooster. If you're interested in more personal, in-depth predictions, please reach out to Beth for a consultation! Also remember, feng shui recommends a three-dimensional dragon charm this year, no matter what your animal signs. Grab one in your choice of six colors on Holistic Spaces!


Beth is the founder of Beth Grace Design, launched in 2008 to use love of textiles and experience in Decorative Arts to help clients create beauty within their homes. Over the past 8 years, Beth and her work have evolved to include feng shui, design, space clearing, water dowsing, and Chinese astrology. Her training as a certified feng shui practitioner and space clearer has deepened her awareness of space and informs her decisions as a designer. Using feng shui principles of balance and harmony, Beth is able to create spaces that not only look good, but feel good as well. She is passionate about creating healthy, supportive spaces and believes in using natural materials and sustainable practices whenever possible. For more information about Beth, her astrology readings or feng shui, please visit her website, Beth Grace Design and sign up for her newsletter!