Written by Melanie Kozlan, Four Green Steps

Today marks the start of the Chinese New Year. Here are some fun and inspiring facts about the year of the Dragon:

- The Dragon is a symbol of optimism, change and  power.

-The Dragon is the only mythical creature in Chinese Astrology (Other creatures include rabbit, horse, tiger, etc.). 2012 is actually the year of the water dragon which is especially rare, occurring every 60 years.

-Dragons represent energy and people born during dragon years (1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988 and 2000) are said to be more energetic and imaginative.

-According to CBC.ca, a poll in Hong Kong showed that 70% of couples wanted their children to be born under the dragon sign.

Image courtesy of Creative Commons.

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