Chinese Astrology Characteristics Compared and Contrasted with Western Astrology

In order to understand astrology it is important to understand Chinese astrology characteristics as well as western astrology characteristics. These studies are different in some ways and the same in some ways.

Both of these traditions deal with positioning of various celestial bodies at given times of the year-particularly the sun and the moon. These studies also deal with various elements of the universe.

Moreover, Chinese and Western astrology are very scientific as well as spiritual in nature. Along with that, they are both often used in determining one or more aspects of a person's future.

Several Chinese astrology characteristics differ from the characteristics of Western astrological thought. For instance, the Chinese zodiac cycle is based upon a twelve year cycle instead of a one-year cycle.

Furthermore, the Chinese zodiac is based upon a calendar cycle, and not upon the positioning of constellations. This characteristic is very different from Western tradition which involves the positioning of the twelve most popular constellations.

Another major difference between Chinese astrology and Western astrology is the number and type of elements involved. The Chinese elements include the wood, fire, water, earth, and metal (five altogether). The Western elements include water, fire, earth, and air (four altogether).

Both the Chinese and Western lists of astrological signs fall within either four or five of categories represented by the corresponding elements. These all indicate various types of personalities.

For instance, persons of signs that fall under the wood element are born in the year of the Tiger, Rabbit, or Dragon. Usually these individuals are gentle yet persuasive at times and co-operative. They often seek to learn and grow.

One of the other most important Chinese astrology characteristics is the element of fire. Within this elemental category are the Snake, Horse and Sheep, which are part of the twelve-year Chinese Zodiac cycle. These persons are often kind-hearted, innovative, restless, and independent.

Additionally, persons born of the Chinese earth element signs are usually ambitioned, disciplined, and/or prideful. They are also very determined, and like to be in control.

The metal element of Chinese astrology categorizes persons of various zodiac signs who are strong, tenacious, forceful, determined, independent, respectful, and kind. Likewise, persons of the water element are often kind, caring, and compassionate, as well as intuitive.

In contrast, persons of Western fire signs often possess characteristics such as enthusiasm, confidence, self-sufficiency, romanticism. Similarly, those of the earth sign are usually practical, stable, rigid, sensual, determined, patient, and sensitive.

Persons of Western air signs are usually communicative, intelligent, talkative, and social. On the other hand, persons born of water signs are said to be more intuitive, deep, emotional, and kind.

Now that you know a little more about Chinese astrology characteristics when compared and contrasted with Western study, you will know how to better apply them. Often this is done with the help of a professional.