A Romantic and Surprising Year
The Rabbit is the fourth zodiac sign in the 12-year lunar cycle. While the first sign, the Rat, represents change and the second sign, the Ox, represents reconstruction, the third sign, the Tiger, signifies new formations, activity, and action. The Rabbit, taking over in 2023 as the 4th sign, represents mid-spring, when trees and plants flourish. Thus, it is a symbol of youth, growth, and activity. A year awaits us where we will continue the process of change that began in 2020 by nurturing the seeds we sowed and the steps we took in 2022, and our motivation will be stronger. The most significant difference between 2022 and 2023 is that despite both years being represented by the same elements, the Yin Water and Rabbit representing 2023 have a gentle and mild energy. In the world of elements, Yin Water is likened to a dewdrop. The Rabbit, on the other hand, represents flowers, grass, and tree branches. Therefore, the elements forming the year depict a tiny water droplet appearing on a flower petal in the early morning. For this reason, we can expect a relatively milder and more peaceful year compared to 2022. However, it is essential not to overlook the relatively hidden, deep, and significant impacts represented by these two elements, which possess a mild and gentle energy on the surface. In Chinese mythology, the Rabbit holds a special place. The Rabbit is the only zodiac animal living on the Moon with the Goddess Chang'e. Thus, according to legend, the Rabbit sign, closely associated with the Moon Goddess, is believed to be very auspicious. According to the legend, the Rabbit, living on the Moon with Goddess Chang'e, represents immortality, opportunities, good luck, feminine energy, and the Moon.Chinese Calendar and Elements
When we think of astrology, planets come to mind. However, Chinese astrology entirely diverges from Western astrology in this respect. Chinese astrology expresses everything in the universe with elements. The 5 elements (water-wood-fire-earth-metal) are defined as the 5 fundamental forces or energies behind everything that happens around us. In this respect, it offers a comprehensive and holistic approach. The Chinese Solar calendar, also known as the Hsia calendar, is similar to our educational calendar. It is named after the Hsia Dynasty because it originated during that period. Its other name is the farmer's calendar. The characteristic of this calendar is that all units representing time (year, month, day, and hour) are expressed with the 5 elements. For this reason, it is also called the elemental calendar. The original name of Chinese astrology is "The Four Pillars of Destiny." The reason is that our birth moment consists of a total of 4 pillars showing the year, month, day, and hour. Since each unit representing time in the Chinese calendar, i.e., each pillar, is represented by 2 elements, when we convert our birth date known according to the Western calendar to the Chinese calendar, we obtain a table containing 4 pillars and a total of 8 characters from 2 elements in each pillar. This table, based on our birth date, shows the unique distribution of elements at the moment of our birth. In the Chinese calendar, the elements in the time-representing pillars are written one above the other. The ones below are referred to as the earthly branch, and the ones above as the heavenly stem. The elements in the earthly branch are also represented by one of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. In Western astrology, we state our zodiac sign according to our birth month. However, in Chinese astrology, there are 4 different zodiac signs derived from 4 pillars. In a comprehensive 4-pillar analysis, all elements and zodiac signs at the time of birth must be evaluated and interpreted together. The Chinese calendar is technically similar to the Gregorian calendar. It is based on the Earth's revolution around the Sun; that is, it is a Solar calendar. Just like in the Gregorian calendar, one year is 365.25 days. There are 12 months and 4 seasons. However, the difference is that the Chinese calendar starts on February 4th, not January 1st, like the Gregorian calendar. The Chinese New Year is celebrated on a different date each year; because the Chinese calculate all festivals and public holidays, including New Year, according to the lunar calendar, similar to our Islamic calendar. This year, they will welcome the New Year on January 22nd. This date also marks the beginning of the Spring Festival. The Spring Festival, which begins with New Year celebrations, continues for two weeks and ends with the Lantern Festival on the day coinciding with the first full moon of the year. However, the date when the elements, i.e., energy, change is always February 4th. In Feng Shui and Chinese astrology calculations, we always use the solar calendar. According to the solar calendar, the new year always starts on February 4th. As of this date, the year truly renews itself. Enjoy the celebrations and the New Year atmosphere on December 31st; save your wishes and intentions for February 4th. Because the real change is in February!
