Haaaappyy Sheeeeep New Year!!

Also referred to as Goat and Ram.

Although seen as same, the tranquil sheep is quite different from the the energetic goat!...

And before the insights of this Sheep New Year, what I love about Chinese New Year, besides the fact of having the second year resolution, reinforcing our intentions for this year to come, starting as always with the New Moon empowering us with the energy of new beginnings; is to reflect upon the animal, after all: how Chinese astrology came up with these twelve animals? With the adding of the Element, one of the five Elements rooted in the Taoists observing nature thousands of years ago and realising it could be divided into the Fire, Water, Earth, Metal and Wood (plant life/ vegetable kingdom).

And how do you relate with Sheep, what comes to mind when you think of this animal?

I've had a few encounters with sheep, but let me share just one: taking me back to my first Taoist retreat in a beautiful countryside setting - which included lots of sheep!

One day a little group of them just jumped the fence and ran away.  I was enjoying watching them having fun...  But after a while panic set in.  The retreat facilitators wanted to gather a group of people to go after the sheep and take them back to their field. My suggestion was that I will talk with them, no need to all that.  The surprised faces just watched from afar as I gently approached the sheep and told them what was planned for them, so would be better if they just go back, "you already had your adventure outside of your field" I said.  They turned their back and off they went, back to their field.  This for me demonstrates the sheep nature, gentle and calm, which doesn't mean they are weak.  Actually they are quite strong and have amazing survival skills.  If not happy, they tend to move out of the way of trouble, avoiding any kind of conflict.

"If last year was the Horse's year to gallop and take off, this year will be the year for contemplating and appreciating what has already been accomplished, to think about bringing goodness to others, to take a deep breath and calmly look at what's ahead. A steady path, generosity, and keeping the peace are this year's mantra."

Yang Wood Horse trots out and Yin Wood Sheep wanders in. From galloping around, to strolling through life supremely at leisure, moving towards a more calm atmosphere.

"Combined with the evergreen and renewal characteristics of Wood, the Sheep's creativity will be unleashed."

This Yin Wood combination brings an image of a bamboo, gentle and strong, as it bends but doesn't break - like us yes? And of course a flower!... which to fully blossom in her beauty and fragrance has to be fed and nurtured.

So this is what this year invites you to do!

I would say to enjoy the pleasure of life, starting from the daily pleasure that she offers (yes make it part of your self-nurturing routine, at least one thing per day!); which for me also invite us to exploration of the senses, how our senses relate with our surroundings, cultivating our sensuality.

This is a Feminine year, welcoming all (just not women, men also have their yin side) to embrace the yin virtues: gentleness, inner-peace, flexibility, trust, love, starting with self-love.  I also add to this the Wood Element virtues of kindness, generosity, forgiveness, self-acceptance, and physical desire.

So settle yourself in this peaceful and harmonious environment, from within to without:  I know it's a full time job for the rest of our lives, worth it though as an investment in ourselves is always good; and a big part of it is about the choices we make. But remember that this year the 'external influences' are aligned and supporting these!  So fulfil your desires, let go what no longer serves, to create space for fulfilment in the different areas in your life to trot in!

Sheep is about peace and love, starting in the heart of each of us.  If we cultivate and live it, we are contributing our tiny little bit to a better world!

This Yin Wood Sheep brings also you the opportunity to be at one with your creativity and evolve spiritually, for those open to do so.

Sheep is one of the Chinese lucky animals. Because of their softer side, they are symbolic of peace and harmony.

For some reason we count sheep when we can not sleep... 

The white (and also black - does black sheep ring a bell?;) cute creature often reminds people of beautiful things.

Sheep is the lover. Sheep the Shaman. And here I quote my beloved partner Kris Deva North:

"The Sheep is among the animals that people like most. It is gentle and calm. Since ancient times, people have used its fleece to make writing brushes and wool to keep warm. By using the skin of one animal to make parchment for their scriptures, the shamans were able to offer their prayers without daily animal sacrifice. As the calming spirit of the Sheep year spreads, sentiments will be kindled and wisdom will prevail. Many will look into their hearts and souls, wonder at past passionate grievances, and realise the road to harmony is through peaceful ways. Sheep relates to passive and nurturing times, and can help the healing process with regard to past events. Sheep is Healing, Sheep is Love."

Yes, think of the sheep skins used in tantric practices, has they hold the energy: what we want to have beneath us to hold the energy through our meditations, etc...  not only in the Taoist tradition.

Also from fleeces in babies' prams, people's homes and clothing, the wool is always something we associate and feel as soft, cosy, warm and caring.

I wish you a wonderful Sheep New Year, promising so much delight: embrace harmony and softness, cultivate peace and love, taking the most of this year of Sheep, Ram and Goat!!***

I'm happy with the perfect alignment of this energy of the Sheep New Year with our Jade Circle and Healing Tao workhops! 
Have a look in our calendar.

© Anamarta

Last image by  Karen Gadient "cosmic disco sheep"

Sheep "Lover" Zen painting by Kris Deva North