Chinese astrology is a complex system, based on the balance of yin and yang, the five elements of fire, earth, metal, water and wood, and the 12 animals of the zodiac. It follows a lunisolar calendar, which is dictated by the rhythms of the solar system.

From October 8 to November 6 is the Wood Dog Month. This time of year represents a point of equilibrium, where light and dark are in balance. Nature begins to retreat, nourishing the earth in preparation for the new growth that spring will bring, an astrologer told Scmp.

In the northern hemisphere, the days start to shorten as yang energy gives way to the deep, slow, quiet current of yin energy. As autumn begins, it's common for us to start complaining - we've become quite adept at it. But consider how restrictive it would be if we lived without seasonal changes, with either an excess of yin or yang. So, as we start to spend more time indoors, it's an opportunity to adjust our daily routines and turn inward, seeking fresh inspiration.

The Double Yang Festival is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth Lunar month. The Chinese believe that nine is a yang number, so this day contains an abundance of yang energy, which can potentially be dangerous.

To protect against this, it's customary to stay fit, go hiking if possible, drink chrysanthemum beverages, and boost the immune system with special herbs and remedies.