Halloween and the Star Signs - Tune into the Magic of your Sign at Halloween

Tap IntoYour Inner Magic on The Pagan New Year's Eve Halloween is the Pagan New Year's Eve. The Celts celebrated their New Year on November 1st with a festival that marked the end of the year just passed and also the changing seasons. During this three-day festival, people dressed in costumes made from the skins and heads of animals. The crops had been harvested and stored ready for the winter and on 31st October, all cooking fires in homes were extinguished. Celtic priests gathered on hilltops to light new fires and offer sacrifices of crops and animals. They danced around the flames until dawn and when morning arrived, they gave an ember to each family to take home to start new cooking fires. These fires would keep their homes warm and protect the occupants from evil spirits. At Halloween, Gods and Goddeses would be consulted about the future and magical rituals performed as the ancients drew on the power of all-hallows eve to cast magical spells and to see into the future. There's a little magic in us all and depending on your Sun sign, you will have specific magical talents that you might work with, to invite love and good fortune into your life in the future. These are the qualities you should be focusing on, at Halloween: Aries: Aries the magic in you is your energy and enthusiasm. You won't wait for someone else to discover your talents, you will push yourself forward and let other people see what you can do. You're feisty and fiery and you have a strong sense of self with natural leadership abilities. At Halloween, write a special wish on a piece of green paper. Fold it, burn it over a candle and then sprinkle the ashes into the outside air. Taurus: Taurus the magic in you is your careful and cautious ways. You would never rush into anything or take foolish risks. You work your way steadily towards your goals and you will achieve whatever you put your heart and soul into. You're determined and patient and you don't mind waiting for the rewards at the end of your lengthy plight. At Halloween, write what you want most on a piece of pink paper. Fold it into a square of four creases then bury it in the garden. Over the year ahead, your wish will come true. Gemini: Gemini the magic in you is your versatility along with your agile mind. You're full of wonderful ideas and you love to share your thoughts with others. Teamwork suits you because you get a lot out of your friendships and working relationships. You have many irons in the fire and if you choose the right team-mate, you will succeed. At Halloween write your heart's desire on a piece of yellow paper. Crumple it up and carefully burn it over a candle. Gather the ashes and throw them out of a window and let the wind catch them taking them into the air that is your sign's element. Cancer: Cancer the magic in you is your sensitivity and your strong maternal instinct. You will always want to protect your loved ones and they appreciate your love and the concern you show for them. You are imaginative and creative and will likely have artistic or musical talents. You will be psychic and your dreams are often meaningful. At Halloween, write down your deepest wishes on a piece of pink paper. Fold this, place it into an envelope and bury it in a favourite spot in your garden; believe that your wishes can come true. Leo: Leo the magic in you is the zeal and passion you put into your most important aims. You're incredibly enthusiastic and other people will find your energy is contagious. You know how to inspire others to work towards a mutual goal. You're wonderfully romantic in your close relationships and generous in all your relationships. At Halloween, write down three things you'd like to achieve most over the next nine months; rip this into tiny pieces and throw these onto an open fire. Virgo: Virgo the magic in you is your ability to notice what other people can't see. It isn't that these details aren't there. It's the fact that others so easily overlook what they see as minor, trivial matters whereas you know how important it is to take everything, right down to the last tiniest detail into account. You will achieve success through your careful ways and analytical mind. At Halloween, write down your main aims for the year ahead on a piece of green paper. Place it into an envelope and place this envelope into a book of poetry on your bookshelf. The next person to find this will have something to do with your Destiny. Libra: Libra the magic in you is your wonderful sense of justice and balance. You're the one people turn to when they need someone to act as a go-between in contentious matters. Your advice about romance, work, money, health is often sought because friends appreciate your balanced, unbiased opinion. At Halloween write your deepest wishes onto a piece of pale blue paper. Fold this and bury it in a garden under a rose bush or your favourite plant for your wishes to come true over the coming year. Scorpio: Scorpio the magic in you is your persistence and the way you put your whole self: mind, body, heart and soul into whatever you do. You are determined and you don't take your responsibilities lightly. You're highly intuitive and it might seem sometimes as if you can read other people's minds. At Halloween write down the goals you want most for yourself on lined green paper. Burn this over a green candle and scatter the ashes into the open air preferably in a garden setting. Sagittarius: Sagittarius the magic in you is your courageous and explorative nature. You love to venture out into the world and enjoy new experiences. You're fascinated by other countries and their cultures and you have a mind that is forever learning. You're also incredibly philosophical and people will not only enjoy your conversations and companionship but you have a natural ability to teach. At Halloween write down your wishes on a piece of yellow paper. Fold it and place it in a photograph album. The next time this is found, at least one of your wishes will have come true. Capricorn: Capricorn the magic in you is your prudence and ambition. Whatever you set your sights on, you can see yourself reaching your goal because patience will slowly take you to the place you want to be. Maybe you don't always think positively but you do know that patience brings its just rewards. At Halloween write down your wishes for the year ahead on a piece of green paper. Place this in a green envelope and bury it in the garden. Aquarius: Aquarius the magic in you is the love you have for fellow humans. Aquarius is the most humanitarian sign of the zodiac. You will often, throughout your life, be involved in charity and other concerns that enable you to help other people help themselves or bring a degree of support to those who are less fortunate. You are versatile with an incredible imagination. At Halloween, write down your hopes for the future on a piece of yellow paper. Burn this over a yellow candle and throw the ashes to the wind. Pisces: Pisces the magic in you is your spirituality and intuition. You might sense 'otherworldly' vibrations and there is every chance you have clairvoyant or mediumistic abilities. On the night of Halloween, you are more aware than most of the ghostly atmosphere and the mystical and magical atmosphere that abounds. At Halloween write down your deepest wishes on a piece of pink paper. Burn this over a pink candle (with due care and attention) and bury the ashes in the garden.

