Chinese name: SHE Order: Sixth Ruling hours: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Direction of the Sign: South-South-East Season and Month: Spring - May Western Sign: Taurus Fixed Element: Fire Root: Negative

A philosopher, a theologist, political wizard or shrewd financer... those born under the sign of the Snake are the most profound thinkers and the biggest enigma of the Chinese Cycle. He or she is gifted with inner wisdom and is a mystic. Charming and discrete, the Snake loves good books, great food, music and the theater; he or she prefers all the best things in life. Usually, the most beautiful women and the most powerful men are born under this sign... so if you're a Snake, you'll be in good company! Generally, they trust in their own judgment and don't communicate well with others. They can be profoundly religious or psychic or, on the other hand, completely hedonistic. In any case, they trust in their own gut feeling rather than listening to others' advice... and they are often right! Like the Dragon, the Snake is a karmic sign. His or her life ends either tragically or triumphantly, depending on past actions. And although they deny it, Snakes are very superstitious although they prefer to be skeptical. Those born under other signs can postpone their penance to another life (if they believe in Reincarnation) but the Snake seems destined to pay before dying. Maybe this is his or her own choice as a person born under this sign is extraordinarily intense and tries to settle all accounts, consciously or unconsciously. It's rare for those born in the Year of the Snake to have financial problems. They are lucky enough to have what they need and when money is tight, they can always find a solution. However a Snake should not gamble as he or she wouldn't win. If substantial losses are made, Snakes would probably never gamble again as they learn from their mistakes. Those born in the Year of the Snake get back on their feet quickly and are usually cautious and shrewd in business.