Animal Forecasts for 2024 are Here

Hi:

I hope you have a had a good holiday and are ready for the Year of the Wood Dragon. This is just to let you know that The Animal Forecasts for 2024 are now available on our website so you can find out what’s in store and what you might do about it.

Here are the links to each animal:

The Dragon in 2024
The Snake in 2024
The Horse in 2024
The Sheep in 2024
The Monkey in 2024
The Rooster in 2024
The Dog in 2024
The Pig in 2024
The Rat in 2024
The Ox in 2024
The Tiger in 2024
The Rabbit in 2024

If that has wetted your appetite and you would like a more in depth analysis of the four the animals of your ba zi (Chinese Astrological Chart), just let us know: sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com.
The same applies if you want to learn how to draft a ba zi yourself.
Have a great year!

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters.  A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible . You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi  one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium,

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore.

Every month we send (at a modest fee) retainer clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal and much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

The Deer Hunter: Times & Places for the Water Pig Month

Auspicious Dates and Places for
the (10^th) month of the Water Pig 2023.
(02:00am 8^th November to 18:38 pm 7^th December inclusive)
in the Year of the Water Rabbit.

An 8 month                                        is essentially benevolent.
A typical Pig Month                           is kind of suppressed.
Where not to be this month:             South West.
Where to be this month:                   at the heart of things.
Favoured Animals:                             Rabbit, Sheep, Tiger.
Especially challenged:                      (in order) Dog, Snake, Monkey.
The Hexagram* (above):                   Bo Splitting, Mountain over Earth,led astray.
Summary:                                          Parting.

S
7       3       5
6       8       1
2       4       9
Water Pig lo shu

The Deer Hunter
the Month of the Water Pig.

“What can men do against such reckless hate?” The Two Towers

Bo*
———–
—–  —–
—–  —–
—–   —–
—–   —–
—–   —–
 Splitting, Peeling
  Hexagram 23

I’m out walking Red. We’re halfway up the slope to the rewilded area where he can run free. From time to time he stops and sniffs the ground either side of the narrow path. As he’s still on the lead, I am able to dissuade him from eating whatever nameless crud he finds in the undergrowth. Then I see something he appears not to have noticed: it’s the lower eighteen inches or so of a deer’s leg, the foot intact but the leg stripped to the bone like some prop from the Predator franchise.

God knows how it got there. I sometimes claim to have glimpsed the Surrey Puma out here in the woods but I am notoriously poor at estimating the size of cats at any distance so best not to trust me on that. And I’m actually less concerned with the leg’s provenance than what it may mean. The universe is always talking to us: a whisper of overheard conversation, a pattern of clouds, the final chord of a song emerging from a passing car, something in our path that we can’t ignore. I stop and tune in. Images swirl through my mind, some Chinese, some folklore, some biblical, some none of these.

In my monthly Yi (that is Book of Changes) Classes we are studying the Hexagram corresponding to the month Animal as each arises. The Hexagram for this Water Pig Month of November is Number 23: Bo.

Bo – meaning “Stripping” or “Peeling” is about cutting and reducing. The underlying idea appears to be that there’s only so much cutting back, sacrifice or economising anyone can do. Working full time and still having to choose between feeding your children and keeping them warm may be the kind of thing King Wen was getting at. The Yi can be startlingly apt. “Mie zhen zhong”:  “(To) disregard (this) divination, misfortune.”

It’s not much help to the deer but stripping can only go so far.

October’s Hexagram was Number 45 Cui “Gathering Together” which was about leadership and the mayhem that poor leaders can invite. And like clockwork, on October 7^th just as the month opened, the images became real. Thousands of children later, November’s oracle suggests we’re still at least weeks from sanity.  “Ji zi ti ti wu jiu,” “Send a despatch with tears and weeping. No error” is how the final line reads.

Some may find readings such as those above fanciful of course. But one of the aims of this class is to learn to trust the meanings each of us may variously draw. I talk to camera for half an hour followed by open discussion where I invite individual glosses. You’ll be able to find the first half on my You Tube Channel eventually, the rest is restricted to the class. We plan to explore all sixty four Hexagrams as they arise month by month. Which is probably about eight years’ worth. Students can register for a year at any time.

Red returns from the top field, pausing only to bark up at the trees from where the occupants do the squirrel equivalent of scarpering and giving him the finger. We return, again passing the stripped bone. The image in my mind as we pass is Samson, shorn and “eyeless in Gaza,” pushing apart the pillars to bring the temple down.

The Hexagram relating to the Wood Rat of December is Number 2 Kun, usually called “The Receptive”, the darkness before the light, appropriately allocated to the time around the solstice. Her message is: An zhen ji: “Be peaceful, the divination: good fortune.” Join us.
© Richard Ashworth 2023 

*I am now listing the Hexagram corresponding to the particular month in question rather than the generic Tidal Gua. Put simply, Cui corresponds specifically to a Water Pig rather than to just any Pig.

About the tai chi: the tai chi or Great Tentpole is generally reckoned the geometric centre of a space. Many of us find it by measuring the longest length and the widest width and where the two lines join is the tai chi. Some consider it to take up the centre of the Nine Palaces that any space can be divided into; others think of it as a location without dimensions and still others that the geometric centre is simply the place that is most frequented. Some Masters refer to it as “the heart” which implies of course that if it is missing there’s something wrong. Some teach that an L-shape is an unfortunate “Hatchet Shape” and if you think about it, an L-shape may often put the geometric centre outside.  I have found that when the tai chi is outside so, often is the heart. One such client impressed me (and his wife) by taking 2-hour runs which turned out to be 40 minute running with an 80-minute visit to a neighbouring divorcee built in.

The Month of the Water Pig, Animal by Animal:
These generic forecasts carry different nuance dependent upon whether this Animal rules your Year, Month, Day, Hour or Life House.

Pig (1947, 59, 71, 83, 95; births in November*, 9-11pm & on certain days#) Uncomfortable, spoiled for choice activity-wise. Profile rising just the same.

Rats (1948, 60, 72, 84, 96; births in December* 11pm-1am & on certain days#). Quieter for now, a time of consideration before the rapid activity that’s coming next month.

Ox (1949, 61, 73, 85, 97; births in January*, 1-3am & on certain days#) Time to plan before you inevitably find yourself in control.

Tiger (1950, 62, 74, 86, 98; births in February*, 3-5am & on certain days#) A free hand, use it wisely as a karmic loaded gun ought.

Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99; births in March*, 5-7am & on certain days#) Teamwork, mostly domestic, is your priority whatever it may look like.

Dragon (1952, 64, 76, 88, 2000; births in April* 7-9am & on certain days#) Puzzling; you really don’t understand Pigs. It’s mutual.

Snake (1941,53, 65, 77, 89; births in May*, 9-11am & on certain days#) Be on the alert for bamboozlement.

Horse (1942, 54, 66, 78, 90; births in June*, around midday & on certain days#) A time of unruly impatience is likely. You have some control over this.

Sheep (1943, 55, 67, 79, 91; births in July*, 1-3pm & on certain days#) Work with Rabbits and Pigs on the most creative task on the back burner.

Monkey (1944, 56, 68, 80, 92; births in August*, 3-5pm & on certain days#) Playful, tricky not so productive. Not all tricks of yours either.

Rooster (1945, 57, 69, 81, 93; births in September*, 5-7pm & on certain days#) Displays could fall flat. Be ready not to take it too seriously.

