The Chinese have a unique calendar system commonly known as the ‘Farmers calendar’ or the ‘Hsia calendar’. It is an enthralling system that provides us with information about prevailing elemental influences at any given point in time. It makes use of the five elements –water, wood, fire, earth and metal- and their cycles, to determine the various aspects affecting the world in any given period.

In Chinese astrology, the Dragon, being the fifth animal to hear the call of Buddha has many attributes that make up its character. Those born in the year of the Dragon are generally eager and enthusiastic, representing energy in all its forms. Possessed of enormous potential they are rarely petty and are predisposed to great generosity. Dragons usually have enormous pride filled with great integrity so they are particularly guileless. Driven by their inner convictions, Dragons make formidable and untiring opponents.

2012 is the year of the Water Dragon and it is influenced by two elements; water and earth. So, this coming year is represented by the image of Yang Water sitting atop Yang earth. In accordance with the cycles of the five elements – earth controls and can destroy the water element. This dynamic elemental relationship between water and earth promises better international relationships but not necessarily an entirely peaceful year.

The Yang water and earth dragon are a frictional combination with the earth constantly trying to control the water. So, these two elements together can bring about particular natural disasters. Yang water carries the characteristics of powerful ocean water – strong and forceful. On the other hand you have the Yang earth dragon which is associated with mountain ranges and the powerful energy of the land yet…it is also the storage of water. These two elements together forebode a year of natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. Generally there will be more tragedies relating water particularly the ocean. Given that the Dragon is considered one of the animals in Chinese metaphysics that is considered somewhat mysterious, some events could occur in 2012 that are not so easily explained.

The Chinese calendar moves in cycles of sixty years. So, if we go back to 1952 we will find that there were many such incidences, as described above, worldwide.

The largest earthquake to hit the US since the San Francisco shock of 1906 was in 21 July 1952 when a magnitude 7.5 earthquake (Richter scale) struck Tehachapi, California. It claimed 12 lives and caused property damage estimated at $60 million.

November 4, 1952 there was a 9.0 magnitude megathrust earthquake resulting in loss of life and a tsunami reaching the Hawaiian Islands, Alaska, Chile and even New Zealand.

On 4 March 1952 Tokachi-Oki Japan was hit by an 8.1 magnitude earthquake hit resulting in the loss of 33 lives.

In 1952 Geelong, Australia was hit by floods as were Lynmouth UK, Nebraska, Omaha and Missouri in the US. In Cilaos, Reunion a massive 73 inches of rain was recorded.

A toxic fog fell over London in December 1952 for four days and is still considered one of the deadliest environmental disasters resulting in many thousands of deaths.

From a Feng Shui perspective the energy of metal is once again at the core and this central influence is often indicative of prevailing events throughout the course of the year. Consequently, this is a very strong signal that there will be adversities relating to this element. This means that we could see a greater incidence of flu or epidemics related to the lungs.

The industries likely to perform particularly well during the year of the water dragon are those related to the elements of wood and earth. Some of the industries connected with the wood element are textiles, fashion, environment, furniture and the media industry such as magazines and publishing. These industries ought to see strong activity and realise better profits than in recent years. Earth industries which include mining, insurance, hotels, chemicals and property should see increased output and productivity but also more competition. The metal industries such as banking, machinery, high tech, engineering and the motor industry will be active but not necessarily see reward for effort.

The businesses most likely to be challenged during the coming year are those of the Water element such as shipping, transport and communications and…those of the Fire element such as finance, share traders, energy, airline and entertainment. These industries will find 2012 could lack consistency and stability. Innovation is what will keep the strong ones profitable.

In fact…there is a strong influence of Innovation throughout 2012 and this will be the key and those individuals and companies who embrace originality will be highly rewarded. If we go back in history, the first British atom bomb was tested in 1952 as was the first Hydrogen bomb tested in the US.

Traditional Chinese medicine is also based on the five elements and their cycles. Water rules the kidney and impacts on the immune system and sex organs. Consequently, health concerns relating to water such as asthma, flu, sinusitis, and due to the serious lack of fire during the coming year… gastrointestinal disorders will be foremost. Additionally, disorders relating to the earth element such as stomach, muscular and cellular conditions could increase throughout the year. Therefore, immune system disorders and inflammatory conditions could be more prevalent.

Throughout 2012 there will be a clash that occurs for those born in the year of the Dog (e.g. 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006). For those born in these years it’s highly likely you will feel somewhat restless and interested in making changes in your life. It is advisable to be more cautious and avoid extreme sports and high adventure activities, thereby doing their best to avoid accidents during the coming year. It is also sensible to sidestep opportunities for traveling towards the southeast. As an additional precaution, wear a pendant of the Rooster for some further symbolic protection.

For those born in the year of the Dragon; (e.g. 1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000) this does not automatically equate to a good year and so it is also advisable to carry or wear a charm of the Rooster as a precaution against frustrations during the coming year.

With respect to Feng Shui you will find a troublesome influence coming from the southeast bringing with it difficulties and obstacles. If this part of your home or business is very active such as an entrance, family room, passage or living area then this energy needs to be dealt with by placing an all-metal wind chime or metal bell in this area – particularly in the month of April, October 2012 and January 2013.

In Feng Shui, good health is always given a top priority, for without your health and vitality it is difficult to maintain harmonious relationships and a vibrant career.

In 2012 the north resonates with the force of sickness. This is also particularly strong during the month of July and October. Therefore you will require a string of six metal coins or the magnificent brass wulu to be placed in this area, and this is particularly important if your bedroom, kitchen or a major thoroughfare is located in that sector.

Another destructive and scandalous influence circulates in the northwest this year. Hence, it is best to place three bamboo stems (those that grow in water only) in a clear glass vase at this point of your home or business

The energy of arguments is located in the southwest during the coming year and so it could be valuable to place a red object or the more traditional option of red paper or a red tassel in this area to help minimise this negative influence.

Finally, do not sit with your back against south, especially whilst you are working. It is also not advisable to carry out large-scale construction work on established homes in the southeast for the coming year. Place the Dragon Tortoise to face the southeast as a symbolic measure of protection against the Grand Duke during 2012.

I hope you all stay well and happy during 2012 and that the coming Year of the Water Dragon will allow your plans to unfold bestowing your family and loved ones with great success and fulfilment.

Gong Xi Fa Cai