THE ELEMENTS OF THE YEAR ARE WATER AND WOOD
Since each time segment in the Chinese calendar is written with two elements, each year is represented by two elements. The elements of 2023 are Yin Water and Yin Wood. These elements are written in a pillar format with Yin Water on top and Yin Wood (Rabbit) below. The top element is called the heavenly stem, and the bottom one is the earthly branch. The predictions for the year 2022 describe the general character of these two elements representing the year; because the spirit of the year is determined by the characteristic features of these elements. Yin Water, standing above, is the heavenly stem, and the Rabbit (Wood), standing below, is the earthly branch.Characteristics of the Yin Water Element
Yin Water is the most moderate and humble-looking among the 5 elements. Those born on a Yin Water day are generally kind, patient, modest, tolerant, and compromising. Despite appearing mild and harmonious from the outside, they possess an extremely persistent, intelligent, and strong will internally. They normally act friendly, naive, and cooperative. However, since the water element is inherently strong and intelligent, Yin Water people also exhibit an unexpected performance to achieve their goals, silently but clearly demonstrating their strong will to succeed, without revealing it to anyone, and manage to get what they want. Since they never like arguments and fights, they are generally good listeners and listen to others' opinions gently, even appearing to agree. However, instead of open conflict, they prefer to appear accepting and always keep their agenda secret. For this reason, Yin Water people are generally reserved. Yin Water people, who always have a mysterious side, can surprise those around them by achieving unexpected and great successes. Therefore, despite being mysterious and open-minded, they represent a character that is difficult to predict and not easy to understand. The Yin Water element in the system is likened to a dewdrop. Do not be misled by this naive analogy. Life began in a drop of water, remember. Yin Water carries a very strong potential behind its naive appearance. It indicates innovative and free thinking, the capacity for imagination. It needs and values privacy, it is secretive and mysterious. It avoids exposure. It pays attention to details, is very observant and intelligent. A water drop cannot stay in one place, so it likes change and wants everything to happen immediately; yet it can also leave things unfinished. Therefore, it likes new things but quickly gets bored of them. It does not like arguments, but in difficult situations, it never backs down. If it needs to fight and there is no alternative, it goes all the way. However, it always prefers to use its brain instead of brute force. Prince Charles can be mentioned as one of the names born on a Yin Water day and reflecting the characteristics of this element very well. The polite, humble, and patient image he exhibits is very well suited to the Yin Water element. His character, which never fully reveals itself and always suggests a hidden side, is very much in line with the Yin Water element. Since the element forming the heavenly stem of 2023, written above, is Yin Water, it means that people born on a Yin Water day will come to the forefront in 2023, and everyone will talk about them. Prince Charles, who ascended to the throne at the age of 74 in 2022, as an important figure born on a Yin Water day, will be frequently mentioned in 2023 with this powerful influence of the year. • Other famous Yin Water people include famous novelist Stephen King, Johnny Depp, Catherine Zeta Jones. Jimmy Fallon, Guy Ritchie, B.B. King, Richard Gere, Cameron Diaz, Amy Adams, Vin Diesel, Dalai Lama, Meryl Streep, Alicia Keys, Alanis Morissette, Elton John, Dr. Dre, Colin Farrell, Ellen DeGeneres, Jackie Chan. Yin Water, symbolizing the modest, mild dewdrop, also represents intelligence, flexibility, compromise, and creative thinking. For this reason, it is associated with bringing rational and compromising solutions to problems and with innovative, creative ideas. Despite the visible mild, naive character of the Yin Water element, leading to fewer wars and open conflicts compared to 2022, the influence of Yin Water, which brings hidden and unexpected events, mysterious and secretive affairs, will also bring hidden agendas, tension, protests, secret dealings behind closed doors, and unfortunately, assassinations and terrorist activities to the agenda in 2023.What Does the Rabbit Sign Symbolize?
In the Hsia calendar, the Rabbit is the 4th in the 12 zodiac signs, and its element is wood. The Rabbit sign represents mid-spring, when trees and plants flourish. Mid-spring means a period of increased activity and movement in nature, where seeds turn into plants, and what has been sown is moving towards harvest; a period of development. Therefore, the Rabbit sign represents youth, movement, and activities. For this reason, it would not be wrong to say that adolescent energy will dominate the year 2023. An energetic year awaits us where young people will trigger new movements, development, and demand change and reform in politics and social order. The Rabbit, in nature, despite its gentle, quiet, and elegant appearance, is a fast, alert, cautious, and self-protective animal, always on guard against potential influences from its surroundings. The mysterious, moderate, flexible, and creative Yin Water element, combined with the often quiet and naive but quick and rational Rabbit sign in 2023, points to the importance of producing moderate, rational, creative, and fast solutions to the issues and significant problems that will come our way in 2023.
