What is Feng Shui

What is Feng Shui? Simply put, it is an ancient art and science that was
developed by the Chinese more than 3,000 years ago. It is a complex body of
knowledge that if practiced properly will assure the person good health and
fortune.

Feng Shui is made of two words. The first is wind while the second is earth.
Its teachings are based on Taoist vision and understanding of nature on the
belief that the land is alive and is filled with energy. This in turn could
make a kingdom successful or bring it to its downfall.

Aside from the water and the wind, Feng Shui is influenced by the theory of 3
other elements namely wood, fire and metal. It is this that also guides Chinese
astrological sciences including the times, dates of birth and years as well as
colors, seasons, directions and the planets.

The main tools for Feng Shui are the compass and the Ba-Gua. The Ba-Gua is an
octagonal shaped grid containing the symbols of the I Ching which is the
ancient oracle on which this is based.

Those who believe in Feng Shui say that those who know the Bagua of their home
will be able to understand specific areas of their life.

The feng shui compass is also called lo-pan. This is used to access deeper
information about a site or a building. It consists of bands of concentric
rings arranged around the magnetic needle. "Lo" means "everything" and "pan"
means "bowl", which can be interpreted as the key to the mysteries of the
universe.

Through the years, several different schools of feng shui have emerged. If you
are able to master the basic level, it is said that you will start to see
powerful results which could be to your advantage both at home and in business.

Those who practice Feng Shui see it as a double edged sword because it can be
mutually productive and also destructive.

In a productive cycle, fire produces earth which produces metal which produces
water which produces wood and the fire again. In a destructive cycle, wood
destroys earth which destroys water which destroys fire which destroys metal
and then destroys wood.

To give you an idea what this all means, let's say you were born on a fire
year. Too much water in the home is not good because water destroys fire. On
the other hand, if you put a lot of wooden decor into your home, then things
will be good because wood produces fire. Aside from that, experts say that you
will more likely prosper if you sleep on the south side of the house or
apartment.

But the ordinary Joe does not have time to understand that. This is why many
people these days consult Feng Shui experts when they are building an office or
their home. By being able to have someone who understands these cycles, harmony
and productivity is achieved.

So what is Feng Shui? For those who don't believe in it, simply one way of
making sure that you will get good fortune. As for those who take it seriously,
it is what creates the essence of life around us. There must always be a
harmonious balance between these elements so that you can live a healthy and
meaningful life.

Concepts Behind Feng Shui

Feng Shui is more than just rearranging furniture, it's a lifestyle. And
lifestyles involve mindsets or concepts that are prevalent. Feng Shui experts
just say no to some things without reason. Most of the things they do come with
a line of reasoning that may not necessarily be embraced by many people.

Nonetheless, it is still a point of view that among other things, require
careful consideration and thought. So what are the thoughts that prevail on the
onset of Feng Shui? Here are just some of these prevalent concepts that a Feng
Shui enthusiast or researcher may find useful.

Sense of Balance

The number one thing that Feng Shui promotes is balance. This balance comes in
many forms, in the color arrangement, in the spatial factors up to the numbers
that concern your working space or environment. The balance is more promoted by
the five Earth elements of Feng Shui and the bagua, which is designed
symmetrically and with complete reference to the different elements of the
earth by Feng Shui standards. The standards of Feng Shui is made customized in
every person, but it all boils down to having the right sets of things that
complement and balance each other out.

Sense of Positivity

A sense of positivity is also what Feng Shui promotes. Positive energy is the
thing most sought after by people who try to get the services of Feng Shui
consultants. This positivism needs to be maintained. Conversely, it wards off
all the forms of negative energy that may come in a given space. This is why
there are charms that help cure the bad luck in a given place, especially those
which have been established without guidance of Feng Shui.

A Natural Inclination for Beauty and the things that Promote It

Beauty in symmetry and symmetry in beauty is one of the core concepts of Feng
Shui. It appeals to the physically inviting, and also adheres to fighting for
beauty and balance in things. Feng Shui, in some ways, is a celebration of
beauty in design and other physical elements of the space being designed.

Love for Your Environment

Feng Shui promotes the careful consideration of the environment before
establishing places. Good Feng Shui respects the elements of the earth and
makes the Feng Shui enthusiast more mindful of their surroundings. They don't
just work instantly in any oppressive place, but strive to remove any existing
negativities in the environment.

