Enter the Wood Snake -Happy Lunar New Year

Every year, on the New Moon in Aquarius, we welcome the Eastern Lunar New Year and a new animal energy and element. This year, on January 29, 2025 until February 16, 2026, we say so long to the Year of the Wood Dragon and hello to the Wood Snake. So, what does that even mean? Every year holds the energy and vibration of not only the planets and the numerology of that year, but an animal (totem) and its elemental energy. There are 12 animals that correlate with the 12 Zodiac Signs in a vague way and the 12 year cycle of the planet Jupiter. We can look to the energy of that animal and element to predict how the year may go for the entire World. An even further deep dive in Chinese Astrology would also pair up your own personal animal and element and combine it with the current animal/element energy to discover if your personal year may be favorable or not.

Snake is the 6th animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac signs, coming after the Dragon and before the Horse. Recent years of the Snake include 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, and 1941, with the next Snake year in 2025 (Year of the Wood Snake). Snake is associated with the earthly branch symbol si.

It is important to note that if you were born in January or February, you should check the actual dates of the Lunar New Year in the year that you were born as you may be the previous animal. Here is a little chart to determine if you are a Snake or not:

The Snake says shed your old skin so that you may heal. This is a year of internal healing and contemplation so that the external can build a new exterior. There is a vulnerability during this period and the raw underbelly is tender. The snake is a powerful symbol of transformation and regeneration. It has been revered worldwide as an emblem of life force, representing the potential to heal from within and emerge stronger than before. The appearance of the snake spirit animal often marks the beginning or end point in our journey towards growth – when we are called to navigate challenging times with newfound strength. Allow the snake to be your guide on the path of personal transformation and inner healing. This is a time to rest and be still. Conserve energy and resources (money) and create a safety net or nest egg.

Characteristics of the Snake – Snake is a cautious, introverted observer, cool and mysterious in behavior owing to their suspicious and insecure nature, yet their armor conceals abundant sensitivity, wisdom, and passion that will surely surprise their few confidants. On a global point of view, the Snake lays on the ground, feeling every vibration before the other animals do. They can feel the energy of the collective so it is important to stay grounded this year and not take every vibration as an impending earthquake, it will also be important that if we are feeling fearful or anxious that we check our own internal compass to determine if we are picking up on other’s energy or is it our own. Snakes have overlapping scales and use it as a form of protective armor, they like to stay hidden for their own safety, they can strike when provoked, are extremely intuitive as they live inside of their own little world.

The Wood Element embodies both positive and negative emotional states. Positive emotions associated with a balanced Wood Element include kindness, generosity, creativity, and a sense of abundance. When this element is strong within an individual, it fosters resilience against stressors and enhances one’s ability to adapt to change.

Conversely, when there is an imbalance or stagnation in the Wood Element’s energy flow, negative emotions such as frustration, anger, irritability, and depression may manifest. This can lead to physical symptoms like tension in muscles (especially around the neck and shoulders), migraines, digestive issues, and even menstrual cramps.

The Wood Element corresponds with springtime characterized by new beginnings and growth. This season encourages individuals to harness their creative energies and act towards their goals. However, during times of stress or societal challenges (such as during a pandemic), this natural upward energy can become blocked or stagnant.

Based on your animal these are considered to be your key traits

RAT: Intelligent, adaptable, quick-witted, charming, artistic, sociable.
OX: Loyal, reliable, thorough, strong, reasonable, steady, determined.
TIGER: Enthusiastic, courageous, ambitious, leadership, confidence, charismatic.
RABBIT: Trustworthy, empathic, modest, diplomatic, sincere, sociable, caretakers, sensitive.
DRAGON: Lucky, flexible, eccentric, imaginative, artistic, spiritual, charismatic.
SNAKE: Philosophical, organised, intelligent, intuitive, elegant, attentive, decisive.
HORSE: Adaptable, loyal, courageous, ambitious, intelligent, adventurous, strong.
SHEEP: Tasteful, crafty, warm, elegant, charming, intuitive, sensitive, calm.
MONKEY: Quick-witted, charming, lucky, adaptable, bright, versatile, lively, smart.
ROOSTER: Honest, energetic, intelligent, flamboyant, flexible, diverse, confident.
DOG: Loyal, sociable, courageous, diligent, steady, lively, adaptable, smart.
PIG: Honourable, philanthropic, determined, optimistic, sincere, sociable.