How to Study Chinese Astrology

You can find out about personalities, lifestyles and emotions through the study of Chinese astrology. The Chinese believed that celestial bodies had an impact on what happens on earth and to humans. Astrologers looked to the stars and planets to predict the tides and seasons and determine when to plant and harvest. It will take time to discover how all the elements interact in Chinese astrology.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Learn the Chinese zodiac. Recognize the 12 zodiac signs and the characteristics of each.

2. Know the 5 elements that form the universe. During the 60-year cycle, each of the zodiac animals is associated with the 5 elements.

3. Research the relationships among the 5 elements and their attributes when combined with the 12 zodiac animals.

4. Understand the Yin and Yang cycle. These are the 2 primary forces that work together to achieve balance. The Yin represents the female, negative, dark, soft and wet aspects of the world. The Yang stands for what is male, bright, positive, hard, and dry.

5. Recognize the 5 elements in their Yin and Yang form. Referred to as the 10 heavenly stems, they recorded the days in the Shang Dynasty. The stems were the names of the 10 suns in the Chinese calendar and used in counting systems.

6. Read books on Chinese astrology and go online to read articles. Some books to consider include "Chinese Astrology" by Man Ho Kwok, "Chinese Astrology: Plain and Simple" by Suzanne White, the "Chinese Astrology Kit" and the "Complete Guide to Chinese Astrology" by Derek Walters.

Tips & Warnings

• In Chinese astrology, the signs progress yearly and not monthly as in Western astrology.
• The Chinese zodiac depicts your position in a 60-year cycle that divides into 5 cycles of 12 years each. The 12 animal signs and the 5 elements equal the 60 years. Understand these elements as you begin your study of Chinese astrology.
• Just as in Western astrology, Chinese astrology gives advice on which signs suit one another in romantic relationships and business partnerships.

Resources

• Learn more at Chinese Zodiac.