Dog (1946, 58, 70, 82, 94; births in October*, 7-9pm & on certain days#) A low profile keeps you out of trouble.

* Chinese Months start later than European ones.
#You’ll need help or a Chinese Calendar for this.
A Helpful Day
Sunday 12^th November, Wood Dog, Star, Bow (5) **** quite helpful.
An open door; letting in odd but minor complaints. Such complaints can be usefully turned around with a little kindness. A day to set targets while the difference between what is realistic and what is fanciful is quite clear.                
Activity: Horse due South for visibility.    Favours: Tigers, Horses, Dogs, Rabbits.

Not so Helpful
Wednesday 15^th November, Fire Ox, Carriage, Full (2) ***** contrary
Fire Ox – a small but significant blockage – often coincides with profound change. You may have to express explicit support in order to gain any traction today. Once expressed the gains sustain.
Activity: Sheep – may not be possible until very late.
Caution: Horse, Sheep.

A Helpful Location
Tai chi, Home, the centre: Year Star: 4 Month Star: 8.
Most would reckon the 8 the most helpful Star. This year it suggests a pause in the mayhem that seems to have enveloped the world. In your home that disruption may have taken a different shape but the conundrum is the same: will you take advantage of this month’s energy to change your life in a positive way or will you just enjoy it while it lasts? An implication of the 4 alongside the 8 is that if you don’t, your kids may not easily get the opportunity.
Adjust: free-flowing Water at the tai chi may boost resolve.

Not so Helpful
West, Intervention: Year Star: 6 Month Star: 1. Sui po, Annual and Month san sha,
Still hazardous while the Rabbit Year lasts as it is in constant contention with Roosters as they arise. Approach with caution but……a little Earth might stabilise the West and open it briefly to opportunity especially early in the month – 8^th, 9^th, 11^th, 12^th best contenders.
Profit: by adding Earth, e.g. a sizable crystal or crystals.

Note: Directions are from the tai chi (ie heart of the property) Feng shui is a very personal thing, so generic advice needs to be applied with awareness of the underlying energy.

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters.  A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible . You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi  one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium,

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore.

Every month we send (at a modest fee) retainer clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal and much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Richard talks Hexagram 45 and Early Bird Extended

Hi:
Firstly, the Early Bird for Richard’s Wood Dragon Forecast Days has been extended to October 31st, it was to the 20th but we forgot to let you know, so we’ve extended it ….so its £125 until then and after that it’s £150. More details here with links to pay: https://imperialfengshui.info/wood-dragon-forecast-day/

And now..here is a video of Richard talking to his monthly I Ching Class on Hexagram 45, Gathering Together.

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters.  A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible . You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi  one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium,
 
Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore.
 
Every month we send (at a modest fee) retainer clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal and much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Fine tuning your space for 2024, The Year of the Wood Dragon

Hi:
 
Rolling Thunder – The Year of the Wood Dragon
Fine tuning your space for 2024.
This year just like the last 20 or so, Richard will be “tuning up” the houses and premises of Retainer Clients and as many others as time allows. In 2024 you might like to be one of these.

Here comes the Dragon Year. The Dragon carries the weight of Yang Earth but has the power to transform. Like the calm following a storm or the peace following dispute, a Dragon Year offers positive change. The Dragon wiggles her nose and everything is different.

On some level of course everything affects everything else and such change may be international, local or in your own space. Those locations and orientations that have been helpful this last year and those that have not been so bright are about to shuffle. It may be a good idea to know which is which and take action.

The last Wood Dragon year was 1964, the year the Beatles conquered America and the swinging 60’s really began to swing. We are on the cusp of huge change. There may be only a whisker of difference between riding a wave of sustainable and hopeful change and succumbing to inertia.

And so it may be that relatively small adjustments to the space you live and work in and the way you employ that space could make a big and positive difference.

Dragon Years are inherently transformational, the fresh qi sweeps in from the South East wrong-footing many; the North West, the seat of authority becomes especially vulnerable and the West delicate. Monkeys and Rats may thrive, Dogs may need special attention. And of course there’s more.

If you would like your space adjusted to make best use of the fresh energy of 2024, just let us know. Richard will be available from mid-January.

The costs this year:
If Richard has surveyed your house already:
Zoom Tune-Up: £300
If Richard hasn’t surveyed your house:
Zoom Tune-Up: £500
If he has already drafted it, he can update your Ba Zi with 2024 in mind:
Zoom ba zi review (already drafted):    £200
Zoom ba zi review (from scratch):         £500
Detailed personal Ba Zi Analysis via Zoom for 2024:
(Zoom session of 2-3 hrs plus written guide) £1200.

Please email sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com if you would like to book a Tune-Up but as we have only a few spaces left aleady, please be quick.

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters.  A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible . You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi  one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium,

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore.

Every month we send (at a modest fee) retainer clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal and much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Muddy Waters: the Month of the Water Dog

Muddy Waters
the Month of the Water Dog.

Cui
—–   —–
————-
————-
—–   —–
—–   —–
—–   —–
Bringing Together
   Hexagram 45

A 9 month                                      is about visibility.
A typical Dog Month                      features unusual drama mid-month.
Where not to be this month:         East, North.
Where to be this month:                South East & at the heart of things.
Favoured Animals:                          Tiger, Horse, Dog, Rabbit.
Especially challenged:                    (in order) Dragon, Rooster, Monkey, Rat.
The Hexagram (above):                  Cui Bringing Together, Lake over Earth.
Summary:                                       Watch and wait.

S
8       4       6
7       9       2
3       5       1
Water Dog lo shu

Muddy Waters
the Month of the Water Dog.

A Water Dog is like all Dogs, reliable. You shoot into the air and he’ll bring you a pheasant. It is her Yang Earth that makes for the constancy as well as that traditional inflexibility. It is a fact however that Earth won’t make a stable solution with Water. If Water stands for communication, Earth stands for something like confusion. You can’t drink Water with Earth in it and you can’t trust communication not subject to question.

This Water Dog month promises many gatherings: orderly assemblies but also mobs.  Some under control and some not. Some may be rational debates but more are likely to consist of declaiming that allows for no contradiction. As ever this may be local or international, home or away, domestic or commercial, at a distance or in your face. Dragons and Roosters may get caught up but the Sheep is the main mob animal. Notables born with prominent Sheep in their ba zis include Jair Bolsonaro, Rupert Murdoch, Roger Waters, Liz Truss, Ronald Reagan, Carrie Symonds, and yes, Donald Trump. You get the picture.

There can of course be deep wisdom in crowds; but equally deep stupidity. The difference between an assembly and a mob is leadership. And the difference between real leadership and populism is integrity. The populist adapts their view of things to those of the audience, a leader brings conviction.  We are at a time when it is sometimes hard to tell one from the other. One test is to do with values. What is the underlying motive? Why do certain people need to address crowds? Do they have a genuine message or just a need to dominate? None of the above luminaries stand for anything identifiable; populism is so much easier than an actual value system.

These questions may arise most particularly during the Hidden Stems of the Dog which fall between the 17^th and the 20^th this year when influence may be used with particular abandon. Expect conspiracy theories to be more than usually contagious and rabble-rousing to abound. And stay conscious that this could be in your back yard.

