“The quieter you become, the more you can hear”
~ Ram Dass
Lunar New year celebrates the arrival of fresh energy activated by the movement of planets in our solar system. East Asian Medicine views the human body as a microcosm of the greater macrocosm so influences from the natural world can be used as a resource to understand ourselves and work with nature rather than against it.
This year we hop confidently into the Year of the Water Rabbit on January 22nd. It will be an abrupt change of pace as we farewell the dynamic Yang Tiger and welcome the gentle Yin Rabbit. The opposite force will restore harmony after what was a turbulent year for many. Whilst both years are Water element years, 2022 was akin to strong waterfalls, rapid rivers and wild surf and 2023 will be more like spring rains, morning dew and placid ponds. Traditionally, the Rabbit is known as the gentlest and most tender of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac. It is quiet and kind yet can move very quickly when it wants to. It is extremely clever and able to adapt to whatever comes its way, although its sensitive nature does make it susceptible to stressful triggers. Many cultures also associate the Rabbit with good luck.
Here are some key Rabbit qualities to connect with for a smooth and successful year ahead:
- Peace – rabbits are quiet, peace loving animals (unless they feel threatened or frustrated)
- Prosperity – rabbits reproduce rapidly and abundantly
- Savvy – long ears get the Rabbit useful information
- Progress – they are comfortable making big leaps and can move quickly
To be like the Rabbit and optimise the Rabbit’s gifts:
- Prioritise agility, quietness and contemplation
- Surround yourself with cuddly, affectionate, peace loving companions
- Stay alert for good opportunities so you can leap swiftly towards them
- Ensure you have nourishing, restful activities to restore balance and counter stress
2023 is a Water element year but Rabbits themselves correspond to the Wood element. Water over Wood is unfortunately not an auspicious combination according to East Asian Five Element theory. If I was going to make an overall prediction for the year it would be that things may still be a bit rocky and change in the blink of an eye. However, it’s unlikely to be as frustrating as last year and we should be able to adapt to the changes if we follow the Rabbit’s soft nature. Step by step we can make good progress as long as we don’t overtax ourselves and stay alert to our surroundings. As Ram Dass said, “The quieter you become, the more you can hear”.
Wishing you peace, prosperity and positivity for the year ahead,
Elizabeth