“Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is a major festival celebrated at the beginning of the Chinese lunisolar calendar. Thought to have originated in ancient China around 3,500 years ago, it is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the new year,” says Xiaohuan Zhao in “Lunar New Year 2025: what does the Year of the Snake mean?” on the University of Sydney website. Although Lunar New Year 2025 ran from January 29th to February 12th, the sign of the zodiac and its effects won’t change until 2026.
Snakes belong to the yin, coming from the concept of yin and yang. The symbol for yin and yang, also known as the Taijitu, is circular, consisting of two teardrop-shaped halves. In its most recognizable form, one of the halves is black and one is white, with a small dot of the opposite color in each half. The black half is often referred to as “yin,” and it represents qualities we associate with the moon, such as darkness, passivity, receptivity, coolness, and femininity. Yang is represented by the white half, with qualities such as light, activity, warmth, and masculinity. As we navigate the complexities of life, the elusive Snake invites us to embrace the darker aspects of ourselves. It encourages a journey into our mysterious inner world, allowing us to emerge more whole and self-aware.
As we proceed through 2025, what will this zodiac year hold for us—particularly as it is associated with the enigmatic Snake? Traditional beliefs suggest that the Year of the Snake brings new beginnings, inviting us to shed old skin and emerge renewed. In fact, in Chinese mythology, says Zhou, the skin shed by snakes is interpreted as the dragon’s “coat.” Dragons are considered yang, imperial, powerful creatures who bring good luck and fortune. Snakes are considered miniature dragons, and therefore also evince regality. In the Year of the Snake, the regal qualities associated with snakes come to the forefront. We may find ourselves in strong positions of leadership or influence.
Traditionally, says Zhou, “the Chinese regard people born in the spring and summer of a Snake year as the most powerful and positive, while those born in winter are seen as relatively quiet and submissive, as winter is the time for snakes to hibernate.” Referencing zodiac experts, Monica Zurinski of the Calgary Herald writes that “the snake brings with it wisdom, transformation, calmness, and creativity. In fact, the Year of the Snake could be life-changing for many folks.”
As we wholeheartedly embrace these transformations, let us welcome the Snake into our lives and prepare ourselves for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Starting in March and continuing each month for the rest of the year, we will acknowledge a reptile local to our area and provide some cool factoids about it in this blog space. These reptiles are commonly found on Long Island and can be discovered in your backyard if you look carefully!