By Wilson Sun (with Joan Chien and Gene Ching)

On February 4, 2024, at 16:26:53, the Start of Spring (Li Chun 立春) festival begins, marking the start of the Year of the Dragon, which lasts until February 3, 2025, signifying the end of the Dragon year. According to Feng Shui theory, the character zheng (dispute 爭) stands out as a key feature of 2024. Amidst these disputes, a strategic alliance will inevitably emerge as a counterbalance to intense struggle. Consequently, the Dragon year appears to be a tumultuous one, with conflicts ready to ignite at any moment. However, the role of alliances will aid in easing tensions and facilitating negotiations, fostering a situation that is startling yet safe, filled with perilous yet controlled circumstances.

The year 2024 is also a year of waves of migration. There will be continual occurrences of population shifts through long-distance journeys and various other means. Due to intense conflicts, there will be changes in population dynamics, and these rapid, large-scale population shifts will, in turn, spark new disputes. People will inexplicably exhibit an aggressive mood, like a powder keg ready to explode at the slightest provocation. Therefore, in this year, everyone should learn to keep the peace, be conciliatory, and be kind to others.

It takes two to make a quarrel, so the saying goes: "Make big things small and small things nothing." There is always a way to resolve matters peacefully and harmoniously in the world. At the same time, we must also learn to avoid those who are adept at stirring up trouble, to prevent problems before they arise.

Health issues in 2024 are highlighted by gallbladder diseases and pain in the limbs. Additionally, respiratory diseases due to lung infections and communicable diseases are inevitable. It is still crucial for everyone to take strict precautions while traveling and socializing. This year, the incidence of diseases is more pronounced among women, hence, women are in particular need to strengthen their awareness of disease prevention and epidemic control. Women should not harbor any sense of luck or complacency.

This year is marked by severe wind disasters, accompanied by financial calamities. Natural disasters in Southeast Asia are inevitable. Additionally, the western regions of various countries are experiencing instability. People should stay informed about global events when traveling or going out. In the event of disasters, it's crucial to relocate and take protective measures in a timely manner.

Economically, 2024 will be a year marked by a shortage of funds, with many nations increasing their fiscal expenditures significantly. This year, investments should be made with great caution. In the face of a highly volatile situation, it is advised not to take undue risks. The southwestern regions of various countries have significant development prospects. Additionally, favorable economic situations are emerging in the eastern regions.

The year 2024 is marked as a year of major fires in the southern regions. However, fires are not limited to the south, as they are occurring in many areas. It is imperative for both homes and businesses to pay close attention to safety and to promptly eliminate any fire hazards.

In 2024, the theme for health is focused on nurturing the kidneys. Excessive exertion can lead to the depletion of yang energy. It's important to pay attention to keeping warm and engaging in appropriate exercise to continually enhance one's immune function. The benefits of meditation and nurturing one's health are boundless. Everyone should find suitable health-nurturing methods based on their individual circumstances.

Beneficial healthy foods for the year include black and red foods. Black foods include black beans, black sesame seeds, black rice, walnuts, and black fungus. Examples of red foods include tomatoes, strawberries, carrots, and red beets. These foods are considered advantageous for maintaining good health.

According to Feng Shui theory, in 2024, there are three auspicious directions and two inauspicious directions to consider.

The three auspicious directions are: Southwest, East, and North.

Southwest direction: Greatly beneficial for wealth, real estate, and agriculture. To prosper financially this year, focus on the southwest. For homes or company entrances facing southwest, or those with an orientation in this direction, seize the opportunity to harness the energy of heaven and earth to change your fortune; such opportunities should not be missed. This year, senior women in companies, comparable to grandmothers in age, will rise unexpectedly and bring significant benefits to the group. Their experience proves invaluable and timeless. Moreover, women who are mothers in the company will also enjoy prosperous financial fortunes. Utilizing the most senior women or grandmotherly figures in the company will bring boundless benefits. Those with Chinese zodiac signs of the Sheep and Monkey will particularly stand out.

East direction: High prosperity in wealth. Residences or company entrances facing east, or those oriented in this direction, will be favorably positioned. This direction is advantageous for industries related to circulation, management, construction, plants, agriculture, forestry, furniture, and stationery. Boys who are the eldest in the family will have good fortune. In companies, individuals aged between 38 to 57 years will be smart, agile, and stand out. Making good use of this age group will yield twice the result with half the effort. They will manage the enterprise efficiently and steadily. Particularly, those with the Chinese zodiac sign of the Hare will perform outstandingly.

North direction: From 2024 to 2027, this direction continues to be beneficial. It remains favorable for industries such as market marketing, public relations, import-export trade, and the insurance and loan sectors. However, there should be an awareness of potential crises, as there will be significant changes after 2028. The operations in these industries will undergo fundamental changes. Advance planning is necessary to seek new opportunities or adapt strategies. Residences or companies with entrances or orientations in this direction will still enjoy the advantage of good timing. In families or companies, males aged between 19 to 38 years will be particularly fortunate. Those with the Chinese zodiac sign of the Rat will stand out significantly.

The three inauspicious directions for 2024 are: Southeast, West, and South

Southeast direction: Unfavorable for health, with a higher incidence of illnesses. Homes or businesses with doors opening to or facing this direction should be particularly cautious. It is especially important to take preventive measures in advance. Women aged between 39 to 58 years should pay close attention to their health. Early prevention and treatment of diseases are crucial. This year, it is important to avoid overexertion; sufficient sleep and proper nutrition are very important. Women who are the eldest in their families should pay special attention to their health. Women with the Chinese zodiac signs of the Dragon and Snake need to be especially careful.

West direction: Prone to verbal disputes and impulsive misjudgments. Special care is needed for homes or businesses with doors opening to or facing this direction. Improving the Feng Shui layout of this direction in advance is very important. People living in such houses are likely to encounter problems due to excessive talking. Special attention should be given to the youngest daughter in the family, or girls aged 19 and under. It's important to speak kindly and treat people amicably. Parents should spend more time communicating with their youngest daughter, not considering it a bother or sparing the time. If they face issues, these are likely to be serious and should not be taken lightly. Women with the Chinese zodiac sign of the Rooster may face various problems.