The Love and Romance Star with the Rabbit Zodiac Sign
One of the most important characteristics of the Rabbit zodiac sign is that it carries the star of love and romance. As its name suggests, the star of love and romance will bring the effect of love and romance into our lives, while also encouraging entertainment, art, beauty, and sexuality. Some people are born with the star of love and romance. Such people tend to be a bit flirtatious and enjoy flirting. Some enter the influence of the peach blossom during long periods of good luck. Most people get married or their relationship deepens and brightens when they are under the influence of the peach blossom. In 2023, we will feel this influence carried by the Rabbit sign in our lives. Everyone can benefit from this wonderful effect. Because the peach blossom is a star that will make you feel more attractive and impressive, support your self-confidence, create a desire to be well-groomed, and therefore bring you to the forefront. While keeping your love life vibrant and exciting, it also brings both color and activity to your social life. In 2023, everything beautiful and sexy will come to the fore a little more. The increasing interest in aesthetic surgery in recent years will multiply in 2023. As people try to use every opportunity to look better, all issues related to individual beauty will greatly increase, and the demand for aesthetic surgeries will further rise. Nevertheless, do not let the name of this star, love and romance, mislead you! Whether you want to make more room for romance in your private life or get support from this sweet energy in your important presentations and meetings, openings and invitations in your business life, it is possible. With the effect of the peach blossom, your invitations and organizations will be enjoyable, and your business relationships will strengthen. The peach blossom effect is a great opportunity to interact with people, and people will not be able to resist this attractive energy and will surely respond to you. How you will benefit from this star, whether for love or work, is entirely up to you. However, it is known that the star of love and romance also brings sex scandals and infidelity. The year 2023 will bring not only new relationships, marriage news, dazzling communication and organizations, but also sex scandals and secret relationships to the agenda. There is no doubt that love and relationship issues will become active in 2023, when the Yin Water element, which has a secret side, and the gentle, elegant, and peach-blossom-carrying Rabbit sign come together. It is necessary to benefit from its good effects and be vigilant against its difficult aspects. In addition to the influences of Yin Water and Rabbit elements, according to Feng Shui influences in 2023, the prominent energy, which comes to the center, represents women, romance, sexuality, art, and academic success. The energy that comes to the center in Feng Shui also determines the spirit and general atmosphere of the year. Therefore, we can say that in 2023, both astrological and Feng Shui influences together trigger and activate similar areas.Yin Water – Rabbit Combination – Academic Star and Babies Born in 2023
The Yin Water element on top of the Rabbit sign creates a very special combination and harmony. It brings together both the guardian angel effect and the academic star. As good news, all babies born in 2023 will have this effect in their year pillar. Therefore, they will have the potential to be intellectual, innovative, and think differently, while also being always protected and cared for, coming into life with strong luck. The academic star is a symbol of intelligence and intellectual ability. People who have such a star in their birth chart may not necessarily be academically successful, but they are definitely open to discovering and learning knowledge related to their interests. For this reason, they have the potential to excel and showcase themselves in the field they enjoy and are interested in. We can count names such as Albert Einstein, Mark Zuckerberg, Beethoven, Vincent Van Gogh, Stephen King, J.K Rowling, Joaquin Phoenix as examples of people with an academic star. Having a guardian angel effect at birth as well as an academic star means that helpful people will support us throughout our lives, and we will be protected and cared for. This is why you should not forget to give this good news to those who will give birth in 2023. This wonderful effect that occurs in 2023 is not a common situation in Chinese astrology cycles. This is because, according to the Chinese Calendar, which consists of 60-year cycles, only two combinations create this effect. The years when Yin Water-Rabbit and Yin Fire-Rooster elements come together have these unique stars and repeat only twice in 60 years. So, we can say that 2023 is a good year for baby births. The next similar effect will be in the Yin Fire-Rooster year and will only come in 2077; because 2017 was also a Yin Fire-Rooster year and its repetition will only occur in 2077, 60 years later. Even if we are not born in 2023, the academic star effect brought by the Yin Water-Rabbit combination, which symbolizes creativity and intellectual capacity, will highlight many creative developments in culture, art, and science throughout the year. In this period when we desperately need to breathe and find morale through culture, art, and science, the influence of this star will open new horizons for all of us. The academic star not only supports culture, art, and science but also revitalizes entertainment and restaurant management. Since cooking is also an intellectual field, we find the academic star in the birth charts of many famous chefs such as Jamie Oliver and Maria Cordero. Chef Fatih Tutak, who achieved great success by receiving 2 Michelin stars this year, also has an academic star in his birth chart.Time Tunnel – 60-Year Cycles
The two elements representing 2023, Yin Water and Rabbit, also came together 60 years ago, in 1963. This is because the Chinese calendar repeats itself in 60-year cycles. That is, the same two elements come together again every 60 years. For this reason, to understand the spirit of a year, we always look back 60 years. Although each Yin Water – Rabbit year is evaluated within the conjuncture of its own period, years with the same elements carry similar themes. Therefore, looking back at the events that occurred in past Yin Water – Rabbit years to understand the spirit of the year gives us very valuable and interesting clues about the coming year. In fact, we can say that the same elements guide us by creating similar effects in accordance with the requirements of the era. So, let's go into the time tunnel and go back to 1963 to see what effects the Yin Water – Rabbit elements brought to the world 60 years ago.Time Tunnel / Political Environment
• The most significant event of 1963 was the assassination of American President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. Moreover, the alleged assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald, was also assassinated two days later by Jack Ruby. As we said, the Yin Water element of the year, despite its outwardly moderate character, can create an environment for hidden and unexpected events, secret agendas, tension, and unfortunately, assassinations and terrorist activities. • Just like 2022, the year 1962, a Tiger year, saw the most intense years of the Cold War. In 1962, the world was in the midst of a nuclear crisis. However, by 1963, with the moderate influence of the Yin Water element and the transition from the Tiger year to the more elegant and rational Rabbit year, over 100 countries, primarily the USA, UK, and Soviet Union, signed the "Partial Nuclear Test Ban Treaty," relatively reducing the nuclear war tension that the whole world feared. A direct line, dubbed the "red phone," was established between Washington and Moscow, reactivating communication and diplomatic channels. In 2023, we can expect the conflict between Russia and Ukraine to move towards a more peaceful atmosphere, less tension between East and West, and the re-establishment of diplomacy. However, this does not mean that conflict and war will disappear entirely. We can only predict that it might be a year where events move to a more secretive, behind-closed-doors setting. This being the case, the year's influence, pointing to hidden agendas, unfortunately strengthens the possibility of assassinations, coups, and terrorist acts coming to the forefront.• In 1963, the Profumo affair, a huge scandal in British politics, occurred. When it was revealed that John Profumo, Secretary of State for War in then Prime Minister Harold Macmillan's Conservative government, had an extramarital affair with 19-year-old model Christine Keeler since 1961, a major scandal erupted in British politics. Profumo initially denied the affair. However, weeks later, as a result of the ongoing investigation, when it was proven that Profumo had lied to the House of Commons, this scandal led to the fall of the Macmillan government and Macmillan's resignation as prime minister. As we said, the love and romance star carried by the rabbit can also bring sex scandals and infidelity. Let's see how this star will affect whom in 2023, 60 years later.
