Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is steeped in centuries of cultural beliefs and traditions. As the lunar calendar ushers in the Year of the Wood Snake, this year carries unique significance in Chinese astrology. Known for wisdom, intuition, and adaptability, the Wood Snake symbolizes a year of thoughtful planning, resourcefulness, and subtle transformation.
To welcome prosperity and harmony in this pivotal year, here’s a look at the key beliefs, do’s and don’ts, and lesser-known traditions to observe during the Chinese New Year season.
Key Beliefs For The Year Of The Wood Snake
- Harness the Element of Wood
The Wood Snake combines the transformative energy of the snake with the nurturing and creative power of the wood element. This suggests a year where growth, learning, and flexibility will be emphasized. Planting a small tree or adding plants to your home is considered an auspicious way to align with this energy, inviting both personal and professional growth. - Embrace Patience and Strategy
As snakes are known for their calculated movements, the Year of the Wood Snake encourages meticulous planning rather than rash decisions. Whether you’re making career moves or personal investments, focus on long-term benefits instead of quick wins.
Common Chinese New Year Do’s & Don’ts
Do’s
- Clean and Declutter Your Space
Before the Lunar New Year, it is customary to thoroughly clean your home to sweep away bad luck from the past year. However, avoid cleaning on the first day of the new year to prevent accidentally discarding good fortune. - Wear Lucky Colors
In the Year of the Wood Snake, green and brown—representing the wood element—are particularly auspicious. Pair these with red, the classic colour of Chinese New Year, for an extra boost of luck. - Give and Receive Red Packets (Ang Bao)
Red packets filled with money are a traditional way to share blessings. Make sure the amounts are even numbers, as odd numbers are associated with funerals. - Eat Symbolic Foods
Feast on dishes that symbolize prosperity, longevity, and happiness, such as dumplings (wealth), noodles (long life), and fish (abundance). For the Year of the Snake, dishes incorporating green vegetables or bamboo shoots can tie in with the wood element.
Don’ts
- Avoid Sharp Objects
Using knives or scissors during the first few days of Chinese New Year is considered bad luck, as they may “cut away” your fortune. - Don’t Speak Ill or Argue
Avoid using negative language or engaging in arguments during the celebration. Words related to death, illness, or loss are believed to invite misfortune. - Refrain from Breaking Items
Breaking dishes or glassware during the festive period is seen as a bad omen. If it happens, immediately say “Sui sui ping an” (岁岁平安), which means “peace and safety every year,” to counteract the bad luck.
Lesser-Known Traditions For Chinese New Year
- Lighting the Way for the Snake
In some regions, families light oil lamps on the eve of the new year to guide the snake spirit into their homes, symbolizing wisdom and protection. - Hanging Snake-Inspired Decorations
While the dragon and lion often take centre stage in traditional decorations, snake motifs are subtly incorporated during this zodiac year. These symbols are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring clarity to decision-making. - Avoiding “Snake Years” in Home Renovations
Traditional feng shui practices suggest avoiding major renovations in Snake years, as it is considered disruptive to the year’s tranquil energy. Instead, focus on smaller adjustments, like introducing wood furniture or green accents to enhance harmony. - Lantern Floating for Transformation
In some regions, floating lanterns are released on rivers during the final day of Chinese New Year. This practice represents letting go of the past and embracing personal growth, much like the snake shedding its skin.
A Year To Shed, Grow, And Shine
The Year of the Wood Snake offers a chance to focus on inner growth, calculated moves, and creative endeavours. By observing these do’s and don’ts and embracing lesser-known traditions, you’ll invite good fortune, harmony, and success into your life.
As you partake in the festivities, remember that Chinese New Year is not just about luck—it’s a celebration of renewal, family, and the resilience to thrive in the year ahead.