Popular haunted castles in UK

North, south, east or west, almost every corner of the UK can boast of having its haunted castle. Many of these ancient buildings have a sinister and gruesome past, and most have built up a reputation of being haunted. Some offer tours through their dark rooms and shadowy, narrow stone passageways, where eerie presences have been felt or ghostly figures seen. As well as ghost tours, for those who are very brave, some castles such as Chillingham Castle in Northumberland offer the chance of joining in all-night ghostly vigils. Chillingham, with its ghostly rooms, dungeon and torture chamber, where many thousands of Scots were tortured to death, is said, by some, to be the most haunted place on earth. Among some of its ghosts include a tortured child, a wandering lady in white, voices in the chapel and the spirit of Lady Berkely, whose husband ran off with her sister, leaving her abandoned at the castle with her baby. Now she searches the corridors of Chillingham in search of her cheating mate. The picturesque Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Sitting on a rocky islet where three lochs meet, the castle has a fascinating history. In the early 1300s Randolph, earl of Moray, had 50 men executed at Eilean Donan and ordered their heads to be spiked on the castle walls. But it is the ghost of a Spanish soldier who was killed during a siege in the early 1700s that is said to haunt the castle. Also, one of its bedrooms is haunted by the ghost of a lady. The magnificent Warwick Castle in England is reputed to be haunted by the restless spirit of Sir Fulke Greville who was murdered at the castle by his manservant. There are many recorded ghost sightings at Warwick castle, including some captured on security camera. Cleaners and security personnel have reported eerie happenings and encounters with spirit beings. The castle’s ghost hunt for July 2011 is now fully booked, but they are still taking bookings for the ghost hunts in October and November! Many paranormal events have taken place in Gwyrch Castle in Wales which is haunted by a white lady, a red lady and a butler, among others. Some stories tell of how, after a séance at the castle, a solid oak door was ripped off its hinges. Although now in a dilapidated state of repair, this has been said to be one of the most haunted castles in Wales. There have been many eerie encounters and ghostly tales connected with Windsor, one of the most well-known castles in the UK. Henry VIII’s dragging footsteps can be heard in the deanery cloisters while Elizabeth I haunts the royal library. Some have seen the sad face of mad King George peering out of a window while Charles I haunts a Canon’s house in the castle precincts. The ghost of a young Grenadier Guard who shot himself while on duty at Windsor Castle haunts the Long Walk, the kitchen of one of the buildings in the castle grounds is haunted by a man leading a horse, while ghostly footsteps can be heard on many of the castle’s staircases. Throughout the UK stand scores of grand and many now sadly ruined castles. And whether visiting some of the more majestic buildings or one of the more desolate places, each and every one will have its own ghostly tale or two. Sources: http://www.chillingham-castle.com/GhostsPg.asp?S=3&V=1&P=34 http://great-castles.com/chillinghamghost.php http://www.hauntedcastlesandhotels.com/Scotland/eile andonan.htm http://www.medieval-castle.com/haunted_castles_wales /gwyrch_castle.htm http://www.bbc.co.uk/berkshire/content/articles/2005 /10/12/windsor_castle_ghosts_feature.shtml

Zodiac Sign Compatibilities

Star sign compatibilities is always a popular subject in astrology. People want to know how to understand their partners better and to discover which sign they get on best with and which signs aren't so compatible. You can find out the answers in the books dedicated to each sign of the zodiac here:

Carole Somerville's Kindle Books
You might also enjoy the Zodiac Guide to love relationships that covers all relationships between the signs.

Reiki Explained

If you're looking for a thorough yet easy to understand book on Reiki that covers everything necessary to learn Reiki, you will find it here:

Reiki Handbook
This is an easy-to-read and easy-to-understand handbook covering the history, principles and practices of the first two levels of Reiki. Whether you’re interested in finding out more about Reiki or you are a First Degree or Second Degree practitioner this Handbook explains how to use Reiki for self treatment and for helping others.

Contents:

First Degree Reiki:
What is Reiki?
Benefits of Reiki
Reiki Attunement
Differences between Reiki and Spiritual Healing
The Reiki Experience and Reiki Training
Universal Energy
Reiki Organisations
Reiki History and Different Reiki Methods
Reiki Lineage
Traditional Reiki and Non Traditional Reiki
Five Reiki Principles and Exercises in Feeling the Energy
Preparing for an Attunement and Cleansing & Self Healing
Giving Healing and The Reiki Session
Hand Positions and Grounding techniques
Reiki and Children
Chakras

Second Degree Reiki:
The Symbols Explained
Distance Healing Methods
Intuitive Reiki Treatment
Various Reiki Practices and Other Healing Practices
FAQ

September's Monthly Horoscope

Here’s September’s monthly horoscope:

Aries

Whether or not you’re in a serious frame of mind, there are responsibilities you can no longer ignore. You probably don’t have any choice about it, there are jobs you really need to get on with. Responsibilities are time-consuming and not always very exciting but they will eventually bring their just rewards.

Taurus

If you are working with a group of people it might seem as if everyone’s on a different wave-length. This prevents you making any progress and eventually you might decide to get on with some jobs on your own. In all areas of your life if there are matters you would like to get through by the end of September, the best way, is to see to them yourself.

Gemini

There may be a need to revise the household budget, probably in connection with new expenses. At work, new routines will be put into place. Some colleagues will have plenty reasons why they prefer some arrangements to remain as they are but those in positions of power aren’t listening. They’ve already made their minds up!

Cancer

You’re waiting for someone to make a decision. You can’t get on until you know what they want to do. Why not send them a text, give them a call or remind them in an email? You’re keen to get on with plans you are currently making and you should do all you can to get others, too, to accept the need to get things moving.

Leo

Accept a social invitation and you will meet some fascinating people. An Aries, Libran or Sagittarius could share your same wavelength and you might hear of an interesting event that's being arranged for later in the year.

Virgo –

You prefer to have everything planned down to the last detail and that’s how you can keep control of your life and feel more certain about future possibilities. Even so, it doesn’t matter how careful you’ve been to plan ahead and despite arrangements made in the past, the road you are on is about to take a surprising turn. Your future looks very interesting!

Libra

An expensive gift or extravagant gesture will delight friends or a loved one. Other people are grateful to have you as a friend but remember: you can’t buy love. Be yourself, be natural and enjoy your friendships without feeling as if you have to prove anything to anyone. Extravagance could leave you strapped for cash in the future so be wise and pause before making an impulsive and costly offer.

Scorpio

You’re seriously considering the present and the future. You might be wondering about the wisdom of making new starts. Since these are big plans, it could be you are starting to lay the foundations of the future. Not everyone will know what you are thinking about and it won’t be for a few months yet before you’re ready to officially launch this venture.

Sagittarius

Circumstances might throw you into a position of leadership even if you hadn’t planned to take on so much responsibility. Before you know it, you will be comfortable in new roles. Your confidence shines. You can be assertive when you need to be and other people will be looking to you for advice and guidance.

