Combined Western and Chinese Zodiacs
Aquarius Monkey

Aquarians are the septuagenarians of the Western zodiac, the second-oldest souls behind Pisces. By this time, everyday pressures of human society have become less important, and there is an increasing receptiveness to the eternal, the afterlife. Hence Aquarians possess great generosity of spirit. They find it easy to accept both individuals and humanity as a whole, virtues and flaws in balance. All three Air signs are naturally drawn to intellectual concerns, and for the Fixed modality of Aquarius, this involves a deep commitment to wisdom, a persevering desire to seek out universal truths. Science, technology, reason—such cerebral subjects provide Aquarians with endless fascination. Perhaps because of their old souls, Aquarians are famously non-conformist and unpredictable, traits regarded as synonymous with their ruling planet, Uranus. Any role that demands routine drudgery is likely to throw them off-balance. Being so accepting themselves, Aquarians may also struggle with rejection. Their fury, while usually short-lived, can be stunningly fierce, or lead to ghostly absences. Ultimately, however, this is one of the most consistently cheerful, irrepressible signs, their wisdom and endless sympathy among the most precious gifts in the zodiac.

Ninth in the Eastern zodiac is that complex genius, the Monkey. This sign is brilliantly imaginative, sparklingly witty, and roguishly playful—often, all at once! Ever on the lookout for opportunities to apply their startling abilities, Monkey souls are celebrated the world over for their virtuosity, and the infinite variety of their talents. The Monkey sign does tend to need more stimulation than most. If their skills are not occupied, they are apt to make their own fun, which can make others feel like playthings rather than equals. This year is also surprisingly prone to isolation and disillusion, often so well masked by apparent energy and versatility that the Monkey suffers in secret. Fortunately, however, the Monkey's lively banter and flirtatiousness means they are rarely alone for long. Their natural inquisitiveness and tenacity enables them to bounce back quickly from challenges, and to return to the incredible feats of ingenuity that are their trademark.