Introduction  

Chinese Astrology is pretty old. According to it, the year of birth does not only tell only your age but also indicates a certain phase or aspect of sixty year circle of time. 

In Chinese system of astrology, each year begins early in the calendar year on a new moon and relates to one of the twelve animals.Their qualities "animate" the year and colour it with their distinct natures. 

Therefore you may find yourself born in the year of Rat or a horse or even a dragon as the lore says it. People born in a particular animal year share certain common traits in the same manner as people born in common zodiac do.

General Characteristics Of Your Animal Sign

Rat

Rat people are expressive, honest and most importantly restless. They are friendly in nature and cherish the company of those whom they love.
Though expressive and talkative sometimes, still rat people rarely confide in any one.

Normally rat people are well organized and quick workers. They earn good amount of money but spend it equally fast.

Rat people get very well along with people born in years of Dragon ,Monkey and Ox. They are not however compatible with Horse & rabbit people.

General Characteristics - Rat

If the bait's there, boy, the Rat will surely take it! Clever and quick-witted, Rats revel in wretched excess and are utterly disarming to boot. As well, they are possessed of excellent taste and flaunt it at every turn. To top it all off, they get along with almost anyone and have a gaggle of loyal friends. What a life! Behind that sweet smile, though, Rats are wolves in sheep's clothing. They are highly skilled at promoting their own agenda, with greed often ruling their actions. This may be why they tend to appear persuasive and charming - it's part of the plan if wealth is the name of the game! Although they are hoarders, Rats can be very generous to those in their "pack," namely friends and family members who have proven their loyalty. Others, however, can perceive them as quick-tempered and sharp-tongued, but never boorish.

That would be no fun! Verbal jousting is a pleasure for the Rat, a creature which everyone around will quickly learn to love or hate. Rats enjoy being on the outside looking in, the better to learn a thing or two. New challenges are also welcomed by the ever-curious Rat as a way to stay sharp. Without this, a case of the blahs could set in which would make this mouse no fun. This quest for adventure has many positives, among them an ability to keep this keen strategist in fighting trim. Anything less would be a waste of some very precious skills. A valuable lesson for Rats would be to learn to consider others above themselves. If they can develop their sense of self and realize it leaves room for others in their life, Rats could find true happiness. The most compatible match for a rat is the dragon or monkey. 

Ox

Ox people in general are - patient, hard working, observant, intelligent having a strong memory but stubborn & dogmatic.

They are very family oriented and faithful.

On compatibility table they rank well with Rat, Snake, Monkey & Rooster.They do not see eye to eye with dragons though.

General Characteristics - OX

A bull in a china shop? Not the Ox! Although steadfast and solid, the Ox is no mere pasture cow. This powerful creature is a born leader, dependable and with an innate ability to achieve great things. Even so, Oxen tend to be plodding and methodical -- they approach projects in a step-by-step manner and never lose sight of their goal. They are also tireless workers, detail-oriented and believe in doing things right or not at all. The world may perceive Oxen as far too serious and incapable of loosening up. This is because these sturdy sorts are less than social by nature and tend to become introverted in a crowd. To make things worse, they can't be bothered with what other people think and prefer to do what makes them feel best. Behind that calm facade, though, lives an Ox who can be hurt, lonely and unable to connect with others.

Friends and family are a great source of comfort to this beast, even if they don't always understand what makes the Ox tick. Stubborn and dogmatic, Oxen tend to be my-way-or-the-highway kind of folk who have no concept of when to back down. If the masses keep pushing, well, the Earth may tremble! Suffice it to say that Oxen don't care to be pushed, especially since they think they're the good guys of the Chinese Zodiac. There is some truth to that theory, since the Ox is smart, trustworthy, caring and honorable. If you need honest, steady and unbiased advice, call the Ox. A good lesson for mighty Oxen is to strive to overcome a judgmental nature which keeps them from getting close to others. If they can learn to value their own good qualities, they'll have more room in their hearts to bring others in. The most compatible match for an ox is the snake or rooster.

Tiger

Tiger people are characterized by their tendency to lead and their courage. They are confident and charismatic with a natural air of authority.

Tigers like to work, but work best when alone. They are always in a hurry to finish things.

Tiger people are also passionate and romantic.

