The Year of the Rabbit: Gentleness, tranquility, sensitivity

MANILA, Philippines –  If you felt like you were on a roller coaster ride last year, the Year of the Tiger, which was marked by dramatic changes and rapid developments, you can now relax for the Year of the Rabbit will provide that much needed respite. Things will settle down and an atmosphere of peace and harmony will prevail upon our lives.

The Rabbit is an animal that exudes gentleness, tranquility and sensitivity. You’ll often find it quietly nibbling grass or lying contentedly in one corner. Very little troubles him and is therefore liked as a cuddly pet. This is in stark contrast to the Tiger which is powerful, active and aggressive – characteristics that marked its period during the past twelve months.

We saw intense activity in practically all aspects of our lives whether it was in the political, religious, economic, environmental or social arena. In world affairs, the political conflict between North and South Korea almost erupted into a full blown war and in Thailand, the Red Shirts created a serious political crisis that took months to resolve. In Mexico, the drug cartels became notoriously problematic for the government and saw the deaths of hundreds of people in related violence. The Catholic Church was not spared by scandals as child molestation cases surfaced and rocked the hierarchy. In the Philippines, the botched hostage crisis of Hong Kong tourists brought national shame and called for a major shake up in the police force. Mother Nature also wielded its awesome power and we saw massive flooding as well as monster blizzards in many parts of the world. Parts of central Chile was devastated by massive earthquakes and a killer tsunami.

There were, however, some positive changes and developments too. A landmark Catholic Church policy allowing the use of condoms for health and medical reasons was welcomed by many followers. In Chile, the phenomenal rescue of the 35 miners brought hope and pride to the South American country. In the Philippines, the promise of positive change saw Benigno Aquino III overwhelmingly elected as the 15th president of the country.

But what’s in store for all of us this year? Let us now look at the general prospects and individual predictions for the Year of the Rabbit which begins on Feb. 3, 2011 and will end on Jan. 22, 2012.

General Prospects for 2011

The Year of the Metal Rabbit – or White Rabbit as some would call it – will be a period of tranquility and we will see balanced and calm conditions rule our lives. Diplomacy will be the byword this year. While the Tiger makes waves, the Rabbit mends fences. In international affairs, world leaders will make an extra effort this year to come together and arrive at solutions to bring peace in troubled areas, solve major political problems and end lingering armed conflicts.

Let us look at past years of the Rabbit to affirm our predictions. The Entente Cordiale was signed in 1904 by Great Britain and France, ending almost one millennium of conflict between the two colonial powers. In April 1951, the landmark Treaty of Paris was signed establishing the early foundation for the European community. The same year, ANZUS or the mutual defense pact among Australia, New Zealand and the United States was signed as a result of Japanese aggression during World War II. Following the Cuban missile crisis, the “red telephone” or hotline between Moscow and Washington DC was established in 1963 to facilitate communications between leaders of the two superpowers.

In 1975, the 20-year Vietnam War came to an end following the fall of Saigon and led to the unification of North and South Vietnam under Communist rule. The INF Treaty or Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty was signed by the US and USSR in 1987, paving the way for the destruction of all land-based short- and medium-range missiles. That same year, Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev introduced and put into effect glasnost, a landmark policy of maximal openness, publicity and transparency in governance in the Soviet Union.

While we will see less drastic changes in the world and in our community, there is a strong tendency this year for major developments in our personal lives. These changes could be for the positive as some will finally attain much longed for personal goals for self-improvement, education, success in career or relationships, or end of a lingering family conflict. The Year of the Rabbit is a perfect time to kiss and make up, a year to forgive and forget. But these could also be negative developments, so caution must be made in all aspects of our relationships. In general, it will not be easy to maintain relationships or find new ones. However, if one does, it will develop into a powerful and long-lasting bond.

People who are usually on the go might find 2011 a difficult year. The Rabbit’s leisurely pace will necessitate a slow but sure approach to doing things. In order to succeed, one must negotiate and cooperate rather than force your way through.

The Rabbit favors strong family values so this will be a good time to focus on relationships with family members and undertake family activities. It is also a good year to concentrate on personal development – further education, leisure travel, ballroom dancing, gardening, and other hobbies that will improve your health and well-being.

