At the stroke of midnight tomorrow, Jan. 25, we say goodbye to the Year of the Earth Pig as it wiggles its way out and say hello to the Year of the Metal Rat as it comes squeaking in, reigning supreme until Feb. 11, 2021.
“First of all, the Year of the Metal Rat heralds the dawn of a new decade,” says Philippine feng shui queen Marites Allen. “It is a time for fresh beginnings and we can all look forward to the days ahead as opportunities to make life better.”
The Metal Rat was last seen 60 years ago. In the Chinese zodiac hierarchy, the Rat is the first of the 12 animals, so don’t you belittle it. Following a 12-year cycle, a Rat Year won’t come around again until 2032.
New Beginnings, Renewed Energy
Raising a toast to new beginnings at the 15th Philippine Feng Shui Convention in November last year, Marites takes a look at the Year of the Metal Rat with a 20/20 vision, thus: “The Year of the Metal Rat is very much a period of renewed energy, enthusiasm, and hope for better circumstances. It calls for clearer minds and fresh strategies to survive or even thrive in increasingly challenging times.”
The Rat may be seen as a dirty animal, but in a more positive light, it is hardworking and entrepreneurial in skill, and we can all learn a thing or two from it. “So, this year, you will see a lot of people coming out to start a business,” Marites predicts.
She elaborates, “In Chinese philosophy, the Rat is associated with determination and entrepreneurial spirit — qualities that are linked to material success, abundance, wellness, and a luxurious life.”
Amid the never-ending rat race, Rats manage to emerge on top of the heap. “The Rat is adventurous, where finding ways to survive is concerned,” Marites goes on to describe. “The Rat is a natural problem solver who can be highly creative in freeing itself from unfavorable situations.”
Let Go And Move On
The Year of the Rat also symbolizes letting go and moving on. The time is now to release yourself from the shackles of the past and face up to the challenges of the present.
Spoiler alert: This year, out of the 12 animal signs, nine are lucky while three are “challenging.” The Horse could have plenty to whine about as it faces a double whammy — being the enemy of the Rat and having an illness star in its chart. The Sheep may be lucky in love but may lose sleep over health issues. And the Rabbit may be more jumpy this year, what with the misfortune star in its chart — anything that can go wrong will go wrong in different aspects.
On the other hand, this year is particularly A-OK for the Ox, who’s got an overly auspicious star in its chart. Anything the Ox touches could turn to gold — health, wealth, love, everything is good. Prosperity abounds!
With the dawning of a new decade come new opportunities to make a change. “If you really want to make a 180-degree change, get out of your comfort zone and do things out of the normal,” Marites suggests. “A change for the better will make a difference in your luck. Like maybe changing the color of your hair. You just have to make a change or you’ll never know what you’re missing. Go out and explore. Go with the wind, go with the flow!”
Say “Cheese!”
There’s a lot to smile about (yes, say “Cheese!”) in the Year of the Metal Rat. “It’s a very exciting year because if you look at the chart, in terms of feng shui principles, all five elements (earth, metal, fire, wood, water) are present, meaning a lot of businesses will have the chance to prosper, such as the metal and earth industries,” Marites points out.
One such lucky earth-related industry is real estate. “Real estate in the country is going to continue to boom,” Marites affirms. “The outlook is great with wealth and profit gains. This is the time for expansion but take calculated risks. The first to the third quarter of the year is good, but you have to slow down towards the fourth quarter.”
The auspicious sectors are northeast (victory star), southwest (romance, education, travel), southeast (windfall), northwest (wealth), and west (prosperity).
“If you’re going to build a house, it should be facing northwest,” Marites shares a lucky tip. “Likewise, avoid building a house with a creek or body of water at the back. Also, a T-junction building or house (where one road meets another without crossing it, forming the letter T) is bad feng shui because it is always being hit by the energy from the road, thus affecting the energy of the whole house (or building).”
Fact is, anything to do with earth, soil or land will experience a boom. This includes warehousing and storage facilities.
In second spot are metal-related businesses, such as car companies, transportation, television, entertainment industry, financing banks, lending institutions. However, this year’s chart is very, very weak in terms of the fire element; thus, it could hurt the food industry, which may not be as prosperous this year as it was in the last five years. “Some could work, some may not,” Marites shares. “And people are leaning towards healthy eating. So, if you’re going to be in the food industry, make sure it has something to do with sustainability and healthy eating.”
Metal Attraction
Metal is associated with magnets, connoting connecting people, networking, collaboration, partnership. “Even the big guys are collaborating; you can’t do it alone,” Marites asserts.
To sum it up, to welcome the new year and let new energy come into one’s home, Marites prescribes putting up lights at the entrance of your home, changing or repairing the old (rotting) wooden flooring of your house, changing the tiles, mending the fences, and decluttering to make space for new things to come.