Chemically, Water and Earth can’t form a solution. Earth will not dissolve into Water, they become a suspension, something that must separate into its component parts. And only time will clear the Water.
© Richard Ashworth 2023 

Meanwhile:
Your Wood Dragon Year:  Forecast Days  : the 2^nd December (via Zoom 3pm-10pm GMT, timed to suit students from Australia to Vancouver) and again on the 9^th December (9am-5pm GMT, live in the Surrey Hills).
Your Home or office in 2024: at the start of each year I re-visit retainer clients to make sure they are making the most of the fresh qi. We have a few free dates. For details contact sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com
I am hosting a fresh Book of Changes series of monthly workshops from the 11^th October (one hour starting 5pm BST), examining each coming month’s Hexagram with a view, among other things to getting better and better at recognising how the month will play out. For those interested in forecasting as well as self-knowledge these workshops are the nursery slopes. More detail here: https://shorturl.at/pzLU9
And of course I’m teaching feng shui and ba zi online one-to-one all the time, dates and times by mutual arrangement. https://shorturl.at/bdmS0.
I may teach another starter Date Selection Course this year if there are the numbers for it. Do let us know if you’re keen, only basic prior feng shui knowledge required.
Also coming soon: Qi Men Dun Ja drafting by hand plus starter QMDJ interpretation.

The Month of the Water Dog, Animal by Animal:
These generic forecasts carry different nuance dependent upon whether this Animal rules your Year, Month, Day, Hour or Life House.

Dog (1946, 58, 70, 82, 94; births in October*, 7-9pm & on certain days#) Pretty dynamic, a time when volunteering is the best choice.

Pig (1947, 59, 71, 83, 95; births in November*, 9-11pm & on certain days#) Unfamiliar territory, danger of getting bogged down. Advance!

Rats (1948, 60, 72, 84, 96; births in December* 11pm-1am & on certain days#). Tough dialogue, addressing the unaddressable may be your saving.

Ox (1949, 61, 73, 85, 97; births in January*, 1-3am & on certain days#) Frustrating, some may not be listening though they may look as though they are.

Tiger (1950, 62, 74, 86, 98; births in February*, 3-5am & on certain days#) Active, powered, witnessed.

Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99; births in March*, 5-7am & on certain days#) Your best month this year under all headings. Romance may come with your mirror image.

Dragon (1952, 64, 76, 88, 2000; births in April* 7-9am & on certain days#) Blocked. Get flexible. Fixed plans will not serve you Nor (to a great extent) will reason.

Snake (1941,53, 65, 77, 89; births in May*, 9-11am & on certain days#) Nibbles and tastes rather than three course meals. On many levels

Horse (1942, 54, 66, 78, 90; births in June*, around midday & on certain days#) Your impulsiveness may serve you best.

Sheep (1943, 55, 67, 79, 91; births in July*, 1-3pm & on certain days#) Dog & Sheep means “Break Up”. Could be quite literal on more than one level. Best observe weak links with care. Some kind of break-up coming.

Monkey (1944, 56, 68, 80, 92; births in August*, 3-5pm & on certain days#) A chance to play but there’s risk in it. Thinking longer term than usual may help.

Rooster (1945, 57, 69, 81, 93; births in September*, 5-7pm & on certain days#) Over stretched is likely.

* Chinese Months start later than European ones.
#You’ll need help or a Chinese Calendar for this.
A Helpful Day
Thursday 12^th October, Water Rabbit, Well, Initiate (9) quite helpful.
A gentle awakening, creative and well-resourced. You may need to speculate to accumulate. It’s a low key win-win day. Rise early. Recaps 2023 to date.
Favours: Pigs, Rabbits, Sheep, Tigers.
Special Favour: Mothers, Wood(95) Fire(47, 2007) Pig; Water(63) Rabbit; Earth(98)Metal(50, 2010) Tiger.

Not so Helpful
Thursday 19^th October, Metal Dog, Horn, Establish (2) *** Caution!
Will tend to deliver less than promised. Dialogue could be harsh and launches disappointing. Not for risk-taking which is reckoned to be followed by lost wealth. Today is the last day of the so-called Hidden Stems of the Dog when international (& other) events occur against the run of play.

A Helpful Place to locate
South East, Determination: Year Star: 3 Month Star: 8. Sun (Dragon SE1).
3:8: Good month for the eldest daughter and the activities and qualities associated: career women, gentleness and cooperation supported. Also Snakes and Monkeys especially if they are an item. Not for Dragons for now.
Harness: Fire, bright light.

Not so helpful
North, Communication: Star: 9 Month Star: 5. Month Wu huang  Month san sha
9:5 plus San Sha (Three Disadvantages) is unlikely to prove helpful in the watery North. It speaks of willful blindness and lack of judgement. Best not to give that voice by communicating there for now. Move on.
To dilute: t’ang lung.
© Richard Ashworth 2023 

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters.  A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible . You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi  one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium,

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore.

Every month we send (at a modest fee) retainer clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal and much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com
Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Peak Fire, Auspicious Dates and Places for the month of the Earth Horse 2023

Auspicious Dates and Places for
the (5^th) month of the Earth Horse 2023.
(06:46am 6^th June to 18:10pm 7^th July inclusive)
in the Year of the Water Rabbit.
Public Edition

Ding
————
—–  —–
———–
———–
———–
—–  —–
The Cauldron
 Hexagram 50*

A 4 month                                      is about innovation.
A typical Horse Month                  is about attracting attention one way or another.
Where to be this month:               at the centre of things, South.
Where not to be this month:        North West, North East
Favoured Animals:                        Tiger, Dog, Sheep
Especially challenged:                   Horse, Rat, Ox.
The Hexagram* (above):               Ding The Cauldron, Fire over Wind, Dynasty change
Summary:                                      rapid and potentially destructive change.

S
3       8       1
2       4       6
7       9       5

Earth Horse lo shu

*I am now listing the Hexagram corresponding to the particular month in question rather than the generic Tidal Gua. Put simply, Ding corresponds specifically to an Earth Horse rather than to just any Horse. 
The Month of the Earth Horse, Animal by Animal:
These generic forecasts carry different nuance dependent upon whether this Animal rules your Year, Month, Day, Hour or Life House.

Horse (1942, 54, 66, 78, 90; births in June*, around midday & on certain days#) Watch ego, yours and others to avoid frustration. Choppy.

Sheep (1943, 55, 67, 79, 91; births in July*, 1-3pm & on certain days#) In service, playing the longer game is probably the right thing to do.

Monkey (1944, 56, 68, 80, 92; births in August*, 3-5pm & on certain days#) Frankness isn’t such a bad idea. Probably inevitable.

Rooster (1945, 57, 69, 81, 93; births in September*, 5-7pm & on certain days#) Wrong kind of rivalry may be tempting, head down probably wisest.

Dog (1946, 58, 70, 82, 94; births in October*, 7-9pm & on certain days#) Dig in – as you do so well – for impact.

Pig (1947, 59, 71, 83, 95; births in November*, 9-11pm & on certain days#) Have things done for you rather than by you. Long month.

Rats (1948, 60, 72, 84, 96; births in December* 11pm-1am & on certain days#).
Speak up at your own risk.

Ox (1949, 61, 73, 85, 97; births in January*, 1-3am & on certain days#) Keep up. Consistency is less important.

Tiger (1950, 62, 74, 86, 98; births in February*, 3-5am & on certain days#) A great deal of power to your elbow if used with respect and compassion.

Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99; births in March*, 5-7am & on certain days#) More giving than taking, pace yourself.

Dragon (1952, 64, 76, 88, 2000; births in April* 7-9am & on certain days#) Too fast unless you trust.

