Western and Eastern astrology both have twelve signs, but the Chinese signs do not mirror those of the Western zodiac. The Chinese use a lunar calendar based on the moon's cycle. As a result, the dates that the signs encompass change yearly. But just like Western astrology, each sign has its own definitive characteristics and traits.
The 12 Animal Signs
The twelve signs of the Chinese horoscope are symbolised by twelve animals. It is believed that a person takes the characteristics of the animal in whose year they are born. There is also a cycle of five elements - wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Therefore a complete Chinese horoscope cycle takes 60 years.
The Chinese Zodiac is a powerful melange of Taoism, I-Ching, or Book of Change, the teaching of Lao Tze and Confucius and the final touch from the disciples of Buddha.
