This is what's in store for you in the year of the Wooden Dragon (Photo: Getty Images)
Cover This is what's in store for you in the year of the Wooden Dragon (Photo: Getty Images)
This is what's in store for you in the year of the Wooden Dragon (Photo: Getty Images)

Luck, romance, and the overall energy for the upcoming Chinese New Year—here’s everything you need to know according to geomancer Patrick Lim Fernandez

The dragon is the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac. Legend has it that the Jade Emperor organised a race among all the animals in his kingdom; the dragon, being the most powerful, was expected to win, yet he fell behind because of his selflessness. “There was a village suffering from fire and drought, and instead of reaching the Emperor’s palace, the dragon decided to stop and help,” explains Patrick Lim Fernandez, a principal at the Ying and Yang Shop of Harmony. 

“In Chinese mythology, the dragon also symbolises water, so it caught rain and poured it into the village. Its generosity only placed him fifth in the order of zodiacs,” he adds. The geomancer believes that the overall energy for Chinese New Year 2024 will rely on the legend of the dragon. 

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Geomancer Patrick Lim Fernandez
Above Geomancer Patrick Lim Fernandez
Geomancer Patrick Lim Fernandez

Success this year can be achieved by demonstrating compassion and showcasing one's talents. Like the dragon, we must identify and use our strengths to help others. “Find where you’re good at—business, government, education, and whatnot. Be generous and find a way to help the world through your capabilities,” Fernandez asserts. 

In case you missed it: Here's where to go in Binondo this 2024

Zodiac Signs

RAT: People born in the year of the rat will have strong authority and leadership in 2024. People will look up to them for guidance, so they must try to find where they are good at and lead there. 

There is a star for misunderstanding in the year of the rat. This is why Fernandez advises that they make sure other people will read their message correctly.  

An injury star also awaits those born in the year of the rat. “If you know something’s going to happen, try to preempt it. Do a blood test or donate to preempt a possible injury.” 

OX: Those born in the year of the ox will receive financial blessings in 2024. “It’s probably the best sign for money,” says Fernandez. “If you’re looking for diverse sources of income, this is a good year for you.” 

He adds that people in the Year of the ox can also make investments, especially if they want to venture into property. 

People who love to travel will also enjoy the upcoming year “I recommend both long and short trips to clear your mind." 

See also: Get to know the Chinese geomancer Patrick Lim Fernandez

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People born in the year of the Ox will be financially blessed this year (Photo: Getty Images)
Above People born in the year of the Ox will be financially blessed this year (Photo: Getty Images)
People born in the year of the Ox will be financially blessed this year (Photo: Getty Images)

TIGERThe Year of the tiger is good from a financial milestone perspective. “If you have savings or something you want to invest in, try to set financial goals for yourself,” says Fernandez. 

The year of the Wooden Dragon is also a good year to broaden their perspectives. The new friends they meet, hobbies they started, and even their new place will give them good chi that will last through the years. 

There’s a star in hypersensitivity for the tiger, and they might become more sensitive this year. “One advice for clients this year is to warn the people around them–that they may be a little sensitive and have lots of triggers.”

RABBIT: The rabbit will hop over the goal that they have. They can visualise success and know what the outcome is. They also have the capacity to surpass hurdles. Rabbits can make mountains out of small hills.

Health-wise, prevention is better than cure. Rabbits are advised to have regular checkups. 

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The Year of the Tiger is good from a financial milestone perspective (Photo: Getty Images)
Above The Year of the Tiger is good from a financial milestone perspective (Photo: Getty Images)
The Year of the Tiger is good from a financial milestone perspective (Photo: Getty Images)

DRAGON: This is a good year to showcase their talents and capabilities. “They will be able to have things that are important to them.” They are also meant to become more innovative and active when brainstorming with others. 

“You will be at sword’s edge because many things will come to you. Just try to find your balance,” says Fernandez. 

SNAKE: Snakes must find the love language of the people important to them. This extends to professional or business relationships. “Speak the languages other people speak, and you’ll be able to get them what they need,” says Fernandez.

Related: Business Forecast for 2022: Feng Shui Expert Patrick Lim Fernandez Weighs In

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The rabbit will hop over the goal that they have (Photo: Getty Images)
Above The rabbit will hop over the goal that they have (Photo: Getty Images)
The rabbit will hop over the goal that they have (Photo: Getty Images)

HORSE: Some instances are challenging and often in the form of other people. They are advised to offer positive chi so you can get it back. 

“Watch out and always be patient,” Fernandez advises. 

GOAT: There’s a star of opportunity for the year of the goat. There is a chance for them to network and meet new people. However, Fernandez cautions against being overly ambitious and spreading themselves thin. “They might be embroiled in other people’s affairs,” he says. 

MONKEY: The monkey can improve themselves this year, especially when they know what they must improve on. “It’s good for the monkey to focus on the long term this year. There will also be a lot of short-term goals–but at the same time, you can start to think of the long-term goals—we’re talking two to three years.” 

Monkies will also have a star of nuance which can come in the form of things or people “These little nuances can irritate you,” says Fernandez.

Related: IN PHOTOS: New Year’s Eve party celebrated at Manila House

Yang Wood Element: Challenges and Energy

The yang wood element signifies growth; this year, people who want to prosper in their respective undertakings may have higher chances of success. “[Amid the pandemic,] the global growth was very stagnant. My advice this year is to grow with the world rather than against it,” says Fernandez. 

He also cautioned against those who find it hard to compromise with others; 2024 will be difficult for people who struggle to negotiate and settle. “We have to find a common ground to counter the challenges of the yang wood,” he disclosed. 

A strong sense of self, reputation, and influence may also manifest in the year of the yang wood dragon. “We see this rising with people becoming their own brand. So influencers have easy ways to do that in different platforms.”

 

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(Photo: Getty Images)
Above (Photo: Getty Images)
(Photo: Getty Images)

Finances

Finances are arguably among the most important aspects of one’s life. In the upcoming year, there will be a strong energy for the wood industry. “This includes those under the knowledge or education sectors—teaching, books education, training, learning, and development,” Fernandez explains. 

Careers and businesses related to nature will also prosper this year. “Environmentalism and the products of plants and trees like paper will give good energy,” says Fernandez. 

In terms of professional careers, people in accounting and legal professions will be luckier than average. 

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Jove Moya
Senior Feature Writer, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets. 

When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.