By Wilson Sun (with Joan Chien and Gene Ching)

The Year of the Snake officially begins on February 3, 2025, at 22:10:13, and ends on February 4, 2026, at 04:01:51, marking the transition to the Year of the Horse. According to Feng Shui principles, 2025 is characterized by the theme of "movement (dong 動)".  Movement signifies change, and thus this year will bring unexpected transformations across various fields worldwide. Last year, I predicted a migration wave for 2024, which indeed occurred. In 2025, the concept of "movement" will manifest as another large-scale wave of population migration, like people moving in and out of a cave. This year may also signal an influx of exceptional talents. Whoever can welcome and accommodate this wave of talent will gain new opportunities and vitality, becoming a leader in the world's new trends.

Movement in 2025

Movement will influence many domains:

*Structural Shifts: Traditional systems will be disrupted, paving the way for unprecedented new models.

*National Affairs: Significant changes in government and leadership structures are expected globally.

*Environmental Changes: Natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis may occur frequently due to sudden shifts in the earth's magnetic field. These changes may prompt humanity to reevaluate its understanding of the world and emphasize spiritual growth, marking the beginning of a return to righteous principles.

*Technology: The rapid application of new technologies will transform lifestyles and work habits. For older generations, this could present unique challenges.

*Personal Development: People will increasingly value learning and self-improvement to adapt to new societal norms. Innovations that are convenient, streamlined, and human-centric will energize the world and foster a renewed appreciation for peace.

*Transportation: The “movement” will be reflected in the emphasis and development of the transportation industry, especially in the emphasis and management of the safety of waterway and port transportation.

Economic Trends

Economic fluctuations in 2025 may cause feelings of insecurity. However, the overall trend is optimistic, with Asia playing a significant role in driving global economic growth. Southern nations will emerge as rising stars in economic development.

Health Outlook

In 2025, the metal element (associated with the lungs) is weak in the Five Elements theory (wu xing 五行), potentially leading to an increase in respiratory, intestinal, and skin-related illnesses. Enhance lung function by first clearing out the pathogenic dampness in the lungs, which means expelling as much phlegm and dampness from the lungs as possible. Using methods to suppress the discharge of phlegm or blindly replenishing Yang energy to treat diseases will only "close the door to trap the thief," a foolish approach that will cause pathogens to accumulate, spread, or even transfer within the body, leading to more illnesses. This will make diseases uncontrollable. Health maintenance concepts must change. Do not blindly believe in excessive body supplementation methods. Proper exercise and sweating are the best detoxification methods.

From a Feng Shui perspective, 2025 is also a high-incidence year for tumors, with an increased rate of internal and external tumor occurrences. Everyone should focus on prevention by promptly clearing bodily waste and enhancing the body's excretory functions. Only in this way can diseases be effectively prevented and treated. In this regard, traditional Chinese medicine and natural therapies are quite effective. Strengthening intestinal mobility and spleen-stomach functions are key steps in preventing and treating tumors.

Disaster Preparedness

2025 is a high-risk year for earthquakes. People living in earthquake-prone areas should be prepared. Mastering escape techniques and being prepared in advance are crucial.

Practical Health Advice

The theme for health in 2025 is "lung cleansing and digestive health." Daily moderate exercise is recommended, ideally resulting in light sweating for at least 30 minutes. Balanced and symmetrical exercises such as running, swimming, martial arts, or Tai Chi are highly beneficial. Avoid exercises that stress only one side of the body or cause muscle tension in specific areas.

Recommended Foods:

Focus on white and yellow color foods such as white radish, Chinese yam (shanyao 山藥 Dioscorea polystachya), almonds, white fungus, white lentil beans, cashews, sweet potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, yellow peppers, and American ginseng (xiyangshen 西洋參 Panax quinquefolius).

Feng Shui Insights

Two auspicious directions and two inauspicious directions dominate 2025.

Auspicious Directions:

1. East: Favorable for wealth, social connections, arts, and spiritual pursuits. Homes or businesses facing east or with eastern entrances should maximize this advantage. Men over 40, firstborn males, and individuals born in the Year of the Hare will enjoy good fortune.

2. Southeast: Promising for wealth and favorable for industries like trade, healthcare, insurance, and finance. Firstborn daughters and women over 40, especially those born in the Year of the Dragon or Snake, will shine.

Inauspicious Directions:

1. Center: Avoid spending time in the central area of homes or offices. Keep this zone clean and free from clutter to reduce health risks.

2. Northeast: Associated with impulsiveness, misunderstandings, and digestive issues. People, particularly younger males or those born in the Year of the Tiger or Ox, should exercise caution.

2025 promises to be a dynamic year filled with both challenges and opportunities. Those who embrace adaptability and foresight will thrive.