If any of you follow any sort of Astrological chart of any sort.. you may find this post of some interest.. if you don't - maybe we can get you interested if for no other reason than just pure entertainment! :)

There are many kinds of Astrology in the World. Here I will talk about Chinese Astrology specifically. It is a type of Astrology that has many signs and meanings portrayed on a Zodiac "birth chart" or Horoscope. The foundation of Chinese Astrology is Yin/Yang and the 12 animals and the 5 elements. The consideration of Yin and Yang is a very great influence upon this subject, Yin being passive, female and receptive while Yang is aggressive, male and exploratory.

Chinese Astrology is said by some scholars to be the oldest horoscope system in the world... but if you trace Western Astrology back to its Middle East roots, both types of Astrology are likely to have been born in their current recognizable form around 3000 years BC. They stem from entirely different beginnings as well as traditions and parts of the world.

Both types of Astrology recognize 12 different symbols in each of their charts. Chinese Astrology uses animals as their symbols, and Western uses the Zodiac symbols. The charts are cyclical in nature and incorporate a considerable degree of long observed wisdom. Unlike Western Astrology, Chinese Astrology has nothing to do with Planets and their actions. To read more about Western Astrology - click here. Chinese Astrology is concerned with nature and its traits, the signs progress year by year whereas Western Astrology cycles monthly. To read more about that click here.

This year, according to Chinese Astrology, it is the The Year of The Ox. "The Ox or the Buffalo sign symbolizes prosperity through fortitude and hard work. A person born during this year will be dependable, calm and methodical. A patient and tireless worker, he sticks to routine and conventions. Although he is generally fair-minded and a good listener, it is difficult to make him change his views as he is stubborn and often has strong prejudices". Holy mountain has a great and easy chart to read if you are interested in which year you were born and what sign goes along with it. I personally am Year of The Dragon with Fire as my apparently masculine element. Gotta love that.. right? lol. According to the Chinese wisdom.. that is said to mean I am a bit forceful, powerful and exotic :0) I'll take it!

Chinese New Year — Date: January 26, 2009 is Chinese New Year

What does each of your charts say? Check out the Holy Mountain chart as it is easy to read and understand.. and let me know! See you on the next post!

As a side project for this post - I visited the Conservatory at The Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. They

change the theme of the Conservatory to reflect the seasons, and they always have a great Chinese New Year display. There are more photos posted at re[frac]tion, my photoblog. I hope to see you there!