In Chinese astrology, 2009 is the year of the Ox, a symbol of hard work, patience and stability – useful characteristics to get through the global financial and economic recession we find ourselves in. This is also a time for new year resolutions. Apparently the key to achieving these is, for a woman, to tell everyone of her intentions and for a man, make his declarations as practical and tangible as possible. For men and women on both sides of the Atlantic, diet and exercise goals for health and well-being ranked high among 2008 resolutions. These do not necessarily require financial investment, like a gym membership or a personal trainer. Simple, inexpensive changes to one’s diet can also make a big impact.

When I was growing up in Japan during the 1960s, according to the tradition, on January 2 I sat down in front of a blank sheet of rice paper with a thick calligraphy brush and ink to inscribe my new year resolutions. More often I ended up drawing whiskers or a moustache on my brother’s face.