The year of the rooster

If you’re familiar with the traditions of Chinese New Year, you’ll know that each year is marked by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac, according to a 12-year cycle. In 2017, that animal is the rooster.

Are you a Rooster?
Those born during the Year of the Rooster are known as “Roosters”. Years of the Rooster are: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029.

Rooster Personality Traits
Each Chinese Zodiac has its own personality traits. Those born during the Year of the Rooster are said to be full of energy, very honest, intelligent, confident and flexible. Each zodiac is also associated with one of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal or water. This year is the Year of the Fire Rooster – those born during the Year of the Fire Rooster (1957 and 2017) are said to present traits such as trustworthiness, time management, and a strong sense of responsibility in the workplace.

The Luckiest Signs for Rooster
Lucky numbers: 5, 7, and 8
Lucky colours: gold, brown, and yellow
Lucky directions: south, southeast
Lucky flowers: gladiola, cockscomb

The Unlucky Sign for Roosters
Unlucky numbers: 1, 3, and 9
Unlucky colour: red
Unlucky direction: east

Ben Ming Nian
So, if you were born during the Year of the Rooster, then 2017 is your Ben Ming Nian and it’s not as good as it may sound. Your Ben Ming Nian is said to be the most unlucky year of your life. Chinese astrology explains that living a year in your own zodiac offends Tai Sui, the God of Age. As punishment, Tai Sui makes your Ben Ming Nian an all-encompassing year of terrible luck. Expect all aspects of your life to suffer including, love, health, career and finance.
But don’t despair too quickly; you can turn your back luck good with just a few simple tricks. Wear red clothing, don some jade jewellery and be sure to face the right direction – away from Tai Sui - from the position of your bed down to your workspace.