Capricorn

You’re determined, trustworthy and responsible. These are the qualities your friends and colleagues have learned to trust and rely on. You will be adamant that you will reach a certain deadline or finish a job before the month is through. The results will exceed your expectations and surprise someone who didn't realise you had it in you.

Aquarius

If your usual routine holds no appeal and you're starting to grow bored with your usual commitments, starting a new hobby or doing something creative might be just the type of diversion you now need. Travel is also a great way to appease your restless spirit.

Pisces

Since you won’t be the only person who will be affected by the choices and decisions that are being made this September you have to put more thought into them. You will be doing your best to consider everyone's views, feelings, doubts and hopes before making long-term commitments of a joint nature.

Most Passionate Star Signs

The twelve signs of the zodiac can be broken up into different personality types and some signs do share similar qualities to a varying degree. Signs can be grouped in a number of ways for instance there are positive and negative signs, opposing signs, and each sign belongs to one of the four elements, Fire, Earth, Air or Water.

Each element implies something very different with regard to human personality for instance the Water signs (Scorpio, Cancer and Pisces) are all deeply emotional and sensitive although some will show it more than others. With regard to romantic passion, these Water signs would be passionate in a sensitive and sensual way. While the Fire signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are not only passionate about their interests but will be adventurous lovers. Arians and Leos especially will have an above-average need for a fulfilling sex life.

When it comes to passion when relating to a person’s aims and ambitions the Scorpio who puts their all into whatever they take on, can show an almost obsessed passion: an absolutely colossal need to immerse themselves in a task in order to perform to perfection.

Passion is a strong emotional state; an energy within that can take hold of emotions, mind and body to create, to motivate and to help reflect ambition and emotions in a sometimes positive and sometimes negative way. Each sign therefore can show passion in different ways with no sign being more passionate than another in this respect. The difference is the reason for their passion; what is it that triggers each zodiac sign’s enthusiasm and fervour?

Arians are passionate about their current interests, their high energy levels needing a positive outlet through their enthusiastic pursuit of new aims.

Taurus appreciates sensual pleasures and although they are passionate lovers, problems can occur when passion leads to possessiveness.

Geminis are passionate about the need for intellectual stimulation and they will go out of their way to find this through study, research, finding ways to feed their curiosity and through their social interests.

Cancerians are wonderfully imaginative and highly sensual, a combination that will bring them many passionate encounters of the loving kind.

Leos are passionate about their relationships and about any idea that takes their fancy. Leos have a flair for drama and are passionate and enthusiastic lovers. Warm and faithful they can also become domineering and demanding where their sexual needs are concerned.

Virgos are passionate about their work and this provides a positive outlet for their high levels of nervous energy.

Librans are passionate about romance but not in a demanding or aggressive way. It will be walks on the beach, candlelight dinners, loving gifts and flirtatious encounters that help feed their need for romance and to make connections with others.

Scorpio will express their passion and need for emotional and physical fulfilment through a loving relationship. As well as having a strong sex drive they are also highly emotional. Scorpio will put determination and passion into anything that captures their interest.

Sagittarius will put enthusiasm and passion into the goals they are striving towards at any given moment. Capricorn will be passionate about their ambitions and will strive to succeed at whatever they do. Aquarius are passionate about their opinions. They are also likely to put passion into voluntary efforts they take up throughout their life.

Pisces are passionate about their feelings and through directing their passion into creative endeavours they are able to express their emotions in a tangible way.

Other aspects in a birth chart can enhance or dilute the passion which is why the Sun signs or zodiac signs give a general indication of how a person might express their passion.

Monthly Horoscopes for June

June is the month that sees the end of spring and start of summer. A month which encourages hope and optimism. As in the words of Bern Williams "If a June night could talk, it would probably boast that it invented romance." Is love in store for you this June? Look up your Star Sign below:



Aries

Expect a communicative month ahead. A lot of your time will be spent replying to emails and it might feel as if your mobile phone never stops ringing. People you meet won't be happy with a quick 'Ëœhello', they want to stop and chat. Enjoy this spate of sociability. You might get involved in community exercises and you have a lot of nervous energy to burn.

Taurus

You're more aware of your spending habits and that's because with social events, day's trips and increased outside activities June's likely to be quite an expensive month. But you're having fun and that's what really counts Taurus. You're more outgoing than normal and you can expect some exciting developments in your closest relationships.

Gemini

June's one of your favourite months of the year. Everything always feels brighter, more hopeful and everyone seems happier in June. You will be keen to get started on new projects that will bring you personal fulfilment. In fact your personal goals and objectives are strongly featured throughout the month.

Cancer

You're working on matters that are confidential and that you don't want to share yet with the whole world. People you are mixing with can be relied on to keep a secret. You're likely to be drawn to quiet past-times and will, as much as possible, avoid crowded situations.

Leo

There is so much going on in your social world and a lot of the time you will be the one on centre stage. People look to you for guidance and leadership. Friendship activities will not only be fun but there may be a purpose to them for instance fund-raising for a favourite charity.

Virgo

Hard work and taking on new responsibilities will help improve your career prospects. You're more confident about your abilities and you are likely to be recognised for specific qualities.

Libra

It's a great month to start looking into possibilities to expand your skills and knowledge. You could find the idea of signing up on a long-term study course quite appealing. You also feel a strong need to travel to faraway places.

Scorpio

Serious concerns such as buying or selling property, looking for a new place to live or refurbishing your home will keep you busy this June. At work you are likely to get on well with people in authority and they will be willing to listen to what you have to say.

Sagittarius

Romance, partnerships and one-to-one relationships are an important part of your life in June. Social life will be satisfactory but you're more likely to find yourself veering towards small groups these days. A new friend will help you see things from a new angle and you will enjoy conversations about religion, different cultures and philosophy.

Capricorn

Work is a feature of the month: either because you have too much or too little of it! You like to be busy but there has to be a balance. You're likely to be mixing wit intellectual people these days and you can learn a lot from watching how others approach jobs that you, too, have to do.

Aquarius

Love, laughter, romance and pleasure form the major part of June for Aquarians. Even if you do have to go into work each day you will still enjoy plenty lighter moments. Married Aquarians will enjoy a phase of increased harmony in your relationship. Single? Cupid has a dart aimed in your direction!

Pisces

When you aren't busy, home will be your refuge. You will enjoy spending time with the family and are happy to be involved in activities your relatives are arranging. Domestic commitments are heavy but you won't begrudge this at all.

