If the Year of the Water Tiger brought a sense of busyness, the 12 months ahead in the Year of the Water Rabbit may present an opportunity for relaxation, stillness, and contemplation.
As the Year of the Water Rabbit begins on January 22, people can expect a sudden shift in pace, bidding farewell to the roaring tiger and welcoming a gentler zodiac sign.
The Tiger and the Rabbit differ both anatomically and behaviorally, a distinction that is also reflected in astrology.
The Year of the Water Rabbit is a year of contemplation. (Photo: Quỳnh Danh).
A Wave of Peace
In 2022, strength, vitality, and growth characterized life, reinforced by the dynamic nature of the tiger.
Additionally, according to ancient Chinese philosophical principles, with its yang characteristic, the year 2022 made people feel enthusiastic, positive, and productive, but also accompanied by restlessness and anxiety, as noted by the Japan Times.
However, the Year of the Water Rabbit in 2023 embodies yin qualities, reflecting relaxation, grace, tranquility, and contemplation.
In many countries such as China, South Korea, and Japan, the Rabbit symbolizes gentleness, being the most mild-mannered of the 12 zodiac animals in these East Asian countries.
Therefore, if 2022 left people feeling rushed, challenged, or busy, 2023 will offer a chance for reflection, rest, and nurturing both body and soul to regain balance between yin and yang.
2023 will provide opportunities for reflection, rest, and nurturing the body. (Photo: Kelvin Valerio/Pexels).
Chinese astrologer Jupiter Lai noted that the Year of the Water Rabbit not only provides a time for rest after the “powerful, fierce, and authoritative” impact of the Year of the Tiger.
“This zodiac sign is quiet, submissive, gentle, and kind, yet very agile and intelligent,” she shared. “This symbolizes creativity, adaptability to new environments, and the ability to move quickly to self-protect in dangerous or unfavorable circumstances.”
Thus, the overall energy of 2023 is likely to be gentle and calm, suitable for those seeking “a more balanced life”, she further explained. Some may find themselves moving more, thanks to the “agility of the representative zodiac sign.”
Veteran astrologer Cathryn Moe from Hawaii also agrees with this perspective. She pointed out that this year’s Lunar New Year will “bring a wave of peace,” confidence, and comfort.
“The gentle approach of the Year of the Rabbit will soothe the ups and downs experienced in the past Year of the Tiger. Even when facing obstacles in 2023, people will draw on the quiet resilience of the Rabbit year to overcome them,” Moe added.
Content creator Joe Moody also shared that during the Year of the Water Rabbit, “everything will finally settle down.” “People will be more at peace, happier, and focused on recognition,” Moody stated, according to Express.
A Good Time for Marriage
The zodiac representing the Year of the Water Rabbit in the three East Asian countries also indicates similar predictions. The seemingly delicate nature of the Rabbit conceals a quiet confidence and strength. This creature moves steadily towards its goals, despite any negative circumstances it encounters.
“The qualities of this zodiac sign are receptive and intuitive. In the coming year, you may not know how each moment connects to the next, but you are aware of your priorities and can steer clear of distractions to move forward,” Moe explained.
The mascot on Nguyen Hue Flower Street. (Photo: Quỳnh Danh).
According to the Five Elements, the Water element in the Year of the Water Rabbit corresponds to Water. The Year of the Tiger also has a water heavenly stem, but its yang nature often corresponds to dynamic water, such as rushing rivers, strong waves, large waterfalls, and seas.
In contrast, the Water element of the Year of the Water Rabbit is “agile and elegant.” This is characterized by calmer bodies of water, such as ponds, lakes, or spring rains.
“As 2023 is the Year of the Water Rabbit, the days of the year will exhibit flexible change,” Moe noted.
For those accustomed to setting and adhering to fixed plans, 2023 “will soften their schedules,” the American astrologer explained further, although it may require a period of adjustment.
Astrologers recommend that to succeed in career or finances in 2023, individuals should begin their improvement or development plans right at the start of the year to ensure the highest chances of success.
In terms of relationships, the Year of the Water Rabbit will present many opportunities in love, as the zodiac representing this year is an emotionally rich creature.
“Invest more time and effort into making friends and building social connections. This will yield many benefits in 2023. In love, singles may have numerous chances to meet new people, and couples can also improve their relationships,” Lai analyzed.
2023 is even considered an auspicious time for marriage. Moe also suggested that by mid-January, the excitement of the festival will gradually subside, reflecting the quiet energy of the Year of the Rabbit, bringing an exciting yet relaxed rhythm of life, full of determination.