Even though we are still feeling the cold and being hit with the odd snow shower, the days are none-the-less lengthening. Brighter skies provide a bit of needed sunlight on our heads, and the temperatures are gradually rising. Snowdrops are lifting themselves finally from the soil, and dormant trees – feeling the warming days – undergo an awakening process, pushing once more outwards into another cycle of growth.

This time of year, is often very transitional. It’s just turned a New Year in China, a Tiger year. February is also a Tiger month; this particular Chinese astrological sign being an Earth symbol. Earth months, like February, bridge the gap between the seasons. They act like buffers, easing us between the pressures of a main cardinal direction. By that I mean North to East, a throw back from my Feng Shui knowledge, makes me look at seasons from a directional point of view. The tail end of The Plough reassuringly now pointing more towards the East, spring and growth, a time of ideas and forward thinking, turning your plans into working practices. North on the other hand represents Winter, stark contrasts, hibernation and the peak of Yin; a time for self regeneration and fortifying ourselves. I digress.

SO, back to the Tiger Earth month and the wavering, not sure if i’m coming or going, in between bit: the Northeast (or strictly speaking between 52.5 deg. and 67.5 deg!). Have you felt just that little bit more progressive in attitude recently? The faint memory of the festive period, being washed aside with ideas and a creative feeling of what’s approaching – it’s tantalizingly tangible. The pouncing Tiger making us want to leap into spring and make the most of any and all opportunities. But before we jump ahead maybe reflect while we have time, make the most of this transitional changing time of year, before the East is upon us, and create yourself a level playing field from which to grow and develop.

It’s a great time of year to start looking at your living space and home from a spring clean point of view. Some of us are gladly feeling less full of cold which in it’s own way is a ridding of any stagnant, unwanted energy. Why not try applying this to your home. Open all the windows when we get a sunny bright day and with your newly defrosted eyes, glance around for any lingering effects that are either redundant, unwanted or chores you’ve just been meaning to ‘get-round-to-it’ for a while. I had a massive sort out in my home office, throwing away paperwork which has been occupying cupboard space for far too long. Old files, which have no relevance in my world today.

I find it very cathartic and allows space, chi and furthermore opportunity into the room and your life. Light some candles and burn some incense while the room gets some fresh air, shifting the energy from any hidden places with a sharp clap of the hands, any dull notes clap again. Get behind the sofa and under the beds, if you can!>? Whether you car boot, charity shop or give things away, anything you can’t do immediately, add to a to-do list so you are all prepared for when springs full frontal energy finally kicks in.

David Walters