2009 is the Year of the Ox – although that should have been obvious as the ox symbolizes prosperity only through fortitude and hard work. Those born under the influence of the Ox or Buffalo are fortunate to be stable and persevering. The typical Ox is a tolerant person with strong character. Not many people could equal the resolution and fearlessness that the Ox exhibits when deciding to accomplish a task.

I, however, was not born under the year of the ox; I am a monkey and apparently 2009 will be a year of moderate progress for me – work will slow down allowing for more personal time and quality time with friends and family, which would be very much appreciated, actually.

Click below to see what this new year may have in store for you, but first, it’s time to celebrate the new year!

Here’s what to do:

• Give red pocket money (hóng bāo (红包)) – traditionally given from married couples or the elderly to unmarried juniors (when accepting red pocket money, do so with both hands); ideally the money given should be brand new, fresh, crisp, and right from the bank; the amount of money should be an even number
• Start the year off right with a clean house, but don’t actually clean on first day of the New Year (you may sweep away your good luck)
• Open your windows and doors to let the good luck in
• Wear new (red) clothing
• Put up decorations, especially those with the Chinese character ‘fu’ upside-down
• Watch dragon and lion dances – it is believed that the loud beats of the drum and the deafening sounds of the cymbals together with the face of the dragon or lion dancing aggressively can evict bad or evil spirits
• Learn to speak Mandarin – Part I & Part II
• Call you family and friends and wish them kung hei fat choi or sin-nî khòai-lo̍k (Happy New Year)
  

What to eat:

• Fish – the pronunciation of fish (魚yú) makes it a homophone for “surpluses” (餘yú)
• Dumplings symbolize good luck because they are in the same shape of ancient gold ingots from the Han dynasty
• Long noodles symbolize long life
• Candy – to ensure the next year will be a sweet one (gold or red-wrapped ones are even better)
• Tangerines – the name jīn jí is a homophone of “golden luck” or “gold and fortune”
• Sticky stuff – apparently this symbolizes cohesiveness of family and friends

Click below to discover what 2009 will bring to you according to your birth year:

(If you don’t know what year you were born in, click here…)

If you were born in the year of the RAT
This year is a stable year for family life and will be a joyful year. Career wise the rats will take on more responsibilities and will feel the pressure of the extra duties. A good year of steady progress.

If you were born in the year of the TIGER:
This is the year for keeping a low profile, tigers. Because of the slow pace of the OX year, it will be a frustrating time for you. You like things to be move quicker, you will need to show restraint.

If you were born in the year of the RABBIT:
The year of the OX is well suited to the rabbit nature. The slower pace of this year will see you spending more time with friends and family. A good year to upgrade your home, or for buying or selling a house.

If you were born in the year of the Dragon:
In business and in romance your word for this year is integrity. Keep your head down and you will make steady progress this year. Established relationships will be comfortable and easy during this year of the OX. A slow but sure progress will be made.

If you were born in the year of the SNAKE:
A very good year for Snakes! The steady pace of the OX year is well suited to the snake person. Act on an opportunity – this is your year.

If you were born in the year of the HORSE:
Although you are rearing to surge ahead, this is another year of caution for the horse. Not a good year to strike out in new directions, consolidate your positions instead. On the brighter side, Love will bring comfort this year.

If you were born in the year of the SHEEP:
The Ox is the direct opposite of the sheep, therefore expect challenges in all areas this year. Keep a low profile.

If you were born in the year of the MONKEY:
This is a year of moderate progress for monkeys. Work will slow down this year allowing the monkey more personal time. It also allows for quality time with friends and family.

If you were born in the year of the ROOSTER:
Great opportunities for rooster this year. A good time to recoup losses. You will make great progress at work, reaping rewards of your labor. Emotional ties bring joy. Your prestige and reputation increase.

If you were born in the year of the DOG:
A year for dogs to keep a low profile. Put more attention into matters at home, spending quality time with loved ones. The simple pleasures will bring happiness this year.

If you were born in the year of the PIG:
A year for the pig to follow his/her instinct, laying foundations for the future. This is a bright and hopeful year for the pig. Do not take unnecessary risks though.