Chinese zodiac predictions: What does the Year of the Rabbit have in store for you?

Wave farewell to the Tiger and jump into the Year of the Rabbit.

For many, Lunar New Year, which begins on January 22 this year, is the perfect time to turn to the stars for a glimpse of what the upcoming months might hold.

The basics are widely known: The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, each year represented by a different animal. Your zodiac sign is determined by the year you were born.

But that’s just the beginning. For dedicated followers of the zodiac, each year is not only defined by its animal; it also follows a sophisticated sexagenary cycle consisting of 10 heavenly stems and 12 earthly branches.

Heavenly stems and earthly branches: An introduction

Each year, a heavenly stem (one of the five elements, classified as either yin or yang) is paired with an earthly branch (one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals).

Gui Mao is the 40th element in the Chinese sexagenary cycle – the Heavenly Stem 'Gui' represents water, while the earthly branch 'Mao' stands for the Rabbit. This makes 2023 the Year of the Water Rabbit.

'The Gui Mao Rabbit Year is truly unique – it’s the year when all the elements align under the yin category,' explains Thierry Chow, a Hong Kong-based geomancy consultant who blends traditional Chinese geomancy with contemporary design elements.

'It’s also rare to see the combination of water and the rabbit. The rabbit, symbolizing wood, is nourished by water (as per Chinese geomancy).'

She suggests that industries dominated by wood, such as culture, publishing, agriculture, and furniture, will thrive. In contrast, fire-related sectors like digital and technology may face challenges, as fire is weakened by water.

'The Year of the Water Rabbit will be a more peaceful one. It’s a time for a pause. After the long tunnel we've been through in recent years, the light at the end is growing brighter,' says Chow.

The influence of the 'Grand Duke of Jupiter' on your fortune

Believers hold that for each Chinese zodiac sign, luck is largely influenced by the positions of the Tai Sui – celestial deities thought to move in the opposite direction of Jupiter’s orbit.

To determine how the year will affect an individual, a Chinese geomancy consultant examines one’s birth chart, which includes various factors like birth time and day, to understand how these elements interact with the year's forces.

For those who follow these combinations, they play a crucial role in making significant life decisions for the upcoming year, like whether to get married or start a business.

Different geomancy experts may have varying interpretations, but there is general agreement on what each year means for each zodiac sign, particularly in relation to the positions of the stars, especially Tai Sui.

If your zodiac sign is in conflict with Tai Sui – also known as the Grand Duke of Jupiter – during a certain year, experts suggest that you may face disruptions or challenges.

For individuals who may be in conflict with Tai Sui this year, Chow advises that they remember the calendar operates in a rotating cycle.

'It’s like musical chairs – whoever occupies the seat gets Tai Sui. But the position will change next round,' says Chow, whose own zodiac sign will also clash with Tai Sui this year.

To ease conflicts, one might visit a Chinese temple and offer prayers to the statues of Tai Sui.

'Even if you’re not fully convinced, I believe it gives you a positive psychological boost at the start of the year,' says Chow. 'When challenges arise, you’ll recall that you took this step, and it will provide a sense of comfort.'

Now, let’s get into the details.

To understand what the Year of the Rabbit holds for you, locate your birth year and its corresponding animal from the gallery above, then explore Chow’s insights below.

Rabbit

Individuals born in the Year of the Rabbit will experience their 'Ben Ming Nian' – their own zodiac year – in 2023. According to followers, this could bring increased disruptions and instability throughout the year.

'Those born in the Year of the Rabbit should anticipate significant changes in health, career, and relationships. It may be unsettling, especially for those whose birth charts don’t align well with Water,' advises Chow.

'However, remember that it’s not all negative. This could also present an opportunity for personal growth.'

Rabbits should focus on attracting positive energy and participate in joyful events whenever they can.

They should also consider traveling to the south – whether it’s within their city or abroad – as Chow suggests this will bring beneficial outcomes.

Dragon

It looks like a promising year for Dragons. There are no negative stars influencing their fate this year.

'The only potential issue might be health for those born in the summer or autumn, who could feel more stressed than usual,' says Chow.

However, the geomancy expert advises Dragons to avoid making impulsive decisions in their professional life.

'It’s not about overanalyzing. Just take your time and let things unfold before you make a choice,' says Chow.

Single Dragons may find new romantic prospects this year. Their lucky colors are metallic tones like gold and silver.

For travel, Chow recommends heading west for better luck and opportunities.

Snake

Individuals born in the Year of the Snake can expect good news and prosperity as the travel star, Yi Ma Xing, and the fortune star, Cai Xing, will influence them this year.