Will Ophiuchus Really Affect Your Astrology Sign?

There's a lot of fuss at the moment about the discovery of a new constellation Ophiuchus and whether this so-called 13th zodiac sign will make a difference to astrology.

The answer is: this isn't in fact a new discovery and the existence of the constellation Ophiuchus between the constellations of Scorpio and Sagittarius will have absolutely no affect on the astrology system we use in the West.
Sometimes old knowledge makes for 'new' news and that's what's happening now. This argument about the 13th zodiac sign has cropped up many times before and will no doubt do so again. Originally referred to as Serpentarius, the constellation of Ophiuchus was actually one of the forty-eight original constellations chartered by Ptolemy (in around 85 AD!)

There are 88 official constellations and thirteen constellations of the zodiac through which the Sun passes during the course of the year. So why hasn't Ophiuchus ever been included in the astrology zodiac signs?

It's because there's a mistaken belief that the zodiac signs represent the star constellations when in fact astrology signs take the names of the constellations but are not constellations. Because the earth wobbles on its axis, we now see the star constellations in different positions to when they were first observed.- Some use this as an argument against astrology too.

But there are many different systems of astrology and there are two zodiacs: the Sidereal Zodiac and the Tropical Zodiac. The astrology system we use in the West uses the Spring Equinox as the fixed point of the start of Aries to start the Tropical Zodiac. Whereas the Sidereal astrology system uses the backdrop of constellations in the skies as we see them today.

Will the discovery of a 13th zodiac sign affect astrology as we know it?

So, Sidereal astrologers use visual astronomy whereas the Tropical astrology system is a one that uses fixed points to determine a mathematically exact zodiac of 360 degrees divided into twelve equal sections (or astrology signs) of 30 degrees each. So, of the 13 star constellations through which the Sun passes during the course of a year, Ophiuchus was the one not attributed to an astrological sign. Not because astrologers did not want to recognise it existed but purely because the mathematics of astrology did not require this 13th astrology sign.

Astrology is very much planet-based in that relationships (or aspects) between the planets are an important consideration when calculating horoscopes. The planets' relationships to each other will not be altered because of this so-called extra constellation. It has in fact always been there. Just as Astrology signs as we know them remain the same and always will, no matter how many new constellations are discovered.

Worst Gifts for Zodiac Signs

Supposing someone decides to treat a friend or lover but gets it terribly wrong, what's the worst surprise gift each sign might possibly receive?

For Aries, chocolates, toiletries and gifts with no imagination will be a huge disappointment. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac; they like to be the first to own their possessions. So don't give them anything that's second-hand or used. What's an Aries going to do with anything antique or old? Gift wrapping should be bright and fresh. They won't be impressed by anything that's crinkled or tattered!

Unwanted Gifts for Taurus and Gemini

Gifts have to feel good and smell good for a Taurus. They'd just hate to receive anything whether it's jewellery, perfume or wine that's cheap or tasteless. Taureans do have their lazy moments but that doesn't mean they'll appreciate exercise equipment. In fact some Taureans might wonder if this is a hint that they're overweight. Anything too ostentatious will scare the Gemini who prefers gifts that are light-hearted and fun. Despite liking to receive things in pairs, socks just aren't imaginative enough unless there's something cute and unique about them!

Unwanted Gifts for Cancers and Leos

Cancerians love their home but a gift of pots or pans or a bag of groceries would be taking it a bit too far! On the other end of the scale, Cancerians aren't too keen on weird and wacky items. They'd much prefer something "sensible and useful" that lies inbetween!

The worst gift a Leo could receive is something that appeals to the giver but not to them. Leos hate anything tacky. Whatever they've got, it has to be quality. They should be consulted first if thinking about buying a Leo items of clothing; they have very particular tastes.

Unwanted Gifts for Virgo, Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius

Too much fur, feather, glitter or sparkle would irritate the prudent Virgo and don't buy accessories that won't match anything Libra wears. They're most particular about their clothing. Librans will hate anything really loud and anything that might hurt other people such as toys or gadgets that involve projectiles. Power tools aren't really their thing either.

Jokey items do nothing for the serious Scorpio and what's a lively Sagittarius going to do with a recipe book? They've too busy a lifestyle to spend any time in the kitchen. It's unlikely Sagittarius will be pleased with kitchen items or a vacuum cleaner either! Unwanted Gifts for Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces Capricorns will abhor flashing pens and ornaments; comic gifts will also leave them cold. Now even if you try to shock an Aquarius, no matter what the gift, you won't offend them! Even so there are some gifts that might be put into the back of a cupboard, such as that hand knitted sweater with a slogan on the front.

The worst possible present for a Pisces is a gift voucher; they'll feel no thought whatsoever has been put into this.

Unwanted Gifts to Avoid for All Signs

It goes without saying but if thinking of gifting any sign of the zodiac a new pet, be sure they want it first. Certainly this would and could be a gift some sun signs will be delighted with. But not everyone. And no matter what the animal, pets take time, money and commitment; it would not be fair on the animal or the person if an animal was given without adequate consideration.

How Halloween Started

Over 2,000 years ago, the Celtic New Year began on the first day of November. The Celts celebrated a number of Festivals throughout the year and Samhain was a solemn occasion in respect of the end of summer and start of winter. The beginning of the Celtic New Year marked a time when darkness overwhelmed the world and the earth would become barren and cold. Death was not feared but accepted just as the ancient Celts respected the ever changing cycles of the seasons. The year was divided into four cycles and the start of each one would be observed through rituals of festivals, feasting and sacrifice.

The ancient Celts believed that during the night before the New Year, the veil separating the worlds of the living and the ‘otherworld’ was at its thinnest. This is the most likely time when spirits of the dead would return to the earth, crossing the veil from one world to another. The ancient druids would use these mystical conditions to tap into supernatural resources to make predictions about the future.

Because it was believed that mischievous ghosts walked the earth on the night of October 31st, causing havoc wherever they went, the Celts would dress up in animal costumes to disguise themselves and try to fool these malevolent beings. Lights in villages were extinguished and a huge bonfire would be lit where everyone would gather. Fire had a number of functions on this evening. As well as being believed to scare evil spirits away, flames from the fire would bring light in the darkness, the bonfires acting like beacons to attract ancestral spirits who wandered that night. Also, charms would be thrown into the flames symbolising the Celts’ hopes and wishes for the coming year. As we make New Year resolutions, the Celts too would reflect on the past and consider the future at the start of their New Year.

