An exciting tradition during the Chinese New Year is checking up on the predictions for the coming year according to your zodiac animal. With advice from Joey Yap, founder of the Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics, here are some ideas on how to best navigate the ups and downs that have yet to unfold according to your horoscope.
RAT
The year 2026 stands directly opposite the Rat in the zodiac cycle, so this quick-witted and resourceful being must brace itself for a period that may feel as if it is perpetually swimming against the current. Though challenges may arise, it will bring valuable lessons in resilience if met with patience, strategy and adaptability — which should not be difficult as there is a natural inclination towards these traits. Entraining with fluid rhythms and supportive energies will lend perspective when the entire edifice of one’s identity and survival begins to crack. Wise counsel will appear at the right moment, but the rodent must stay vigilant and be open to recognising it.
Building balance in daily routines is vital to combating potential burnout. Moderate exercise, mindful practices and sufficient rest will do wonders. Core Atelier offers a range of classes to keep you going in this otherwise turbulent year. Sign up for the Stability Chair class, which strengthens your core, improves balance and targets smaller muscles for functional movement. Designed to help coordination and practice depth, this session will guide you towards strength, inner stillness and an energetic reset. (coreatelierpilates.com)
TIGER
If the Horse is dynamism and energy, then the Tiger is aggression and tension. This sign will have a tendency to be uncharacteristically wound up as they face tension around them. They will suffer with decision-making, which will be a source of frustration. Emotional uncertainties may leave the feline restless, with symptoms such as disturbed sleep or vivid dreams. Stress management is key to maintaining calm and avoiding points of contention with loved ones. It is not all doom and gloom though. With every hurdle thrown your direction, a push for growth will guide you to unexpected and exciting adventures. Your inherent courage and confidence will help you rise above.
It is advised to retreat under cool shade and be by water to cultivate composure and restraint. When it all starts to feel too overwhelming, book a trip to Amanpuri, Phuket. It has long been a sanctuary for those seeking a positive shift. Harnessing the ancient healing arts of Thailand, as well as the best of modern science, the Holistic Wellness Centre offers tailored spa treatments, personalised wellness immersions and bespoke programmes to restore the body, mind and spirit. Alongside the 12 treatment rooms, the centre also comes equipped with a glass-walled gym, infrared sauna and steam room. (aman.com)
See also: Start a new health chapter at Prologue
OX
The Ox has all the attributes and helping hands from the stars to be this year’s boss, literally. The Year of the Horse gallops in with fast, fiery energy, but this rather large bovine prefers to plough carefully through life. This clash in pace will bring cosmic tests tailored specifically to push oxen out of their comfort zone to thrive. There is an abundance of opportunities to advance their careers and bring financial stability, but caution must be taken to avoid rash decisions. Being one of the luckier signs in 2026, this zodiac animal experiences acceleration in anything they choose to pursue. Focus on building an extensive network while staying grounded in the midst of the chaos that comes along with it. Plans will move forward without hiccups, openings will appear faster and long-term goals will become more attainable now than ever before.
Prepare and strategise for a rewarding season of life with a Montblanc notebook. The cover is expertly crafted with red Sartorial leather and features a unique printed motif inspired by the festive season. Echoing the spirit of the Fire Horse, the artwork evokes the power of the written word — use this to manifest your desires and it will all work in your favour. (montblanc.com)
RABBIT
Multiple auspicious stars are blessing the Rabbit in 2026, bringing a strong fortune overall. Kind and like- minded people will appear more frequently and their already good reputation will improve. On the flip side, they may need some help with vetting admirers, identifying stalkers and establishing boundaries, but it is important that they still put themselves out there. Rabbits are advised to stay level-headed and not halt progress after only one small win. To avoid misfortune, stay cautious and on course when things are going in a positive direction. Your ability to navigate the year will improve if you remain grounded and avoid losing sight of the bigger picture when minor issues arise.
