As Lunar New Year approaches and the dragon’s reign comes to an end, we welcome the Yin Wood Snake. Unlike the grand promises of its predecessor, the Yang Wood Dragon, the Yin Wood Snake uncoils to examine every hollow word, prioritising commitment over empty declarations. Being the yinnest of all zodiac signs, the snake calls for deep reflection as the precursor to meaningful change.
With its arrival, 2025 becomes a realm of discernment and subtle transformation through intentional boundaries. Here are some ways the Yin Wood Snake can inspire how we move through the year ahead.
Shedding Old Ways
A snake sheds its skin but never forgets its path.
Snakes shed their skin at various stages of life to accommodate growth and change. Young snakes shed as they outgrow the outer layer of their skin, injured snakes shed to heal, and adult snakes shed when preparing to lay eggs or give birth. This is a beautiful reminder that growth can only happen when we release habits, beliefs or relationships that no longer serve us.
That said, the idea of “release” can feel daunting when it’s tied to the fear of permanent loss. Even in the world of movement, we often hear the phrase ‘use it or lose it’. While there is truth to this, it’s equally important to remember that no effort is ever wasted, and nothing is ever fully undone. Our embodied experiences remain within us, providing a foundation to step gracefully into new phases of growth—just like hopping back onto a bicycle after years away.
The invitation here is to reflect on which aspects of our practice we can soften our attachment to—not necessarily abandoning them but momentarily setting them aside to create space for growth. By doing so, we can embrace new phases of learning and discovery, expanding outward instead of remaining in the comfort of repetition.
The Eyes of Discernment
Did you know that snakes shed their eye caps whenever they shed their skin? This process keeps their eyes protected and their vision clear—a practice of continuously discovering new ways of seeing.
This parallels one of the most valuable lessons in movement practices: exploring multiple perspectives. Revisiting familiar movement skills or patterns from different angles can reveal gaps in our awareness and inspire a renewed focus. How we practise mula bandha checkups in a Rocket or 4Beat class differs slightly to the L and V-sits in calisthenics, as do the way we approach inversions in a Beyond Asana or Bambu Bodies class to a handstands class.
By learning to execute a skill in varied ways, we embody the concept of Drishti—beyond the mere placement of our gaze but in the agency and clarity of intention in how we approach movement, both technically and expressively. In this way, we cultivate the adaptability and focus that snakes exemplify in their evolved vision for different light conditions.
The Art of Adaptation
Snakes slither with quiet elegance, embodying adaptability and wisdom. Its movements are never linear, reminding us that progress doesn’t always follow a straight path. Responsiveness is key.
After all, you can be the strongest or most flexible version of yourself, but these traits mean little if you can’t data them to the context of a given moment. This is why prioritising relationships—with yourself, others, and your environment—is essential.
In Daoist philosophy, the snake symbolises the art of yielding: staying mindfully connected to surrounding forces and remaining present to allow for swift changes. This translates into movement by listening to your body’s needs and adjusting your practice to align with the rhythms of daily life.
Some days call for vigorous flows and muscle-ups; others invite stillness and rest. The key lies in honouring your inner rhythms and being resourceful with what you have—knowing when to engage, when to recalibrate, and when to retreat.
The Power of Boundaries
Venom can often be an antidote in another context.
A snake’s venom, while often misunderstood, is not inherently destructive. It serves as a potent reminder that boundaries are markers of self-respect, trust, and safety. It’s all about the right dosage.
In movement, this translates to exploring the threshold between boredom and overwhelm—finding that sweet spot where challenge meets enjoyment. It’s about taking calculated risks without depleting yourself.
This is why some classes are levelled or have clear prerequisites, and why we emphasise punctuality and time limits in certain settings (including the sauna). These boundaries foster safety and accountability, allowing us to grow sustainably.
Zooming out, consider your weekly movement routine: How balanced is it? Have you ventured beyond your comfort zone to explore other practices on the Mission timetable? Can you create room for both dynamic and restorative practices? Moderation and variety are key to avoiding burnout and ensuring holistic growth.
Moving Forward Together
While snakes are often solitary creatures, the Wood element that defines 2025 emphasises collective growth. Just as trees in a forest share resources through interconnected root systems, the Yin Wood Snake encourages us to lean into community for mutual support while pursuing individual growth.
It’s inspiring to witness the camaraderie and sense of belonging within classes here at Mission, and even more so as this energy extends into our restaurant and co-working space upstairs. This spirit of collective care beautifully honors the essence of the Yin Wood Snake. Let’s make an effort to connect—say hello more often, join a class or sauna session together, or share a meal after.
As we step into the Year of the Yin Wood Snake, may we embody its qualities of discernment, adaptability, and wisdom. Let us shed our old skins with grace and welcome the renewing energy of transformation.
Wishing you a joyful and meaningful Lunar New Year!
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Practise Beyond Asana with David at Mission. He will also be taking on additional classes on Thursdays and Sundays between February 16th – March 2nd.
You’re also welcome to join kindredpacket’s gathering at Mission. The Serpent’s Path – A Lunar New Year Celebration Sunday 16 Feb 3.30-5.30pm. David will be co-hosting an afternoon of yin-yang yoga and vision boarding to celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake. All welcome, with prioritised access for ESEA individuals. Find out more about kindredpacket here.