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Astrology's naysayers are often silenced when reminded that the age-old art is based on maths and science and this is certainly the case where the Chinese Elements are concerned
Ancient Chinese astrologers favoured a 60-year cycle, a tendency common to both Eastern and Western astrology. In this cycle, each 60-year span is a third of the 'Great Solar Cycle' of 180 years. It is also equivalent to the number of years it takes to assign each of the five Chinese Elements to one of the 12 animal signs (5 x 12 = 60).
As such, the Chinese Elements add an extra layer of meaning to each of the animal signs. Whether it's reinforcing a stern disposition or mellowing a happy-go-lucky mood, the Elements of Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth put our basic 'animal' characteristics in a sharper light.
What can we learn from each of the five Chinese Elements?
Water
Those born under the influence of the Chinese Astrology Element of Water act with the assured fluidity of a river, affecting their environment with strength and quiet charm. Creative and captivating, diplomatic and intuitive, Water individuals are the masters of subtle persuasion. Without even appearing to try, you can gain someone's trust and affection, and once you've got them, they'll follow you anywhere. You make everyone feel special, noting and praising each person's unique talents.
Your inherent pliability, the fluid calm that makes you so appealing, can sometimes make you too passive, too willing to be what someone wants you to be. You tend to take the shape of whatever container you're poured into. Rather than letting others block your energies, let yourself flow freely!
Fire
Those born under the influence of the Chinese Element Fire burn through life with fierce charm, impulsive enthusiasm and restless emotions. A natural leader, you inspire with your decisive action and dramatic expression; people can't help but be magnetically drawn to you. Where will you lead your followers? Probably into an exciting adventure of some sort. You're instinctual, but your mind sparks with new ideas and clever solutions.
In love, you're highly-charged, even combustible at times! Red hot to the core, these dynamic individuals can see straight to the heart of an issue and make it work for them. You may seem single-minded, but you just refuse to be swayed from a cause you believe to be important.
Metal
Those born under the influence of the Chinese Astrology Element Metal are determined, self-reliant and forceful. You enjoy the good life and all it has to offer, in particular luxury, comfort and freedom. You're like a reclusive film star: you want the acclaim, but you also want to be left alone. You create your own success, building your desired destiny with single-minded focus. Others look up to you in awe of your commanding, confident presence.
While Metal individuals are strong and virtuous, you can be a bit set in your ways. No arm-wrestling with the metallic ones, either; they might break that appendage in two! You can be a hard taskmaster as well, demanding the most from yourself and those you love.
Earth
Those born under the influence of the Chinese Astrology Element of Earth are wise, serene and prudent, firmly rooted in their morals, ethics and responsibilities. Led by logic rather than emotion, you seek to plan your life as far in advance as possible, to expect the unexpected and control your destiny down to the last detail. Your disciplined reserve, which can come across as true grace if you work it right, garners you respect and admiration.
You're so bound by logic and dependent upon controlling your situation that you are afraid of the unknown. Consequently, you question your instincts, distrusting even your most cherished dreams and seeing your whims as frivolous distractions. Don't be a stick in the mud, Earth Signs; share your wisdom and your peace of mind with a needy world.
Wood
As the rings of a tree circle out and expand through the years, so too do those born under the Chinese Astrology Element of Wood. Wood personalities seek chances for growth and for renewal in all they do, 'branching out' whenever possible. Your open, expansive mind makes you a compassionate and generous friend, colleague and ally. You understand the inherent value of what you and those around you possess, and your confidence allows you to act upon your beliefs.
While your strength forms the backbone of any social group or partnership you're a part of, you could have a tendency to be a bit too systematic in your thinking, and sometimes your passiveness allows others to overwhelm and inhibit you. Don't let yourself be lost in a vast forest, an anonymous tree among millions. Make your mark on the world. You're especially adept at business ventures.
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