• In the USA, Martin Luther King, the symbolic figure of the black struggle for freedom and equality, and advocate of non-violent resistance, delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech to approximately 200,000 people after the "Civil Rights March" on August 28, 1963. This protest march is the largest human rights demonstration in US history. It is impossible not to feel the moderate, rational, and innovative effects created by the combination of yin water and rabbit in these actions and in Martin Luther King's speech.
• In December 1963, the Berlin Wall was opened for the first time to allow West Berliners to visit their relatives in the East for one day. The effect of the combined moderate elements succeeded in opening at least a communication window to rigid political approaches.
Time Tunnel / Culture, Art, Entertainment
• The Beatles, one of the greatest bands in music history, which influenced generations, entered the music market in 1962 with their first song "Love Me Do." By 1963, "Beatlemania" had swept the world and went down in history as the year when pop culture began to develop. After their first album "Please Please Me" was released in England in 1963, the Beatles, who achieved great success in the USA with their breakthrough song "I Want To Hold Your Hand," started a trend that would influence music history.
• Bob Dylan released his most famous song "Blowing In The Wind" in May 1963, and The Beach Boys topped the charts with their famous song "Surfin USA." The film "Cleopatra," shot with a very high budget in 1963, became the highest-grossing film of 1963 and was nominated for 9 Academy Awards. The film "The Birds," directed by Alfred Hitchcock, which was released the same year, took horror and suspense to a whole new level and later became a classic. The Library of Congress added the film to the National Film Registry in 2016 for preservation. The famous Pink Panther series was shot and released as a comedy film by the production company in 1963. This film was also preserved by the Library of Congress for its cultural significance.
• American feminist writer Betty Friedan, with her book "The Feminine Mystique" published in 1963, ignited the middle-class feminist movement and initiated a revolutionary movement that brought a critical understanding to "a problem that had no name" for that period. The book reversed the social norms of the time to such an extent that it became the touchstone of the new feminist movement by revealing that the dream of middle-class American women was actually a nightmare, and with Friedan's call to women to "give up the 24-hour job of motherhood, cooking, cleaning, be yourself, become a doctor instead of dreaming of marrying a doctor." Anna Quindlen, who wrote an introduction to one of the book's editions, stated that this book changed the lives of millions of women who joined the women's movement, shedding the endless burden of housework and seeking jobs where they could use their mental accumulations and talents, other than feeding their children and husbands. The book, in the words of American futurist writer Alvin Toffler, "pulled the trigger of history."
• Going back 120 years to 1903, another yin water-rabbit year, we see that it was a year where women came to the forefront in a similar way, despite a very different world from today. Aida De Acosta became the first woman to fly a motorized aircraft unassisted. Also, Madame Curie was the first woman to win the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 and later, in 1911, became the first and only scientist to win the Nobel Prize twice. 1903 is also known as the year Norway unanimously granted women the right to vote. Similar elements, similar effects…
During the 9th Period, which will begin after 2023 and especially 2024 and determine the next 20 years, we will see women come to the forefront. We can say that women will have a say in all areas, but they will also be exposed to troublesome and adverse effects as much as good and positive developments. If we look at the positive side, we can say that the desired change in the next 20 years will come with the women's movement and female energy. Unfortunately, however, changes are not always smooth and easy. While women will lead developments that will affect the next 20 years, they will also have to endure difficult effects. In 1963, Betty Friedan triggered the women's movement with her historical book. We will all see what will happen in this regard in 2023 and beyond.
The effects of the elements on culture, art, entertainment, creativity, and innovation can be seen in 1963. Despite many difficulties and problems in politics and daily life, the culture, art, and entertainment sectors had a full year, and social norms triggered by reform and innovative movements led to many innovations and trends that influenced almost half a century. We are eagerly awaiting 2023 from this perspective.
Time Tunnel / Innovations and Science
• One of the significant scientific discoveries of the year was the discovery of Quasars, blue celestial objects that also appear as stars. Quasars are considered one of the main discoveries that led to further studies on black holes. Quasars are defined as galaxies that existed in the universe when the solar system was not yet present, and which have a very powerful black hole at their center. Quasars are considered an important discovery that changed the perception of the universe.
