Following a year of conflict, natural disasters and other calamities, the Year of the Dragon brings promise of good fortune for people born under most signs of the Chinese zodiac, according to feng shui consultant Peter Lung.
"Last year was not so good; there were lots of problems," said Lung, owner of World of Feng Shui in Kilohana Square in Kapahulu. "We experienced lots of natural disasters, like earthquakes, tsunamis, tornados, floods, drought and disharmony."
The zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by an animal sign. The dragon is the mightiest of signs and the only mythological beast on the list.
Those born in a dragon year are said to be energetic, excitable, quick-tempered, stubborn yet honest, sensitive and brave.
In anticipation of Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, a 15-day celebration that begins today, Lung offered his annual astrological predictions.
While some signs may be destined for misfortune, Lung said sticking close to "lucky friends" can help ward off trouble. (Each animal sign has two allies, or friends: ram, rabbit and boar; horse, tiger and dog; snake, ox and rooster; dragon, rat and monkey).
It’s a mixed bag on the relationship scene, with lots of couples falling in — or out — of love. "We will see lots of people getting married, but lots of people will get divorced, too," Lung said.
And if you put a lot of stock in Chinese horoscopes to guide your financial fortune, all signs point to a bullish year.
"America will be strong and recover this year," with the economy doing well until September, he said. Lung suggests evaluating stocks and investments prior to the end of the year.
"The stock market should rise in March. You’ll want to leave the markets in September," he advised.
The lucky colors for 2012 are red, representing fire, and beige, the earth.
"If red is not your color, use red nail polish, accessories or wear red underwear. You can also use a red pillowcase," he said.
Lung also recommends carrying a diamond or crystal for luck, and making friends with folks under the dragon and rooster signs.
To create harmony in the home, he recommends placing turtles in your house, either live animals, photographs or sculptures. A dragon image in the home also will promote good luck.
Contact Peter Lung at his Las Vegas store, 702-386-1888 or email lasvegas@wofsusa.com.
1928 • 1940 • 1952 • 1964
1976 • 1988 • 2000 • 2012
Dragon: Expect a busy year with a lot of change and auspicious events. Beware of people making trouble behind your back.
1917 • 1929 • 1941 • 1953
1965 • 1977 • 1989 • 2001
Snake: You will find opportunities for happiness, but beware of arguments. It will be a good year, but expect some obstacles in love and relationships. Make a celebration of your birthday to ensure good luck this year.
1918 • 1930 • 1942 • 1954
1966 • 1978 • 1990 • 2002
Horse: Expect a good year. Although energy might be weak, the outlook for wealth and success is promising. Be leery of office politics. People born in the summer months will have better luck.
1919 • 1931 • 1943 • 1955
1967 • 1979 • 1991 • 2003
Ram: Strong opportunities are in store this year. It’s a good time to start new projects and plans. Control your temper.
1920 • 1932 • 1944 • 1956
1968 • 1980 • 1992 • 2004
Monkey: Pay attention this year and remain even-tempered. Be cautious of arguments and lawsuits. Men will have better luck than women. Expect good luck with relationships.
1921 • 1933 • 1945 • 1957
1969 • 1981 • 1993 • 2005
Rooster: The year looks good for strong relationships and finances. Pay attention to your health and don’t drink too much.
1922 • 1934 • 1946 • 1958
1970 • 1982 • 1994 • 2006
Dog: Misfortune may surround the dog this year, with the prospect of many obstacles and financial problems. Lie low and be careful. Get help from allies, including the rabbit, tiger and horse. Females will have better luck than males.
1923 • 1935 • 1947 • 1959
1971 • 1983 • 1995 • 2007
Boar: It should be smooth sailing this year. Strong luck in romance abounds. Beware of being cheated, though. (Consider carrying a rhino key ring for protection.)
1924 • 1936 • 1948 • 1960
1972 • 1984 • 1996 • 2008
Rat: It’s a mixed year for the rat, who might face illness, fatigue and weakness. If you can stay healthy, everything else should be good. Career luck is strong, but watch out for gossip.
1925 • 1937 • 1949 • 1961
1973 • 1985 • 1997 • 2009
Ox: The ox may be hesitant to proceed with plans after a tough year in 2011, but a lucky star removes obstacles. Work with others; don’t do business alone. Remain flexible.
1926 • 1938 • 1950 • 1962
1974 • 1986 • 1998 • 2010
Tiger: No lucky stars for the tiger this year. Beware of being cheated. Hanging out with your boar and horse friends will bring good fortune. Travel may be in your future.
1927 • 1939 • 1951 • 1963
1975 • 1987 • 1999 • 2011
Rabbit: After a bad year, the rabbit may feel refreshed to start anew. Surrounding yourself with dog, boar and ram friends may boost confidence. Expect good fortune in romance and education.