Another way to ward off evil spirits would be to throw animal bones into the fires and thus the origins of our modern word ‘bonfire’ come from these ancient ‘bone-fires.’

To prevent evil spirits from entering their homes, the ancients would leave gifts of food outside. These malevolent beings had to be appeased and villagers would give Druids (Celtic priests) gifts of food when they visited. This is one of the many theories as to the origin of ‘Trick or Treat.’

As Christianity began to spread over ancient Britain, November 1st was designated as All Saints’ Day to honour saints and martyrs. This was a part of an attempt by the Church to replace one of many ancient Celtic festivals with a related but Church-sanctioned celebration.

Sources
Rogers, Nicholas. Halloween: From Pagan Ritual to Party Night. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2002.
http://www.mookychick.co.uk/opinion/pagan/samhain.php
http://www.religioustolerance.org/hallo_cu.htm

Do Dreams Have a Meaning?

There are a number of books on the subject of dreams and dream interpretation that claim there are specific meanings to specific symbols within the dreams. To see a sack in your dream, for instance, might be said to be symbolism of the womb and a feeling of security. Sacks can contain heavy items and can be cumbersome; it could therefore be associated with burdens and responsibilities.
How serious can these general interpretations be taken? It must be remembered that these are all-purpose meanings and if anything, they may lead to a person considering what certain dreams may mean to them.
There is every chance that seeing a cat in a dream will mean one thing to a cat lover and something quite different to someone who is allergic to cat fur. Be war of bending a dream to fit conventional meaning.
Once symbols in the dream have been studied independently of each other, consider how they merge together. Could a positive or negative aspect of one symbol have a subtle influence with the meaning of other symbols within the dream?
This can be linked to the tarot and astrology when certain features can be softened or enhanced by other links. For example, the World of Fortune tarot card placed between the Tower and the Moon can be seen more as a warning than if it was placed between the Star and the Sun.
Dreams mean different things to different people and interpreting dreams takes a lot of patience, intuition and experience. Persevere and your ability will grow.

Spring Cleaning and Astrology - Libra to Pisces

Here's how the signs Libra to Pisces might improve their daily life through an annual spring cleaning.

Libra and Spring Cleaning

Sometimes it's hard for Librans to be decisive and to make firm choices for the future. You need to swipe those negative thoughts out of your mind and give yourself a specific assignment for this spring season.
The hardest part will probably be getting started and deciding what you want to do. Resolve to decide this quickly then enjoy a special achievement at the end of it all.

Librans seek harmony in relationships; discord causes Libra tension and upset. You should therefore end all negative relationships and give more attention to the friendships that mean most to you.

Scorpio and Spring Cleaning

You don't want to waste your time and emotional energy on feeling angry and jealous. Clear up misunderstandings, make apologies, ask questions if there's confusion in relationships and aim to spend this spring feeling positive about yourself and your associations and make more room in your life for your friends.

Sagittarius and Spring Cleaning

Slow down and take more time for yourself and your loved ones. Sometimes life gets so busy you lose touch with what's important in your life. Spring renewal means getting rid of the negatives in your life including so-called friends who take more than they give and making more room in your life for the things that really matter.

Capricorn and Spring Cleaning

Capricorns take everything so seriously and you can exhaust yourself in trying to reach your aims. Wash away that more earnest side of your nature and find the fun side of you underneath. You can still work hard and be playful too. Lighten up your life with some humour and fun. Make more space in your days too, for some romance.

Aquarius and Spring Cleaning

You have many friends but life can get a bit disorganised when you've got so much going on socially. If you have clutter in your relationships this makes it hard for you to stay focused and your thoughts can get scattered. This spring, decide on who and what to spend your time on, reduce your cell phone contact list, condense your online social network and be more organised about the way you spend your time. You could be surprised by what you can achieve.

Pisces and Spring Cleaning

Pisceans should focus on spring cleaning their inner self. The less messy and disorganised your mind and emotions are, the brighter your life will feel. Think of all the time you spend worrying and agonizing over past mistakes or events that have happened and can never be changed. Sweep out all this negative way of thinking and allow fresh ideas to come into your mind like a breath of fresh air.

Getting organised and spring cleaning your life brings that wonderfully fresh "alive" feeling into your world that inspires, renews and provides fresh hope for the future.

Spring Cleaning and Astrology - Aries to Virgo

Not only is it cupboards and closets that might do with a clear out each spring, but it's a good time too to focus on lifestyle and attitude to enhance your life at work and home.

Here's how the signs Aries to Virgo might improve their daily life through a good spring cleaning.

Aries and Spring Cleaning

If it seems as if all the shelves and closets of your mind are full of half formed ideas and plans, now is the time to wipe them all clean. Forget all these because you will probably never get around to focusing on them; instead, make a point of starting something completely new and aim to finish it before summer begins.

Taurus and Spring Cleaning

This is a great time to do a life review. Think about all the least attractive aspects of your life and consider which ones are really musty and you could do with getting rid of. Work on ways of cleaning and clearing out all those negative things out of your life to make room for more positive ones to take their place.

Gemini and Spring Cleaning

Gemini's love to think and your mind can get cluttered with memories, thoughts of what has recently been going on, plans for the days ahead, gossip you've just heard. You might dwell on the same thoughts over and over when it might do you good to clear out some of those old ideas, hopes and plans you're holding onto through sheer habit. nstead, this spring you should plan to keep your mind focused on what's important and free up some space too, for new ideas.

Cancer and Spring Cleaning

Cancerians can get stuck in old habits because plain and simply, that's what you're used to. You might spring clean your life by throwing open the windows of our mind to new ideas and more positive ways of thinking. You can get attached to possessions and people because they give you a sense of security. If your home is getting full of clutter this is a great time to have a good clear out. You will feel more in control your life when your environment is in order.

Leo and Spring Cleaning

Leos can get quite obstinate and stubborn and maybe it's time to be more flexible and lenient. Acknowledging that you may have got stuck in a rut lately is the first thing that's needed to welcome a fresh breeze into your life. Make a list of all the positive benefits of a renewed point of view and aim to be more hopeful and to draw positive people into your social circle this spring.

Virgo and Spring Cleaning

Virgos love to have everything neat, tidy and pristine. Why don't you use spring cleaning your home as a method of spring cleaning your emotions too? As you dust and polish the various items around your house, think about where they came from or who gave them to you and consider your emotional reaction to each item.
Use repetitive housework like cleaning windows, mopping floors and even doing the garden as a chance to meditate and get in touch with your feelings. Virgos should also aim to eat a balanced diet, take regular exercise and sleep well to improve their lives.