They get on well with people born in years of Horse & Dog. However a tiger - goat or a tiger - Ox combination is not recommended at all.

General Characteristics - Tiger

Tigers may not be the king of the jungle, but these striped cats are no patsies! Magnetic and self-possessed, Tigers are born leaders. They have an air of authority which prompts others to fall in line, which is exactly how they like it. Even so, they can adopt the pose of a lone wolf, preferring to stalk their "prey" on their own. This cat can be wound up pretty tight! As a result, time is of the essence to Tigers, the better to get ahead and stay there. Courageous beyond compare, Tigers generally come out ahead in battle, be it in the boardroom or the bedroom. Speaking of the boudoir, this is one area where the Tiger is definitely king! Noble and warm-hearted, Tigers tend to have a raw appeal which is extremely attractive to the opposite sex. Ever on the side of right, Tigers will fight the good fight of the bitter end if the cause is worthy.

Opponents are wise to fear a feline which can smell victory a mile away. A bit of caution is a good thing around Tigers, since they can pounce without warning. They experience mood swings and often feel things more intensely than others, that latter quality being both good and bad. As well, they can react poorly under stress and are prone to emotional outbursts. It's the bristling sensitivity of this sleek cat which can cause friend and foe to run for cover. A lesson which Tigers would be well-served to learn is "moderation in all things." Once these cats can find their center and direct their considerable energies toward worthwhile endeavors (as opposed to racing through life), they will accomplish much. The most compatible match for a tiger is the horse or dog.

Year 2012 Prediction

The Regal Tiger - Ambitious Nobel - 
2012 can be a tempestuous year for Tigers. It's a good year in which to be bold and adventurous, but not for picking fights. Career matters can be up and down, but Tigers have the chance to show their creativity and to be recognized for it. Work is fast-paced this year. As long as impulsive spending is tamed, money should be status quo. Love relationships require patience. Diplomacy in all areas of life is essential, but honesty is as well. Tigers should be cautious with their health and with physical activity. 

Rabbit

Usually kind and sweet, Rabbit people are not only popular but also make a very interesting company. They are well known for their artistic sense and good taste.

Rabbit people are also calm. They argue rarely and are sentimental and compassionate.

Rabbits are well compatible with people born in years of Dragon(!!), Pig and Goat. Rabbits and Rats are not compatible though.

General Characteristics - Rabbit

The Rabbits of the Chinese Zodiac tend to act more like bunnies, whether they like it or not! Timid and attractive, the Rabbit is the kind of furry ball you want to smother with love. As a result, they're extremely popular and have a wide circle of family and friends. Their compassionate nature also leads them to be very protective of those they love. Where romance is concerned, their sentimentality is the reason why they idealize relationships, a quality which compels them to give more than they realistically should. The Rabbit thinks this is just fine. When they do bite off more than they can chew, their core group of friends, coupled with a stable home life, help bring them back to center. Rabbits are very delicate creatures and need a solid base in order to survive and thrive. Absent this, they'll break down in tears at the first sign of conflict and can even veer toward illness.

Suffice it to say that Rabbits dislike arguments and will try like the dickens to avoid a fight. They can also lapse into pessimism and appear stuck in place - often to mask their insecure natures. This isn't likely to compel them to change their stripes, though, since Rabbits like to hop along at their own pace and think things through. Happiness for Rabbits is the chance to entertain in their tastefully-furnished homes. Appearances do count for these furry folk, one reason why they always look better than the rest. Did they spend a pretty penny to get there? You bet. What Rabbits need most, however, is a greater sense of self-worth and the security that comes with it. Their discerning natures, coupled with some hard-won assertiveness, will help these happy creatures go far. The most compatible match for a rabbit is the goat or pig.

Year 2012 Prediction

The Sensitive Rabbit/Cat - Discrete Mediator - 
While Dragon years generally favor risk-taking, Rabbits should avoid making huge changes in 2012. It's not the time to be especially bold. Rabbits should work hard and plan carefully, and they should be detail-oriented. Rabbits' best area of life in 2012 is expected to be social relationships. Challenges in other areas of life may decrease with the support of friends. Love and family relationships require extra patience. Rabbits should avoid unnecessary arguments by bringing up past matters or harping on minor problems.

Dragon

Dragon people are supposed to be born leaders and masters of ceremonies. They are also gifted with tremendous luck.