• Perhaps one of the most important scientific achievements of 1963 was the first liver transplant. The transplant was performed by Thomas Earl Starzl, an American doctor who specialized in organ transplantation and is considered the father of modern transplantation. In the body, the Rabbit zodiac sign represents the liver. The first liver transplant in the Rabbit year of 1963 points to the influence of the elements.
• Dr. Michael DeBakey implanted a partial artificial heart in a patient for the first time in 1963, later developed the bypass method, and was a pioneer in artificial heart pumps.
• On June 16, 1963, Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman in space. After 48 orbits and 71 hours, she returned to Earth, having spent more time in space than all US astronauts combined up to that date. The year's impact, signaling women, can also be seen in this important development.
Time Tunnel / Turkey
If you ask what happened in our country while these developments were taking place in the world…
• Talat Aydemir, Commander of the Military Academy, attempted a second coup, citing the failure to implement certain reforms proposed by the constitution, but was unsuccessful. We mentioned that the elements of the year indicate secret and unexpected events, mysterious and covert affairs.
• The terrorist attacks initiated by EOKA militants against Turkish Cypriots in December 1963, referred to as Bloody Christmas, unfortunately became the beginning of intercommunal conflicts on the island. However, although the conflicts in 1963-64 continued intermittently until August 10, 1964, the initial conflicts described as "Bloody Christmas" ended with the ceasefire signed on December 27, 1963, and the Green Line Agreement signed on December 30, 1963. The year's effect, which both creates an environment for insidious, secret affairs and indicates agreement and reconciliation, can also be felt in these tragic events…
• In July 1963, the law establishing the Scientific and Technical Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK) was accepted. We can say this is a very positive development, signaling the academic star of the year.
• In May 1963, the first musical was staged at the Ankara State Theater. With Cüneyt Gökçer in the leading role, the musical "Kiss Me Kate," written by Samuel Spewack and Bella Spewack, marked a significant development and a first in the field of culture and art in our country. Again, a beautiful reflection of the academic star effect…
• In August, it was announced that findings dating back to 8000 BC were discovered in Çatalhöyük. Another important development that will shed light on history…
The academic star effect of the Rabbit zodiac sign and the intelligence and creative thinking indicated by the yin water element, combined, made 1963, the year before 2023 that was also a yin water-rabbit year, a special year in which major and important scientific developments that have reached us today took place. Let's see what we will see in 2023.
Health in 2023
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the wood element representing 2023, the Rabbit sign, represents the liver. It is also responsible for the growth, activity, and movement of our limbs. Therefore, the year of the Rabbit will be a year when people tend to be more willing to move, exercise, and play sports. However, the Rabbit sign, which is a wood element, also points to small bones, neck, back, and spine. Therefore, it is advisable to be careful against injuries and accidents such as falls, fractures, and cuts that may affect these areas.
Today, we know that many diseases are also linked to psychosomatic problems. From this perspective, back and spinal problems are associated with being under financial and emotional burden and responsibility. If you also suffer from neck, back, and spinal pain, remember that you are in the right year to look at the issue from this perspective, review all your material and spiritual burdens, and of course, get support from a good physiotherapist or chiropractor.
The elements representing the year guide us by indicating the prominent issues. It would be a very good idea not to just read this information, but to make some inferences on the prominent issues and draw up a roadmap and action plan for ourselves to benefit from this guidance. Remember, when we don't act, dreams and intentions remain just wishes.
The other element of the year, water, is related to the kidneys, urinary system, and sexual organs. However, this water sitting on the wood is weak. Therefore, it might still be good to take supplements like Omega 3 to support the water element. Both water and wood are contrary to the earth, which is our stomach and digestive system. Therefore, to support the earth element in our body and to balance our earth element, which also represents our cells, it would be appropriate to choose foods high in antioxidants.
The prominent yin water element of 2023 creates an adverse and conflicting effect with yin fire, which is the brain and nervous system. Due to this adverse effect, mental problems and psychological disorders will also increase. We need to pay attention to our mental health as much as our physical health.
The yin water-yin fire conflict can also lead to heart, brain, or nervous system and eye-related diseases. If there is sensitivity in these areas, it is useful to take precautions.
People who have yin fire or Rooster sign in their charts in 2023 need to be more careful. US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are important politicians born on a yin fire day. Both will be under the influence of the yin water-yin fire conflict in 2023. Joe Biden's yin fire is weak, and although the wood element of the Rabbit year supports him, the yin water-yin fire conflict can harm his health. Chinese leader Xi Jinping, on the other hand, is a strong fire person. Therefore, the yin water-yin fire conflict may not be very serious. However, his chart also shows that he was born on a Rooster day. Let's see how these two important politicians being in a conflict year will affect them and the world.
Since the fire element, which represents blood circulation and energy, is generally associated with weight gain, 2023 will be a good year for losing weight due to the absence of the fire element and the year's supportive effect on movement and exercise. In 1963, Coca-Cola launched its first diet drink in May.
What is the Economic Outlook for 2023?
