To ring in Chinese New Year 2025, Feng Shui expert Master Joseph Chau shares his insights on the Year of the Wood Snake (Photo: Courtesy of Marco Polo Ortigas; stylised by Kryss Rubio)
Cover To ring in Chinese New Year 2025, Feng Shui expert Master Joseph Chau shares his insights on what's to come in the Year of the Wood Snake (Photo: Courtesy of Marco Polo Ortigas; stylised by Kryss Rubio)
To ring in Chinese New Year 2025, Feng Shui expert Master Joseph Chau shares his insights on the Year of the Wood Snake (Photo: Courtesy of Marco Polo Ortigas; stylised by Kryss Rubio)

To celebrate Chinese New Year 2025, Feng Shui expert Master Joseph Chau shares his forecast for the Year of the Wood Snake

The Year of the Wood Snake heralds a time of transformation and reformation—powerful aspects that align with the energy of Feng Shui Trend Nine. The year is marked by significant shifts in personal and global contexts. This demands a degree of adaptability to thrive amid challenges. 

Between February 3 and March 4, and again from May 5 to June 4, heightened mood swings and conflicts—both interpersonal and international—are predicted. Countries may face strained relations and economic uncertainty will challenge individuals and businesses alike. Industries in the hospitality and communications sectors are poised for growth, while those in finance, trading and construction must innovate to thrive.

Health concerns also take centre stage, with digestive, kidney, lung and heart issues, highlighting a need for vigilance in hygiene and wellness practices. Environmental hazards, including typhoons, floods, wildfires and earthquakes will underscore the importance of preparedness, especially during critical periods in February, May and August.

To ring in Chinese New Year 2025, Feng Shui expert Master Joseph Chau shares his forecast for the Year of the Wood Snake.

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Rat - 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, and 2020

For those born in the Year of the Rat, this year promises opportunities for success with relative ease. Ambitions are well-supported and financial luck is particularly strong, with excellent prospects in business ventures. However, balance is key—know when to advance and when to retreat, and avoid greed to safeguard your gains.

On the personal front, love life flows smoothly, offering emotional stability and fulfilment. With mindfulness and caution, Rats can enjoy a prosperous year ahead.

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Ox - 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, and 2021

This year offers smooth progress in work, with many opportunities to showcase your talents and shine. Maintaining good relationships is essential to avoid disputes and steer clear of insincere individuals.

As for finances, wealth will flow steadily from rightful sources. Expect enrichment in romantic relationships. By staying grounded, Oxen can look forward to reaping their rewards.

Tiger - 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, and 2022

For tigers, this year will be busy and full of changes, with work progress facing occasional obstacles and delays. To maintain peace, it’s wise to stay discreet and avoid unnecessary chatter that could lead to gossip or disputes. Financial prospects look bright, with opportunities for growth. However, love life may be turbulent, with emotional ups and downs testing your patience.

Health remains stable, but take care with food hygiene to avoid gastrointestinal issues, and stay cautious on the road. Focus and mindfulness are key to navigate both the challenges and opportunities of the year.

Rabbit - 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, and 2023

Rabbits face a busy and challenging year where success comes from hard work and persistence. Venturing towards the East or Southeast will bring opportunities, but one must remember this piece of advice offered by Master Chau: “There is no such thing as a free lunch”—effort is key to achieving your goals.

The presence of the Money Star ensures strong financial luck, offering rewards for your diligence. However, the Romance Star is weak, so those in relationships should focus on building understanding and strengthening their bond.

In health, be mindful of liver and digestive issues and consider avoiding funerals and wakes. Valuable growth and success will come easy for rabbits, but not without resilience and effort.

Dragon - 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024

Dragons can look forward to a year of luck and support from benefactors, paving the way for smooth career advancements. With confidence and energy on your side, it’s a great time to embark on new projects or business ventures. Financial prospects are bright, with stability and reasonable returns on investments. 

In love, relationships have the potential to flourish into long-term harmony and happiness. However, health requires attention—take care of your liver and digestive system to maintain well-being. Focus and determination are key for Dragons to achieve fulfilment this year.