Although your overall health will be stable, mental exhaustion is possible if you are over- exerting yourself. Emotional fatigue may plague you. To prioritise staying present, it may be helpful to do something tactile and meditative with your hands. The Potters’ Guilt offers both hand building as well as pottery wheel classes, or if you are unsure, a one-off class to start with. This activity is proven to show significant wellness benefits, serving as a therapeutic outlet that lowers cortisol levels and promotes mindfulness. It will be beneficial for the bunny to have a social interest that provides a creative and tangible sense of accomplishment to remain optimistic in the months ahead. (thepottersguilt.com)
See also: Spa wars
DRAGON
Dragons are in for a mixed but promising ride. While there are some inauspicious stars stirring the pot, there is still much promise of growth. By staying steady and flexible, this mystical being’s natural charisma will carry them through their issues. Making a comprehensive plan for the coming months will ensure nothing stands in the way of success in your career. Obstacles can be transformed into stepping stones, making it a time of hidden rewards.
Travel is sure to bring you luck and serenity. Jetset to Como Shambhala Estate, located in the heart of the jungle in Bali. Celebrate with the Lunar New Year Offer and nourishing cuisine at the restaurant glow. Enjoy sacred water spring rituals, advanced tech-health therapies and sunrise horseback rides with each activity restoring balance and shaping a purposeful, resilient start to the months ahead. Complimentary breakfasts, a three-course dinner at glow and return airport transfers are part of this limited-time experience. (comohotels.com)
SNAKE
The enigmatic, intelligent and wise Snake will finally feel like the curtains have been lifted after a long rehearsal. Now that the obstacles of your year will come to an end, this will be a period for stepping into the spotlight with sharper instincts and greater resilience. The blazing atmosphere of the season will amplify your wisdom, creating a cycle of heightened momentum. There will be smoother progress in areas where problems from the past can become valuable breakthroughs and recognition.
Unfortunately, mood swings and overworking can take a big toll on the serpent’s mental health. Reclaiming stillness and restful spaces are imperative to moving forward productively. Head over to a contrast therapy session at Rise and Plunge for better moods, muscle recovery and improved circulation. With the use of infrared saunas and cold plunge pools, this practice involves alternating exposure from hot to cold temperatures, promoting physiological responses to better your overall well-being. For the best results, you should incorporate this into your routine two to three times a week. (riseandplunge.com)
HORSE
Exuberance is what the Horse is all about. After all, this is their time to shine after another 12 years, not to mention the first Fire Horse in six decades. Excess energy sits within each steed, ready to be released in a wave of inevitable success. Be it a new role at work or a blossoming romance that flourishes, the path is paved perfectly for the swift Horse.
This confidence may very well become the Horse’s downfall if not managed with care. While going gung-ho on every plan and setting big dreams into action seems like a great idea, slowing down and contemplating is necessary. A bit of preparation goes a long way to hone one’s blade, while a forgiving mentality can be the little nudge needed to push away self-doubt. Put aside (and grow) from past mistakes, and ensure that what you leave behind is a legacy to be remembered rather than a flash in the pan.
When the brain is all aflutter with endless possibilities, this year’s star of the zodiac can turn to a reliable space to jot down ideas. As with most e-ink tablets, the Supernote Manta does one thing and excels at it — it provides a clean slate to scribble on without the distraction of modern-day applications. The A5-sized device is made to feel like writing on paper, and users can customise their digital notebooks to their liking. The Supernote can be synced to most productivity software, creating an optimised workflow for the ever-productive. (supernote.my)
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GOAT
Rather than flying solo, the empathetic Goat does best from within a community. Alliances and good connections with others are the way forward this year. The stars align to bring out the natural leader within, along with sharper intuition and clarity.
The trap of becoming a “yes man” is laid out ever so invitingly to the Goat, and it would do well for them to draw boundaries and know when to say no. Danger lies in losing oneself to the collective. After all, it can be easier to assimilate into a group for the sake of belonging than to hold on to what makes you unique. The Goat may find themselves fighting for attention, and when visibility arises, feelings of envy and pride may linger in the shadow of success.
A group setting where the Goat can be themselves best without overextending is ideal. Get away from the city and spend time with those that matter most at Tiarasa Escapes, a glamping getaway in Janda Baik’s verdant rainforests. Suitable for families or small groups of adults, the site offers refined comforts amid nature. Bonfire nights and generational dishes at the onsite café give ample opportunity to bond, while nature walks and birdwatching activities let one appreciate the serene surroundings. (tiarasaescapes.com)
MONKEY
Another heavy hitter in 2026 is the Monkey. Swinging through paths rather than sticking to them, Monkeys thrive with their brilliant minds, having solutions to problems and coming across breakthroughs at every turn. Their momentum builds up, allowing for clear decisions that only seem to propel them further.
