Patience, strategic growth are key Year of the Snake themes — feng shui expert
January 29, 2025
9:32AM PHT
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As the world enters the Year of the Snake in 2025, feng shui expert Patrick Lim Fernandez provided valuable insights into the economic and personal trends that will define the year ahead.
Speaking at a luncheon hosted by SM Supermalls and its president Steven Tan for business partners and the media, the geomancer and Harvard University alumnus emphasized that this Chinese astrological year will be marked by the need for patience in achieving business goals as progress may not unfold as swiftly as expected.
Fernandez highlighted key industries that are poised to perform well in 2025, driven by the dominant elements of the year: water and metal.
Patrick Lim Fernandez notes that businesses related to the water element will be lucky in the Year of the Snake./Photo by Dax Lucas
Businesses related to the water element are expected to experience above-average growth, including:
Hospitality and travel: With global tourism rebounding, businesses in hotels, airlines, and leisure services will thrive.
Trading and logistics: The movement of goods, especially e-commerce-driven logistics, will see significant expansion.
Sales and supermarkets: Retail sectors focusing on essential goods and beverages will continue to flourish.
Aquatics and hygiene: Products and services related to cleanliness and sanitation remain in high demand.
Data analytics: As businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, analytics firms will see steady growth.
... as will businesses related to the metal element./Photo by Dax Lucas
Several metal-related sectors are expected to perform above average, including:
Banking and finance: The financial sector will benefit from strong investor confidence and technological advancements.
Automobile and machinery: Demand for vehicles and industrial equipment will remain robust.
Jewelry, skincare, and beauty: Luxury and self-care industries will enjoy steady consumer spending.
Medical and dental Services: Health and wellness continue to be a top priority, driving demand for medical expertise and services.
Fernandez also touched on the broader transition into the so-called Period 9, a 20-year feng shui cycle that began in 2024 and will last until 2043. Key themes for this period include:
A shift towards self-discovery: Individuals will seek personal growth and inner fulfillment, leading to a surge in demand for spiritual and self-help services.
Influencer economy: The rise of digital personalities and reputation-based careers will accelerate.
Empowerment of women: Female clientele and workforce participation will increase, making gender inclusivity a key business strategy.
Emerging technologies: Businesses should embrace artificial intelligence, blockchain, virtual commerce, and sustainable energy solutions to remain competitive.
Looking ahead, he pointed to industries that will continue to grow steadily throughout the Period 9 cycle, including technology and AI, virtual commerce and cryptocurrency, aviation and space travel, sustainable energy solutions, and entertainment and events.
Fernandez also provided specific forecasts for each of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs, offering guidance on how to navigate 2025 effectively.
Patrick Lim Fernandez' 2025 predictions and advice for people born in the Year of the Rat./Photo By Dax Lucas
Watch out for minor obstacles that may bring unexpected opportunities.
Ox:
A year of creativity in personal and professional life.
Be cautious of potential misunderstandings.
Pay attention to health and avoid routine-related injuries.
Tiger:
A strategic year; ideal for long-term planning.
Unexpected wealth opportunities may arise.
Avoid gossip and maintain a circle of positive influences.
Rabbit:
A year of personal growth and self-improvement.
Strong attraction energy; practice sound decision-making in relationships.
Strengthen family connections.
Dragon:
A breakthrough year for surpassing expectations.
Focus on personal and professional goal setting.
Ensure a balance between work and rest to maintain health.
Snake:
Spotlight year with increased influence and recognition.
Surround yourself with trusted advisors.
Avoid overthinking decisions; act with confidence.
Horse:
Multiple income streams will bring financial growth.
Influential male mentors may play a key role.
Expect minor conflicts; maintain harmony in relationships.
Goat:
Focus on deepening valuable friendships.
Manage health risks through proactive measures.
Avoid unnecessary conflicts in the workplace and home.
Monkey:
Seek mentorship from strong female influences.
Business opportunities will come from new connections.
Stay away from unnecessary drama.
Rooster:
A year of career advancement and recognition.
Leadership skills will be further developed.
Be cautious with legal matters; seek proper advice.
Dog:
A social year with opportunities for expansion.
Let go of past grudges to welcome positive changes.
Practice financial discipline to avoid unnecessary spending.
Pig:
Potential conflicts and challenges; maintain a charitable outlook.
Travel opportunities will bring positive energy.
Be mindful of financial outflows; prioritize investments.
Fernandez also provided practical feng shui tips to maximize good fortune in 2025:
Career enhancement: Activate the West sector with green accents.
Relationship growth: Enhance the Southeast with blue or black elements.
Health protection: Use white, gold, or silver in the home center to counter sickness energy.
The luncheon's host, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, says the retail conglomerate will open three malls in 2025 — La Union, Laoag, and "finally a big one" in Zambanga City — and will unveil the redeveloped and expansion Mall of Asia complex soon./Video by Dax Lucas
To ensure a smooth transition into the Year of the Snake, Fernandez advised getting a haircut and decluttering living spaces, avoiding borrowing or lending money, and making amends with estranged friends or family members.
On New Year's Day, individuals should display fresh flowers and fill rice bins, wear new clothes (except shoes, which should be purchased in advance), and greet family members only after they have woken up naturally.
Fernandez's insights for the Year of the Snake emphasize patience, strategic growth, and adapting to long-term trends.
By leveraging favorable industries, aligning with feng shui principles, and staying mindful of their zodiac forecasts, he said individuals and businesses can navigate 2025 with confidence and purpose.