Snake - 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2013

This year, snakes may feel the influence of an unseen force from Jupiter, requiring extra caution in work and personal interactions. Maintaining a low profile and avoiding office politics will help you navigate challenges smoothly. Treat others with courtesy, and think twice before making important decisions.

Financially, money may come easily but can slip away just as quickly. Focus on broadening income sources while reducing unnecessary expenses to maintain stability. Confidence is key to achieving success, and staying grounded can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

Horse - 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, and 2014

This year brings average luck for horses, with both opportunities and challenges ahead. Patience and a cool head will be crucial in navigating work and business. Approach conflicts with gentleness and avoid acting rashly to achieve the best possible outcomes. 

Financial luck is optimistic, but exercise caution when signing contracts to prevent misunderstandings. Love life is activated, offering the chance to enjoy meaningful and harmonious relationships. 

Health looks stable, but heed the Chinese saying, “Disease enters through the mouth.” Pay attention to your diet and hygiene to stay in good shape.

Goat - 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, and 2015

Those born in the Year of the Goat can expect a busy and beneficial period, where hard work will be richly rewarded. Progress in your career will flow smoothly, so look forward to ample opportunities to realise your full potential—strive for success and make the most of this time.

In finance, the outlook is optimistic, but Master Chau urges Goats to heed the Chinese saying: “Strength is not less important than wealth.” Save for the future to ensure financial stability during uncertain times. 

Expect changes and potential complications in your love life. Patience and understanding will be key to avoiding conflict while navigating relationship dynamics. Health requires attention to maintain well-being. With perseverance and caution, this year can lead to significant growth.

Monkey - 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, and 2016

While Monkeys may face some conflict due to the presence of the Snake this year, their luck has significantly improved, aided by two lucky stars. This brings a more positive and supportive atmosphere at work, allowing progress despite potential obstacles. With careful planning, success is guaranteed.

Money luck is strong and joint ventures could lead to excellent benefits. However, practice caution when signing contracts to avoid risk or misunderstandings. Romantic relationships are likely to flourish but health requires immediate attention. Be mindful of high-blood pressure and the risk of stroke.

Rooster - 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, and 2017

This year, Roosters are aligned with the Snake, bringing luck in aspects of both wealth and fame. Work-related issues will progress smoothly, and even if challenges arise, they will be easily overcome. Luck with money will remain stable and promising, offering a solid foundation for growth. 

Long-term relationships may reach a new level, with the possibility of marriage on the horizon. Health is generally good, but attention to diet is important. Engage in low-impact exercises to maintain heart health and manage blood pressure.

Dog - 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, and 2018

This year brings significant improvement in luck for Dogs, with smoother progress and numerous changes. It’s an excellent time to reach the peak of your career and gain influence. Money is promising, though accumulating wealth may be a challenge. It’s wise to save for unexpected expenses to ensure stability.

Love life will blossom, bringing joy and fulfillment. However, health requires caution–pay attention to personal safety and avoid risky activities. Careful planning is key and practising mindfulness will lead to a successful year.

Pig - 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, and 2019

Those born in the Year of the Pig will face a challenging year as they clash with the Snake. Luck will be at a low point and a conservative approach is advised—think carefully before acting and avoid rushing into decisions. Despite the hardships, Pigs have the ability to turn setbacks into success. Master Chau recommends carrying a silver Master protection pendant throughout the year for added security.

Money luck is not favourable, so exercise cautions, especially when tackling business deals. Additionally, avoid dangerous sports and attending funerals or wakes. Stay cautious and focused to navigate the year’s challenges.

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Julianna Cabili
Features Writer, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

About

Julianna has been interested in leading a literary life since she first read Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess at eight. Before working with Tatler, she was an archive intern at The Center for Fiction in Brooklyn, New York. She is a textbook Pisces who devotes most of her spare time to her crochet projects, watching classic films, and going through her never-ending pile of unread books. She studied creative writing, global literature and art history at Sarah Lawrence College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2022. Toni Morrison, Nora Ephron, Clarice Lispector and Jia Tolentino are among her all-time favourite writers.

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Julianna writes about fashion, beauty, sustainability, and the arts. She is always keen on conducting interviews with talented women who are changing the game in their respective fields. 

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