Clearing up the clutter in homes and minds and getting organised can be inspirational and might provide renewed motivation for the months ahead.

The Colours of Christmas

Some sing of Dreaming of a White Christmas, forlorn lovers may have a Blue Christmas but what is the symbolism and associations of the colours of Christmas?

And how might this help when choosing a Christmas colour scheme for your home? Christmas colour schemes are chosen for a variety of reasons. It might be to match the colour scheme of the home, some will have their favourite holiday decorations and others will choose colours according to their mood. When choosing a Christmas colour scheme this year, it might help to consider some of the traditional symbolism and associations of the colours of Christmas.

Celebrating the Winter Solstice

Christmas was originally the pagan celebration of the winter solstice; a celebration to brighten spirits in the dead of winter and celebrate the coming of spring. Pine tree branches were originally hung around the house representing the green of the leaves in anticipation of the coming spring and homes were decorated with sprigs of holly to brighten up the grey winter months for the celebration.

Colours of Christmas: Red

The main colours of Christmas are red, green and gold, white and silver. Red is the colour of love and energy. In Christian tradition, this colour symbolizes the blood of Jesus which was shed for all humans that they might be saved. (John 19:34).

Red is the colour of fire inducing feelings of warmth and visions of roaring fires, red berries and Santa Claus. People who are drawn to the colour red are likely to be outgoing, cheerful and impulsive. However too much red could promote anger, over-excitement and intense emotions so it is always good, when using red even as a predominant Christmas colour scheme, to offset it with other, less fiery Christmas colours.

Symbolism of Green at Christmas

In Christian tradition green symbolizes eternal life in Christ (John 3:16-17). Green is the colour of holly and mistletoe, the Christmas fir tree and a symbol, at Christmastime, of nature. Decorating homes with green foliage cheers up the dark winter days with a symbol of hope for new beginnings.

Green is a relaxing colour; the colour of nature and fertility. People who choose green as their favourite colour are thought to be well adjusted, conventional and conservative. Adding green to the Christmas colour scheme will bring harmony into the home. When red and green are combined, it is said to express the hope for redemption through the sacrifices of Christ.

Symbolism of Gold at Christmas

The colour gold symbolises wealth. It is also a symbol of good health. In Christian tradition gold symbolizes Christ the Divine (Revelations 3:18) People whose favourite colour is gold are generally optimistic.

At Christmas gold can be seen everywhere: in tinsel, candles, Christmas stars, angels and twinkling lights. Adding gold to the Christmas colour scheme will promote courage, confidence and willpower and preserve the health of those living in the home.

Symbolism of Silver at Christmas

Silver, like gold, symbolises riches. Silver is a symbol of strength and can also be related to the moon and feminine energy. In Christian tradition, silver is used in a figurative way to represent God’words. Silver also symbolizes Redemption in Christ (Matthew 27:3-9).

This colour represents clarity, vision and brightness. Adding silver to the Christmas colour scheme will help enhance patience and perseverance within the family. Like the moon, silver has a calming soothing effect.

Symbolism of White at Christmas

Snowflakes, winter wonderlands, Santa’beard, the white robes of Christmas angels, white is a colour of purity and cleanliness; a symbol of rebirth. In Christian tradition, white represents the coming of the light of Christ into the world. White helps add light to the greens and reds, bringing a more balanced feel to the Christmas colour scheme.

Whether flamboyant, romantic, energetic or conservative, do your colour choices represent the traditional seasonal colours or perhaps, as shown above, they say more about you and your personality?

Christmas Traditions and Superstitions

Christmas is a time of the year steeped in traditition. Here are a few superstitions associated with Christmas and the New Year.

Holly, Ivy and Mistletoe and Superstition

For luck during Christmas, decorate the home with evergreens such as holly, ivy, rosemary and mistletoe. Mistletoe is believed, by some, to be a magical plant that keeps evil spirits away. It is bad luck to throw holly on the fire or to cut down an oak tree that has mistletoe growing on it, so superstition says!

Twelve Days of Christmas and Superstition

On each of the twelve days of Christmas, the weather is said to signify what the weather will be on each corresponding month of the coming year. It is also said that snow on Christmas day means Easter will be green. Conversely, if there is no snow at Christmas, Easter will be white.

A superstition among farmers says that a mild January will result in wintry weather from February through to the end of May and as a result, will bring about poor crops. While a clear, star-filled sky on Christmas Eve promises good crops in the summer. Fire, Superstition and Christmas

People should keep the home fires burning over the twelve days of Christmas, as it is said to be bad luck to let any fire in the house go out during the Christmas season. During the twelve days of Christmas, people used to cleanse the house and implements with special care otherwise they believed the fairies would steal them. If a cherry tree branch that is placed in water at the beginning of advent flowers by Christmas, this is a sign of luck.

Christmas Celebrations

For good health throughout the coming year, eat an apple on Christmas Eve. Another way to ensure luck in the New Year is for all members of the household to assist with stirring the Christmas pudding. As a symbol of luck, prosperity and marriage, a coin, a thimble and a ring were dropped into the pudding before it was cooked and these predictions would refer to whoever found the object.

People born at Christmas eve or on Christmas day are considered to be lucky. No matter how replete one might feel after the Christmas dinner, it is recommended that they round off the meal with a mince pie or two, for each one is said to signify a month’happiness. Or, for a year’good luck, a mince pie should be eaten on each of twelve consecutive days. And never cut a mince pie as this signifies cutting your luck.

New Year’s Eve Superstitions

If the New Year’s First Footer’ is dark haired and carries some coal, then a year of good luck will follow. This widely known superstition is said to have originated in Scotland. On the other hand, if the first person to enter a house in the New Year is a woman or a fair or red-haired man, then bad luck might be expected. Some also believed that empty pockets and empty cupboards on New Year’s Eve speak of a year of poverty.

And don’t lend anything on New Year’s Day as that could be unlucky too. Be sure to take down all Christmas decorations before the end of the evening of 5th January as it is unlucky to keep them up after Twelfth Night.

Astrology Romance and Compatibility

All the signs approach love and intimacy in different ways. This is a brief guide to star sign lovers, looking at how each sign affects compatibility.
For instance when it comes to heat and passion, the Fire signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are all zealous and enthusiastic lovers. Playing hard-to-get will attract Arian’s competitive spirit and desire to win. For some light-hearted fun, Sagittarius will be glad to join in. Leo, too, loves to have an entertaining time.

