My antennae went up when I realized that the docile sheep is also known as a ram or goat in the Chinese line of zodiac animals. Perhaps it explains what astrologers predict as a year of hidden dangers and sudden pitfalls. Therefore, 2015 is a multi-faceted year and a new set of dynamics will influence world affairs.

In setting our priorities for 2015, we must emphasize and protect the safety of our personal space where we find refuge and refuge from sudden dangers. At home, the sheep is happy within the herd where it can thrive and create domestic happiness. The characteristics of sheep are related to the earth element that sustains all domestic efforts. The 2015 wooden sheep, always with a community vocation, is motivated to advance and inspire humanitarian causes. Sheep likes to resolve conflicts and create a safe environment where arts and social activities can flourish.

Within the community, the sheep feels connected and well protected from sudden anger in a confrontation with the ram or the capricious exhortations of a goat. Sheep is the most peaceful and steadfast animal of all and is known to be docile and willing to please. Diplomatic, well-mannered, the sheep moves with easy charm.

A rather different set of characteristics seems to motivate the ram. It roams the high ground, is elusive, and not easy to capture and subdue. Watch from an elevated position, carefully contemplating your next move. The goat, on the contrary, jumps, looking for an easy sustenance, and thus grazes where it can find it.

Caution is indicated as we enter the year of the wooden sheep on February 19, and feng shui will support the infrastructure to feel safe while nurturing relationships and promoting peace. For added protection, dust off your lucky charms! A recent scientific study shows that superstitions can improve memory, dexterity and athletic performance. It gives us the illusion of control, resulting in a calming effect.

Feng shui tips we learned from sheep:

• Focus on home improvements and fix all leaks and gaps.

• Strengthen the home environment.

• Create anchors with solid furniture as corner posts.

• Use pictures and artwork that indicate a solid foundation.

• Transpose Chinese protection devices into Western protection symbols.

• Fu dogs are guardians who flank and protect entrances.

• Instead, use heavy flower pots or sculptural objects to simulate sentries or guardians with the same objective.

• Check security systems and perform tests.

• Control valves.

• Install timers in strategic lighting or install motion detectors.

• Receive visitors and entertain yourself at home by providing them with comfort and cozy corners.

• Expand gathering spaces to accommodate the flock of sheep.

• Let your own superstitions prevail with personal charms and talismans.

• For added protection, a small crystal can be a stable companion.

• Honor the woolly sheep and start knitting scarves.

• Develop your conscious armor and avoid confrontations.

• Be vigilant and run away from gossip to escape stabbing.

• Respond to anger with peaceful gestures.

• Stretch the time between the outrage and the reaction.

• Create time and space for peaceful relaxation.