credit: http://www.chinesezodiac.com
Most people’s understanding of the Chinese Zodiac Calendar doesn't extend beyond what they see on the paper placemats that cover the tables of their favorite Chinese restaurants. But there really is much more to know about this doctrine that dates back more than 2,000 years.
Most Chinese Zodiac Calendar discussions focus only on the 12 animals. According to legend, these were the animals that appeared before Buddha (or the Jade Emperor, depending on the story) in response to an invitation. The 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac represent the order of each animal’s arrival. The legends depicting each animal’s journey differ slightly, but the order that prevails is as follows: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ram, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.
These 12 animals represent the rotating 12-year cycle that is the basis of the Chinese Zodiac. You’ve likely heard reference to a particular year being the “Year of the Rabbit” or “Year of the Pig.”
![[Image: chinesezodiacyears.jpg]](http://www.springsgreetingcards.com/client_images/catalog22647/chinesezodiacyears.jpg)
Note: As you noticed it ends at 2011, but don't worry if don't see the pattern. This zodiac is followed in a clockwise form. In example, if people born on the year of 2011 are rabbits, the following year for people that are born at the year 2012 will be dragons. I hope that makes sense to everyone.
Steps to locate your zodiac
Step 1- Look at the picture of the Chinese zodiac (above)
Step 2- Locate your year of birth.
Step 3- Find out what animal you were born as.
Step 4- Go
here to locate what your zodiac means and what trait does it have.
If you still don't know how locate yourself. Please let me know and I'll be glad to help you.