It is time to prepare for the Year of the Snake — a symbol of wisdom, transformation, and growth. In Chinese culture, the snake is a greatly respected animal for its instinctive and adaptive nature. In 2025, the Year of the Wood Snake offers a chance for personal growth and success.

Here are five things you need to know:

1. The Snake: a symbol of transformation and renewal

In Chinese tradition, the snake is closely tied to transformation and renewal, often represented by its ability to shed its skin. “Once you shed your skin, you go from one to the other. In other words, you change. These could be opportunities — a change of job, a change of character, or even a religious enlightenment,” said Dr. John Edward Stowe, academic coordinator and lecturer for Chinese courses at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Stowe also noted that the snake holds a unique place in Chinese culture as a “little dragon.”

“Many Chinese will consider the snake a little dragon. That is because the snake shares the appearance and mysterious qualities of the dragon, and it is believed that the mythical figure of the dragon was originally modelled on the snake,” he explained.

Dr. Mung Ting Chung, a professor at the University of Calgary’s School of Chinese Studies, highlighted the Snake’s connection to Chinese mythology through Nüwa (女媧), a primal totem symbolizing transformation and kinship.

“Nüwa’s upper body is human, but the lower body is serpent-like. This represents a societal shift from kinship systems based on motherhood to those based on fatherhood, reflecting transformation and renewal,” she said.

Individuals born in the Year of Snake – including 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989 and every 12-year cycle before that — are often associated with qualities such as creativity, wisdom, sympathy, and intuition. This zodiac sign inspires strategic thinking and the courage to evolve.

2. The unique energy of the Wood Snake

The Chinese zodiac pairs each animal with one of five elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water. In 2025, the Snake is paired with the Wood element, representing creativity, resilience, and renewal.

“The five elements — wood, fire, earth, metal, and water — are interconnected. For example, metal cuts down wood, but water helps wood grow. These elements either produce or conquer one another, creating a system of harmony,” Stowe explained.

The energy of the Wood Snake emphasizes health, well-being, and creative problem-solving. It encourages individuals to embrace new challenges and focus on self-improvement.

3. Zodiac insights: what the snake means for you

The Year of the Snake affects each zodiac sign differently, offering both opportunities and challenges.

For those born in the Year of the Snake, 2025 is their zodiac year — a period traditionally considered a time of potential difficulty. Financial uncertainty, career disruptions, and relationship strains may arise, often linked to Tai Sui (太歲), also known as the “Grand Duke Jupiter,” a deity believed to affect fortunes.

To navigate these challenges, people are advised to wear red for protection, carry auspicious charms such as jade, and avoid major life changes such as moving or switching jobs. Focusing on health and fostering harmony in relationships is key.

Other zodiac signs will experience varying influences during the Year of the Snake. Ox and Roosters are expected to thrive, enjoying growth and stability, while Dragons may find opportunities for transformation and progress through careful planning. Rats, Tigers, Rabbits, Horses, Goats, and Dogs can anticipate steady progress by setting realistic goals and focusing on self-care. On the other hand, Monkeys and Pigs might face more challenges this year, requiring patience and strategic thinking to overcome obstacles.

4. Numerology of 2025: closure and renewal

The numerology of 2025 adds up to the number nine (2+0+2+5=9), a number highly valued in Chinese culture. As the highest single-digit number, nine represents completeness, fulfillment, and eternity. It is also associated with good fortune, marking the end of one cycle and the start of another.

In ancient China, nine was revered by emperors, symbolizing power and longevity. For example, The Forbidden City in Beijing is said to feature 9,999 rooms, reflecting the emperor’s wish for an eternal reign. Imperial palaces often included Nine-dragon Walls and Nine-dragon Imperial Robes to signify authority and hope for an enduring legacy.

In 2025, the themes of reflection and renewal tied to the number nine align with the transformative energy of the Snake. The year encourages letting go of the past, celebrating accomplishments, and embracing new beginnings with confidence.

5. Feng Shui for luck and harmony

The ancient Chinese practice of Feng Shui can align your home with the energy of the Snake. According to the Feng Shui Society of Canada, adding specific design elements to your home can boost positive energy and bring prosperity.

Decorating with green and earthy tones is a simple way to bring the Wood element of the Snake into your home. These colours are believed to encourage growth, renewal, and financial stability while creating a calming and balanced atmosphere.

Adding natural elements, like plants or wooden furniture, can also boost the vitality of your space. Not only do they make your home feel more vibrant, but they also reflect the themes of growth and renewal tied to the Wood Snake.

To enhance good fortune, focus on the southeast corner of your home, which is linked to wealth and prosperity in Feng Shui. Placing snake-inspired charms or decorations in this area can help balance the energy and invite positive outcomes for the year ahead.