She stresses, “But since God is not going to create any more land, people are looking for a peaceful place far from the crowded, noisy city. After a long, tiring week, we just want to relax and enjoy the quality of life we deserve without losing our connectivity. After all, with today’s technology, we could be lying on the beach in some remote island and still doing the Internet.”
With the dawning of a new decade, we’ve come full circle. “We’re coming back to what matters most — ourselves and our family,” Marites enthuses.
In the Year of the Metal Rat, you may be caught up in the rat race, but there’s nothing that can stop you from living your dreams!
Marites Allen’s 2020 Zodiac Forecast
Take a sneak peek at what’s in store for you in the Year of the Metal Rat, according to Marites Allen.
RAT
(1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)
Romance luck: This year, the romance stars shine brighter than last year for single Rats who can look forward to a more exciting year of dating! What’s more, you may potentially meet The One.
Married Rats can also look forward to a very happy family life this year. Prioritize time for family (and friends).
Wealth luck: Despite some obstacles, there’s reason for Rats to squeal with delight as they come out of the shadows into the light, with 2020 bringing them more recognition, rewards, and networking luck. There’s the sweet promise of a salary increase and promotion. Travel and happy opportunities are on the way.
Health luck: Be extra careful when you’re traveling or on the road as you may be accident-prone in 2020. Make health and wellness your priority. Watch what you eat as you could have digestive problems. Listen to your body; rest when it tells you to. Minor illnesses can worsen when you ignore those simple signs.
Career luck: If you have been feeling the need for a change in career, environment or path, now is the time to pursue it. But make sure you tie loose ends (like unfinished work at the office) so you can make a clean break and a fresh start. Follow your heart, but stay pragmatic and make sure everything is in place, so you don’t end up with problems like bad debts in the future.
OX
(1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)
Romance luck: The lucky stars of relationships shine on you this year, all ye single Oxen! Socialize, make new friends, and show your desire to find a partner to increase your chances of finding the relationship you seek. As for Oxen who are already in a relationship, take better care of it, practice more patience and understanding when disagreements arise.
Wealth luck: Ask yourself this question, “How much money is going in and how much is going out?” To avoid money issues, make sure the former is always greater than the latter. Thinking of a business expansion or a risky business move? Pause and think these through as the odds may not be in your favor.
Health luck: Be prepared for a pressure-filled year, which can affect your mental and physical health. Indications of sadness and disorders are in your chart. Be on guard against past illnesses that may recur, or new ones that may arise. Prioritize your health to avoid astronomical hospital bills. See your doctor regularly, exercise, and honor your body by doing things that are good for it.
Career luck: You’re known and appreciated for being active and hardworking. But you are also stubborn! This 2020, it’s best you stay within your comfort zone. If you are a leader, keep your team members inspired and driven. But first and foremost, take care of yourself. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup.
TIGER
(1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)
Romance luck: Tigers earn their romantic stripes this year. Love is in the air all year round! It’s a good year for Single Tigers in the relationship department. For committed Tigers who want to take their relationship a step higher, now’s the time to do so. Love is on your side.
Wealth luck: Want to be financially stable? Put in the hard work and you will reap the rewards. If you are tired, stressed or burned out, make time to get away and decompress. Seek help if you must. Always choose to do good and keep your ego in check. If you could help others financially, do it — the returns will greatly outweigh your efforts.
Health luck: This year, you need to take your health seriously, whether the ailments you feel are physical or mental. Past illnesses may come to haunt you, or you may face new ones because of stress and other factors that put pressure on you at work and at home. Stick to proper nutrition, adequate physical activity, and an overall healthy lifestyle, coupled with proper advice from your doctor.
Career luck: Whatever it is that motivates you, put your heart and complete focus on it, and trust that good things (such as a promotion, salary increase or recognition) will follow. This year holds great promises for your career. While there may be some setbacks, you will be able to handle them with grace. Those who love you will support you all the way.
RABBIT
(1903, 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011)
Romance luck: It’s a 24-carrot year for single Rabbits to enjoy dating, though it may not yield anything serious just yet. Remember, every person you meet is a teacher and will make you a better and more mature person when it comes to love. Do not compromise your standards, do not settle.
Married Rabbits need to watch out for boredom in their relationship, or else both parties might fall out of it.
Wealth luck: Your prayers for windfall luck may finally be answered. To encourage this type of energy, keep the positive and good vibes around you. There could be unexpected gifts, bonuses or profits. Appreciate them and be thankful, but make sure you don’t spend everything that you receive. Consider using your extra cash on insurance or an investment.
Health luck: You’ve always been health-conscious but sometimes, there are forces that urge you to be more careful about your well-being. Continue with your healthy habits, no matter what the current situation appears to be. When stressed out, make time to de-stress.