Aggressive and persistent, dragon people tend to fiercely pursue what they desire to get. They are easily irritable and pretty stubborn as well.

On the positive side, dragons are gifted, generous and intelligent. On the negative side, they tend to get tyrannical frequently.

Dragon people are compatible with people born in years of Rat, Rabbit, Monkey and Pig. A dragon combines very badly with a fellow dragon though.

General Characteristics - Dragon

Slay this Dragon? Never. The Dragon is one of the most powerful signs in the Chinese Zodiac. Lucky as well, Dragons are giving, intelligent and tenacious, know exactly what they want and are determined to get it. Further, they can easily influence their peers and often find themselves the center of attention in social situations. As if all this wasn't enough, Lady Love is the Dragon's best friend! The rest of the Dragon's friends are always keen to hear what this firebrand has to say, and when it comes to dispensing advice, the Dragon has the floor. It's ego that can get in the Dragon's way, but even so, this larger-than-life creature has a knack for initiating projects and keeping the troops motivated. According to Dragons, it's their natural born right to lead the way! As luck would have it, Dragons are likely to achieve considerable material wealth during their lifetime, although they aren't motivated by pursuit of the almighty dollar.

Rather, they stick to their guns, even when they're firing blanks. That said, Dragons are quite the opportunists, forever searching for ways in which to consolidate their considerable power. And power it must be, for a weakened Dragon is a sad sack, a creature which flails about and refuses to take defeat with even a modicum of grace. Question authority? That's our Dragon! The role of leader is the only one the Dragon wants, the better to give orders and be king of the hill. They are good leaders, too, knowing instinctively what needs to be done to stay on top. Crossing the Dragon is never a good idea -- this beast can singe! A valuable life lesson for this clever creature would be to absorb the principles of flexibility, compassion and tolerance. Being high and mighty can serve to inspire others, but it also keeps Dragons from living their life to the fullest. If Dragons can learn to balance their quest for success with an appreciation for the little things, their life will be more than worthwhile. The most compatible match for a dragon is a monkey or rat.

Horse

Horse people are known for their sex appeal, sartorial sense and high energy levels.

Horse people are good workers.They are sweet natured, tolerant but carry an air of pride about themselves.

On negative side, they are hot headed and sometimes selfish.

Horse people get on best with Dogs followed by Tiger and Goat.They are not compatible with Rats and Monkeys.

General Characteristics - Horse

Thank goodness for open spaces, because the Horse needs plenty of room to roam! Energetic, good with money and fond of travel, Horses are the nomads of the Chinese Zodiac, roaming from one place or project to the next. Good thing they know how to work a budget! All of this searching on the part of the Horse may be to satisfy a deep-rooted desire to fit in. Even so, these dual-natured souls often find themselves balancing this desire with a yearning for independence and freedom. Horses also crave love and intimacy, a double-edged sword since it often leads them to feel trapped. And hey, this colt needs room! That said, love connections come easily to Horses, since they exude the kind of raw sex appeal which is a magnet to the opposite sex. Check out any A-list party and you're bound to find the Horse in attendance. Although they're not very cerebral, Horses more than make up for it with a sharp wit and a scintillating presence. Surprisingly, Horses tend to feel a bit inferior to their peers, a quality which causes them to drift from group to group out of an irrational fear of being exposed as a fraud.

An impatient streak can lead Horses to be less than sensitive to others' needs. These colts would rather take a situation firmly in hand as opposed to waiting for others to weigh in. The lone wolf in them can at times push others away, but this also makes them stronger and is a key to their success. Horses are self-reliant to the core and are willing to do the work necessary to get ahead. Although they're not inclined to look at the big picture, Horses have a keen sense of what needs to be done. They are great motivators and get a lot accomplished. Once they find some peace within themselves, they may curb their wandering tendencies and learn to appreciate what's in their own backyard. The most compatible match for a horse is the dog or tiger.

Monkey

Monkeys are fun loving, cheerful and energetic. They are pretty clever as well. They are talented, creative and generous.

On negative side, they are also said to be self centered and opportunistic.

Monkeys get on well with most signs. The best combinations are with Tiger and Pig people.

