Happy Chinese New Year! Celebrations for one of the biggest festivities in the world are underway, as people welcome in the Year of the Tiger.
You will undoubtedly see plenty of colourful decorations, mainly red ones – but the reasons behind the colour choices are more than just aesthetic.
So what do the colours represent, and why is red particularly significant?
Here is all you need to know.
What are the lucky colours for Chinese New Year 2022?
Different colours are assigned to each Chinese Zodiac animal, and are said to bring luck throughout the year.
The Chinese Zodiac website states that the colours attributed to the Tiger are green, black, yellow, and red.
Green
Green is the colour of nature, stable and gradual growth, new beginnings, opportunities and prospects.
In Feng Shui, green is associated with the East, where the family zone is located.
Black
In the UK, black has negative associations with all things dark and spooky. However, in China, black has a protective energy.
In Feng Shui, it is perceived as a feminine colour, associated with the depths of water.
Red
Red is considered as one of the most energetically strong colours, and is associated with wealth, romance, and luxury.
If you are trying to find the love of your life or reinvigorate your current relationship, then Feng Shui experts recommend hanging red curtains or putting a red carpet in your bedroom this year.
Yellow
Yellow is thought to absorb tensions, and generates harmony, warmth, and strength.
In ancient China, India, and Egypt, yellow was used to treat diseases and maintain both physical and mental balance.
How to use the Chinese New Year 2022 lucky colours
According to the Chinese Zodiac website, this is how you should use 2022’s colours to attract luck:
- Use them when decorating your home, when choosing your furtniture or curtains
- Wear them on Chinese New Year, but also incorporate them into your outfits for the rest of the year
- Paint your nails these colours
- Buy a wallet in any of the colours
- Decorate your Christmas tree in the colours
What is the significance of red in Chinese New Year 2022?
In China, red relates to fire and energy and has come to symbolise vitality, celebration, good fortune, good luck, and prosperity.
During Chinese New Year, homes are decorated with bright red banners to bring good luck.
It is also tradition to give the gift of a bright, beautiful red envelope (known as hóngbāo or Lai See) to your friends, family, and colleagues.
These are filled with money – and symbolize good wishes and luck for the new year ahead.
The amount of the money given should be of an even number since giving odd amounts of money is associated with funerals.
MORE : How is Chinese New Year celebrated in London?
MORE : Chinese New Year traditions and superstitions – from not taking medicine to not washing your hair
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Chinese New Year 2022
February 1 is Chinese New Year – likewise called Lunar New Year – with 2022 being the Year Of TheTiger
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