Chinese astrology and Feng Shui expert Vicki Iskandar tells PEOPLE what the Year of the Horse means for those born in the year of the Monkey
Pack light!
If you were born in the Year of the Monkey, 2026 is all about release, reinvention and expanding your world.
After an expansive (but emotionally demanding) 2025, the Year of the Horse — officially kicking off when the moon renewed itself in Aquarius on Feb. 17 — invites you to move faster and with far less baggage.
“It wasn’t all easy, as the Snake and the Monkey also have a side clash relationship (similar to a square in Western astrology), with Yin Fire in the Snake melting the Metal in the Monkey into shape,” Chinese astrology and Feng Shui expert Vicki Iskandar tells PEOPLE exclusively.
Fortunately, the pressure you felt last year can now transform into momentum. That is, if you’re willing to let go, of course.
In the Chinese zodiac, each year is represented by one of 12 animals, which carry unique personality traits.
Iskandar explains that each of these combinations carries its own lessons and opportunities. In 2026, for instance, Yang Fire fuels the Horse, creating an expressive and fast-moving atmosphere.
If you were born in the Year of the Monkey (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016), Iskander encourages you to tune in to the heart and let your actions come from an authentic place.
In the meantime, read on for what the Year of the Horse has in store for the Monkey, according to Iskandar’s predictions.
Monkey's love horoscope for 2026
Love reaches a crossroads in 2026.
If something feels uncertain, 2026 will force clarity, so tune into your heart before making decisions.
"This is a year to make it or break it when it comes to love, with the strong Fire in the Horse compelling the Monkey to let go or move forward," Iskandar says.
Single Monkeys, however, could meet someone who shifts their emotional perspective, while those already committed reflect on what they truly want.
"May, August and September are key milestone months for the Monkey in relationships," she adds.
Monkey's biggest challenges in 2026
Getty
Your biggest lesson in 2026? Trusting the process.
"Since Fire melts Metal in the Chinese five-element theory, the Monkey may feel as if many aspects of life are out of their control in 2026," Iskandar says. "What is taken from you is simply not meant to be."
This year helps you shed old identities, outdated relationships and heavy obligations so you can move toward something bigger.
Lean into flexibility. Letting go is your greatest strength.
Monkey's career horoscope for 2026
This is a year of expansion, but through movement.
"As a travel star, the Monkey thrives in new environments," Iskandar says. "The more you explore the world, the more opportunities will present themselves to you. "
The Year of the Horse encourages exploration, whether through actual travel, career shifts or fresh collaborations. The more you venture out into the world, the more opportunities appear.
"April, May and December bring support from your allies," she adds.
Important dates for the Monkey in 2026
February supports release and fresh starts, while April, May and December bring help from your alliances and career momentum.
As for relationships? May, August and September mark turning points that clarify next steps, and throughout the year, expansion comes through travel, new environments and bold choices.
Read the full article here