For more than just a one-night stand all these signs need a partner who is adventurous and inventive, not just in the bedroom but in other areas of life too!

Fire Signs and Romance ~

The fire signs (as listed above) can be intensely competitive in relationships. Love is like a game and winning the game is important to them. Whether, once won, the object of their affection will hold their attention is another story. For this reason, relationships with these signs will be enjoyable and fun in the short term but they may not always be enduring.

Water Signs and Romance ~

Sensitivity is the magical ingredient in a love affair with Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces. There’s a spiritual connection between these signs which hints of a romance that is both exquisite and enduring.

Cancer is an intuitive and imaginative lover. Please a Scorpio sexually and they’ll return this love and affection ten-fold. Pisces’ love-making style is tender, gentle and giving. These Water signs take love seriously and all yearn for permanence in romance.

Earth Signs and Romance ~

The Earth signs Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn prefer a traditional-style romance and will be cautious about committing to a long-term union. All are compatible in that they will be supportive and dedicated lovers. All seek long-term security.

Taurus needs a partner who is passionate but predictable. Virgo will be drawn to quiet types who they feel they can trust and depend on. Capricorn admires honesty and success.

Air Signs and Romance ~

Good communication is an important feature in relationships with Air signs Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. Gemini is drawn to those who have a vibrant personality and love of variety. Libra loves romance and longs to be wooed in the old-fashioned way. Aquarius responds to flirtatious talk people who can make them laugh.

How the Signs Get on with Each Other ~

Enduring relationships are likely between Aries with Sagittarius or Aquarius; Taurus with Virgo or Cancer; Gemini with Libra or Aquarius; Cancer with Virgo or Scorpio, Leo with Libra or Sagittarius; Virgo with Cancer or Taurus; Libra with Leo or Aquarius; Scorpio with Pisces or Capricorn; Sagittarius with Gemini or Aries; Capricorn with Scorpio or Virgo; Aquarius with Aries or Gemini; Pisces with Cancer or Taurus.

How Useful is Astrology?

Astrology is a useful tool helping us to see the cycles of our lives and often bringing a greater understanding of the different phases we are going through. Launching a project during a phase where there is conflict, restriction, heavy responsibilities and possible disputation is surely going to mean the venture will be difficult to get off the ground. It may well succeed but there will be many hurdles to get through before the path is smooth ahead.

Whereas launching something new during a phase in life when circumstances might seem to conspire ‘for’ and not ‘against’ us is more likely to bring successful results more quickly.
Astrology helps people with their timing or at least gives them a chance to prepare for the challenges that may lie ahead. Astrology, tarot and any other form of divination should not however be used to make choices for us. Life experiences cannot and should not be avoided by retreating into any kind of belief system.

Horoscopes will show strengths and weaknesses, areas to work on, new possibilities ahead. An astrological analysis will help a person recognise their innate talents and understand themselves better. Compatibility between charts will help two people in a relationship to understand each other better. Astrology might help people weather the storms they are going through in their lives and give hope of what might lie on the other side.

Decisions should always be left to the individual and how will they know they’ve made the best choice until they’ve experienced the consequences of their actions? Astrological advice may or may not make some choices easier but at least it can help people understand what they are going through, what’s ending and what may be about to begin.

Astrology and Psychology

Astrology in many ways can be likened to psychology. Both these ‘ologies’ have many different branches and contain a number of schools of thought. Within psychology there is Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Cinical Psychology and Social Psychology to name but a few. Within astrology there is Natal Astrology, Mundane Astrology, Electional Astrology, Medical Astrology etc.

Some practitioners in astrology and psychology will prefer to take a scientific approach, others veer more towards spiritual and holistic concepts. Carl Jung, for instance incorporates symbolism, archetypes and the idea of the Universal Subconscious in his psychological theories.

For many astrologers, predicting events is not the most important side of their subject. Astrology can be used to help people understand themselves better, especially in times of stress and tension. Depending on the nature of the planets affecting a person's chart at a particular moment in time, the astrological counsellor can help determine the most appropriate ways of easing tension, dealing with difficult situations and utilising positive influences. Modern thinking tends to place emphasis on astrology for self-knowledge, rather than telling the future.

Aries Rat Personality Profile - Sun Sign and Moon Sign Combined

A brief analysis of Aries people born in the years 1924/36/48/60/72/84/96
combining Western and Chinese astrology.

People born between the 21st March and 20th April in the above years are Aries Rats when combining sun signs with moon signs.

Aries is a Fire sign and the Rat is ruled by the Water element, making this personality a mix of Fire and Water.

Aries is an impulsive and lively sign. They charge their way through life often without thinking about the consequences, loving a challenge, seeking adventure. Rats are immensely charming. They have likeable natures and are popular among their peers.

The Aries side of their personality will help keep the more reserved Rat side, confident and sure of themselves. This person will be happy, generally optimistic and sociable in nature.

The Rat has a sensitive side, cherishing their loved-ones, enjoying their friendships and appreciating family relationships. Aries too is an outgoing sign and Arians enjoy their friendships but can sometimes get a little self-centred when working towards a certain goal. Arians might tend to forget other people have needs too although they would never deliberately hurt.

The Rat side of the Arian personality will help weave a deeper sense of empathy; this person will show concern of others and is more likely too, to have a close circle of friends.

The Aries/Rat will enjoy a good gossip and in this respect, they might tend to say things without thinking, the impulsive Aries side rushing in before the Rat side has a chance to censor. They might also be a little critical of others, interfering in places where not always they are welcome.

In business the Aries/Rat is likely to make a success of whatever they choose to do. Aries strives to be the first and is incredibly ambitions. The Rat too wants to achieve. Both Aries and Rat can over extend themselves and in this respect may fail to finish what they start. Perseverance is something which must be consciously developed in order for this person to truly achieve.

As a lover, the Aries/Rat will be exciting and adventurous with a hearty sexual appetite. They will be imaginative and romantic but there could be a degree of self-indulgence in their desire to please their partner. It might sometimes seem as if they put their self first and will actively seek to support their mate in their interests, if it suits them!