The Year of the Metal Rabbit favors economic progress, albeit on a slow but steady pace. The prevailing Metal element this year will bring wealth to most sectors of the world economy. This will also be true of the Philippines with the following industries experiencing positive growth – alternative energy, pharmaceuticals, real estate, creative industry, tourism and education.

The Rabbit also has a strong affinity for culture, so expect a considerable amount of artistic and cultural activities, breakthrough artistic creations, landmark productions and exhibitions, and construction of major cultural centers. Many governments all over the world will realize the value of arts and culture to the economy and support the development of the creative industry.

Rat

Jan. 24, 1936 to Feb. 10, 1937 - Fire Rat

Feb. 10, 1948 to Jan. 28, 1949 - Earth Rat

Jan. 28, 1960 to Feb. 14, 1961 - Metal Rat

Feb. 15, 1972 to Feb. 2, 1973 - Water Rat

Feb. 2, 1984 to Feb. 19, 1985 - Wood Rat

Feb. 18, 1996 to Feb. 6, 1997 - Fire Rat

-Feb. 7, 2008 to Jan. 25, 2009 Earth Rat

The person born in the year of the Rat is hardworking and thrifty. He rarely lets an opportunity pass and is constantly involved in many plans and schemes. Charming, intelligent and sociable, he is easy to get along with and enjoys parties and social gatherings. He cherishes friends, associates and family relations and often gets enmeshed in people’s lives and affairs.

The Rat is not quite compatible with the Rabbit sign, but nonetheless the prevailing Metal element will provide the favorable facet of your fortune this year. In the end, you will generally have a favorable year. At work, some interpersonal conflicts will arise. Avoid direct confrontation and exercise diplomacy. Always use logic rather than instinct or emotions when deciding things. This is not a good year for a career change so wait until next year to do so. September to November will be good months for career development. A word of caution – avoid love relationships at your workplace for it will bring potential trouble to your career.

But the good news is the Star of Romance will be in your horizon this year. In other words, it will be a great year for romantic liaisons – if you’re married, it’s a good time to add a new member to the family; if you’re in a relationship, it’s a good time to be engaged; and if you’re single, you should go out and socialize a lot and you might find the love of your life, most likely in September or October. Beware of extramarital affairs for there will be dire consequences.

Your bank account will get a big boost this year. But of course it will also depend on your level of expenditures so avoid profligate spending. Businessmen will see positive developments in their companies and investments, particularly in the months of April, May, October and November. Try to avoid business conflicts that may lead to a lawsuit for it will bring big money loss. As to your health, you will be sensitive and susceptible to physical and emotional conditions, so avoid too much stress and take good care of yourself. Adopt a mind-body approach to wellness and be particularly watchful for allergies and stomach ailments.

OX

Feb. 11, 1937 to Jan. 30, 1938- Fire Ox

Jan. 29, 1949 to Feb. 16, 1950 - Earth Ox

Feb. 15, 1961 to Feb. 4, 1962 - Metal Ox

Feb. 3, 1973 to Jan. 22, 1974 - Water Ox

Feb. 20, 1985 to Feb. 8, 1986 - Wood Ox

Feb. 7, 1997 to Jan. 27, 1998 - Fire Ox

-Jan. 26, 2009 to Feb. 13, 2010 Earth Ox

The Ox is an animal that symbolizes prosperity through determination and hard work. A person born under the Ox sign is therefore dependable, calm and methodical. He is a tireless worker and can be entrusted with positions of authority and responsibility. Strong-willed and persistent, he can sometimes exhibit bad temper.

If you had tough and trying times last year, 2011 will be a rewarding one in many aspects of your life. This is going to be a busy year for you professionally and socially. You are naturally a tough and powerful person, but in order to succeed this year it will help to borrow some gentleness and creativity from the Rabbit. Some interesting opportunities will arise at work. Be on the lookout for these opportunities and do not let them slip by. If you are new in your current job, you will be faced with difficult challenges and obstacles. Be determined but do be adaptable and diplomatic, and avoid making rash decisions.

As far as relationships are concerned, 2011 will be a rewarding year for you. Single Oxen will have good prospects for a major romance. Your family and friends will be most supportive this year but do be careful about communications with them. Try to heal any rift with a member of your family or close circle of friends. You will also be busy socially with lots of events to attend and enjoy.

