A comprehensive guide to the Chinese zodiac in Chinese Astrology according to a Chinese astrology expert Vicki Iskandar

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.

Editor's note: The Chinese zodiac, or "shengxiao," consists of 12 animal signs that mark the years. Each animal represents one year in a repeating 12-year cycle, which is calculated based on the Chinese lunar calendar.