If you follow the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Animal Zodiac (Sheng Xiao), then you probably know that Saturday, January 25th, is a special day. It marks the first day of the Lunar New Year and 2020 will be celebrated as the Year of the Rat. The Rat represents “the beginning of a new day” and is symbolic of wisdom and prosperity. Although 2020 is slated to be a fairly good year for those who were born under this sign, Rats should also be prepared to face some challenges.

Personality and Character Traits of The Rat

Most Rats enjoy a quiet lifestyle and prefer to keep drama to a minimum. They are well-liked by others due to their quick wit, kind nature, and ability to sense the emotions of those around them.

Rats are extremely creative and often pursue careers as writers and artists. Their resourcefulness, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail might also lead them into other fields of study, such as engineering and architecture.

Positive attributes aside, Rats tend be rather stubborn and could be better at expressing themselves (their choice of words might even cause offense). Rats often struggle to find the courage to go after what they want, causing them to miss out on amazing opportunities.

While Rats are great at building nest eggs, they aren’t so great at sharing their wealth with others. They would rather splurge on things they don’t need than make risky personal loans to friends or loved ones.

Rats and Vitality

Although Rats tire easily and are susceptible to the common cold and changes in temperature, they usually live long lives. They are also known for their impressive reproductive capabilities! (Many couples gladly offer prayers to the Rat when trying to conceive.)

Unlike other zodiac animals, such as the Pig, Rats have a tendency to eat too little. They can get distracted and actually forget to eat. They need to make regular meals a priority. Rats should also clear room in their schedule for exercise and avoid both alcohol and cigarettes if they want to keep their health goals on track.

Outlook for The Rat in 2020

• Expect to do well, career-wise. You will be acknowledged and rewarded for your efforts in the workplace.
• Your finances will be in great shape for most of the year, but you should be careful about over-spending!
• Keep tabs on your well-being to avoid illness. (Prescription: Eat right, eat often, and get plenty of sleep!)
• The reproductive prowess of the Rat makes 2020 an especially good year to procreate (and keep in mind that acupuncture can help with fertility issues). Unfortunately, however, you won’t see much activity in the romance department. If you are single and looking for a new relationship, you might want to put that particular quest on the back burner until 2021. If you are already married or in a committed relationship, be vigilant about nurturing the bond you share with your partner and keep the lines of communication open!

Wishing everyone health, wealth and stability as we move toward embracing the Year of the Rat!

Jill Doan, L.Ac.

Resources:

https://chinesenewyear.net/

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/0/chinese-new-year-2020-when-date-what-meaning-rats-zodiac/