2025: A Year of Mastery

The lunar new year is almost here, and it's time for reflection, release, and preparation for the oncoming opportunity for mastery over the year ahead.

In numerology, a 9 year (2+0+2+5) can symbolise the end of a cycle, however in yogic teachings 9 relates to the Subtle Body. Being closely tied with the Soul Body, the subtle body invites us to attend to Mastery, and not simply mastery itself, but mastery for that which ignites the soul! And with 9 representing the element of fire itself, there is a real opportunity to light the internal fire this year.

In 2025, according to the Chinese calendar and Zodiac, we arrive upon the year of the Snake in the element of wood. Snakes in many traditions are considered to be cunning and temptuous, but also a symbol of transformation through the shedding of skin. As the 6th sign of the zodiac, they are the midway point of the 12 signs, and are said to embody the force of Yin, differing from the Dragon of 2024 which embodied both Yin and Yang; and although the forces of the two differ, the snake is often named 'the little Dragon' through form.

When working with the polarities of the Snake, we learn that in shadow they can be insecure, suspicious, and wear an armour of protection, however in light they can be passionate, adaptable, calm, and wise. In nature, being one with the ability to adapt to both land and the river current, alike the number 9, snakes also symbolise fire, and therefore this adaptability and opportunity for personal ignition is exactly what we all need for 2025.

With every return to a zodiac sign, comes also a pairing element, and this year the Snake is in the element of Wood, which continues from last year. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, wood is the force of Yang, it is the mother and fuel of fire, and represents growth, vitality, expansion, and nurturing ways. It is also said to govern the digestion through the liver and gallbladder, as well as the smooth flow of Qi when in balance. When out of balance there can be heightened emotions of anger and frustration, inability to grow, and problems with digestion. Ensuring a healthy diet and good digestion throughout 2025 will aide balance.

When putting the Snake and element of Wood together, we are in for a wonderful rise from our previous year. However, it's all a choice as to whether there is a readiness for de-armouring and transformation, as well as the closing of unhealthy cycles in readiness for our new skins. Are you ready?

To go a little deeper, visit the Embodying the Wood Snake yoga practices for 2025 via https://www.thesunshinechannel.com.au/programs

Have a blessed year of the Wood Snake.

Nicole x

Nicole Edwards is a Yoga Teacher, Coach, and Meditation Therapist, from the Gold Coast and Brisbane regions of Australia. Contact TheSunshineChannel@outlook.com to connect or book a 1:1 session, class, program, or workshop, at https://thesunshinechannel.com.au today.