Happy New Year!!! in February?

Happy New Year! In February?

It's February, we have just finished taking down the Christmas holiday decorations, and guess what? It's already time gear up, again. Get ready to celebrate with friends and family, make a succulent dinner, ignite the fireworks and welcome a New Year. Again!

In 2008 the Chinese New Year will be celebrated on February 7, but in 2006 it was January 29 and in 2005 February 6. Why the difference? The Chinese calendar is the oldest still in use; it's currently on the year 4704. But this doesn't mean that when checks are written in China, they are dated under such conventions, for all practical purposes China utilizes the Gregorian calendar - as we do; however, the Chinese calendar constitutes the base for all Chinese astrological predictions and feng shui practices.

What are the differences between the Chinese calendar and the Gregorian calendar?

The Chinese calendar is based on the lunar cycles, while the Gregorian calendar is based on solar movements. In the Chinese calendar both the years and months always begin in conjunction with the new moon; therefore, the length of months always varies and the new year beings on different dates each passing year. Additionally, in the Chinese calendar years are not numbered, instead they are represented with figures of twelve animals. In this system, years, months, days and hours are not identified with numbers, but with a cyclical system formed by twelve animals; February 7, 2008 marks the beginning of the Year of the Earth Rat.

Due to its connection to the lunar cycles, the Chinese calendar has a cosmic meaning, and therefore found very helpful as a tool for organizing activities and life successfully.

How will the Year of the Earth Rat affect you?

The earth rat is the first sign of the Chinese astrological calendar; therefore, this year marks the beginning of a 12 year cycle. Overall, the Year of the Earth Rat will be a great year for new beginnings and fresh starts. Be encouraged and reassured that all is not gloomy; charisma and intelligence will make you shine.

How should we welcome the New Year?