With the (western) New Year’s now in the backburner, Wood Central is turning its attention to the upcoming Chinese New Year—the first since 1965 to be ruled over by the wood snake—a sign of wisdom, intuition, and renewal. It’s a combination of an animal (the snake) and an element (wood) that occurs once every six decades, and according to the South Morning China Post, promises to be a year of “entering into a year of death and rebirth, a year to make responsible decisions to evolve spiritually, moving away from old ways and habits that no longer serve us well.”
How is the Chinese New Year determined?
The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, each year associated with a different animal: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. These animals represent unique archetypes and energies and are influenced by a cycle of five fundamental elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The combination of an animal and an element defines the predominant characteristics of any specific year.
The snake occupies the sixth place in the order of animals in the Chinese calendar and is known as a complex and multifaceted sign. It represents wisdom, patience, and mystery and is associated with cunning, introspection, and an ability to triumph over adversity. The snake is also connected to transformation, as it sheds its skin to renew itself, a powerful symbol of personal and spiritual evolution.
On the other hand, wood is associated with growth, creativity, stability, and a connection with nature. As reported in Architectural Digest, this combination of snake and wood creates a special synergy in which the snake’s introspective and transformative energy is paired with the wood’s expansive and balanced nature.
Tips to prepare for the Chinese New Year
- Focus on introspection: As 2025 begins, it is an ideal time to work on self-awareness and self-knowledge. Reflect on your personal goals and assess the areas of your life where change is needed so that you can fully benefit from the snake’s energy.
- Adopt sustainable habits: Wood’s connection to growth and nature invites you to adopt a more conscious and environmentally friendly lifestyle. This includes reducing the use of plastic, planting trees, and participating in community initiatives.
- Develop your creativity: This year will be ideal for learning new skills, exploring artistic hobbies, and developing innovative projects.
- Connect with nature: Spending time in nature, whether walking in a forest or your garden, will help you balance your energy and feel refreshed.
Ruled by the wood snake, 2025 will be a year of introspection, renewal, and growth. This period will offer opportunities to deepen relationships, advance professional goals, and strengthen our connection with nature. Making the most of this energy will require patience, creativity, and a conscious attitude toward change and personal evolution.