Career luck: Other people may see you as very competitive, but as far as you’re concerned, you’re only competing against yourself. You are only as good as your last output, so strive to keep improving! Always hopping around, you are very energetic and know how to work around challenges, big or small. But do choose your battles, not everything deserves your reaction and energy.
DRAGON
(1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012)
Romance luck: For all Dragons out there, the flames of love will surround you and your loved ones. Dragons in the dating game can bask in the glow of a promising romance, enjoy the warm feeling of falling in love! Of course, there will be differences with your partner, but you can work it out and make your relationship stronger and much more exciting!
Married Dragons should take disagreements to heart.
Wealth luck: You may possibly spend more than you will make this year, so make sure to carefully watch where your money goes. Be prudent in your expenses. Make sure you have a healthy and ready emergency fund that will help you weather the rainy days gracefully. Do not purchase or acquire anything unnecessary. If you are in business, go through the fine print of your contracts. Legal issues may cost you more than what you bargained for.
Health luck: Keep holistic care of your physical, mental, and emotional needs to maintain an ideal state of health. Thus, contracting any illness should not pose any concern. Try to stay away from burials, hospitals, and cemeteries, where there is so much yin (slow, passive) energy. Keep a good, healthy outlook in life. If you are not too keen on keeping a rigid healthy regimen, at least take up some exercise, such as yoga, and maintain a healthy diet.
Career luck: Don’t worry if there are people at work who don’t seem to like you. What matters is there are far more people who love and support you. Keep this in mind and stay motivated and focused. Set an example for other people who may be going through the same things as you. Work on growing your network even outside the office.
SNAKE
(1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013)
Romance luck: Single Snakes could be hissing as romance takes an unhappy turn for them this year. But if your love interest does not return your affection, let go and slither away.
For married Snakes, conflicts and third parties may threaten your union, so protect it well. Before you know it, you may fall in love with each other again.
Wealth luck: Hold on to your hard-earned money! Financial losses loom in 2020. Look into investing in security insurance before Chinese New Year to allow your good luck from the past year to continue. Reasons for you to lose money will abound, and it won’t be for things you may enjoy. Rather, it might be because of illness or misfortune — something you certainly do not want.
Health luck: Nothing wrong with loving physical activity, but avoid getting injured. Balance strenuous activities with more chill or low-key ways to de-stress and release tension. Accidents happen, so better be safe than sorry. Avoid yin places (cemeteries or hospitals) as these are bad for your energy.
Career luck: So, you’ve done everything in your power to grow in your place of work and to contribute to the success of the company, yet things (and people) keep getting more difficult. Hold your head up high and consider moving to a different environment, which you have been contemplating on doing for a long time. You deserve appreciation and this begins in a peaceful space.
HORSE
(1906, 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014)
Romance luck: There’s reason for single Horses to leap for joy in terms of romance (after all, literally speaking, 2020 is a leap year). The partner you seek is also looking for you, so be ready! Put yourself out there, enjoy the dating scene wisely. Now’s the time to enjoy being single and to mingle! Stay positive and love will find you!
Wealth luck: Finally, this is the year when money luck could be smiling at you! Be on the lookout and be ready when auspicious opportunities present themselves. Chances of potentially rewarding travels may also come; when they do, grab them! Make room for these lucky breaks.
Health luck: If you have been putting in the time and effort to be healthy, there’s nothing to worry about. Keep your regular checkups and be around happy and positive people as their good energy and perspective will be healthy for you. There may be distractions that will make you consider putting your health last; do not be fooled. Health should always come first.
Career luck: When it comes to money and relationships, you’re doing great! But don’t let your guard down as this may be why you could become the object of other people’s bitterness, especially at work. Remember, you teach people how to treat you, so it’s always important to stay calm and classy.
SHEEP
(1907, 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
Romance luck: “Contentment” is the word for you this year, whether you’re single, in a relationship or married. Wipe that sheepish grin off your face as you’re in for a rosy year of romance! Thrive in the love that surrounds you. Work on yourself, express your love and affection. Give your love away!
Wealth luck: The misfortune star rears its ugly head! Make sure you put together a budget plan at the start of the year and stick to it. Do not worry about potential financial hurdles; you are resourceful enough to work them out. Just remain calm and level-headed.
Health luck: Health may be an issue this year so make sure you don’t miss your annual checkup. If you feel something is wrong with you physically, do not ignore it. Have it checked before it gets worse.
Career luck: The sheep is the cousin of the goat, an animal that can scale high walls without as much as a whimper. The same goes for the Sheep as an office worker: keeping a low profile even when doing very well and accomplishing great things. Competitive and jealous people, who do not mind stepping on others, will take advantage of this sheep trait and make the Sheep look bad. Be on guard. Think before you speak and act. Use mind over heart.