In the five-element system, the fire element represents joy and enthusiasm. The effect of this emotion is that people feel in a positive and confident atmosphere, therefore spending more and taking risks more easily. The cumulative effect of this on the world is the development and revitalization of the economy. Whenever there is a fire element, the economy grows. We experienced this between 2013-2017. With the arrival of the earth element in 2018, growth stopped. Fire entered its weakest period. The following years 2019, 2020, 2021 were years dominated by the water element, which was cold and uncertain, triggering a sense of fear in the world, with no fire at all. The Tiger sign of 2022 was a wood element and also carried the seeds of fire. Although there was some improvement in the economy with the resumption of international travel and entertainment in many countries around the world after 2 gloomy years, it was unfortunately not possible to talk about a real and lasting improvement and economic growth during this period when the fire element was still absent. 2023 will be a year influenced by the water and wood elements, with no fire. Since the wood element represented by the Rabbit does not carry the seeds of fire like the Tiger in 2022, it would not be realistic to expect things to be very bright on the economic front. In 2023, special attention should be paid to August, September, and October, when the autumn season, coinciding with the weakest period of the fire element, arrives. The arrival of a strong fire element and a real recovery and growth will only be possible by waiting for the Snake sign in 2025.
Which Sectors are More Advantageous in 2023 Compared to Others?
In 2022, sectors belonging to the metal and earth elements are in an advantageous position compared to others. The reason for this is that the elements of the year, wood and water, represent the money element for these sectors. Among the sectors belonging to the metal element, we can list banking, high technology, automobiles, machinery, engineering, beauty and skin care, and aesthetics.
The second best sector could be earth, because earth conquers water, so water means money for the earth sector. Earth industries are real estate, land, mining, insurance, computer software, and agriculture.
For sectors belonging to the water element, the wood element of the year means productivity. Therefore, water industries will tend to grow and be active. Sectors belonging to the water element are communication, transportation, shipping, spas, and beverage industries. However, real profitability and earnings will not come this year, but only in fire years (2025, 26, 27).
The wood industry faces serious competition. These include textiles, media, paper, and environmental issues.
Sectors related to fire are not very profitable in the Year of the Rabbit, because the money element for them, metal, is not present among the elements of this year.
The metaverse market, which includes cryptocurrency and NFTs, also needs the fire element for confidence and growth appetite. For this reason, it will not be surprising if these issues remain speculative, volatile, and unstable until the fire years arrive.
The fire element we need for economic revival also refers to energies such as oil, electricity, natural gas, etc. The absence of fire not only affects the economy in 2023 but also indicates that it will be difficult to heat our homes, fuel our cars, and run factories. In the system, the West is associated with Europe and America and is represented by the metal element. We can predict that the West, i.e., European countries and America, which have a completely conflicting effect with the metal element of the year of the Rabbit, which is a wood element, will be under conflict in 2023 and will experience the difficult effects of the year more severely, both politically and economically. When we look at the Feng Shui effects, the countries and regions in the northwest will also be exposed to the most challenging Feng Shui effects of the year. Therefore, 2023 may not be a stable and calm period for northwest countries like England and Canada. Istanbul and the Marmara region will also be open to the adverse effects of the year due to their location in the northwest of the country.
The fire element also means speed. Its absence means that things will slow down in trade, it will be difficult to transport products from one place to another, and durations may be extended. Similarly, travel and especially air travel, which falls under the fire element, will also be affected by this situation.
Since the fire element is related to joy and confidence, its absence also affects the entertainment sectors and the feeling of confidence. However, with the academic star brought by the harmony of yin water and rabbit in 2023 and the love flower star carried by the rabbit, this situation will remain relatively limited. Therefore, in 2023, those who take advantage of the positive effects of the year, are innovative, creative, fast-thinking, and able to act will continue to make a difference in the entertainment sector.
Russia – Ukraine Issue
To make a prediction about the course of the problem between the two countries, we can look at the birth charts of the leaders of the two countries. Russian leader Putin was born on a yang fire day. However, his chart does not need wood to keep his fire alive. This means that wood years do not support him. 2022 was also a strong wood year. Moreover, it was a year with aggressive and high-energy movement represented by the Tiger. Unfortunately, the region and the world experienced and are experiencing war and its destructive effects. Like 2022, 2023 is not considered a good year for Putin. In addition to the wood element that does not support him this year, he has the Rooster sign in his birth chart, which conflicts with the Rabbit. The conflict effect creates turbulence and brings change. Nevertheless, moving from the Tiger to the Rabbit year offers hope that open conflicts may decrease between all parties, at least diplomacy may be brought into play visibly, and progress may be made on a calmer ground compared to the previous year.
Ukrainian leader Zelensky was also born on an "fire" day. However, unlike Putin, he was born on a "yin fire" day. When we examine his birth chart, we see that he is actually lucky during periods of good fortune. But like Putin, the Wood element also carries the most adverse and challenging effects for Zelensky; it does not support him and creates problems for him. For this reason, it would not be possible to say that 2022 went as he wished. Moreover, the year 2023 indicates more adverse and challenging effects for Zelensky than for Putin. His nobleman star, which comes from a long-term period of good fortune and plays an important role in finding money and support from outside the country, will be in conflict in 2023. This means that he may not fully find the support he is looking for this year. Furthermore, the Rabbit element of the year combines with the Pig and Goat signs in his birth chart, creating a Wood cycle. Entering an extra Wood cycle in a Wood year that does not support him, and his Nobleman star, which represents helpful people and support, being in conflict this year, signals that Zelensky can expect a very difficult, almost unlucky year.
