ALTHOUGH we were warned of the Rat’s bite, many were not prepared for the upheavals and misfortunes that hit the world in 2008.

Officially, the Rat only departs on Jan 26 – the day the Ox arrives – so technically, we still have about five days of the Rat year to live out.

Divination specialist Clarice Georgia Victoria Chan (right) has not only prepared some predictions as to the year ahead but also some useful feng shui tips for auspicious direction to welcome the God of Prosperity in the third volume of her Your Fortune in 2009, Zodiac Predictions, Feng Shui & Lunar New Year Traditions (MPH; RM39).

Chan, a Singaporean, was an executive manager in the travel industry for more than nine years before she made the switch to the world of metaphysics of feng shui and divinations in 2001.

"After working in the travel trade for so many years, I felt that it was time to take a leap of faith to try something that’s close to my heart," said Chan.

"In fact, I started out with Tarot card reading when I was 11. My interest in the metaphysics, vibrational healing and divination grew over the years.

"Also, I have written regularly for several publications in Singapore, including Simply Her (for the monthly StarScopes) since 2004; The Finder (on the annual lunar predictions, 2005 to 2008); Singapore Women’s Weekly (the 2007 horoscope forecast); Motherhood, Chinese edition (on relationship horoscopes); and Marie Claire (on Your Perfect Love Match February 2007)."

In 2006, Chan achieved her lifelong dream when she published her first Your Fortune series.

The first issue of Your Fortune in 2007 was well received when it was released in Singapore. This was followed with Your Fortune in 2008 which she also released in Malaysia for the first time.

Her latest book helps demystify the customs and principles surrounding the Chinese New Year so that the readers can get the most out of the year ahead.

"Not only will the readers get to find out how the elements of the year can benefit them, they will also learn which New Year traditions should be observed, which zodiac animals are compatible to their own in terms of relationships and work-related business, and how to use the ancient art of feng shui to enhance their home and work environment," explained Chan.

On the predictions for the Year of the Ox in 2009, Chan has this to offer: "Basically, next year will be better in comparison to the Rat year in terms of economy and general affairs.

"As this is the year of the Yin Earth Ox, it is metaphysically a harmonious year. The Ox zodiac, commonly referred to as an Earth element, also embodies three hidden elements – Earth, Metal and Water.

"As such, in the study of the five elements, the Ox is liken to a ‘metal pot’ due to its composition and is inclined to produce Metal.

"While the year itself is harmonious, it is pertinent to note that there is an absence of the Fire element. And Fire, just like sunlight, is a necessary element for the Earth element to shine and be productive.

"Having said that, the effects of the Rat year will continue to spill over to the Ox Year, so we will still feel the impact. But with resilience and hard work, we can ride out the storm."

But Chan has this advice for all of us: "Whatever it is that you do, 2009 is a time to consolidate and re-examine your goals and businesses. It is also a time to cut cost and wastage in order to maximise your output and productivity.

"For the working people, it’s advisable to set aside funds for rainy days."

Chan also gave an outlook on how Malaysia and Singapore will fare in the Year of the Ox.

"Generally, I think both countries will do better than others in the world or the region. This is because of the inherent ability of both our people to rise above difficult times and also because of our strong fundamentals."

As a final word, Chan offers: "The Ox year will benefit those who are hard working as the animal is a beast of burden. So do not try to push away responsibilities and duties if you do not want to experience any shortfall in fortune."

What to expect in a nutshell

» Globally, the world is concerned about the effects of global warming. The quality of crops in some countries may suffer as harvests will be affected due to climate change. The year will continue to experience water disasters like floods. However, of more concerns are earth-related disasters such as landslides.

» Health-wise, people will have more problems related predominately to quality of their diet as well as mental and emotional stress. There may also be an increase in both benign and malignant growths for some. Parents should be more patient with their children and be alert to their emotional needs as children are likely to be affected by depression.

» Companies need to pay close attention to details such as rising costs and other expenditures to avoid financial crises. The retail market may see some setbacks but the entertainment sector is likely to do well.

» Service industry will see an increase in demand in staffing while other businesses such as trading, import and export, advertising, water-related businesses including marine and shipping, Internet-related businesses and medical industry will all do better in the Year of the Ox.