Your income will see a considerable improvement with a chance for an unexpected bounty during the third quarter of the year. Be careful with your spending habits and make early budgetary provisions for some planned activities. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes and rely on hard work like you’re used to. You should take special care of your health this year. Typical Oxen are food lovers and if you indulged last year, now is the time to restore order and balance in your digestive system. It will also help a lot if you do some exercise, meditation and any form of relaxation. Avoid going to funerals unless very necessary.

Tiger

Jan. 31, 1938 to Feb. 18, 1939 - Earth Tiger

Feb. 17, 1950 to Feb. 5, 1951 - Metal Tiger

Feb. 5, 1962 to Jan. 24, 1963 - Water Tiger

Jan. 23, 1974 to Feb. 10, 1975 - Wood Tiger

Feb. 9, 1986 to Jan. 28, 1987 - Fire Tiger

Jan. 28, 1998 to Feb. 15, 1999 - Earth Tiger

-Feb. 14, 2010 to Feb. 2, 2011 Metal Tiger

The Tiger symbolizes power, passion and daring. A Tiger therefore usually displays a rebellious, colorful and unpredictable character. He is a fearless and fiery fighter but on the other hand has a humanitarian and romantic streak in him. At his best, he is warm, sensitive and sympathetic; at his worst, he is obstinate, unreasonable and selfish.

2011 will be a moderately good year for the Tiger. The Rabbit sign complements yours, but this year’s prevailing Metal element has a negative effect on your sign. There will be some challenges but being the Tiger that you are, you will face them with the will and stamina of a Mortal Kombat fighter. At work, you will encounter a major conflict. Try to get the help or advice of a Rabbit friend or colleague and use your people skills to the max. It will be a year for determined work, discipline and focus. There will be a good opportunity for further education that you should seriously consider. Overall, proper planning will bring you a constructive and productive year.

On the social front, you will find yourself in demand and oftentimes at the center of attention. This will be an opportune period for you to meet new friends and valuable work contacts. The Year of the Rabbit will also be a good time to smoothen out frayed relations with a family member or close friend. On the romantic front, a Lucky Love Star will appear during the second quarter and could bring to your life the soul mate you’ve been longing for.

Your finances will steadily improve and one of your investments will give you a surprise windfall. However, there will be major expenditures particularly for family activities or accommodations so exercise careful control of your finances. As to your health, watch out for respiratory ailments. Your always-on-the-go nature will tire you out this year, so ease up the pace and try to enjoy relaxing things that you wouldn’t normally indulge in – repainting your bedroom, gardening, or learning how to cook – instead of gallivanting around town every night. Always be extra careful when driving or on the road.

Rabbit

Feb. 2, 1927 to Jan. 22, 1928 - Fire Rabbit

Feb. 19, 1939 to Feb. 7, 1940 - Earth Rabbit

Feb. 6, 1951 to Jan. 26, 1952 - Metal Rabbit

Jan. 25, 1963 to Feb. 12, 1964 - Water Rabbit

Feb. 11, 1975 to Jan. 30, 1976 - Wood Rabbit

Jan. 29, 1987 to Feb. 16, 1988 - Fire Rabbit

-Feb. 16, 1999 to Feb. 4, 2000 Earth Rabbit

To the Chinese, the Rabbit symbolizes graciousness, good manners, sound counsel, kindness and sensitivity to beauty. The Rabbit is a witty and intelligent speaker and loves being involved in a good discussion. He is an efficient worker and has an extremely good memory.

Rejoice! You’ll have a lot to look forward to this year with eleven favorable months. However, opportunities won’t come on a silver platter. You’ll have to go and get them. But with the Rabbit’s influence there’s no doubt that your creative skills and talent will help you shine and be recognized this year. Have you been thinking of joining a competition? Well, now’s the time to do so.

This is also an important year for your career. There will be great prospects for professional progress and unexpected rewards towards the end of the year. But you’ll have to try to avoid conflicts with people. At times you’ll find your boss or your customers hard to deal with. Always keep your cool and be diplomatic especially in time of stress. Many Rabbits will enjoy improved finances because of a promotion or a surprise windfall. Manage your money well and you will see your fortune increase towards the third or fourth quarter of 2011. Words of caution for businessmen – read contracts carefully and be conservative in stocks investment.