Snake (1941,53, 65, 77, 89; births in May*, 9-11am & on certain days#) Outshone, best not to compete.

* Chinese Months start later than European ones.
#You’ll need help or a Chinese Calendar for this.
A Helpful Day
Friday 16^th June, Wood Snake, Mound, Closed *** (9) more than superficial
Tricky moments relationshipwise. Physical and not physical. Calling for subtlety. There’s greater closeness the other side of candour. Some deception. Renovation or launch today is said to favour one of your offspring.
Activity: SE for openings.
Favours: Wood(65) Fire(77) Earth(89) Metal(41/2001) Snake; Earth(69) Metal(81) Water(93) Rooster; Wood(85) Ox; Wood(44/2004) Fire(56) Earth(68) Metal(80) Monkey, the compassionate and non-judgemental.

Not so Helpful
Tuesday 20^th June, Earth Rooster, Beak, Balance (4) *** separating.
Separating day; weak qi. Likelihood of legal action – Heaven’s way of telling us to talk to each other – avoid unless you’re the underdog. May not telegraph itself. May be simple but indirect confrontation.
Favours: Wood(65) Fire(77) Earth(89) Metal)41/2001) Snake; Wood(85) Ox; Wood(64) Dragon.
Activity: Horse due South for a little Fire to liven things up.

A Helpful Location
South, Bright Future: Year Star: 8 Month Star: 8 Moon (Horse)
8:8 is a great conjunction especially for public display. Plenty Fire for those who can use it. Locate here to come out, draw attention, publicise, celebrate, seek promotion, shed light. Safest time and place this year to be publicly outspoken. May indicate southern coasts, southern borders or indeed the southern Mediterranean. Or your conservatory.
Exploit: Wood e.g. plants & flowers or Fire: bright light and open windows.

Not so Helpful
North West, Authority: Year & Month Star:5 Dragon Virtue (Dog NW1).Year & Month Wu huang.
Could hardly be worse aspected. Steer clear. If you must locate NW, don’t throw your weight around or voice outspoken opinions. There’s revolution in the air. Authority is less respected than it’s ever been; you didn’t need me to tell you that. But if you’re attached to power, stay out of the North West. Could mean your front room or your office but could equally be the Pacific North West or indeed the entire U.S.A. depending on where you measure from. Not a time or place for bosses to throw their weight around.
Adjust: t’ang lung.

Note: Directions are from the tai chi (ie heart of the property) Feng shui is a very personal thing, so generic advice needs to be applied with awareness of the underlying energy.
Earth Horse Month: Peak Fire.
The Sun sets, the Sun rises; a year opens develops, peaks and completes. It’s all a series of patterns.
I’m out walking Red. He’s a Jack Russell but he thinks he’s a Doberman. We usually take the same route, past the rabbits up to where the squirrels are in the copse at the top of the hill. He can’t be bothered with the rabbits but the squirrels are another story. Every day he challenges them to come down from the trees and face him. Every day they stay up among the branches. Dogs may be favoured in a Rabbit year but the score remains the same: Squirrels: 500+, Jack Russells: Nil, the triumph of hope over experience. Maybe one day a single squirrel will still be on the ground when Red gets there. He’s not going to stop either way. He’s just trying to work out what the rules are.
The pattern that describes the relationship between the Rabbit (of the Year) and the Horse (of this month) is especially tricky to read. It’s technically what’s known as a “Break-Up”. Which may, among other things mean literal separation – especially possible on the Separation Day 20^th June when the ties that bind are loosest. Rabbits and Horses note. It’s also a Balance day so the moral high ground offers little cover.
All month the Yin Wood of the Rabbit fuels the Yang Fire of the Horse, like a car driven at 90 in 2^nd gear. The two are mismatched and something has to give. There is a headlong, lemming-like feel to the month for most of us. Relationships including business, partnerships and alliances past their sell-by date are at risk. Care is advised.
The direct effect on Horses (1942,54,66,78, 90, 2002, June and midday births as well as certain days you’ll need a Chinese calendar to identify) is a certain wildness, a lack of caution; for the Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99, 2011, March, 5-7am and so on) the reverse: a feeling of being dragged along and emptied.
For the rest of us an Earth Horse month may bring big opportunities in its wake; because obviously there are vacancies, it stands to reason that doors will be flung open if walls are cracking. The trick in divination is to find the level of meaning. And again some of this may be literal: a unique crash in house prices is one reading, barriers to negotiation falling away is another.
The Month’s Hexagram Ding, the Cauldron consists of Fire over Wind, traditionally read as a change of dynasties. In his introduction to Wilhelm’s Book of Changes, Carl Gustav Jung sees it optimistically as an invitation to welcome Chinese thought into the melting pot of Western culture. Today we might read it differently. This could be a shift in the power balance at home, a boardroom bust-up or a fallen government. More break-ups anyway. Most likely directions are to the South and East.
As I write a bee flies in the window in front of my desk. Attracted, I guess by the baby sunflowers on the sill, she sniffs experimentally and withdraws, then returns, pokes about and exits. No nectar here yet. Perhaps next week.
Now we are watching “Dogs behaving Very Badly” on tv. Red’s ears are up, his eyes on the screen. The star today is a collie. He’s a bright little chap but he’s somehow decided that he needs to bite anyone who empties the letter box in the front door. It’s not clear how he drew that conclusion but you can see his smart little eyes calculating: “Letter box, danger” and snarling. Several times the dog trainer offers him a treat and you can watch the calculation change: “Letter box, treat” and the misbehavior is gone.
Patterns: Rabbits, Horses, Dogs, bees, diviners, we’re all just trying to make sense of the world.

© Richard Ashworth 2023.

Richard currently has one space for a student of ba zi and feng shui, do email if you are considering studying. More details of courses at: https://imperialfengshui.info/courses/

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters.  A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible at https://adbl.co/2m92Es3.You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters at https://bit.ly/2lJWLBl  Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi  one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium,

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore.

Every month we send (at a modest fee) retainer clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal and much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com
Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Auspicious Dates & Places for the Fire Snake Month

The (4^rd) month of the Fire Snake 2023.
(02:33am 6^th May to 06:46 6^th June inclusive)
in the Year of the Water Rabbit.
Public edition

Hsiao Chu

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Small Offering
 Hexagram 9*

A 5 month                                              means power calls for firm handling.
A typical Snake Month                        is deceptive but instructive.
Where to be this month:                      North, South.
Where not to be this month: central,  West
Favoured Animals:                              Snake, Rooster, Ox, Monkey
Especially challenged:                         Pig, Rabbit, Sheep.
The Hexagram* (above):                     Hsiao Chu, Small Offering, Wind over Heaven.
Summary:                                             a time of learning and examination

S
4       9       2
3       5       7
8       1       6

Fire Snake lo shu

*I am now listing the Hexagram corresponding to the particular month in question rather than the generic Tidal Gua. Put simply, Hsiao Chu corresponds specifically to a Fire Snake rather than to just any Snake
The Month of the Fire Snake, Animal by Animal:
These generic forecasts carry different nuances dependent upon whether this Animal rules your Year, Month, Day, Hour or Life House.

Snake (1941,53, 65, 77, 89; births in May*, 9-11am & on certain days#) When the student is ready the teacher appears. Ready?

Horse (1942, 54, 66, 78, 90; births in June*, around midday & on certain days#) Slightly sluggish, more heat than light.

Sheep (1943, 55, 67, 79, 91; births in July*, 1-3pm & on certain days#) Several doors are ajar.

