Are you bemoaning falling off the wagon with your health and wellness resolutions for 2021? If so, don’t fret. February 12th, is the beginning of the Chinese New Year, celebrating The Year of the Ox.
Similar to its western counterpart, Chinese Astrology pairs the year of our birth with a particular animal. Legend says this began when the Buddha called all the animals for a grand celebration. But only twelve responded to his invitation.
I was born in 1961, which makes me an Ox as well as anyone born in the years – 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, and 2021. Why is this interesting, important, or valuable to you?
If you’re someone who is interested in personal development, getting to know yourself in a deeper way or understanding what makes you tick, knowing the animal related to your birth year can give you a glimpse into the forces that underlay your particular makeup. For example, traditionally, people born under the sign of the ox are hardworking, strong, fair, and determined–when they are in balance. But when they are not, we Oxen will overwork, skip meals, and plug forward, refusing to take time to relax.
This is a wonderful reminder that although I thrive from finishing projects, feeling efficient, and relish productivity; when I bite off more than I can chew, my unbalanced state opens the door to dis-ease. And if there is anything I’ve learned over the years as a Chinese Medical practitioner it is the importance of maintaining equilibrium to live a healthier and happier life.
How Pets Keep Us Balanced
We adopted Grace shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. It was perfect timing. Because of the neglect and abuse she suffered, Grace needed a calm home to recover in. I quit all my upcoming speaking engagements and other deadlines, so I spent most of my days writing in a stress-free environment. Grace and I thrived together this way for several months until I started giving media interviews again.
The first time I got ready to go on the air, she whined. The second time I heard a ruckus behind me, then turned to find she was destroying a cardboard box. Grace sensed my increasing level of stress and was just letting me know in her own way – chill out mom. That reminder was a wonderful wake-up call to ease up and relax which also helped me give a better interview.
Whether it’s through the wisdom of Chinese Astrology or learning the hidden messages of your companion animal, our four-legged friends have a lot to teach us about moving through life in more balanced and healthier ways. So, the next time your dog is nosing you to get off the couch, or whining while you work, or barking for what you think is no reason – take a minute to listen to what they might be trying to say. It may just be something that can benefit your life in a most unexpected and pawsitive way.
Stay healthy & Stay pawsitive,
Carlyn MDO 💜
PS: Wondering what animal sign in the Chinese Zodiac you were born under? Find out here –https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/chinese-zodiac/ox.htm and be sure to share your animal sign in the comments below!
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