In 2021, the Lunar New Year begins at the new moon on February 12.
Every year is represented by an animal and an element. 2021 is a Metal Ox Year. However, each animal also relates to an element. The Ox is Earth. Hence, this is a Metal Earth Year. The first element “metal” is called the “heavenly stem” and represents spirituality. The second element, earth, is called the “earthly branch” and symbolizes the physical world, especially the environment and economy.
Elements may be either in harmony or conflict. This year the elements are in harmony. Because metal is mined from the earth, earth is considered the mother of metal. Thus, in this Year of the Ox, the earthly branch (earth element) is the source of the heavenly stem (metal). This indicates harmony of yin and yang, better environmental policies, economy more consistent with spirituality, and in general opportunities for positive change.
This is a good year to get things done, to leave the ruts, stagnation, and chaos of 2020. The ox is strong, hardworking, persevering, and honest. And because the ox is associated with agriculture, this is a year to plant new seeds of health and growth for ourselves and our communities.
… taken from Kenneth Cohen, Qigong Grand Master