In the romance arena, married or attached Rabbits should be extra sensitive to their partners’ needs and moods. For those in a relationship for some time already, this is a good year to settle down. The single Rabbit could meet the love of his life this year but do not to be rash about it. Build on this relationship slowly and carefully and you’ll have a long-lasting one in the end. At home, you’ll enjoy many family events and reunions. Physically, a new sense of vigor will descend upon you this year. Use this to your advantage and go into regular exercise or outdoor activities. However, be careful of an accident that could injure you. Also be watchful of mental fatigue and stress, so a leisure trip or long vacation should be part of your menu of activities this year.

Dragon

Jan. 23, 1928 to Feb. 9, 1929 - Earth Dragon

Feb. 8, 1940 to Jan. 26, 1941 - Metal Dragon

Jan. 27, 1952 to Feb. 13, 1953 - Water Dragon

Feb. 13, 1964 to Feb. 1, 1965 - Wood Dragon

Jan. 31, 1976 to Feb. 17, 1977 - Fire Dragon

Feb. 17, 1988 to Feb. 5, 1989 - Earth Dragon

-Feb. 5, 2000 to Jan. 23, 2001 Metal Dragon

The Dragon is born under the sign of good luck and will do well in practically anything he attempts. He is magnanimous, full of vitality and is constantly on the go. Proud and aristocratic, the Dragon possesses an assertive personality. He could be egotistical, eccentric, dogmatic, whimsical, terribly demanding or unreasonable, but is never without a band of admirers.

This will be a moderately good year for the Dragon. The Rabbit’s influence can clash with your aggressive and imperious nature so stay cool, calm and try to be compromising this year. You normally like to be active all the time but this year will be a good time to sit back, relax and recharge your batteries for the Year of the Dragon in 2012.

At work this will be strenuous year for you. If you’ve set your goals on a promotion or a radical career change, either postpone your plan for next year or work extra hard to get it. Tap your wide network of friends and contacts to attain your professional and organizational goals. Treat your modest progress as preparatory work for greater future success. It is also not a good time to expand your business. You’ll have to work hard to improve your financial standing. Avoid speculative investments and set aside some money for emergencies. Do not expect any windfall or lottery money.

For married Dragons, this is an opportune time to contemplate on your relationship and see where you can strengthen the bond. For single Dragons, try to socialize as much as you can and you’ll meet interesting people during the third or fourth quarter of the year. One of them could sweep you off your feet and be a potential long-term partner. Your family and friends will give you that much-needed emotional support and advice. Pay close attention to what they have to say. As to your health, you’ll need to pay close attention to your food intake and sanitation. Avoid visiting sick friends or relatives in the hospital. While it is expected that you’ll work hard this year, make sure that you find time to relax and exercise. This will also be a good time to take leisure trips with your family or friends.

Snake

 Feb. 10, 1929 to Jan. 29, 1930 - Earth Snake

Jan. 27, 1941 to Feb. 14, 1942 - Metal Snake

Feb. 14, 1953 to Feb. 2, 1954 - Water Snake

Feb. 2, 1965 to Jan. 20, 1966 - Wood Snake

Feb. 18, 1977 to Feb. 6, 1978- Fire Snake

Feb. 6, 1989 to Jan. 26, 1990 - Earth Snake

-Jan. 24, 2001 to Feb. 11, 2002 Metal Snake

The Snake is the deepest thinker and the most mysterious in the Chinese zodiac. He is endowed with an inborn wisdom and intelligence. He treasures his privacy and possesses a calm and placid nature. Graceful, soft-spoken but with a good sense of humor, he loves good books, food, music and theater.

If you had a rough time in 2010, you can now relax because the Year of the Rabbit will be an encouraging period for you. Intuition and initiative will be your key words and will bring you much progress in many aspects of your life. It will undoubtedly be a busy year for you. You’ll have the chance to accomplish a great thing so do not let the opportunity pass.

2011 will be a physically and mentally taxing year for you. At work, despite a problem with one of your colleagues, you’ll have the chance for promotion or be made responsible for a major project. Take on this challenge and try to improve your skills and knowledge by attending special courses or advanced studies. If an opportunity for a career change comes, grab it for it will bring you good fortune in the future. For those involved in business, the Year of the Rabbit will be an opportune time for company expansion, mergers or new business deals. It will also be a good time to settle legal matters. Your success at work will bring you added income. Do not squander your improved finances and set aside some amounts for unexpected expenses.