Although the difficult annual influences on the two leaders do not meet expectations for a complete resolution of the conflicts, we can hope that the disagreement between the two countries will at least turn into a search for common ground, thanks to the relatively moderate influence of the Rabbit year compared to the previous Tiger year.
China's Future and an Ancient Prophecy
In the mysterious Tang Dynasty prophecy book “Pushing Back Pictures,” there are ancient prophecies predicting major changes in China. These changes are believed to coincide particularly with the period between 2023 and 2024. Because it is said that the prophecy, which indicates that 2023 could be an important year for China, states: “When the Black Rabbit enters the Green Dragon’s lair…” The two elements representing the year 2023 are water and rabbit. The color of the water element is black. For this reason, 2023 is likened to the “Black Rabbit.” 2024, on the other hand, is represented by the wood and dragon elements. Therefore, 2024 is called the “Green Dragon” year. Moreover, ancient Chinese scholars also speak of the “Red Goat catastrophe.” There are prophecies that the years of the Fire Horse and Fire Goat brought disaster and turbulence to China. The years referred to as the Red Horse year and the Red Goat year are 2026, represented by the fire element and the Horse sign, and 2027, represented by the fire element and the Goat sign. In 1126, the Red Horse year, the Sung Dynasty was invaded by Jin, and the Sung Emperors were captured and held hostage by barbarians. Also, 1966, the Fire and Horse year, marked the beginning of China's Cultural Revolution. According to the time cycle used in Feng Shui, 2023 will be the last year of the 8th Period, and from February 4, 2024, the world will enter a brand new 20-year period called the 9th period. The new era points to an innovative period capable of shaking many autocratic, oppressive, cumbersome structures. A major energy shift will occur, bringing significant changes in social, economic, and cultural trends, whose effects we have already begun to feel in the last 4-5 years. Let's see how these prophecies and the new era will affect China, which has a huge social, economic, and cultural impact, and consequently the world.
Natural Disasters – Calamities
The prominence of the Yin Water element in 2023 particularly brings to mind water-related issues, floods, inundations, severe and destructive rains, storms, and tsunamis. The year 2023, where Yin Water, representing mist, clouds, and droplets, combines with the Wood element, representing wind, will also bring powerful typhoons and storms. We see that 60 years ago, major storms and typhoons caused loss of life and property. Due to the stimulating effect of the Wood element on the Earth element, earthquakes may also come to the fore in 2023. The combination of Water and Wood elements also signals a year when sensitivity to environmental issues will increase. However, the Yin Water element, located above the Rabbit, indicates hidden matters, which means that although attention will be drawn to environmental and climate issues, much information will also be concealed.
The Rabbit represents the east on the compass, meaning it is one of the four cardinal directions. Therefore, we can say that the main issues will be in the areas indicated by this element. The purpose of this article is to share these areas with you. Consequently, in the Year of the Rabbit, which represents flowers, grass, tree branches, mid-spring, and nature, one of the main topics will be environmental and climate issues.
In summary, the 2023 Yin Water – Rabbit year symbolizes creativity, development, and youth, while also bringing a calmer, more moderate, and cautious environment. It's not possible to say that international tensions and social unrest in the world will end, of course, but generally, we can hope for a relatively more peaceful year with fewer open wars and more opportunities for negotiation and compromise.
Symbolic Stars – The Influence of the Rabbit Year on Personal Charts
Nobleman-Guardian Angel Star
In Chinese astrology, certain zodiac signs represented by animals also carry energies that we define as ‘symbolic stars’. The most important of these symbolic stars, which we can define as Nobleman or Guardian Angel, represents an extremely positive energy. Some people are born with this positive energy. Sometimes, coming years or periods of luck bring this influence. Nobleman or Guardian Angel refers to people who make things easier for us, meet our needs, and help us. During periods when we are under the influence of the Nobleman, we see that there are helpful people around us, things go more smoothly, or problems are solved more easily. This positive energy protects and supports us like a shield.
In the Rabbit year of 2023, those born in years ending with 2 and 3 will be under the influence of the Nobleman – Guardian Angel. If the year 2023 carries the Guardian Angel influence for you, it means your luck is strong. Take advantage of this good fortune to develop new projects. Take action with the support of this year for your plans and projects that you want to realize. Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook when he was in Nobleman luck, Leonardo Di Caprio received his Oscar award in his Nobleman year after being nominated for years, and Freddie Mercury wrote Bohemian Rhapsody in his Nobleman year.