Love for Self

The love for self is also promoted by Feng Shui. You will detect energy based
on what generally feels good to you. Love for self involves not subjecting
yourself to oppressive places or harboring negative energies that can be
counter-productive to your different activities.

Dreaming big and making the environment jive with that dream

Finally, Feng Shui is more anchored on the greater scheme of things. When you
have a dream and you intend to fulfill it in numerous ways, the best way to
start is to have an environment that embraces those dreams. If you dream big
and work hard, but your environment cancels all the things that you are
striving for, it will be a very difficult task for you.

Feng Shui ensures that there is alignment between the things you want and the
things that are manifested in the objects you see everyday.

Advantages of Applying Feng Shui in Your Life

Many people are fascinated with Feng Shui and with many good reasons. While
others generally believe that it is just some oriental superstitious set of
paradigms on interior design (but that is just part of the extensive definition
for Feng Shui), the Feng Shui that we know now is actually comprised of various
schools of learning and incorporates the different cultures under which it is
housed.

The good thing about the different options pertaining to Feng Shui is that even
the layman can actually be able to understand and apply it immediately in their
homes without having to spend too much. And apart from that, there are other
advantages that only Feng Shui can bring if you can actually open up your mind
to try it.

Advantage Number 1: It brings balance to one's life

Have you ever found yourself completely overburdened with clutter and
unnecessarily stressed out of your wits? Chances are, you are suffering from a
visual imbalance of some sort in your surroundings. Now, the best way to
introduce some sense of balance is by incorporating elements that provide you
with a sense of control in the outer balance of things. If you are able to get
some semblance of balance even in things as menial as your furniture, you are
bound to find balance in other aspects equally manageable.

Advantage Number 2: It helps you become more mindful of the little things

Mindfulness in the little things can actually be a good thing. Some of us tend
to be heavily focused on the big things of life that even the minor details
like home arrangement and office ergonomics no longer come to play. When these
"minor" aspects of life continue to take a backseat, they tend to accumulate
and produce a very stressful environment which can add up to other problems and
worries of life.

Advantage Number 3: It opens up possibilities of meeting new people

Meeting new people is another bonus of being a Feng Shui enthusiast. When you
are applying Feng Shui, chances are, you will be able to find another person
within your social network who likes the same stuff and can even help you
expand your knowledge on Feng Shui, no matter how limited it is to begin with.

Advantage Number 4: It gives a fresh perspective on things

At any given time, a fresh perspective is always welcome. This positive
perspective can invite changes for the better. A new way of looking at home
arrangement, for example, may actually serve to benefit you in the long run.
The fresh perspective brought about by Feng Shui can actually bring about an
enrichment of one's mind.

Advantage Number 5: It invites prosperity and success

The main objective of Feng Shui is to invite all the good things to one's life.
Prosperity and success can be more easily within reach and a positive
disposition may be expected if Feng Shui is practiced well.

Advantage Number 6: It has aesthetic appeal

On top of all the enumerated benefits of Feng Shui, the best would probably be
its beauty. The physical appeal of a well-decorated home, interspersed with
good Feng Shui techniques, is actually something that you can call a personal
heritage that can transcend generations and promote beauty in all aspects,
including design of the home and the office.

Feng Shui Basics

Applying feng shui basics in the home need not be that complicated. There are
some ways in which this ancient practice can be used to make the home flow with
positive energy or chi. Here are some of the basic feng shui practices that you
need to know and can easily apply to make your home as well as your life filled
with positive chi.

Light, Air and Feng Shui

In order to fill your home with good chi, you may need to have good quality air
as well as lighting. In feng shui, it is believed that chi flows through with
the help of air as well as natural light. Because of this, it is essential to
make use of these two elements to ensure that the home flows with good chi. To
allow the good energy into your home, you would need to open your windows often
to let natural air into the home.

You can also use air purifying plants or an air purifier at home to make sure
that the air remains clean and pure. Also try to allow as much natural light
into your home to allow good chi to fill your home.

Unclutter Your Home

Clutter is a known obstacle to the flow of chi. It can have an effect on health
as well as the overall energy levels and quality of life. Too much clutter can
drain your energy as well as impede good energy from flowing into your home or
life. Getting rid of the clutter can also help get rid of the negative load
that affects your life. By clearing clutter, you are creating a harmonious
environment in your home flowing with good energy.

