At the very least, using a common astrological system — whether it's Western astrology or the Chinese zodiac — to connect helps you have a little fun by identifying with the qualities and tendencies of the various signs.

The date of Chinese New Year moves every year, in accordance with the moon, falling any time between January 21 and February 20. Each year is assigned one of 12 zodiac animal signs, with the animal you are depending on the year you were born.

There are 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, which have astrological and cultural meanings, and each animal is associated with certain characteristics

This week’s new moon, on Wednesday, Jan. 29, will signal the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, which this year is called the "Year of the Snake."