MONKEY
(1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016)
Romance luck: Wisen up, all ye single Monkeys, as opportunities for romance follow you this year. For married Monkeys, be mindful of your words, actions, and what you put out as they may be misunderstood and invite potential third parties.
Wealth luck: The misfortune star hovers around you, but fret not as you can deflect its effects and still do great on the financial front. Find ways to invest and grow your funds. Protect your hard-earned savings.
Health luck: You love your work and enjoy what you do, but you should not do this at the expense of your health. Go ahead and revise your daily to-do list to fit what’s doable, healthy, and manageable. A lot of things may threaten your inner peace, so make sure you have all the loving energy you need.
Career luck: You are smart, positive, energetic, and resourceful — traits that will work well for you at work. Follow your gut feeling when it comes to career decisions and work relationships. Minimize risks by choosing the tried-and-tested route for now. Do not be afraid to burn bridges; there are people who are not meant to be in our lives no matter what we do. Make choices that will help you grow.
ROOSTER
(1909, 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017)
Romance luck: Something for Roosters to crow about: Invitations to events to meet people abound. Accept and enjoy the chance to make new friends. Who knows? One of the people you meet could be the one your heart is longing for! If you are in a relationship, it’s a good year to discuss marriage.
Wealth luck: You will not lack opportunities to make more money, but financial success may seem elusive. Make sure you know the people to whom you will entrust your money. When it comes to choosing your business partners, do a thorough background check, investigate, and leave no stone unturned. You can never be too careful with your wealth situation this year.
Health luck: Any health issues you had last year could come back and become even much worse, so be extra vigilant when it comes to personal life choices that affect your health. If you are tempted to do anything potentially risky, think long and hard. Is it worth it? Remember, you work to live and not live to work.
Career luck: You are energized and inspired at work, and people around you (including your boss) can see it. Keep the fire burning. Be consistent and your much-deserved salary increase, promotion, and recognition could be on the way. Take control and claim your power without stepping on others. Spread your wings and pursue what you have been longing for — be it a new job or a new environment. You have power!
DOG
(1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006)
Romance luck: All bark and no bite? Single Dogs need to step out of their comfort zone and actively be on the lookout for their ideal partner. Mr. Right could be right around the corner. If you are in a relationship, take that much-needed trip with your partner to make beautiful memories and keep the love alive. Remember that nourishing a relationship takes work and imagination to keep it warm and exciting.
Wealth luck: “Focus” is the operative word this year when it comes to wealth generation. Make earning great income your priority and everything else will follow. Sure, you can do many things, but lacking focus may keep you from maximizing your strengths. Tackle those tasks one at a time and see how they will work for you,
Health luck: It all begins in the mind! A healthy mind powers a healthy spirit, which helps create a healthy body. You are at a point in your life where you are ready to go for what you want and make your dreams come true. But be careful not to overexert yourself or work at the expense of your health. Balance high-powered exercises with relaxing workouts like yoga, walking or a regular trip to the spa.
Career luck: Instead of looking forward, look back and check what you have started working on so you can continue to grow. Stay away from the unfamiliar. If you have the opportunity to have a better career, go for it. Don’t let naysayers stop you. Stay strong, active, and powerful.
BOAR
(1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007)
Romance luck: The stars are aligned for you, so pursue anything you have planned and make it real this year. Single and ready to mingle? Go out and date. In a relationship? Do not be afraid to bring up the topic of marriage. Married? Maybe it’s time to discuss starting a family. On the downside, you may get hurt and rejected. But keep love flowing smooth and free!
Wealth luck: New opportunities are coming your way! Just make sure you know what you’re getting into, as well as the people you will be working with. Take comfort in the familiar, stepping outside your comfort zone just enough to be challenged and excited. Do not be hasty in making decisions; think twice and take caution. Ask business mentors how you can grow your money or investment. Do not venture alone.
Health luck: Try not to pig out, prioritize your health and everything else will follow. Good thoughts and intentions are sometimes not enough to make things happen the way you want them to. Challenges arise not just to build your character but also to refine and improve your standards. Remember that a healthy body leads to a healthy life!
Career luck: When it comes to friends, remember that there are people who like to keep you close so they will know how to do better than you. Discern who really are there for you, and exercise quality control in terms of who you can trust. There are political friends and there are friends-friends; strike a balance and learn how to relate and deal with them. Protect your peace and your name. It’s all up to you and no one else.
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Follow Marites Allen on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (Marites Allen). Visit her official website maritesallen.com. Message her at [email protected] or [email protected] or call (0920)950-9390. Visit/call your nearest Frigga shops: SM North Edsa 8442-0113; SM Mall of Asia (0922) 424-1219; SM Mega Mall 8470-7661; SM Cebu (0907) 819-8993/(032) 343-2062. Shop online at www.frigga.co.uk for international orders or www.frigga.com.ph for Philippine orders.