Know Your Feng Shui Birth Element

In order to understand better how you can use feng shui to achieve a certain
balance in your life and home, you might need to know your own birth element.
There is a certain element that corresponds to your birth year. Knowing what
element your are born with can help you decide on what is the best approach to
achieve that certain balance in feng shui. You can use your feng shui birth
element to introduce the different expressions of the element into your home
through the use of colors and the balance of the other complementary elements
in your life and home.

Know Your Kua Number

According to feng shui, each person has his or her own kua number that
corresponds to one's date of birth and gender. The kua number also tells of
each person's energy needs. In the school of feng shui called the Flying Stars,
people may belong in either one of two energy groups- the East or the West. For
the East Group, their kua numbers may either be 1, 3, 4 or 9.

For those on the West group, their kua numbers can either be 2,6,7 or 8. you
can use your kua number to determine directions and orientation of structures
such as your home or where you face when working in order to ensure good
positive energy to flow through. These feng shui basics can help you start off
in making your life and home flow with good chi.

Earth, Metal and Fire and Feng Shui?

Good Feng Shui means you have a balance of the five elements that compose the
earth. Coversely, it also involves not having these elements overpower each
other. Now, how do we really go about that? The basic principle on Feng Shui is
heavily anchored on the five elements of the earth. In an ideal system, the five
elements complement each other in a form of life cycle. If the environment
fosters this positive nature that balances the five elements of the earth, then
prosperity and good luck may not be far off.

Ideal System

The ideal system is where water produces wood, wood yields fire, and fire
fashions the earth. Then, the earth forms the metal and the metal consequently
produces the water. The overbearing and ugly system is when the elements
contradict each other: wood burdens earth, fire destroys metal, earth hampers
water, or water kills the fire. If you are able to see the visual properties of
these elements, you may find that these arrangements prescribed by Feng Shui
also make practical sense, even if you do not necessarily dig the concepts and
foundations of Feng Shui.

Earth

You don't have to be a geologist to understand good Feng Shui for earth. Earth
is generally composed of ceramics and rocks. If you want a happy home, you must
have a good dose of rocks and ceramics strategically placed in tune with the
other elements that are present in your home. Lacking in earth, you may find
yourself filled with instability and resilience that the earth is generally
known for.

Metal

Electronic devices can actually have good feng shui as well. They are under the
metal category, which not just brings in the technological advancements of this
age but also the toughness brought about by metal materials in the different
elements of Feng Shui. Make sure that metal is not colliding with fire
elements, and this may even hold a practical significance because you wouldn't
want any of your electronic devices to catch fire!

Water

Zen fountains and the like form the water aspect of Feng Shui. Just ensure that
water complements your metal. Overpowering your home with electronic appliances
may actually appeal to the gadget junkie but not to the Feng Shui aficionado.
Aside from the fact that water balances metal, you may also find that it has
visual appeal if a person finds a Zen fountain in the midst of a sea of gadgets
in the home which may be cool in function but not in appearance.

Fire

Candles and fireplaces are good examples of fire elements in Feng Shui. It may
appear weird to put a fountain beside a fireplace for it contradicts that
purpose, but many a movie had background sets with a fireplace and wooden
furniture that is well ideal for a night of romance. Too much fire can actually
drown the environment, so be very careful when lighting your environment. In
business settings, it may also be advisable to tame down the effects of fire in
the office. But it can be more unleashed in the personal setting, especially in
romantic ones.

Wood

Wood is abundant in many places. Wooden furniture remain to be vintage to the
Feng Shui expert. And this does not have to be only in the form of wooden
furniture. Just by cultivating a garden in your home, you will be able to bring
in a lot of wood that can help you balance the different elements.

Feng Shui Home Tips

Feng shui has been an ancient Chinese practice that has recently became popular
even in the Western world. It aims to strike up a certain kind of balance in a
certain environment making it more ideal for people to live in. This is the
practice of feng shui that has gotten the attention of most people,
particularly for use in their homes. Here are some useful feng shui home tips
that you can make use of to make your home filled with that positive "chi".

Your Doorway and Chi

First off, you can start on your doorway. Doors should always remain free and 
clear of clutter. With this in mind, you should try to remove any slippers or 
shoes that may be lying around the doorway. In feng shui, it is said that "chi" 
flows with the wind. With the slippers and shoes at the doorway, the "chi" 
would bring with it the smell coming from the slippers and shoes into your 
house and cause sickness.

The "chi" would then go about the home interior trying to find water where it
can stay. In the absence of such bodies of water like water fountains and
aquariums, the "chi" would easily be dispersed by the wind.

