Feng shui tips for the Year of the Tiger
After the challenging years of 2020 and 2021, everyone is gladly welcoming the fresh opportunities that come with the new year. So it is with the upcoming Year of the Water Tiger. 2020 and 2021 were known as Metal years, so we might have expected that automakers would benefit from the extra bit of luck. However, these years were marked by difficulties, first by reduced demand. Demand, powered by the need for personal mobility and easy money, soon revved back. But then, automakers encountered chaos in their production plans, notably because they failed to order enough computer chips. Meanwhile, the government’s own chaotic and kneejerk reactions to pandemic conditions wreaked havoc on mobility. Drivers and passengers alike not only had to be vigilant against infection. They had to contend with ever-changing rules, dangerous road partitions for bikes and buses, and even the return of the dubious number coding. So it’s with some relief and anticipation that we look at what’s in store for 2022.
We chatted with our friend and Feng Shui consultant Richard Yu and here are some of his thoughts on the Year of the Water Tiger:
“The Metal years that were 2020 and 2021 will forever be etched in the memory of many. This was a a period in our lives when as a individuals, families, and communities, we were beset with earth-shattering trials. The entry of 2022 marks the start of the Water years—a shift from stillness to movement. This is the chance to break away from stagnation we have been cursed with since 2020. Getting ready for the awesome changes ahead is what we should work on.
“Be aware that Water Tiger years are birthing years for awesome new ideas and new experiences. Being open-minded and able to see things objectively will open more doors for you. Augmenting this with the ability to remain calm despite what storm or excitement comes your way will take you to an even higher level, for calmness breeds fewer mistakes. Making fewer mistakes creates greater rewards when results arrive—something we have long been dreaming of during the past two years.
In particular, Mr. Yu has advice to help us achieve our mobility goals in 2022:
“Motoring our way towards success this Tiger year will not be easy – but it is not impossible either. One, we need to be in good condition just as how we demand it to be so too with our vehicles. Pushing ahead without making sure we are roadworthy lessens our chances of success. That means not just our physical body but mind and spirit as well. Nourishing it with good content will handsomely pay off in the end. A balanced mind and body supported by strong spirit can help us remain calm in the strongest of storms.
“Three: focus on positive thoughts and try to avoid any negative influence as much as what our abilities allow. The past two years have bombarded us with negative input. Adding more things to worry on this Water Tiger year is not going to be helpful to us if we wish to truly get back on our feet. Realizing our limits and errors are the keys to avoid hiccups during this Tiger year. When infused with the good word, especially [if we apply it to trials] the results can be impressive. For mental health, which must be at its optimum this Tiger year, immerse not on bad energy generators. Instead of exposing yourself to gossip, constant bombardment of news or even sad music change the channel to educational programs, lively music or even destress through sports.
“Cycling or walking (if permitted by current restrictions) can be helpful. Or simply take a drive through scenic roads. For those who miss their family members, friends or even pets that fell victim during this pandemic, think not of the sad memories but the joyful ones. In this way the universal law of yin and yang will favor you. Happy memories herald happy beginnings.”
As for those who desire an extra bit of luck in the year (and who doesn’t), Mr. Yu has some suggestions when it comes to selecting car colors. “Yellow, orange, (light) pink, and green, with the latter the best option as an auspicious color for this Tiger Year.
“Motoring towards success is never easy nor can shortcuts be easily found, even more so when the Tiger reigns as animal lord for the year. The colors pink, yellow and orange are all about awareness of your surroundings and those you are with. Pink is for sympathy, yellow is for happiness, and orange stands for joy.
“Green is the color of harmony and health. This is why it’s the recommended color for those who suffered much the past 2 years. Think of it as ‘malas medicine’. Imbibe fruits and veggies that are naturally green in color. You can also include such as part of your good deed package. And if you do this in the name of that lost family member or friend, it can and will further uplift their spirits to a higher level. This is also a reminder that we need to moderate our wants so our needs are not sacrificed. Remember, we are just recovering from stagnation of two years. Much work is still up ahead. Those who rest early on their laurels will suffer much on the latter half of this Tiger year.
“In closing, this Water Tiger year can reshape our fortunes. The auspicious colors clue us that life will return to active mode. The Tiger animal sign which lords for this lunar year reminds us not to be lazy, timid, rest too long on our laurels or become arrogant of our success. For such will lead us to be but prey. And the Water element shares that: thinking before acting will be a wise move. If we continue investing wisely our rewards that come harvest time, the Wood years, we will have much to reap,” shares Mr. Yu.
Gong xi fa cai!
