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 Chinese astrology, the Ox, being the second animal to hear the call of Buddha has many attributes that make up its character. Those born in the year of the ox are generally considered to be of strong character, patient, easy-going and dependable people. They are usually practical, industrious, steadfast and sincere with a heart made of gold.

Yes…2009 is the year of the Earth Ox and it is influenced by the element of earth. So, this coming year is represented by the image of Yin Earth sitting below Yin Earth. In accordance with the cycles of the five elements – Earth is a friend to another Earth element. Given this, the Yin Earth sitting atop the Yin Earth Ox suggests the image of associates and friendships. This support for the foundation of the earth Ox means that the earth element will yield the most influence over the coming year. This elemental relationship represents a time of apparent calm and overall, it is relatively beneficial for friendships and creating new associations. Integrity will be more greatly valued and you can expect more international co-operation between nations.

The Earth Ox is a complex element and considered to be ‘wet earth’. So, these two elements together can also bring about natural disasters such as mudslides, earthquakes, tremors and landslides.

The Chinese calendar moves in cycles of sixty years. So, if we go back to 1949 we will find that there were many such incidences (as described above) worldwide. In fact, according to Premier Wen Jiabao the tragic earthquake in the province of Szechuan during 2009 was the most destructive since 1949.

1949 being the last time we experienced the Earth Ox was also when peace came to the world after such a turbulent period. The Geneva Convention and NATO were formed as was West and East Germany. US troops withdrew from Korea, Indonesia was granted sovereignty from the Netherlands and a truce was signed between Israel and Syria to finally end their 19 month old war. If history is anything to go by, in general terms, we could see some peaceful times during 2009 along with more positive outcomes being reached among nations.

During the year of the Earth Rat (2008) there was mention that there would be a ‘changing of the guard’ in terms of world leaders. This change is evident in many countries such as Great Britain, Pakistan, Israel, Russia, Taiwan and Japan and of course in the United States of America with the young Barak Obama replacing the outdated George Bush as President. Whilst 2009 will see some conflict and unrest the new ‘guard’ of leaders will come together to work in unison and provide the global community with more financial stability, better housing, deal more positively with environmental concerns and develop overall harmony between nations.

From a Feng Shui perspective the energy of fire is in the centre 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 fire disasters and perhaps even more airline accidents than in previous years. In addition, as accurately predicted in 2008, when there is a lack of fire within a pair of elements during that particular year then this adversely affects the airline industry. Consequently expect to see difficulties continue in this industry throughout 2009.

After the market turmoil that has characterised the year of the Rat, life will become more stable, steady and predictable.

In general, there will be more optimism and perceived opportunities in the stock market as we move into 2009. This industry will fare much better than 2008 and we will see more stability from about February till the middle of the year. Despite this positive beginning however, investors would still do well to be conservative, particularly during the second half of the year.
The industries likely to perform particularly well during the year of the Earth Ox are those related to the elements of Wood and Fire. Some of the industries connected with the Wood element are forestry, magazines, newspaper, publishing, fashion, textiles and environmental protection. The Fire industries such as finance, entertainment, electronics, electrical supply, energy, oil and gas ought to see strong activity but perhaps where profits aren’t as substantial as one would like.
The businesses most likely to be challenged during the coming year are those of the Water and Metal elements such as shipping, transport, communications, beverage, high tech, computer, banking, skin care and cosmetics, engineering and the motor industry.

There will be considerably more competition during 2009 within the real estate market (an earth related industry) so it would not be prudent to expect strong, quick immediate gains. Instead, work steadily and industriously towards the fulfillment of your goals and ambitions.
Traditional Chinese medicine is also based on the five elements and their cycles. Earth rules the Spleen and also represents the stomach, pancreas, muscles and our cells. Consequently, obesity, diabetes and particularly cancer issues will continue to rise as will gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, with the absence of the fire element throughout the year there could be a rise in the incidence of heart disease.

Throughout 2009 there will be a clash that occurs for those born in the year of the Goat. It is advisable for those born in these years to be more cautious thereby doing their best to avoid accidents during the coming year and to sidestep opportunities for traveling towards the northeast. As an additional precaution, wear the symbol of the Rat for some further symbolic protection.

For those born in the year of the Ox; this does not automatically equate to a good year and so it is also advisable to carry or wear a charm of the Rat as should people born in the year of the Dog.

With respect to Feng Shui you will find a troublesome influence coming from the North 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 prayer bell in this area – particularly in the month of July.
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 2009 the West resonates with the force of sickness. This is also particularly strong during the month of July. Therefore you will require a string of six metal coins 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 influence is arriving from the East. Hence, it is best to place three or four bamboo stems (only those that grow in water) in a clear glass vase within the East sector of your home.

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

Finally, do not sit with your back against northeast, especially whilst you are working. It is also not advisable to carry out large-scale construction work on established homes in the Northeast for the coming year. Place the Dragon Tortoise to face the Northeast as a symbolic measure of protection against the Grand Duke during 2009.

I hope you all stay well and happy during 2009 and that the coming Year of the Earth Ox enriches your family with great success.

2009 [Nova Magazine]