Chinese and Western Calendar
The Chinese astrologers had performed their calculations based on the moon and its cycles. That is, their calculations were based on the Lunar year where as the western calendar is based on the Solar year. It is because of this reason that the western zodiac symbols are called Sun Signs. In the Chinese astrology, a symbol represents a whole year where as in the western astrology it represents a month. Both the calendars use a twelve year based calendar as well as decimal based calculations.
Four Animal Trines
First Trine
The first trine is mad up of the Rat, Dragon and Monkey. All three signs make great leaders and are powerful people capable of something great, good or evil. Although similar in nature, the three have completely different approaches. While the Monkeys are diplomatic, the Rats and Dragons are inclined towards being dictatorial and autocratic. They are highly intelligent, charming, authoritative, confident and artistic. They are unpredictable and have great energy levels. They also tend to get frustrated when hampered. Some other traits associated with them are tyrannical, ruthless, imperious, power hungry and deceitful.
Second Trine
The Ox, Snake and Rooster form the second trine. These three signs are genius in meticulous planning. They conquer life through endurance, perseverance and slow accumulation of energy. All three are fixed and rigid in beliefs and principles. They are good hearted individuals who are hard working, loyal, punctual, patient and charitable. They also have high moral standards. However, they can also be critical, narrow minded, pessimistic and self righteous.
Third trine
The third trine has the Tiger, Horse and Dog as its members. All three of them seek one another and are gifted orators. They excel at verbal communication. They are in search for their intimate soul mate and set relationships and personal contacts as their highest priorities. They are impulsive and idealistic, and are productive, dynamic, honorable and independent. Their negative aspects are rebellious, quarrelsome, selfish and hot headed.
Fourth Trine
The Rabbit, Sheep and Pig are the fourth trine. They seek an aesthetic and beautiful life. They possess a calm nature and have great leadership qualities. They are artists, refined and well mannered. They are unique, caring, sensible and tactful. They are also na?ve, pessimistic, cunning and insecure.