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Happy Chinese New Year 2020 – The Year of The Rat

January 23, 2020 | Chinese New Year, awareness 

A fond farewell to The Year of the Pig

Chinese New Year 2020 is celebrated by more than a billion people worldwide; it begins this Saturday (January 25), welcoming in the Year of the Rat. In many countries, the festivities are already in full swing, and will continue until the closing Lantern Festival on Saturday February 8.

Historically, each Chinese year is represented by a different animal, symbolising its individual traits and offering advice. Officially, it is still the Year of the Pig until January 24, but for those born in the Year of the Rat, the good news is that you are promised a successful career and financial security.

The sign also offers advice on relationships and health, stating that although rats enjoy longevity, and can eat just about anything, they should pay attention to their diets; avoiding binge-eating or going for long periods without food.

Of course, it is easy to dismiss cultural traditions and customs; laughing them off as superstition. But it is important to remember that tradition can play a significant role in people’s lives, often bringing guidance, structure and comfort. Some traditions are even relevant in modern society.

In preparation for Chinese New Year, it is customary for people to wipe away all the old dirt that has been cluttering their lives to allow for fresh starts and new beginnings.

Now that’s a practice we could all benefit from, whatever our beliefs.

Author: Michelle Burt

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