What to expect in the Year of the Water Rabbit
Will we be jumping for joy or hiding in our burrows this year? We checked in with a Chinese astrologist to find out what’s in store for 2023.
Ready for a bit more peace and harmony in your life?
Then we have some good news for you.
Chinese New Year on January 22 marks the beginning of the Year of the Rabbit, and according to our expert, that means it should be smooth sailing ahead.
Here’s what else to expect in 2023.
What is the origin of the Chinese zodiac?
Legend has it the Jade Emperor Yudi wanted to create a way to measure time and so he challenged all the animals to race across the river to his palace.
The 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac – the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig – earned their positions on the calendar according to the order they made it over the finish line.
Feng Shui Master and Chinese astrologist Edgar Lok Tin Yung has a more pragmatic explanation.
“Because the ancients observed the sky so much, they looked at the shapes made by the stars, and these developed into the zodiac signs – so, much like the origin of the Western zodiac,” he says.
“These signs are combined with the five elements of water, wood, fire, earth and metal to create a 60-year cycle – and this year is the Year of the Water Rabbit.”
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What will the Year of the Water Rabbit bring?
The sign of rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity in Chinese culture, which means 2023 is expected to be a year of hope and peace.
“In general, the year of the rabbit should mean a smooth and harmonious year without much conflict or argument,” Edgar says.
“It should be a nice, peaceful year.”
Given the rabbit’s reputation for breeding, it could also be a lusty 12 months.
“The Year of the Rabbit could bring a lot of lust and a lot of sex scandal,” he says.
Trust will be very important, he says.
“You must be trustworthy to succeed in 2023,” he says.
“If you make a promise, you must deliver.”
This year’s element – water – is the sign of fluidity, so a “go with the flow” attitude will stand you in good stead.
“The element of water relates to movement, wisdom, and health,” he says.
Water also brings intuition and inner peace, so trust your instincts and tune into your emotions.
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The low down for bunny babies
If you were born in a rabbit year (2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963 and so on) you’re in good company.
Albert Einstein, Michael Jordan, Angelina Jolie and David Beckham are all rabbit babies.
According to the Chinese zodiac, rabbits are gentle, elegant, optimistic, witty and patient.
While they are quiet at times, they can spring into action quickly when needed.
They’re most compatible with people born under the sign of the goat, dog or pig.
Written by Dimity Barber.