Yet this inertia can crumble, as faster does not always mean better. Stuck on old successes or approaches to issues, the speedy primate might lose sight of what guides them towards their goals. These former victories have to give way to new analyses to grow. In the rush of life, the Monkey might find themselves alone: although not a bad thing, it may be more than they wanted and result in emotional distance.
The Monkey will travel far, wide and well, but instead of zipping through all the world has to offer like a game of speed chess, they should revel in solitude and peace. A solo excursion to El Nido Resorts’ escape on Pangalusian Island in the Philippines is a fun way to soak up the sun and relish the silence.
Through time spent lounging by the emerald sea or wriggling one’s toes in the warm white sands of the beach, the Monkey can rebuild their bonds with themselves and gain a new perspective. (ayalalandhospitality.com)
ROOSTER
Placed on a stage, the Rooster shines. Their performative nature, combined with an expressive spirit and detail-oriented mind, attracts a wave of partnerships (and perhaps a new beau) that allows their creativity to prosper. As the bird has already won over the hearts of many, those born in its time must lead with emotion and resonate with their listeners, rather than be boisterous and demanding to be heard.
The magnetic Rooster dazzles rather than gleams like the Rabbit. This charismatic draw can result in them running into conflicts everywhere. Instead of honesty, their words can be mistaken for harshness and may unintentionally disguise their perfectionism in high standards. Relationships may break down, leading to a spiral of unhealthy patterns and disorganisation.
To stay centred and strong, the fowl can seize the flames of the Fire Horse to burn away their austerity for something softer and deeper. Absorb the warmth of nature through a week-long rest at The Dusun in Negeri Sembilan, an eco-friendly accommodation nestled in the foothills of the Titiwangsa Main Range and Berembun Forest Reserve. Private villas — some pet-friendly — sit within a lush forest, sharing the space with the caretaker’s home, fish pond, deer enclosure, vegetable garden and countless fruit trees. Take a dip in the nearby river (beware of leeches during the rainy season) or disconnect from worries amid the towering trees on a guided jungle trek. (thedusun.com.my)
DOG
The devoted Dog gets its just rewards after a turbulent period a few years ago. Their tests of loyalty and financial strains have compounded into calmer moments of self-discovery and steady progress. Allies come out from the woodwork to deal with sudden changes, and now the steadfast hound — who often find themselves shouldering the burdens of others alone — can rebuild from within.
Much like the Goat, growth comes from inside. The sensitive pooch will benefit from its anxiety by paying attention to the fine details. Handling mountains of fine print now prevents overthinking from taking precedence and lets the Dog ground themselves in what needs to be done.
Staying focused requires regular maintenance for the body and soul. Those born in the Year of the Dog may benefit from a relaxing day out at Kantik by Goyo, a cave-style spa experience located in The Exchange TRX. Inspired by Korean hanok architecture and the natural curves of a grotto, the establishment provides a head, facial and traditional Seshin body scrub experience in a private space in the bustling city. Specialists work out knots and tension with massages, equipped with the best of Korean beauty products to ensure Dogs leave feeling pampered. (goyo.com.my)
BOAR
Open-hearted and kind, the Boar is built for connections and appreciates good company. This year centres on refining things around them, especially when it comes to finances and work. Though things may seem slow at the start, 2026 rewards Boars when they build on things that increase in value over time. Conflicts smooth out, skills are honed with care and their credibility grows.
The trusting Boar is in danger of not only itself — workaholism peers around the corner for those working hard to prove themselves — but also others who may take its kindness as a weakness. Self-doubt creeps in, but the time of the Fire Horse brings a flame that burns away such thoughts. Coupled with better impulse control, the Boar gains wealth by knowing what a worthy investment in themselves is.
A good way to invest in oneself is through food. The phrase “Healthy body, healthy mind” is not echoed lightly, and Amazin’ Graze embodies this mentality by providing a treasure trove of nutritious snacks. Popular selections include granola and nut mixes to go with yoghurt, milk or enjoyed on their own, as well as protein blends for those on the go or on restricted diets. Gain not only material abundance but also physical wellness, which lends perfectly to the Boar’s goal for strong self-worth. (amazingraze.com)