Monkey (1944, 56, 68, 80, 92; births in August*, 3-5pm & on certain days#) Full power if you’re prepared to put your cards on the table.

Rooster (1945, 57, 69, 81, 93; births in September*, 5-7pm & on certain days#) You don’t need this type of encouragement..

Dog (1946, 58, 70, 82, 94; births in October*, 7-9pm & on certain days#) A time for deft footwork.

Pig (1947, 59, 71, 83, 95; births in November*, 9-11pm & on certain days#) Stick to the facts.

Rats (1948, 60, 72, 84, 96; births in December* 11pm-1am & on certain days#).
Challenges arise that are both insuperable and not worth the trouble..

Ox (1949, 61, 73, 85, 97; births in January*, 1-3am & on certain days#) Some purchase, eyes best kept on the prize.

Tiger (1950, 62, 74, 86, 98; births in February*, 3-5am & on certain days#) Proxy fights may waste your time. Identify the real adversary and act appropriately..

Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99; births in March*, 5-7am & on certain days#) Some seepage, calls for unusual generosity.

Dragon (1952, 64, 76, 88, 2000; births in April* 7-9am & on certain days#) Attention, students approach; be sure to be fully prepared. The correct material is essential.

* Chinese Months start later than European ones.
#You’ll need help or a Chinese Calendar for this.
Fire Snake Month: A Time of Learning.
The Fire Snake which last ruled a full year in1977 has tremendous memory, academic gifts and the biggest heart of all Snakes. They are also inclined to own goals. These may prove to be the themes of the month. Equally Snakes are reckoned to find a teacher during a Dragon Month. For all of us, having found an instructor, now may be the time to proceed to learn.

You’ll notice that there are more Remove Days this month than usual: four actually, the most I have ever known to fall in a single month. As a portent Remove is neutral but usage tends to the negative, it’s about throwing away stuff. Three (12^th, 24^th May, 5^th June) will be helpful in streamlining life. On such a day judgement as to what to drop and what to retain will be at its best. The outlier on the 6^th June however could just be the day you discard something you really meant to keep. That could as easily be a lover as a white elephant. That’s what I call an own goal. Caution.

Another quirk is that there are no perfect days for placing Water. For some of us that may mean we will need to contain things as they are even though we know they need to change. Environment and attitude may be a part of that. Roosters who have found the year so far hard going may have to wait for a break in the clouds. And some moodier Dragons may be out of touch with their ability to transform. A lesson to draw however is that whatever help we may wrest from the world of woo-woo, ultimately our experience sunny or clouded is a choice. Nonetheless this may not be a month for deep disclosure.

How might that apply globally? Look out for fresh strategies and new alliances. The Snake is not generally a panoramic thinker like the Rat, impulsive like the Horse or borderline irrational like the Dragon but flexible, able to jettison objectives when necessary like shedding a skin. Alpha Snake Xi Jin Ping is in this category; his climb to power involving a series of about-faces and the dropping of associates whose proximity had become inconvenient. Deception, whether in North Eastern Europe, Taiwan or Sudan is the thing to watch for. A balanced Snake is devoted to the truth (often with a capital T), an unbalanced one may just see it as one of many instruments.

Domestically this pattern may show as a better balance between work and play as the Sun starts to shine. This may be the month to commit to a relationship. Especially if you’ve been in one a while. You may espouse a cause or path of discovery but the month may also prove full of false trails. Snake is all about knowing which is which.
© Richard Ashworth 2023 
A Tricky Day
Tuesday 6^th June, Wood Sheep, Tail, Remove (8) ***** replacement
Horse Month kicks in with Mong Chun, Grain in Ear at 06:46. Make way (carefully) for the accoutrements of Summer. Discard nothing without consideration.
Activity: Rabbit due East & Sheep SW1 (around 205º) for company.
Safe to make space: Earth(59) Metal(71) Pig; Earth(99) Metal(51) Rabbit; Wood (55) Sheep; Water (42) Horse.

A Helpful Day
Wednesday 24^th May, Water Horse, Orion, Remove (4) ***** empowered.
Water Horse is pulled (at least) two ways. The inspiration of Fire can be over-thought by too much Water or magnified by Fire. Rapid action without too much forethought and (especially) too much criticism makes way for the remarkable within 60-90 days.
Activity: Sheep South West (SSW around 205º) for just a little Fire.
Winners: Tiger, Dog, Pig
Supreme: Wood(74) Fire(86) Tiger; Wood(94) Dog; Wood(55) Sheep.
 
A Helpful Location
South, Bright Future: Year Star: 8 Month Star: 9 Moon (Horse)
8:9 Hot and helpful. A Fire Snake Month is of course close to pure Fire, that is brightness and the light. Advance to the South if you want to get noticed, publicity, promotion, attention of all sorts. Some Flying Star patterns may mitigate and some ba zis may not be able to make use of the qi but for those who can – broadly those in need of Fire – this is very helpful.
Add: just be present and active.

A Tricky Location
Tai chi, Home, the centre: Year Star: 4 Month Star: 5.
The 5 Yellow or wu huang is proverbially the Star that needs controlling in order to forestall mayhem. Its effect varies according to surroundings and usage: 5 may sit perfectly happily in a quiet room and cause no harm. Conversely it may appear briefly and coincide with all manner of pestilence. What however is important to realise is that although Elemental rules are consistent, as are those of Yin and Yang, the 5 is a wild card. Unlike all the other integers it has no corresponding Trigram; it belongs to no family member, Element or group. It has if you will, no stake. This means that the damage with which it is associated alters according to the underlying pockets of qi or Flying Stars where it lands. In brief, if the Flying Stars at your tai chi are poor, steer clear all month. Only a messy salt Water cure, a t’ang lung charm or a great deal of Metal will help anything like as much as peace and quiet. If disturbed the outcome will obviously enough vary according to those Flying Stars. If that’s unclear do contact me.

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters. He was among the pioneers of feng shui survey & analysis at a distance on MySpirit Radio in the noughties. A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible at https://adbl.co/2m92Es3. You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters at https://bit.ly/2lJWLBl  Or read his collected Feng Shui Diaries. Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium.

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore. He is now also a Founder Committee Member of the IFSA UK Chapter.

Every month we send subscribing clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal & much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Creative Anarchy: Dragon Month Bulletin

Auspicious Dates and Places
for
The (3^rd) month of the Fire Dragon 2023.
(09:21 5^th April to 02:33am 6^th May inclusive)
in the Year of the Water Rabbit.
Public Edition

Dui
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The Joyous
 Hexagram 58*

A 6 month                                     is about leadership.
A typical Dragon Month             is chaotic, the storm that is followed by calm.
Where to be this month:             at the centre of things.
Where not to be this month:       North West, South East
Favoured Animals:                       Monkey, Rat, Rooster
Especially challenged:                 Dragon, Dog, Rabbit.
The Hexagram* (above):             Dui The Joyous, Lake over Lake; enjoy – carefully.
Summary:                                      (ultimately) a time of freshness

S
5       1       3
4       6       8
9       2       7

*I am now listing the Hexagram corresponding to the particular month in question rather than the generic Tidal Gua. Put simply, Zhong Fu corresponds specifically to a Wood Rabbit rather than to just any Rabbit. 
Fire Dragon Month: Productive anarchy.