General Characteristics - Monkey

The spunky Monkey is one heck of a party animal! Charming and energetic, Monkeys crave fun, activity and a mighty good time. They can often be seen swinging from one group of friends to another, attracting a motley crew in the process. Forever upbeat, they are considered minor celebrities in their circle, thanks to their sparkling wit and a quick mind. They are also good listeners and tackle complicated situations with ease. The natural curiosity which Monkeys possess leads them to become knowledgeable on a broad range of topics. The showoff in them loves nothing more than to dazzle their pals with all they know. The flip side of all this is that rebellious Monkeys don't always have a firm grasp on right and wrong. Their own happiness is their primary goal, and let the chips fall where they may. This approach will work some of the time, thanks to the Monkey's glib manner and witty repartee. It's not likely that everyone will be won over by the Monkey, though but do you think the Monkey really cares? Be it idle gossip or brazen infidelity, the Monkey's world isn't for everyone.

That said, it's not that they're ogres they may just be a bit too curious for their own good, feeling a need to try everything once. This can make for a merry-go-round of relationships. The sense of fun which is second-nature to Monkeys can get them in all sorts of trouble. This self-indulgent ball of fire has limited self-control where food, alcohol and other pleasurable activities are concerned. It's party time all the time for the Monkey, yet when it leads to a monster hangover or a shattered heart (someone else's, not theirs), they might actually show a touch of remorse. They won't flat-out admit the error of their ways, but at least they won't lay an even bigger egg. Monkeys would be well-served to think of others ahead of themselves, at least some of the time. If they realized the world didn't revolve around them, their world would be more complete. Go for it, Monkey! The most compatible match for a monkey is the rat or dragon.

Dog

Dog people are the most dutiful of the lot.They are extremely loyal to whom they serve and dislike any dishonesty on the part of co-workers towards their masters.

On negative side, they are not good at socializing and also tend to get digressed by small things.

They get on very well with Horse and Tiger.They are not very compatible with Goat and Monkey people.

General Characteristics - Dog

Is the Dog man's best friend? Well, maybe. Loyal, faithful and honest, the Dog has a firm code of ethics to live by and can be counted on in times of need. Ever trustworthy, this pup is also wonderfully discreet, listening closely while guarding a friend's problems without a ever thinking of being a gossip. Anything less would be unimaginable to Dogs, possessed as they are of a keen sense of right and wrong and duty-bound to the core. This is the Dog's mantra: Live right, look out for the underdog and fight injustice wherever possible. Bear in mind, though, that if you get a Dog started on what's important to them, they can go on forever. Dogs aren't much for social chit-chat, preferring to get to the heart of the matter. They can also be temperamental and moody, which makes it hard to know if the Dog that shows up will lick your leg or bite it off. Dogs can even be downright nasty if they feel their livelihood is at risk, worrywarts that they are. These sensitive pups need to warm up to others over time and gradually learn to trust them. Absent that trust, they can be judgmental and coarse.

Further, Dogs have little room for flighty or flaky behavior, treating these "lost" souls in a critical, almost harsh manner. The flip side of the Dog's discerning nature is that they are excellent business people who can turn their pickiness into an asset for the masses. Where love is concerned, Dogs often have a tough time finding the right match. These Feckless Fidos can be so anxious and overwrought in the romance dance that they'll stress their partner to the max! Dogs need to work on these irrational fears and are also well-served to relax their mile-high standards, which can only wind up alienating the ones they love. The most compatible match for a dog is the tiger or horse.

Year 2012 Prediction

The Attentive Dog - Champion Protector - 
Dogs are expected to have a comparatively challenging year in 2012. In the face of competition and pressures, Dogs should try to keep status quo, avoid making big commitments, and tame spending. Love relationships that have been giving problems may end this year. Health needs watching and the physical body should be protected. Dogs should be cautious this year. Dogs tend to worry, and might find the year's changes have them worrying more than usual, but should remember that both ups and downs are short-lived, and worrying will not help matters. Home life is expected to be strong, however, and the support of family will be welcome.

Pig

Pigs are known for their sincerity, purity and tolerance. They like to give, yield and serve. They are also an excellent companion.

On the negative side, Pigs tend to be slow and somewhat snobbish.

A Pig rhymes very well with a fellow pig and the goat. They also make good combination with Rabbits & Rats. Pigs are the most compatible with all other signs.

