Month of the Fire Tiger:
February 4 – March 4
On Sunday, February 4, we will enter a new month, a new year, and a new era. This astronomical moment called Li Chun in the Chinese solar calendar marks the mid-point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox and is also called Imbolc in the Celtic wheel of the year. Both traditions mark this moment as the return of the fire either heralded by the Tiger or Brigid. This time of lengthening days is pregnant with possibility and new life.
Li Chun or Coming of Spring also marks the energetic start of the Year of the Dragon, though lunar new year celebrations this year won’t begin until February 10. This month we gain both seasonal fire as well as the transformative fire of a new 20 year era, a more momentous start to the year than most.
Of all of the Tiger Pillars, the Fire Tiger of this month is the brightest and most optimistic – an image of bright sunlight shining on the trees, radiating warmth and growth.
This start to the powerful Wood Dragon year may seem sunny and idealistic but as the start of the year brings us into this fiery 20 year cycle, things may not be as rosy as they seem. The record height of the stock market for example surely seems rather bright after the economic challenges of the pandemic. However, this year may bring swift and sometimes sudden changes and this bright light may blind us to the darks shadows lurking in the forest. It will be important to remain vigilant and prepared for rapid changes and be armed with an alternate route through the forest. 
The 4 Pillars of this year’s chart are all clashing with one another, the Dragon and the Dog, Monkey and Tiger. This means that these are also the months of the year (February, April, August & October) when more sudden changes and challenges may occur. This is by no means a reason to fear but it does mean that a smart, realistic contingency plan would be wise. The news cycle in these months may also be particularly active and staying informed without becoming over saturated by challenging news stories would be a great way to take these chaotic times in stride.
In a time of rapid change we may not be able to control circumstances around us but we can control how we tend to ourselves. One of the most important ways to find support during this spiritual year is by tending to our own spiritual growth and cultivation. By using spiritual technologies like yoga, martial arts, and meditation to stay grounded and create a calm center within, we will be more resilient and able to respond more effectively to the challenges the year may bring. This would be an ideal month to either start or re-commit to your spiritual practice to begin the year with a solid footing.
The I Ching hexagram of this month #37 called Family. This hexagram employs the structure of a family, each person fulfilling their appropriate roll, as a metaphor and example for society. In order for either a family or society to run smoothly each person should be in right relationship with one another, each doing their part, and practicing mutual care. Confucius’ commentary says ‘the superior person is substantial in his words and consistent in his deeds‘. The main theme of the clash in the chart for this year is essentially a clash between people and those who have power over them. Whether they are demanding bosses, corrupt political leaders, or even unjust laws, those who are subject to unjust treatment will be speaking up and very likely taking action against it. Those who don’t behave with mutual care or proper conduct will certainly be exposed and brought into the light during this era of fire. These themes will play out not only this month but throughout the year. While we cannot control the behavior of others, we can hold ourselves to a higher standard and set a good example. If you want to change the world you have to start with yourself and this year is a great time to embody that spiritual ideal.
If you would like to know what the Dragon year has in store for you personally there is no better time of year to schedule a one-on-one session. To book a session click here: https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=24963388
2024 will also bring many exciting opportunities to learn and grow and I am excited to offer a number of in-depth courses – I hope you will join me!
Annual Feng Shui & Astrology Workshop
For the Year of the Wood Dragon
If you missed the live event you can still purchase a recording of this workshop as well as the Feng Shui energy maps for the year. To sign up, simply email me beth@bethgraceconsulting.com
IN-DEPTH COURSES!
If you have wanted to learn more about Chinese Astrology or Feng Shui the New Year will bring two opportunities to study this powerful information! Early bird pricing for both courses is still available so be sure to reserve your space as soon as possible.
BaZi 4 Pillars of Destiny: Foundations in Chinese Astrology
THERE IS STILL TIME TO JOIN US!
Online and In-Person, February 24-27, 2024
Feng Shui Professional Certificate Course
Module 1 Online April 6-8, Module 2 Online April 13-15 and Module 3 In-Person May 4-6, 2024 in the Berkshires of Western, MA
For more information please visit: http://bethgracefengshui.com/aaom/