The Dragon is a law unto himself. They’ll obey the rules if those rules suit them, they’ll even agree to be part of a team as long as they’re in charge. They can, as you might guess then, engender jealousy and other passions which often surprise them. But the truth is that the first lesson for the Dragon is not to toot their own horn. So with Dragons like Boris Johnson and Vladimir Putin prominent, the international scene will be fraught with mistrust and double standards this month. As will the kitchen, the bedroom and the boardroom. Often this dynamic leads to a time of chaos and conflict, followed by resolution of issues that have been contentious some while.

This is unlikely to be a peaceful month. You may have noted there are several pretty dire days and some unhelpful locations. The Dragon however does not stand for a lasting state of disorder. The storm now brewing will shake things up and move on, leaving things in very different shape. The Dragon is the time before the storm when the build up of pressure becomes too much to bear. The tempest hits and washes away without discrimination. Structures to which we are attached whether social, commercial or political may be bent to breaking point. The ground upon which we stand may indeed crack.

Is this the case every Dragon Month? Yes but more so in a Wood Dragon. Because it is the role of Wood to prey upon Earth, the Wood Dragon is inherently conflicted. Those born in a Wood Dragon year such as 1964 often know this of themselves. They like the time that gave them birth, are troublemakers from one point of view, healers and teachers from another. And this is a time of healing chronic wounds.

However much we think of ourselves as masters of our fate, truth is we are each drifting alone upon an imaginary chunk of mud. That is the nature of the human condition. Every Dragon Month offers that revelation: we have control only as far we limit our reality. And the ongoing opportunity to mould that mud any way we choose.

One such opportunity might be my Ze Ri Date Selection Weekend  April 29th/30th via Zoom.

© Richard Ashworth 2023 
The Month of the Fire Dragon, Animal by Animal:
These generic forecasts carry different nuances dependent upon whether this Animal rules your Year, Month, Day, Hour or Life House.

Dragon (1952, 64, 76, 88, 2000; births in April* 7-9am & on certain days#) Chaotic, crowded, with breaks for the cool-headed but not for overstretching..

Snake (1941,53, 65, 77, 89; births in May*, 9-11am & on certain days#) Seeking and possibly finding a teacher may be the month’s main task.

Horse (1942, 54, 66, 78, 90; births in June*, around midday & on certain days#) Uneasy respect. Accepting support and input leads to successful completion

Sheep (1943, 55, 67, 79, 91; births in July*, 1-3pm & on certain days#) In many respects more than you expected.

Monkey (1944, 56, 68, 80, 92; births in August*, 3-5pm & on certain days#) A time of your greatest eloquence for some time.

Rooster (1945, 57, 69, 81, 93; births in September*, 5-7pm & on certain days#) Being yourself is especially powerful. Cosmetics not so much.

Dog (1946, 58, 70, 82, 94; births in October*, 7-9pm & on certain days#) Uphill climbing, best keep moving just the same.

Pig (1947, 59, 71, 83, 95; births in November*, 9-11pm & on certain days#) Less understood than usual, not that that need hold you up.

Rats (1948, 60, 72, 84, 96; births in December* 11pm-1am & on certain days#).
In power, a month of effective strategising.

Ox (1949, 61, 73, 85, 97; births in January*, 1-3am & on certain days#) Reach may exceed grasp. So let go.

Tiger (1950, 62, 74, 86, 98; births in February*, 3-5am & on certain days#) Envy button pressed, try not to get lost in it.

Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99; births in March*, 5-7am & on certain days#) Scavenging, scrounging for scraps is the alternative to trusting. Your ship’s on its way.

* Chinese Months start later than European ones.
#You’ll need help or a Chinese Calendar for this.
 
A Helpful Day

Saturday 8^th April, Fire Monkey, Foundation, Stable (3) **** helpful, head start.
Fine for Water placement. If the base is steady, build from there. Creativity may follow playfulness. Discuss to the nth.
Favours: Monkey, Rat, Dragon, Snake, playful children.
Special favour: Wood(44) Fire(56) Monkey; Wood(64) Dragon; Earth(89) Metal(41) Snake & those who join to cooperate..
Activity: Rat due North keeps options open. 

Not so helpful

Wednesday 19^th April, Fire Sheep, Wall, Balance (5) *** consider position.
The day of sidekicks and assistants. Advances today tend to stay that way. Seek promotion etc but don’t expect that to materialise just yet. Take stock on the 29^th.
Caution: Rat, Ox, actions speak louder……
Activity: Horse due South for further Fire.

A Helpful Location

South, Bright Future: Year Star: 8 Month Star: 1 Moon (Horse)
8:1 Metal joins these two Stars and may support abundance and windfalls as the seasonal energy grows ever more fiery. Outcomes are likely to be very public. This may make the otherwise unpropitious 23^rd a favourable day to the South.
Avoid: Wood e.g. plants & flowers.

Not so Helpful

South East, Determination: Year Star: 3 Month Star: 5. Sun (Dragon SE1).
3:5 is not helpful. If your front door is South Eastern, now is the time to pack it with Metal: Metal stuff – ideally not instruments of torture – windchimes (6 pipe Metal is best) coins, discs, white décor. The 3 is yang Wood and so technically clashed or controlled by Metal, the 5 drained by it. South East is bullish and mischievous all year but this is probably its darkest hour. Special attention to the Eldest Daughter and the rights of the working woman; Metal will tend to join the team for now. More cooperative in May.
Mitigate: Metal – small bowl changed daily – makes peace between the Yang Metal and the Yang Wood.

© Richard Ashworth 2023

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters. He was among the pioneers of feng shui survey & analysis at a distance on MySpirit Radio in the noughties. A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible at https://adbl.co/2m92Es3. You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters at https://bit.ly/2lJWLBl  Or read his collected Feng Shui Diaries. Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium.

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore. He is now also a Founder Committee Member of the IFSA UK Chapter.

Every month we send subscribing clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal & much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Auspicious Dates and Places forThe (2nd) month of the Wood Rabbit 2023

Auspicious Dates and Places
for
The (2^nd) month of the Wood Rabbit 2023.
(04:31am 6^th March to 09:21 5^th April inclusive)
in the Year of the Water Rabbit.
Public edition

 

Zhong Fu
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Inner Sincerity
Hexagram 61*

 
A 7 month                                        is deceptive.
A typical Rabbit Month                 features conciliation.
Where to be this month:               North, facing a favourable direction
Where not to be this month:         tai chi, East
Favoured Animals:                        Pig, Rabbit, Sheep, Dog
Especially challenged:                  Rooster, Dragon, Snake, Ox.
The Hexagram* (above):              Zhong Fu Inner Sincerity, Earth over Lake; dig deep.
Summary:                                      a time to accommodate.

 S
6       2       4
5       7       9
1       3       8
Wood Rabbit Lo Shu

 
 
I’m talking Ze Ri, The Ancient Chinese Art of Date Selection via Zoom at the IFSG Summit on Saturday March 18^th, followed by a 2-Day Zoom Workshop the weekend of April 29^th/30^th, incorporating all the material from previous Date Selection Workshops plus new material and touching on forecasting. Join us.
 
 
*I am now listing the Hexagram corresponding to the particular month in question rather than the generic Tidal Gua. Put simply, Zhong Fu corresponds specifically to a Wood Rabbit rather than to just any Rabbit. 
 
 
Wood Rabbit Month: Complaints department is open.
“To everything there is a season” Ecclesiastes 3 1-8.
 
