New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| Valentine's Day
Chinese New Year (tiger) The Chinese New Year celebration traditionally lasts fifteen days, much longer than the public holiday. Homes are decorated with vases of pretty blossoms, plates of oranges and tangerines, as well as a candy tray containing eight varieties of candied fruit and sweets. Auspicious words in Chinese calligraphy on red paper are pasted on doors and walls. Each year is governed by one of the twelve animals signs of the Chinese zodiac. This is the year of the tiger. Both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are celebrated as family affairs, a time for reunion and thanksgiving. Some hold a ceremony in honor of the gods of heaven and Earth, the gods of the household, and ancestors. Altars have platters of fruit, flowers, food, and Chinese wine placed before them. (White wine can be substituted.) Small red packets of money are given to children and unmarried young adults. A banquet dinner consisting of special dishes with auspicious names is eaten together. For regaining or achieving inner strength in dealing with difficult problems, meditate on the strength, courage, and sharp sight of the tiger. Place some oranges, sweets, fruit, flowers, and wine on the altar with an image of a tiger and connect with the animal's energies. |
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