The Aries/Rat will have confidence galore; they will jump at new opportunities and will want to make the best of themselves. They will be quite clever at getting information from other people and will have few misgivings about acting on what they have learned.
Vivacious, energetic and courageous, the Aries/Rat is likely to live an interesting and varied lifestyle

Chinese Astrology - Traits of Chinese Animals

THE CHINESE ZODIAC

There are many differences between Chinese and Western astrology, the main one being that whereas we see the Sun Sign (according to the DATE of birth) as important, the Chinese will refer to a person’s Moon, or Animal Sign (according to the YEAR of birth). The twelve Chinese astrological signs are all named after animals. Chinese legend tells how, many centuries before the birth of Jesus Christ, the Buddha decided to invite all the animals to join in a celebration before he departed from the Earth. Yet for no known reason, only twelve animals obeyed the summons and so to show his gratitude the Buddha named a year after each of these, in the order they came before him: The Rat, the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, the Horse, the Goat, the Monkey, the Rooster, the Dog and the Pig.

Chinese Astrology is becoming more and more popular in the West and often people will link their Animal Sign with their Western Sun Sign to gain a deeper understanding of their nature. To find out more about your Animal sign, look for your YEAR of birth under the following Signs. The cycles begin late January/early February so if you were born around this time of the year, read the characteristics of the Sign for your year and the previous one too, then you should be able to decide which one is you!

THE DRAGON
(1904, 1916, 1928, 1940,1952, 1964, 1976, 1988)
Enthusiastic, optimistic, confident and full of energy best describe Dragon people. Good fortune often shines down on them and their luck will rub off on their friends and loved-ones. Negative traits include a tendency to be demanding, over-bearing and quick tempered.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Rats, Snakes, Monkeys and Rooster
FAMOUS DRAGONS: Bob Monkhouse, Cliff Richard, Gloria Hunniford, Liam Neeson

THE SNAKE
(1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977,1989)
Snakes are philosophical and more intellectually than physically inclined. They are generally quiet, attractive, unassuming folk with musical or artistic talents or at least showing an appreciation of the Arts. Negative traits include extravagance, laziness and possessiveness.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Rooster, Oxen, Sheep and other Snakes
FAMOUS SNAKES: Michael Crawford, Dame Vera Lynn, John Thaw, Brad Pitt

THE HORSE
(1906,1918,1930,1942,1954,1966,1978,1990)
Good humoured, sociable and freedom-loving, Horses are charming, witty and great company. They may however tend to put themselves before others or show a lack of regard for other people’s feelings.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Tigers, Dogs and Goats
FAMOUS HORSES: Sean Connery, Rowan Atkinson, Billy Connolly, Denzel Washington

THE GOAT
(1907, 1919,1931,1943,1955,1967,1979,1991)

Goats are more introvert than extrovert, more artistic than sporting. They are sensitive, kind and caring, willing to do anything for the sake of peace. Goats love their home and family but they can attract problems by getting mixed up with the wrong crowd. They are sometimes impressionable and easily led.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Rabbit, Pigs, Horses and Tigers.
FAMOUS GOATS: Freddie Star, Mick Jagger, John le Carre, Julia Roberts

THE MONKEY
(1908,1920,1932,1944,1956,1968,1980,1992)
Monkeys are inventive and passionate about all that they do. They’re fun-loving, vivacious and assertive with an excellent sense of humour. On the negative side, they don’t like to be criticised and they can be manipulative and deceitful.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Dragons and Rats
FAMOUS MONKEYS: Elizabeth Taylor, Peter O’Toole, Angela Rippon, Tom Hanks

THE ROOSTER
(1909,1921,1933,1945,1957,1969,1981,1993)
Intelligent, inventive and adventurous Roosters are full of fun but they can be full of themselves, arrogant and ostentatious. They like to be at the centre of attention and would do well on the stage or in positions of leadership.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Oxen, Snakes and Dragons
FAMOUS ROOSTERS: Jasper Carrot, Yoko Ono, Les Dawson, Rod Stewart

THE DOG
(1910,1922,1934,1946,1958,1970,1982,1995)
Faithful, trustworthy and hard working, Dogs will put in a lot of effort on other people’s behalf. Although friendly, they’re generally introverted. They can also be stubborn, pessimistic and critical.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Rabbits, Horses, Tigers and Snakes
FAMOUS DOGS: Michael Jackson, David Bowie. Timothy Dalton, Sylvester Stallone

THE PIG
(1911,1923,1935,1947,1959,1971,1983,1995)
Sensual, sensitive and sympathetic, Pigs are loyal friends always seeing the good in others. There is an inner strength which helps them through life’s difficulties but they can be too trusting and easy to fleece.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Rats, Rabbits and Tigers
FAMOUS PIGS: Sarah Ferguson, John McEnroe, David Essex, Pete Sampras

THE RAT(1912,1924,1936,1948,1960,1972,1984,1996)
Charming and well mannered, Rats can be generous, loving and sentimental. They want to make a success of themselves and can’t stand the idea of losing. Negative traits include a tendency to pick faults and to manipulate others.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Dragon, Pigs and Monkeys
FAMOUS RATS: The Queen Mother, Prince Charles, Jonathan Ross, Winston Churchill

THE OX
(1913,1925,1937,1949,1961,1973,1985,1997)
Practical, down-to-earth, patient and methodical, Ox people are hard workers and they thrive on routine. They can, however, be bossy and domineering. They don’t adapt easily to change and are sometimes set in their ways.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Snakes, Roosters, Rabbits and Pigs
FAMOUS OXEN: Margaret Thatcher, Jack Nicholson, Adolf Hitler, Bruce Springsteen

THE TIGER
(1914,1926,1938,1950,1962,1974,1986,1998)
Tigers are strong in character, fearless and brave. It is considered to be very lucky to be born in the year of the Tiger. They are affectionate and generous but impetuous, short-tempered and rebellious.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Horses, Dragons and Dogs
FAMOUS TIGERS: Terry Wogan, Richard Branson, the Queen, Tom Cruise


THE RABBIT
(1915,1927,1939,1951,1963,1975,1987,1999)
Rabbits are intelligent and clever and can make a success of most anything they do. They have good money sense and their caring nature will attract many friends. On the negative side, Rabbits can be moody, unpredictable and ultra-sensitive. Although classed as one of the luckiest Signs, in Japan, there is a superstition that rabbits are linked with witches so those born under this Sign are sometimes viewed with suspicion.
COMPATIBILE ANIMALS: Rabbits, Oxen, Goats and PigsFAMOUS RABBITS: Jimmy Tarbuk, Kenny Dalgish, Demi Moore, Phil Collins