General Characteristics - Pig

One thing's for sure about Pigs -- they're always in the pink! Generous and honorable, they are nice to a fault and possessed of impeccable manners and taste. The porcine ones have so much of the perfectionist in them that others may be inclined to perceive them as snobs. Not the case! Pigs believe in the best in mankind and certainly don't consider themselves superior. They also care a great deal about friends and family and work hard to keep everyone in their life happy. Helping others is a true pleasure for the Pig, a happy sort that feels best when everyone else is smiling. A truly sad sight is a Pig with no one around to appreciate their giving nature. Pigs are so magnanimous they can appear almost saintly. This can lead some less-than-well-intentioned souls to stomp all over the Pig and the Pig will take the blows! The Pig refuses to see others as less than good, an endearing quality which makes them great companions. The happy Pig might actually scowl if someone tries to tell them that their approach is all wet. Hey, it works for them! Suffice it to say Pigs aren't keen on unsolicited advice, preferring to fight their own fights when need be.

If you can stay out of their way, Pigs can be the most loyal and devoted friends on Earth. Beyond their sparkling reputations, Pigs are highly intelligent creatures. They are forever studying, playing and probing in their quest for greater knowledge. They also adore food and drink, easily making them the gourmands of the Chinese Zodiac! Nothing but champagne and caviar for the discerning Pig. These porcine pals also make wonderful life partners, since they truly do have a heart of gold. Even so, Pigs can be exceedingly exclusive, spending time with those who will appreciate them most while ignoring the rest of the populace. Pigs need to realize that there's more to life than being needed. When they open up their world to a diverse group of people, they will truly bloom. The most compatible match for a pig is the rabbit or goat.

Goats

People born in the year of goat are creative, charming, elegant and quite popular.

On negative side, they tend to get insecure, pessimistic and over-anxious.

They are compatible with Pig, Rabbit and Horse. However they make a very poor combination with Tiger though.

General Characteristics - Sheep

California dreaming? Sounds about right to the Goat. These creative creatures love the esoteric and are most at home in their own minds. Unorthodox religions and new age play are also right up their alley. Even so, Goats are very capable and revel in the opportunity to think outside of the box. Don't expect much organization here, though, a quality which tends to preclude many business endeavors for this dreamy sort. Think craftsperson or artisan when looking at the Goat, and don't overlook their considerable charm, which often carries the day. It may be their artistic temperament which often causes Goats to feel insecure. These high-strung creatures need to feel loved and admired lest they start worrying incessantly. This sensitive streak can also lead to bouts of anxiety over seemingly inconsequential things. It's this angst which can wreak havoc on the Goat's love life. The mere thought of another failed romance can send the Goat to the sidelines for good, leaving this one-time lover a lonely heart. Why these woes? Goats are determined to avoid conflict at all costs, even if the price is relationship bliss.

If the game of love is going well, however, Goats won't hesitate to tell their partner what they need - and they can be quite insistent about it! Guess we know who's on top here. That said, Goats don't mind if their partner's in charge every now and again, the better to indulge their lazy, hazy side. Appearances are also important to the Goat, which may explain why these folks can spend hours primping and posing. Goats would be well-served to learn to relax and let others run the show from time to time. Once they realize that their friends and lovers won't go away if they choose to take it easy and feed their muse, life will be a field of daisies. Graze away, little Goat! The most compatible match for a goat is the pig or rabbit.

Rooster

The Rooster people are known for their accuracy and observation power. They like to be noticed and flattered. For that reason, they may even dress more flashily than other animal signs.

Roosters like to dream and often get disappointment for the reality rarely matches the dreams. On the Positive side, they are sharp, practical and quite resourceful.

Rooster gets on very well with Ox and Pig. They rhyme very poorly with a fellow rooster.

General Characteristics - Rooster

Truth be told, the Rooster is the strutting peacock of the Chinese Zodiac! These quick thinkers are also practical and resourceful, preferring to stick to what is tried and true. They are also keenly observant. It's unlikely you'll slip anything past Roosters, since they seem to have eyes in the back of their head! This quality often leads others to think the Rooster is psychic. What the Rooster would prefer to be known as is a straightforward sort, one who will reward honesty in kind. Roosters aren't shifty or cagey and have no interest in hiding behind a facade. They are quite the open book, telling the truth and keeping their word. In their world, if you show your hand, people will respect that. This kind of trusting behavior can tempt tricksters to pull a fast one on the Rooster. Bad move! Remember, this bird doesn't indulge in flights of fancy and keeps those eyes wide open at all times. These plucky birds tend to be perfectionists and like to be in control, especially over their appearance. Primping and posing for the Rooster can go on forever! Yep, never an unruffled feather.