The Rabbit is all about rhythm and timing. As I was saying last month, sometimes we recognise that perfect moment to speak, sometimes we don’t: too early and it can fall flat, too late and the conversation has moved on. Something similar is true of music. Legendary keyboard player Herbie Hancock tells of a bum note he played once with Miles Davis’ band. In the dressing room he apologised, expecting repercussions from the notoriously inflammable Miles. Davis simply shrugged, telling him that there’s no such thing as a wrong note, only changes that are not contained.
 
In 2023 we need to be aware of the bum note. There will be changes that are hard to contain. The volatility of international politics – possible escalation in Ukraine, a burning world and massive inequality – is clear but it’s easy to forget that the global reflects the local. Dominant themes of Rabbit months as well as years include the need to respect rhythm, that is to say appropriate timing. To everything there is a season. And that’s as true of a casual phrase as of a peace negotiation. Say it when it matters. Button the mean lip.
 
And then there’s the notorious Ingratitude Penalty. Because it is centrally a misunderstanding between Rat and Rabbit, expect the penalty to emerge in a big way this month: among families there may be mutual recrimination, the offspring confronting the parent and vice-versa. It’s valuable to remember that there is nothing as disempowering as blame. When we blame we absolve ourselves of responsibility. It may nonetheless be a stage we have to pass through. Best be gentle.
 
Some years ago I worked with a very powerful if dominating white witch. One day her 20-something son rang to tell me his girlfriend was pregnant and that he planned to disappear and get as far away from his mother as possible. What did I think?
 
“If you don’t learn the lessons of this you will have a daughter just like your Mother.”
 
“And if I do?”
 
“You’ll have a daughter just like your Mother.”
 
For one person to ruin another’s life, both must have given up on responsibility.  And as far as the child-parent relationship goes, they start as our co-complainants, they grow into our accusers. Tread lightly this month, I should.
 
© Richard Ashworth 2023  March 6^th 2023.

The Month of the Wood Rabbit, Animal by Animal:
These generic forecasts carry different nuances dependent upon whether this Animal rules your Year, Month, Day, Hour or Life House.
 
Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99; births in March*, 5-7am & on certain days#) Very much at home in this month of settling domestic affairs. Avoid blame, especially historical.
 
Dragon (1952, 64, 76, 88, 2000; births in April* 7-9am & on certain days#) Drawn upon, put upon, perhaps even set upon. Not for risk-taking.
 
Snake (1941,53, 65, 77, 89; births in May*, 9-11am & on certain days#) Some fuel, but little overflow.
 
Horse (1942, 54, 66, 78, 90; births in June*, around midday & on certain days#) Underpowered, tack into the wind.
 
Sheep (1943, 55, 67, 79, 91; births in July*, 1-3pm & on certain days#) You are included all year.
 
Monkey (1944, 56, 68, 80, 92; births in August*, 3-5pm & on certain days#) Opposed indirectly – not that comfortable.
 
Rooster (1945, 57, 69, 81, 93; births in September*, 5-7pm & on certain days#) Direct opposition may make for disappointment. Your job is to keep to commitments.
 
Dog (1946, 58, 70, 84, 96; births in October*, 7-9pm & on certain days#) You’re in pole position all year but especially this month.
 
Pig (1947, 59, 71, 83, 95; births in November*, 9-11pm & on certain days#) More free hits, expect movement in unexpected directions. Helping hands reach down.
 
Rats (1948, 60, 72, 84, 96; births in December* 11pm-1am & on certain days#).
Expect complaints. You may have to listen, you don’t have to agree.
 
Ox (1949, 61, 73, 85, 97; births in January*, 1-3am & on certain days#) A demanding month calling for respect of duty.
 
Tiger (1950, 62, 74, 86, 98; births in February*, 3-5am & on certain days#) Mobile but slower than before. For now.
 
* Chinese Months start later than European ones.
#You’ll need help or a Chinese Calendar for this.

A Favourable Day
Wednesday 15^th March Water Monkey, Basket, Initiate ***** (6)  serendipity.
Water Monkey encourages talk. This Basket is under the tail of the Dragon who is reckoned to poop gold; could be overwhelming good fortune, Stand back! Maintain ongoing discussion as today may offer resolution or at least a peace offering.
Activity: Earth & Water to tai chi.
Most fortunate: Wood(44) Fire(56) Monkey, Water(72) Rat, Wood(64) Dragon, Earth(89) Metal(41) Snake. 
 
Not so favourable
Sunday 19^th March, Fire Rat, Void, Receive (1) *** still
Technically a Separating Day when the seasonal qi has been exhausted. Less sprightly, less creative than you may have anticipated. Energy may feel low. Rest, consideration, manifestation and relief are all appropriate. Rejected ideas return for re-examination. And not just ideas.
Activity: Dragon SE1 (ESE around 136º) for creativity. 
 
Where to locate.
South, Bright Future: Year Star: 8 Month Star: 2 Moon (Horse)
8:2 Double Earth – one yin one yang, makes for fixed positions. One man’s consistency is another woman’s stubborn. These Stars indicate growth, accretion, increase. In ordered surroundings it may be wealth and possessions that grow; in disorder possibly morbidity. Stay active, illuminate and be ready to add Wood to make good use of the situation.
Avoid: Wood e.g. plants & flowers.
 
Where to avoid.
West, Intervention: Year Star: 6; Month Star: 9. Sui po, Annual & Month san sha
9 highlights and emphasises, 6 tends to the aggressive. Both Stars can represent paternal power and hence, predictably don’t get on. There’s tension here, a Fire/Metal clash. That’s tradition versus brilliance but also calculation versus gut feel; realism versus magical thinking, a difference that can be hard to call. There’s real progress here if male parties can cooperate with mutual respect. Otherwise probably not.
Encourage: with Earth e.g. an amethyst geode or an older woman.  
 
https://bit.ly/3kfE3zP The Ba Zi – what is it?

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters. He was among the pioneers of feng shui survey & analysis at a distance on MySpirit Radio in the noughties. A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible at https://adbl.co/2m92Es3. You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters at https://bit.ly/2lJWLBl  Or read his collected Feng Shui Diaries. Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium.
 
Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore. He is now also a Founder Committee Member of the IFSA UK Chapter.
 
Every month we send subscribing clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal & much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info

The First and the Last: Auspicious Dates and Places for The (12th) month of the Water Ox 2023.

The First and the Last:
Auspicious Dates and Places
for
The (12^th) month of the Water Ox 2023.
(23:35 5^th January to 10:47pm 4^th February inclusive)
as the Year changes from Water Tiger to Water Rabbit.
Public Edition – fuller version available by paid subscription

Bi
————
—–  —–
—–  —–
————
—–  —–
————
Adorning
Hexagram 22*

A 9 month                                       demands attention.
A typical Ox Month                       is hard to move off a position.
Where to be this month:               South East, North West.
Where not to be this month:        North, East
Favoured Animals:                       Snake, Rooster, Ox, Rat.
Especially challenged:                  Horse, Sheep, Pig, Rabbit.
The Hexagram* (above):             Bi Adorning, Mountain over Fire; prioritising.
Summary:                                     a time of dreaming.

S
8       4       6
7       9       2
3       5       1

Water Ox Lo Shu

*From this month I am listing the Hexagram corresponding to the particular month in question rather than the more generic Tidal Hexagram. Put simply, Bi corresponds specifically to a Water Ox rather than to just any Ox.

The Month of the Water Ox, Animal by Animal:
These generic forecasts carry different nuances dependent upon whether this Animal rules your Year, Month, Day, Hour or Life House.