In your personal relations, it is advisable to be open to advice from people close you. You’ll need them particularly in challenging times. Lapses in interpersonal relations could cause some serious problems, so be careful with your words. There will be good romantic possibilities during the second and third quarters of the year, particularly in June. You’ll enjoy relatively good health this year but do be careful with flu and stress-induced migraines. Eat right, get enough sleep and do some relaxing things like home improvement or foreign travel. It is not advisable to attend funerals this year.

Horse

Jan. 30, 1930 to Feb. 16, 1931 - Metal Horse

Feb. 15, 1942 to Feb. 4, 1943- Water Horse

Feb. 3, 1954 to Jan. 23, 1955 - Wood Horse

Jan. 21, 1966 to Feb. 8, 1967- Fire Horse

Feb. 7, 1978 to Jan. 27, 1979 - Earth Horse

Jan. 27, 1990 to Feb. 14, 1991- Metal Horse

-Feb. 12, 2002 to Jan. 31, 2003 Water Horse

The Horse is cheerful, popular and quick-witted. He is very perceptive and loves to talk. He is quite physical and exudes raw sex appeal – the type who will fall in love easily and fall out of love just as easily. Impulsive and stubborn, he will want to have things done his way.

The Year of the Rabbit will be a pleasant and constructive one for Horses. There are lucky stars coming within your horizon this year, so be on the lookout for opportunities that come your way. In order to succeed you’ll need to have an open attitude and be flexible in handling issues and problems. Allow the Rabbit forces to shape a good part of your life this year.

2011 is an especially good year for personal development and holds considerable job opportunities that should be explored and exploited. Strengthen professional linkages and establish new contacts which should prove useful this year and in the years to come. Avoid serious arguments with your business partners or colleagues. Listen closely to the advice of your friends and superiors. Your career will have the best luck during the third quarter of the year. If you plan and manage your finances carefully, you will enjoy improved financial conditions during the latter part of the year. Previous investments will give you better returns this year and an unexpected income may come in December or early January 2012. Watch out for a money dispute with a colleague or friend. This can be avoided with proper communication and documentation. 

Your naturally independent spirit needs to be reined in this year. Joint activities with family and friends are favored for these will strengthen bonds. Shared interests and hobbies will bring you new friends or a new romance in September or October. Those who are newly engaged should be careful not to hurt the feelings of your partner. As to your health, you need to watch out for cardiovascular ailments. Avoid long-distance travel during the last quarter. On the whole you’ll be relatively healthy. Small illnesses might occur but these are nothing to worry about.

Sheep

Feb. 17, 1931 to Feb. 5, 1932- Metal Sheep

Feb. 5, 1943 to Jan. 24, 1944- Water Sheep

Jan. 24, 1955 to Feb. 11, 1956 - Wood Sheep

Feb. 9, 1967 to Jan. 29, 1968 - Fire Sheep

Jan. 28, 1979 to Feb. 15, 1980 - Earth Sheep

Feb. 15, 1991 to Feb. 3, 1992- Metal Sheep

-Feb. 1, 2003 to Jan. 21, 2004 Water Sheep

The Sheep is the most feminine sign in the Chinese zodiac. Known for his gentle and compassionate ways, he is considered the good Samaritan in the cycle. He is righteous, sincere and is easily affected by sob stories. Although he enjoys being with nature, the Sheep is usually a homebody.

Among the other animals you have the most affinity with the Rabbit. You’ll enjoy greener pastures so it’s time to shine and reap the bounty that will come your way. Yes, there will be some ups and downs but on the whole this will be a pleasant and constructive year for you. The gains you’ll have in 2011 will have a significant impact in the years to come.

There will be good career opportunities. You can now move from the sidelines onto center stage and display your intellectual and creative prowess. Although more tasks and more complex assignments will come your way, with patience and diplomacy your efforts will be rewarded. 2011 is also an excellent year for personal development and skills enhancement, so take advantage of any opportunity that comes your way. Money will not come your way easily so be careful with your expenditures. You will also need to take the conservative approach to business and personal investments. Nonetheless you’ll enjoy a bigger bank balance towards the end of the year. This is not a good time to lend money or make loans.

This will be a socially rewarding year for you, a period when everyone will want your company. You’re a natural romantic so expect Cupid’s visit at the most unexpected places. You’ll be especially attractive to people of the Rabbit, Horse and Rat signs and someone you’ll meet in April, May or June will develop into a love prospect by December. Those who are married or in a relationship should watch out for the interference of a third party. Talk calmly with your partner about the matter and it will pass. Work stress might cause fatigue or hypertension so try all forms of relaxation. However, it is best to avoid physically challenging activities such as outdoor adventure sports.

