5 Tips(They Work!) to Ward Off Bad Luck Curse in Ben Ming Nian – Chinese Zodiac Year of Birth

Are you entering your Ben Ming Nian, or zodiac year of birth? Don’t panic!

While Chinese tradition says your zodiac year brings bad luck, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips to turn that luck around. As someone who’s survived a few Ben Ming Nian years, I’ll share what actually works to ward off misfortune and invite good vibes.

What is Ben Ming Nian (Zodiac Year of Birth)?

Ben Ming Nian refers to the year in the Chinese zodiac cycle that matches your birth year. It comes around every 12 years, so if you’re turning 12, 24, 36, 48, etc. – congratulations, it’s your Ben Ming Nian!

For 2024, it’s the Year of the Dragon. So all you Dragons out there, listen up – this is your year to be extra careful. 

For 2025, it’s the Year of the Snake. If you were born in 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, or 2013, pay close attention – this is your year to be extra careful.! 

Why is Your Chinese Zodiac Year a Bad Luck Year?

Now, you’d think your zodiac year would be lucky, right? Not in Chinese astrology. Tradition says you’re more likely to offend the Tai Sui god (the yearly zodiac god) during your Ben Ming Nian.

Tai Sui is the Guardian God of the Year in Chinese astrology. There are 60 Tai Sui gods, each governing a year in the 60-year cycle. Each Tai Sui god’s essence comes from combining the Heavenly Stem and the Earthly Branches from Chinese astrology Bazi.

The concept of Tai Sui is linked to Jupiter’s orbit, which takes about 12 years to circle the sun, aligning with the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle.

When your zodiac sign matches the current year’s zodiac, you’re in your “Ben Ming Nian.” This puts you in direct conflict with the Tai Sui God of that year. The Tai Sui God is believed to control all fortunes for the year. Offending this deity can lead to instability in various aspects of life, including health, career, and relationships.

It’s not just your zodiac sign that can clash with Tai Sui. Typically, three or four other zodiac signs also experience some level of conflict each year.

During your Ben Ming Nian, you might experience:

• Unexpected career hiccups
• Rocky relationships
• Health issues popping up
• Financial speed bumps
• General feelings of “meh”

But before you go into hiding for a year, remember – forewarned is forearmed. Now that you know what’s coming, you can take steps to protect yourself.

How to Avoid Bad Luck & Make Good Luck in Your Unlucky Year

Let’s get to the good stuff – how to flip the script on your Ben Ming Nian and invite some positive juju into your life. 

Here are my top 5 tips that actually work:

Dress Red: Your Fashion Shield Against Bad Luck in Your Chinese Zodiac Year

In Chinese culture, red is the ultimate power color for warding off bad luck and evil spirits. During your Ben Ming Nian (zodiac year of birth), which occurs every 12 years, make red your go-to hue to drive away bad luck:

• Sport a stylish red belt or scarf
• Rock some lucky red socks
• Don’t forget the power of red underwear!

Wearing red during your zodiac year can bring you good luck and ward off negative energies.  Remember, the more red you wear in your Chinese zodiac year, the merrier your fortune!

Chong Xi 冲喜 : Celebrate Good Times to Counter the Curse of Your Birth Year

Who says you can’t party your way through an unlucky year? Chong Xi 冲喜 is all about embracing joyous occasions to boost your positive energy during your Ben Ming Nian. Here’s how to harness happy vibes in your Chinese zodiac animal year:

• Attend weddings and baby showers
• Celebrate work promotions or personal achievements
• Having a new childbirth with fresh new energy
• Indulge in a big purchase of real estate
• Open a new business venture

By surrounding yourself with happiness and celebration, you’re creating a shield of good fortune to deflect any bad luck coming your way in your zodiac year of birth. 

Pay Your Respects: Pray to the Tai Sui God for Good Fortune

It’s time to make nice with the celestial powers that be. Praying to the Tai Sui God is a time-honored tradition in Chinese astrology for those in their Ben Ming Nian:

• Visit a local temple dedicated to Tai Sui
• Offer incense, fruits, or flowers
• Participate in the “An Tai Sui” ceremony (typically on the 8th day of the Chinese lunar year)
• Set up a small Tai Sui altar in your home

Remember, a little cosmic courtesy goes a long way! Make use of Tai Sui to bring good luck and ward off bad fortune in your zodiac year. 

The Art of Avoidance: Keep Tai Sui Out of Sight in Your Unlucky Year

Sometimes, the best offense is a good defense. In your Chinese zodiac birth year, it’s wise to avoid “offending” Tai Sui:

• Rearrange your furniture to face away from Tai Sui
• Avoid major renovations in the Tai Sui direction of your home
• When outside, try not to face or point directly at the Tai Sui direction

Out of sight, out of mind – and hopefully out of bad luck! This practice is crucial for people in their zodiac year, as it’s believed to help ward off bad luck associated with your Ben Ming Nian. 

Wear Your Sign with Pride: Zodiac Animal and Pixiu Talismans for Protection

Accessorize your way to better fortune with protective charms during your Chinese zodiac year:

• Wear a pendant or bracelet featuring your zodiac animal
• Carry a Pixiu charm (a mythical wealth-attracting creature)
• Opt for jade accessories, believed to absorb negative energy

By keeping these symbols close, you’re reminding the universe (and yourself) of your inner strength and resilience. In Chinese astrology, these talismans are believed to bring you good luck and drive away bad fortune, especially during your Ben Ming Nian. 

FAQs About Ben Ming Nian

Is Tai Sui a God?

Tai Sui is not a single god, but rather a group of 60 celestial generals in Chinese astrology. Each Tai Sui deity governs a specific year in the 60-year cycle, overseeing that year’s fortunes and influencing various aspects of life.

How often does Ben Ming Nian occur?

Your Ben Ming Nian comes around every 12 years, coinciding with your zodiac animal’s year.

Is it really all bad luck during Ben Ming Nian?

While tradition warns of challenges, many people also experience positive changes and growth during their Ben Ming Nian. It’s all about perspective!

What Does Ben Ming Nian Bring to People?

Ben Ming Nian typically brings increased challenges and instability in various aspects of life, including career, relationships, health, and finances. However, it’s also seen as an opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection, allowing individuals to reassess their goals and develop resilience.

Do I have to follow all these traditions to have good luck?

Not at all! Choose the practices that resonate with you. The most important thing is maintaining a positive outlook.

Can I still make big life changes during my Ben Ming Nian?

Absolutely! While tradition advises caution, don’t let it stop you from pursuing opportunities. Just be extra mindful and prepared.

What if I forget to wear red or my talisman one day?

Don’t stress! These are supportive practices, not strict rules. Your Ben Ming Nian luck isn’t make-or-break based on a single day.