LUNAR LODGE: a cycle of 28 days (the time it takes for the moon to circle the earth) named for a circuit of ancient constellations through which the moon courses. This cycle falls into 4 seven-day weeks (the FOUR PALACES) as shown on the page appearing when the link for "week" is clicked in the navigation bar. The four weeks are associated with the four cardinal directions of the compass.

Indicates the basic temperment or "atmosphere" of the day, and the favorability or adversity of listed activities.

Dots are shown above the Date.

LUNAR SIGN: a cycle of 28 constellations along the moon's course through the sky, named as animals (including those of the familiar Twelve Animal cycle). Partly mnemonic in use, this cycle is identical to the LUNAR LODGE cycle, and the animals can be regarded as guardian images of their days.

Indicates spiritual and energetic attributes of individuals born under them, and their place in a system of compatibility with others.

SOLAR-YEAR QI: a year-long cycle of 24 periods (often referred to as "Joints and Breaths") of about two weeks each keyed to the Solstices and Equinoxes. At the end of this line appears a countdown of days until the next period begins. The STEM and BRANCH of the SOLAR MONTH to which the period belongs are displayed below the SOLAR-YEAR QI notation.

Indicates points of change in Heavenly QI (that is, the physical weather) and corresponding Earthly XING (vital behavior).

SOLAR INDEX: a twelve-day cycle (derived from the 12 solar months of agricultural life) which parallels the seasonal waxing and waning of QI through the year. The SOLAR INDEX expresses the relationship of the day's BRANCH to the SOLAR-YEAR QI. Consequently, twelve times a year, on the arrival of each of the odd-numbered SOLAR-YEAR QI periods, there is an adjustment, and the SOLAR INDEX is a repeat of the day before.

Indicates how much,and in what ways, the day's energy can be put to use.

Dots are shown below the day's date.

SOLAR CYCLE: two descriptions of the SOLAR INDEX.

	Above:	as relative positions in the wave-form of QI, rising to action and falling to stillness.
	Below:	as states in the complementary balance of YIN (dark and receptive; the female), and YANG (bright and penetrating; the male).