Monkey

Feb. 6, 1932 to Jan. 25, 1933- Water Monkey

Jan. 25, 1944 to Feb. 12, 1945- Wood Monkey

Feb. 12, 1956 to Jan. 30, 1957- Fire Monkey

Jan. 30, 1968 to Feb. 16, 1969- Earth Monkey

Feb. 16, 1980 to Feb. 4, 1981- Metal Monkey

Feb. 4, 1992 to Jan. 22, 1993- Water Monkey

-Jan. 22, 2004 to Feb. 8, 2005 Wood Monkey

The Monkey has the closest affinity to man and therefore inherits most of his intelligence. He is quick-witted, clever and innovative, and can solve intricate problems with ease. The Monkey is innately warm, natural and spontaneous. He exudes self-confidence and has an enviable joie de vivre.

You’ll have more lucky stars this year so expect a progressive and favorable year ahead. But to achieve progress you’ll need to be active and promote your ideas well. You have plenty of ingenuity and flexibility so use these to the max in order to achieve your goals this year.

At work, you will enjoy considerable success. Use your imagination and resourcefulness and you’ll see positive results towards the second half of the year. This is also a good year for Monkeys seeking jobs. If you are employed, open yourself to advice and guidance by a superior or colleague. A career obstacle will come your way in July or August but do not buckle under the pressure. You will overcome this challenge with support from your office mates. For those in business, this is an excellent time for expansion or new investments. Pay close attention to your business partners and improve working relations with them. Your professional progress will bring you increased income. However, you’ll be tempted by some large expenditures for accommodation and travel. If you really need to spend on them, make sure you set aside a budget for these large expenses. With the appearance of the Lucky Dragon Star in April and May, you might enjoy an unexpected windfall.

2011 will be socially active and favorable for you. You will receive some exciting family news. You will also have the full support and trust of your family and close friends regarding some personal problems. Romance prospects for single Monkeys are brighter from September until the end of the year. Overall, you’ll enjoy good health for most of the year. Overworking might get you exhausted at times so make sure to find time for relaxation. Try some enjoyable physical exercise like ballroom dancing.

Rooster

Jan. 26, 1933 to Feb. 13, 1934- Water Rooster

Feb. 13, 1945 to Feb. 1, 1946- Wood Rooster

Jan. 31, 1957 to Feb. 17, 1958- Fire Rooster

Feb. 17, 1969 to Feb. 5, 1970- Earth Rooster

Feb. 5, 1981 to Jan. 24, 1982- Metal Rooster

Jan. 23, 1993 to Feb. 9, 1994- Water Rooster

-Feb. 9, 2005 to Jan. 28, 2006 - Wood Rooster

The Rooster is the most misunderstood of all the animal signs. Outwardly, he exhibits self-assurance and aggression; but at heart, he could be conservative and old-fashioned. Rooster men are usually attractive, even dashingly handsome. On the whole, the Rooster is sharp, neat, precise, organized, decisive, and is good at handling money. He loves to budget everything he could lay his hands on.

The Rabbit’s characteristics do not really augur well with yours so this might not be your best year. You’ll therefore have to work extra hard to achieve your personal and professional goals. It will be beneficial to be more understanding and less critical of people. Rely on friends and loved ones to get you through difficult times.

2011 will be a rather difficult year for you professionally with some challenges and obstacles coming your way that could frustrate you. Do not let the situation get the better of you. With hard work and reliance on team effort, you will eventually achieve progress towards the third and fourth quarters of the year. This will also be a good period to build your reputation through friendships and good business relations. Try to focus on areas you know best. For those seeking work for the first time, the third and fourth quarters of the year will be favorable. Financially, you may not win the lotto or hit the jackpot but you will have moneymaking opportunities coming your way this year. However, financial risks or speculative investments are not advisable.

Your personal relations will have some ups and downs. Are you and your partner constantly arguing these past few weeks? Well, you need to quiet down for it could lead to dire consequences. Spend quality time with your family and close friends. If you are single and come across a possible love interest, be careful not to jump into a relationship at once. Get to know the person well enough before making a commitment. As to your health, do not let your busy schedule get in the way of health and proper hygiene. Try to get that medical check up and do plenty of exercise. Be careful of liver ailments and stay alert when driving.