Who Should Be Careful / Opposing Signs to the Year
The most opposite sign to the Rabbit sign of 2023 is the Rooster. Because while some signs create harmonious effects with each other, some also create conflicting, opposing effects. The Rabbit is a wood element, and the Rooster is a strong metal element. For this reason, those born in Rooster years (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017), those born between September 4-5 and October 4-5 (considered the Rooster month), and those born between 13:00-15:00 should not forget that they are open to change, movement, and turbulence this year! Opposing and conflicting effects mean change. Do not expect a very calm and stable year. Throughout 2023, those with a Rooster in their chart should not neglect to carry a dog symbol to minimize adverse effects. The Dog sign is the sign that gets along best with the Rabbit. Therefore, carrying a Dog sign symbol will protect you. However, to minimize difficulties, extract a positive meaning from them, and take the best precaution during periods of opposition and conflict, you should bring movement and change into your life by your own will. In this way, the energies that desire change and movement will have reached their goal, and you will relatively prevent surprise changes. Those with a Rooster in their birth chart should consider 2023 as an opportunity for the innovations they want to make and the things they want to change, and step out of their routines a bit! (Note: You can generate your birth chart by entering it in the calculation area on www.mingyun.info.)
The conflict between Rabbit and Rooster signifies a conflict between the Metal and Wood elements. Therefore, for those with Rooster and Rabbit in their birth chart, the conflict of the Wood element, which represents limbs, small bones, neck, and spine, indicates that caution should be exercised against injuries in these areas. Since the Rabbit also symbolizes our spinal and neck bones, when there is a conflict between Rooster and Rabbit, it becomes easier to suffer from back and neck problems. One becomes more susceptible to injuries such as falls, fractures, and bone cracks. If you have Rabbit and Rooster in your chart, do not neglect to be more careful in this regard in 2023 and to carry a Dog symbol.
Celebrities born in the year of the Rooster include Ariana Grande, Oliver Tree, Kate Hudson, Eric Clapton, Meghan Markle, Emperor Akihito, Serena Williams, Paris Hilton, Natalie Portman, Ivanka Trump, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, Jennifer Anniston, Jay-Z, Gwen Stefani, Matthew Perry, Matthew McConaughey, Catherine Zeta Jones, Edward Norton, Renee Zellweger, Cate Blanchett, Ferman Akgül, İlker Ayrık, and Zeynep Bastık.
The ruling sign of the year is called the Grand Duke. In 2023, the Grand Duke is the Rabbit sign; meaning it is in charge throughout the year, like a leader, a commander. However, in Chinese astrology, having the same sign as the year means challenging the year's energy, defying it. For this reason, a somewhat difficult year awaits those born under the Rabbit sign. The year 2023 almost challenges Rabbits. It is a year for Rabbits to take charge of their own power, to act with courage and confidence in decision-making processes... The energy of 2023 wants to see those born in the Year of the Rabbit as a commander facing it. However, the Grand Duke's influence will be at work throughout the year to throw Rabbits off discipline, make them give up, distract them, and get them into some trouble. It will force conflict and mistakes. If Rabbits keep their awareness open, and remain mentally calm and serene, the outside world will be just as calm and serene. Throughout 2023, to minimize these difficult effects, those born in the Year of the Rabbit can also carry a dog sign symbol.
Examples of celebrities born in the Year of the Rabbit include Tiger Woods, Jamie Oliver, Jeff Bezos, Angelina Jolie, David Beckham, Michael Jordan, Lionel Messi, Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp, Blake Lively, Lisa Kudrow, Sia, Tobey Maguire, David Harbour, Kate Winslet, Drew Barrymore, Bradley Cooper, Enrique Iglesias, Hülya Avşar, Tanju Çolak, Behzat Uygur, Mehmet Günsur, and Sanem Çelik.
The Rabbit and Rat signs are subject to what is called a Dual Penalty, which generally causes anxiety and dissatisfaction, a feeling of discomfort, and can trigger undesirable situations such as sex scandals, relationship problems, and infidelity, as well as legal issues, rheumatism, and sexually transmitted diseases, indicating somewhat hidden and deeply rooted troubles. It would be good for those with a Rat sign in their chart to carry a Dog symbol in 2023. If you were born in 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, or between 11:00 PM and 1:00 AM, or in December, you have a Rat in your chart. You can create your birth chart on www.mingyun.info.
The sign that is in full harmony with the Rabbit is the Dog sign. Therefore, in 2023, it is recommended for those born under the Rooster and Rabbit signs to carry a Dog symbol. If you were born in the year of the Dog, we can say that 2023 will be more harmonious and peaceful for you. Similarly, the Pig and Goat signs are also among the signs that create harmony and combine with the Rabbit. However, let's emphasize this important note; we reiterate that a holistic assessment, knowing all the columns in your birth chart, both good and bad elements, will be a clearer and more reliable analysis.
Those born in the years of the Tiger, Horse, and Dog will be the signs that will benefit most from the love and romance star of 2023. This is because the love star directly affects these three signs.
Although we often look back to understand, Confucius said it beautifully; we are not going there. Even if we look back to understand and gain foresight, life always flows forward. Through elements, Chinese astrology and Feng Shui energies offer us powerful insights, both for looking back and understanding, and for taking steps forward. A new year, a brand new period, begins with its pros and cons. According to the cycles in the Chinese Calendar, the elements representing this year will only come together again after 60 years! So don't miss the opportunities of the year. Difficulties always exist. May it be a beautiful year where we put our intentions and energy towards good.
Happy Year of the Rabbit