Being noticed and admired is an aphrodisiac for Roosters, and they can go a long time on a few kind words. Roosters also adore being out on the town, especially if they're in the company of adoring friends. No quiet dinners at home for the Rooster - the real fun is in dancing till dawn with a gaggle of pals. To top it all off, the Rooster will be the best-dressed in the group! Style counts with this bird, regardless of cost. Looking good may have its price, but at the end of the day, Roosters love a bargain, something which appeals to their basic conservatism. The flip side of this is the Rooster's willingness to think big and daydream where affairs of the heart are concerned. Roosters can create one heck of a fantasy, only to have reality come crashing down on it. In the right relationship, however, the Rooster is one of the most loyal and trustworthy mates around, bending over backwards to please their partner. Roosters need to learn to value their heart and soul as much as their good looks. Their excellent people skills and sharp minds are qualities which others will appreciate as much as a pretty face. The most compatible match for a rooster is the ox or snake.

Snake

People born under the sign of snake are dynamic, aggressive and very adaptable in nature. They are wise philosophers and have an element of stealth about their personality.

Most Snake people have flawless skin besides being physically attractive.

General Characteristics - Snake

The Snake, quite simply, leads a charmed life! Diplomatic and popular, the serpentine ones are lucky with money and will generally have more than they need. Even if money isn't their greatest pursuit, they will always have more than enough to survive. The charming and generous qualities ascribed to Snakes will allow them to attract many potential mates. No snake eyes here! Quite the opposite, since the seductive Snake has many fans. It's that they're so darned irresistible - slightly dangerous and disarmingly smart. They're also one of the more philosophical signs. That dreamlike quality means that logic doesn't always weigh into their thought process, preferring as they do to use feelings and instinct when making decisions. Snakes give little credence to the opinions of others, relying instead on their own gut and intuition. Despite their natural physical ability and lively personalities, Snakes have a tendency to be insecure, something which can manifest itself as jealousy and possessiveness.

This behavior often ends up alienating the ones they love, when a bit of vulnerability would have yielded better results. Snakes can be tight with a buck, yet they'll find a way to come through for friends and family, if only to secure their love. The slippery Snake is also prone to exaggeration, however these tall tales are told for the sake of comfort level, especially in social situations. Snakes simply cannot bear to be the odd man out, and will fight to the bitter end to win back those who have abandoned them. Snakes can be so unsure of themselves that perceived slights are capable of escalating into full-on range wars! Further, they'll do whatever it takes to be the center of attention. Slithery as they are, they can work both sides of the fence (showboat or shrinking violet) with aplomb. Snakes also detest those with no follow-through or an inability to get things done. They know how to get on with the program themselves and want the same from others. An important lesson for Snakes is humility, along with a sense of self. That tendency to exaggerate, along with a need to do it all, can get pretty old. Once Snakes realize that confidence comes from within, they'll finally be comfortable in their own skin. The most compatible match for a snake is the rooster or ox.

Year 2012 Prediction

The Instinctual Snake - Shrewd Counsellor - 
As this is the year before his/her own year, 2012 can bring the Snake some challenges, but never insurmountable ones. [Note, 2013 will be the Year of the Snake]. For Snakes, 2012 is a year for review and taking stock rather than one that favors risk-taking. However, enthusiasm runs relatively high, and friends can be supportive in the Year of the Dragon. Career and money tend to be status quo. Love relationships require patience.

Rameshwar Prasad invites you to the Wonderful World of Chinese Astrology

CONTACT THE CONSULTANT Engineer Rameshwar Prasad     (B.Tech., M.Tech., P.G.D.C.A., P.G.D.M.) VAASTU INTERNATIONAL 49 C (Second Floor), Pocket- B,         SFS Flats, Mayur Vihar, Phase-III, New Delhi - 110096, INDIA TeleFax : +(0091)-011-22615299, Mobile : +(0) 9810105218 e-mail : vaastuinternational@yahoo.com vaastuinternational@gmail.com