Lunar New Year starts February 19
By Terry Miller
Happy year of the goat! Or is it the sheep? Or the ram? Well, it depends on whom you ask.
Lunar New Year celebrations, which begin on Feb. 19, will say goodbye to the Year of the Horse and usher in another animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac.
The year 2015 is associated with the Mandarin word “yang.”
Which apparently means any ruminant mountain animal with horns.
It’s one of China’s biggest holidays, and thousands in San Gabriel will celebrating this Chinese New Year – the Year of The Goat.
According to the Chinese zodiac, goats are harmonious creatures but be prepared for the typically affable goat to reveal his gruff side this year.
The Goat is the eighth sign of the 12-year cycle of animals. Feng Shui is a Chinese philosophical system of harmonizing with the environment.
Studying its Feng Shui Index, CLSA says mean-spirited people will be crossing your path, so triple-check emails and contracts to avoid outbursts, or worse, lawsuits.
Industries such as autos, electronics, silver and gold will do brilliantly. Even previously lack-lustre oil and gas markets will perform well.
This auspicious sign makes for a much anticipated and optimistic Lunar New Year, especially related to health and finance.
A Local Bank of America branch is offering these New Year tips.
– Go Green: Since 2015 is the year of the Green Wooden Goat, green will be a lucky color – enhancing money and wealth. Thinking about painting a new room, re-decorating your house or adding color to your wardrobe? Think green.
– Set Clear Goals: Whether it is health, financial or personal goals that you have in mind, make sure you are setting clear goals and not just a general one such as “be healthier” or “save more money”. Consider clearer goals such as running three miles at least three times a day, adding one type of fruit or vegetable to your diet, or sit down with a banker to analyze your debt and credit position.
– Start Fresh: Lunar New Year represents a fresh new start so clean and cleanse your life in order to increase balance and harmony. Clean your home or office to get rid of negativity that has accumulated during the year. Pay off or make payments to bills and debts as a symbol of positive action and aim to relieve debt. Start a savings or investment account and begin building your wealth.
– Get Lucky: A common tradition during Lunar New year is to give and receive red envelopes containing crisp new bills since it brings good luck. Want to get even luckier? Get your hands on a new $2 dollar bill (even numbers are good luck). Yes, they still print these bills and they are the most common request banks get during Lunar New Year but they go quick, so head to your bank fast! While you’re there, get some red envelopes too – banks give them out as a courtesy to customers.