'New opportunities, career advancements, and fresh directions are coming your way,' says Chow. 'However, Snakes should strive for balance and make time to recharge when necessary.'

In matters of love, Snakes may find romance while traveling this year. Chow suggests wearing blue or gold and traveling towards the west or north for better luck.

Horse

'This year, Horses will be blessed by the Peach Blossom Star (Taohua Xing), which always brings positive vibes,' says Chow.

On the professional front, Horses will encounter new opportunities and meet helpful people who will guide them along the way.

Horses will experience harmonious relationships, making this an ideal year for those considering engagement or marriage, according to Chow.

Chow reminds Horses to be mindful of their family’s physical and mental well-being this year.

'They should embrace vibrant colors like pink, orange, and a touch of yellow. For travel, heading south will bring good fortune,' suggests Chow.

Goat

This year, Goats will encounter Tai Sui.

While Tai Sui generally brings a positive influence, it can also make the year feel draining. Goats must prioritize self-care and take breaks as needed.

'Take time for self-reflection this year. In your career, remain humble and keep a low profile. Be observant, as opportunities will arise when the time is right,' advises Chow.

In relationships, Goats will experience a harmonious year ahead.

'They’re more likely to meet new people, make new friends, and even find love this year,' says Chow. A touch of gold and a trip west could boost their luck.

Monkey

Good news for Monkeys: this year, they’ll find themselves in perfect alignment with Tai Sui.

Chow mentions that Monkeys will be the center of admiration in their professional life this year.

However, that doesn’t mean they should live recklessly. Instead, the geomancer advises, 'Play it safe this year, particularly for those with a love for extreme sports.'

In relationships, Monkeys may face conflicts and drama, but improving communication can help to avoid these issues.

For Monkeys in 2023, yellow and beige are the colors to wear, and traveling west could bring good fortune, says Chow.

Rooster

Roosters should prepare for turbulence this year, as they will be in conflict with Tai Sui, signaling instability and many changes ahead.

Chow advises Roosters to embrace the unpredictability and take more trips to help navigate through this year.

'Gather as much positive energy as possible and stay aware that you might attract conflicts this year,' says Chow. 'But keep in mind that these changes are ultimately for your benefit.'

To help ease the year’s challenges, Roosters should wear more yellow and brown and consider traveling west or north.

Dog

Dogs, aligned with Tai Sui this year, can expect a favorable period, with promising growth in both their career and finances.

However, Dogs should stay grounded and heed the advice of their friends and trusted individuals, as they will offer valuable insights that can greatly assist them this year, advises Chow.

Chow recommends silver and blue as lucky colors for Dogs, and suggests they head north for the best opportunities this year.

Pig

Pigs will also be in alignment with Tai Sui this year, indicating a generally positive year ahead.

However, while aligning with Tai Sui brings positive energy, it may also impact health due to the increased workload, warns Chow.

Chow advises, "It's essential to maintain a balance between work and relaxation to avoid burnout."

Those born in the Year of the Pig can expect career growth, particularly if they focus on working collaboratively with others.

In terms of relationships, Pigs are set to have a wonderful year ahead, meeting new people and possibly finding new love, says Chow.

To boost their fortune, Pigs should consider incorporating more pink and purple into their wardrobe and plan a trip to the south, suggests Chow.

Rat

People born in the Year of the Rat will experience conflicts with Tai Sui, also known as Xing Tai Sui, the torturing star, in the coming year.

Chow explains, "Overall, it signals a more challenging year, but remember, where there is difficulty, there is also opportunity for growth. Nothing is purely negative."

Rats should be extra vigilant about their health and work situations, as they may be more susceptible to minor injuries and communication mishaps this year.

Chow recommends that Rats embrace bright, uplifting colors such as pink and orange and consider traveling to warmer locations for a positive boost.

Ox

Oxen can look forward to an exciting year, with both the travel and fortune stars casting a favorable light over them.

Chow shares, "This year will bring new opportunities, and finances will see a significant boost. With more travel for both work and leisure, it's important to pay attention to health."

Those seeking love may find themselves lucky in romance this year.

When planning their travels, Oxen should consider heading north for a refreshing experience, according to Chow.

Tiger

For those born in the Year of the Tiger, their challenging “Ben Ming Nian” has come to an end.

Chow explains, "This means that the struggles and instabilities they're currently facing will soon improve, but patience is essential as the changes won’t happen overnight."

Tigers, particularly those born in the spring and summer, should focus on recovery in the first half of the year and only make major decisions later, in the second half of the year, she advises.

In their relationships, they should take things slowly and carve out some personal time for themselves, Chow suggests.

Chow suggests that wearing yellow, blue, and brown can lift their spirits. Additionally, traveling to the north or west might bring them good fortune.