Dog

Feb. 14, 1934 to Feb. 3, 1935- Wood Dog

Feb. 2, 1946 to Jan. 21, 1947- Fire Dog

Feb. 18, 1958 to Feb. 7, 1959- Earth Dog

Feb. 6, 1970 to Jan. 26, 1971- Metal Dog

Jan. 25, 1982 to Feb. 12, 1983- Water Dog

Feb. 10, 1994 to Jan. 30, 1995- Wood Dog

Jan. 29, 2006 to Feb. 17, 2007- Fire Dog

The Dog is honest, genuine, loyal, sincere and respects law and order – qualities of an ideal citizen of the country! He is not materialistic and possesses humanitarian instincts. He is the type who will lay down his life for a friend or relative. However, he can suffer bouts of melancholy or when the situation calls for it, show flashes of temper.

The Dog is a zodiac animal that gets along well with the Rabbit. On top of that, your ruling element is also Metal so the Year of the Metal Rabbit should get you barking with joy. Now is the time to shine and hug the limelight. You’ll experience ten favorable months during which you’ll enjoy success, pleasure and a big sense of achievement. Your plans for this year will be realized so get ready to work hard for them.

You’ll also enjoy an amazing time at work. Your superiors will realize your value to the organization and you’ll complete projects on time, outshine your competition and accomplish a tremendous lot. If you’re an entrepreneur now is the time to start a new business. Dogs who have just shifted careers will experience initial difficulties and apprehensions but the end of the year will see you blossoming in your new role. As a result your bank account will get a boost. There will be several chances to make good money. However, you must always spend your money wisely. It will also help to seek professional advice for new investments.

Your nurturing qualities will help improve your relationships which are expected to become easier and get infused with new life. There will be big family celebrations, including a possible new addition to the clan. You’ll also get plenty of support from family members, especially in difficult emotional times. Single Dogs will meet a new love interest through a close friend. Your health will be generally fine but do be watchful for digestive system ailments and allergies. Get an executive medical check up early in the year. It is advisable to spend regular time for relaxation, new hobbies and light sports.

Pig

Feb. 4, 1935 to Jan. 23, 1936- Wood Pig

Jan. 22, 1947 to Feb. 9, 1948 - Fire Pig

Feb. 8. 1959 to Jan. 27, 1960- Earth Pig

Jan. 27, 1971 to Feb. 14, 1972 - Metal Pig

Feb. 13, 1983 to Feb. 1, 1984- Water Pig

Jan. 31, 1995 to Feb. 18, 1996- Wood Pig

Feb. 18, 2007 to Feb. 6, 2008- Fire Pig

The Pig is the most easy-going and laid-back of all the signs. Cheerful, friendly and overflowing with good intentions, he does not bear grudges. He is the connoisseur of the Chinese zodiac and thus enjoys good food and has a healthy appetite. Despite lacking strong ambitions, he is hardworking and is generally successful in life.

You’ll have plenty to celebrate this year! Pigs and Rabbits get along extremely well so you should be the luckiest person in the Year of the Rabbit. 2011 will be a superbly productive and pleasurable year for you. Determination will help you achieve your dreams with relative ease. Share your successes with your loved ones and more luck will come your way.

At work you’ll have a rewarding and enjoyable time. Those who are employed should take on new work challenges and in the end you’ll benefit from their success. Entrepreneurs will also have a favorable year. Investments made last year, particularly in the creative industry, will reap good returns. However, plans to shift careers will have to wait for another year. It is advisable to stay put where you are employed now. It is also wise to tackle disagreements with diplomacy to prevent any obstacle from ruining your plans. Your finances will steadily improve throughout the year. Don’t waste your gains with unnecessary purchases. Important home expenses will crop up so set aside some money for them early in the year. This is not the time to lend money.

Personal relations will also be favorable. There will be many happy social activities with friends and relatives so try to actively participate in all of them. Be extra caring for your senior relatives. Good love prospects for single Pigs may come in November and December. Married Pigs should try to resist temptations from the opposite sex for they might lead to dire consequences. You have a tendency to overindulge so watch your food intake this year. Try to eat organic whenever possible and take your vitamins regularly. You’ll need a healthy body to accomplish all that’s set out for you this lucky year.