2018—Predictions (and Advice) for the Year of the Earth Dog

Welcome to 2018, the Year of the Earth Dog! The Chinese astrological calendar is based on the lunar calendar and a sophisticated mathematical system that through thousands of years of observation has produced predictable patterns of change in nature and human behavior. Understanding these patterns can help you maximize the positives while you minimize the negatives in your life. Even though the new year doesn’t officially start until February 16, 2018, the trend begins earlier.

This year, the Elements at play are Earth and Earth, so it’s a double Earth year—think of a solid mass that doesn’t move easily, like mountains or a big boulder—a year that may lead people who are determined to achieve their principles and goals to take a firm stand and fight to the end. Harmony may be elusive and confrontation and clashes may be the norm, as in the politics of our country and in international relations. This tough, stubborn streak may spill into personal relationships, so watch out for unexpected misunderstandings and disagreements. With so much Earth energy this year, we need to watch out for earth disasters, too, like earthquakes, landslides and volcanic eruptions. Let’s examine how this year might affect the five areas of health in your life—physical, mind, relationship, career/work and finances—and what you can do to best adapt to the changing energy cycle, maximizing positive outcomes while minimizing negative ones. 

1. PHYSICAL HEALTH
On the physical health front, pay attention to possible imbalances in the corresponding Earth organ system of digestion—stomach, pancreas, spleen and the intestines. Look out for gastrointes-tinal problems like reflux disorder (GERD), ulcers, hiatal hernia, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and colitis; for metabolic problems like diabetes, obesity and PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), as well as muscle injuries, lumps and bumps. In the Five Elements cycle, Earth neutralizes Water and depletes Fire Element. Therefore it’s a good idea to also keep an eye on kidneys/adrenals and reproductive and hormonal health as well as the cardiovascular system. In addition, the flu and other infectious diseases may be more severe than in past years due to more virulent strains and overuse of antibiotics.
To read the full forecast, click here.