Ox (1949, 61, 73, 85, 97; births in January*, 1-3am & on certain days#) Most influential month of the year for you; use wisely.

Tiger (1950, 62, 74, 86, 98; births in February*, 3-5am & on certain days#) Some last little prey.

Rabbit (1951, 63, 75, 87, 99; births in March*, 5-7am & on certain days#) Small gains which are probably quite enough.

Dragon (1952, 64, 76, 88, 2000; births in April* 7-9am & on certain days#) slow and steady.

Snake (1941,53, 65, 77, 89; births in May*, 9-11am & on certain days#) A time to calculate; respect precision and planning.

Horse (1942, 54, 66, 78, 90; births in June*, around midday & on certain days#) Still for now but very visible.

Sheep (1943, 55, 67, 79, 91; births in July*, 1-3pm & on certain days#) Opposed, blackballed for now.

Monkey (1944, 56, 68, 80, 92; births in August*, 3-5pm & on certain days#) Some flexibility, no hurrey.

Rooster (1945, 57, 69, 81, 93; births in September*, 5-7pm & on certain days#) Fascinated.

Dog (1946, 58, 70, 84, 96; births in October*, 7-9pm & on certain days#) Reconciliation.

Pig (1947, 59, 71, 83, 95; births in November*, 9-11pm & on certain days#)  Small & temporary blockages.

Rats (1948, 60, 72, 84, 96; births in December* 11pm-1am & on certain days#). In thrall, this is no time to struggle.

* Chinese Months start later than European ones.
#You’ll need help or a Chinese Calendar for this.

About New Moons: it’s time to collect up your crystals, wash & Moon-bathe them & re-start the daily He Tu Journeys at the New Moon. Especially this one. Include crystals that attract, such as moldavite (for power), rose quartz, amethyst and clear quartz (which pretty much does as it’s told). Broadly Full Moon disposes and ends, New Moon attracts and begins; Full Moon is a peak, New Moon a trough. This one (22^nd at 00:55am) coincides with the Lunar New Year. The two so close together extends the implication that stellar and terrestrial forces are approaching concert. Some struggles approach conclusion. Light follows.

 
A Helpful Day
Thurs 12^th January, Metal Horse, Horn, Initiate (7) ***** discernment.
A great day to start things. Metal Horse is the seeker after justice, the Horn of the Dragon is associated with sudden change and fertility – of ideas, prospects and much more. Today’s the day to challenge the status quo. Especially if you’re an Earth(98) or Metal(50) Tiger, Fire(46) Earth(58) Dog, Fire(67) or Earth(79) Sheep.
Activity: Dog NW1 (WNW around 295º) for perseverance.

Not So Helpful
Tuesday 10^th January, Earth Dragon, Wings, Balance (5) ***** drastic.
Potentially destructive. Check self-righteousness at the door. A day to be stepped through lightly. Lower expectations for now. Justice unlikely to be served.
Activity: Not today.
Disrupts: Dragon, Dog, Rabbit & the inflexible.
Favours: nobody much.

Where to Locate
North East, Wealth Star: Tai sui (Tiger) or Year Star: 8 Month Star: 3.
3 & 8 together make Wood; at least 1/3 of the North East is also Wood: where the Tiger sits at the gateway to Dawn. Wood represents a certain strain of creativity, often the written word but also nurturing – of others, beasts and plants. Add Fire and you may achieve brilliance here. Add Wood or Water to sustain it. Aim to face your most helpful direction also.
Hint: where Water is talk, Wood is action and Fire display.
Support: Fire/Wood/Water: take your pick.

Where to Avoid
East, Ambition: Year Star: 3 Month:7. Sun (Rabbit E2), Month san sha
Not so great. Such qi can attract conflict along with the more useful. In relationship this speaks of January-May hook-ups. In business it suggests money to be made as the Wood rises early in February. This applies mostly to Eldest (& 4^th) Son, also Dogs, Pigs and Sheep as well as Rabbits themselves. It’s unlikely to be a comfortable perch even for them.
Enhance: Wood eg three leafy plants. No Fire!

Water Ox Month: the First and the Last.
Human beings are hibernating creatures, like bears we are inclined to stuff ourselves at midwinter and sleep till spring. Equally it’s a given in certain walks of life that nothing gets done between the 3^rd week in December and the 2^nd week in January. Everyone’s phone seems to be set to “Do not Disturb”. Following the flurry of the various solstice celebrations we return to our routines, sometimes quite sluggishly. Sometimes, like this bulletin, a little late.

And of course there is no direct relationship between time spent and productivity. As you know, the best work is often done swiftly in between bouts of inertia. So the first lesson to have in mind may be not to try to achieve too much this month. You may find that simply dreaming gets more done in the long run.

Predominantly Yin Earth, the Ox is the Animal of dreams. That is to say that the Ox Month is a time of stillness, of small blockages and of sensitivity. It is the time before the buds emerge, before everything comes alive once more, a time of conception rather than birth. This perhaps illustrates the connection between the Ox and fertility.

There are five distinct Ox Months: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water – like this one which will naturally share features with Water Ox Days, Hours and Years. The last Water Ox Year was 1973 when oil prices peaked and Roe versus Wade restored women’s reproductive rights to the women concerned. Expect further echoes this month: issues often the same but  outcome often opposite, the broader world reflecting our smaller lives and vice-versa.

This January’s Hexagram is Bi, Mountain over Fire, To Decorate, Number 22. Sometimes this image suggests window-dressing, tarting up rather than getting to the roots of things. It might be smart to watch for the distraction of the superficial in your life around now: as likely to be about finance as love although the Book of Changes refers explicitly to a change of wardrobe as a door to transformation. These concerns may be concentrated in the time between the 13^th and the 18^th.

Bi harks back to primitive practices such as the offering of white silk to the departed. And the Ox Month like the Ox hour, the witching hour between 1 and 3 in the morning, is traditionally when the film between the worlds is slightest. As we dream we may find ourselves travelling back and forth in time. The trick is to own and learn from our errors but also to celebrate the good. Gratitude is a pretty good idea too.

Forgive me as ever for telling you what you know already but that of course is how we recognise truth. This and the above principles of course will become even more clear as the Water Rabbit of 2023 stretches into a shape that reflects 1963, the last Water Rabbit year. That year, notable for a very cold winter by the way, proved excellent for the Beatles and not so great for American presidents.
© Richard Ashworth 2023 

Richard Ashworth is one of the most respected Western Feng Shui Masters. He was among the pioneers of feng shui survey & analysis at a distance on MySpirit Radio in the noughties. A good taster of his approach may be found on Audible. You can also see him at work on tv’s Housebusters   Or read his collected Feng Shui Diaries. Most Thursdays and Fridays he is to be found teaching both feng shui and ba zi one-to-one online (times by mutual arrangement) with students from Seattle to Belgium.

Richard has worked from Lebanon to Bermuda, in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and with stars such as Naomie Harris, Kelly Hoppen and Gillian Anderson. Unusually for a Western Master, he has addressed the Grand Masters at the International Feng Shui Conference in Singapore. He is now also a Founder Committee Member of the IFSA UK Chapter.

Every month we send subscribing clients a more comprehensive monthly bulletin than this one, covering in detail right places to be (and when) as well as the most helpful days Animal by Animal & much more from the Chinese calendar.
Subscriptions (and further info): Sheilaashworthfengshui@gmail.com

Richard Ashworth©
www.imperialfengshui.info