Discover the ancient wisdom behind relationship harmony through the Chinese zodiac system
Chinese astrology, or Shengxiao, is one of the oldest astrological systems in the world, with origins dating back over 2,000 years. Unlike Western astrology which focuses on birth month, Chinese astrology assigns characteristics based on your birth year, creating a 12-year cycle of animal signs.
This system combines three key elements: the 12 zodiac animals, the 5 fundamental elements (Wu Xing), and the yin-yang polarity. Together, these create a rich tapestry of personality traits and compatibility patterns that have guided relationships throughout Chinese history.
Each animal represents unique traits and energies
Clever, resourceful, and quick-witted. Rats are charming and ambitious, with excellent social skills and sharp business acumen.
Diligent, dependable, and determined. Oxen are known for their strength, patience, and methodical approach to achieving goals.
Brave, competitive, and confident. Tigers are natural leaders with magnetic personalities and a passion for adventure.
Gentle, elegant, and compassionate. Rabbits are artistic souls with refined taste and a natural talent for diplomacy.
Powerful, ambitious, and charismatic. Dragons are natural achievers with big dreams and the confidence to pursue them.
Wise, intuitive, and sophisticated. Snakes are deep thinkers with excellent intuition and an appreciation for life's finer things.
Energetic, independent, and adventurous. Horses love freedom and travel, bringing enthusiasm and warmth to their relationships.
Creative, gentle, and empathetic. Goats are artistic and kind-hearted, with a strong sense of justice and appreciation for beauty.
Clever, curious, and witty. Monkeys are problem-solvers with quick minds and a playful sense of humor that lights up any room.
Observant, hardworking, and confident. Roosters are honest and practical, with strong attention to detail and pride in their accomplishments.
Loyal, honest, and protective. Dogs are devoted partners and friends, valuing integrity and fairness above all else.
Generous, compassionate, and sincere. Pigs are warm-hearted individuals who enjoy life's pleasures and value genuine connections.
Each element adds another layer of personality and compatibility
Growth, creativity, kindness, flexibility
Passion, energy, enthusiasm, warmth
Stability, practicality, reliability, nurturing
Wisdom, intuition, adaptability, depth
Elements support and nurture each other in a creative cycle: Wood feeds Fire, Fire creates Earth (ash), Earth bears Metal, Metal carries Water (condensation), Water nourishes Wood. Partners with elements in this cycle naturally support each other's growth.
Elements also have controlling relationships: Wood parts Earth, Earth absorbs Water, Water extinguishes Fire, Fire melts Metal, Metal chops Wood. Understanding this cycle helps partners navigate power dynamics mindfully.
Understanding the groups and relationships between signs
Animals in the same trine share similar personalities and values, creating naturally harmonious relationships.
Special pairs that share a deep, private understanding: Rat-Ox, Tiger-Pig, Rabbit-Dog, Dragon-Rooster, Snake-Monkey, Horse-Goat.
Opposite signs that may face challenges: Rat-Horse, Ox-Goat, Tiger-Monkey, Rabbit-Rooster, Dragon-Dog, Snake-Pig. These pairings require more effort but can still thrive.
The fundamental duality in Chinese philosophy
Every zodiac year alternates between Yin (receptive, internal, feminine energy) and Yang (active, external, masculine energy). Even years are Yang, odd years are Yin.
Couples with opposite polarities often experience natural balance and complementary dynamics, while same-polarity couples share similar approaches but may need to consciously create balance.
Now that you understand the principles, find out how you and your partner match up.
Calculate Your Compatibility