Of Water Tanks and Fountains

In feng shui, water is said to be a repository of the energy called "chi". That
is why it may be good to have one in the home. But positioning is also
important. A water fountain or fish tank should be positioned in an area that
would attract positive "chi". But a wrong or unfavorable position would also
bring in the opposite.

While good fortune awaits, wrong positioning would also bring in misfortune and
bad luck. If you have noticed the latter happening to you after positioning a
water fountain of fish tank at a certain area in the home, you may need to
shift it to another location.

Chi in the Kitchen

In designing your kitchen at home, make sure that you do not place your
refrigerator opposite of your stove. These appliances can stand for fire and
water. With the two clashing, it may bring family members to experience
frequent disagreements at home. This also goes the same with the stove being
opposite with the wash basin or washing machine in your kitchen.

Feng Shui in the Living Room

If you recently have been experiencing considerable pressure at work, your
marble table might be a factor that may be causing it, feng shui speaking. You
can either try to work your way through the pressure or you can remove the
marble table in your home and exchange it for a wooden one.

In the same way color may also affect some things in feng shui. For instance
having a red sofa set in your living room may bring about work pressure,
problems as well as obstacles.

The color red that signifies fire just doesn't work well in some areas of the
home. These are just some of the feng shui home tips that you can apply to make
sure that the flow of "chi" in your home remains on the positive side.

Laundry Room Logistics

All laundry rooms at one time or another have been guilty of massive piles of 
unsorted dirty clothes, laundry products strewn about, and a feeling of disorgani-
zation and chaos. When this feeling sets in, it can make tackling an overrun 
laundry room an even more difficult chore. But with some work, creativity and 
commitment from other family members, this room can become an organized oasis.

The first step is to develop a routine in your family for making sure their
dirty laundry is delivered to the laundry room on a routine basis. If you've
established Wednesday and Sunday as laundry day in your home, then laundry
needs to be delivered to the laundry room no later than Tuesday and Saturday
nights. Each person should be taught to sort laundry into designated hampers in
the laundry room. Younger children should be accompanied by a parent or older
sibling when the time for this chore comes, but encouraged and assisted in the
sorting process.

Maintain a laundry basket or bin for each family member. Once clothes are
washed, dried and folded, place them into each basket and deliver them to their
bedrooms. Older children should be capable of putting laundry into drawers and
on hangers themselves. Younger children again will probably need assistance,
but their independence should be encouraged.

Make it a habit of keeping on top of the laundry supplies. Make sure there are
always plenty of soap, stain fighter and fabric softener available. Nothing can
be more aggravating than finding no laundry soap available when you have six
loads to be done.

Make sure your laundry room has a separate and clearly labeled bin for items
that need to be dry cleaned. Make sure that this bin is emptied as often as
needed and that items are delivered and picked up from the dry cleaners
promptly. Have another bin set aside for items that need to be repaired or that
need buttons replaced. Tackle this bin at least twice a month so that it does
not become overwhelming.

Simple Feng Shui Tips for the Home

Part of an ancient Chinese art and science, feng shui is basically concerned
with the harmonious relationship between man and his environment. It is based
on a Taoist idea that nature is alive and has energy in different forms.

Many modern aficionados assert that feng shui is the practice of arranging
objects, such as in the home, to help attract positive energy. The following
are a few basic feng shui tips for the home:

1. A marble table in the house is not good for the career since it attracts
work stress. A red sofa set too is often said to give rise to work obstacles
and troubles. Replace that marble table with a wooden one, and that red sofa
with any other color.

2. Have enough lighting in the rooms because light is an important source of
energy. In dull spaces where natural light from the window is limited, paint
the walls with yellow, which represents sunlight.

3. The bed should be placed next to a wall. You must not also sleep in a way
where your feet are pointed towards the door, as this has negative connotation.
A mirror where you can see yourself in as you are lying in bed has to be
removed, or covered with a blanket as you sleep.

4. The doorway should not be obstructed with anything, such as shoes and other
items. A clear entrance allows the positive energy to freely enter the room. It
is also advised that the seating is so arranged that anyone inside the room will
be able to see the door.

5. Placing mirrors in the room help positive energy dart through the area. They
amplify the amount of light inside the room. Mirrors also make the room appear
much larger than it actually is, giving a cozy vibe.

6. Plants represent nature, and having your self surrounded by them evokes the
healing and nurturing vibrations of nature right into your room. However, dying
or dead plants attract negative energy, so take them out immediately.

7. Make sure that there is no refrigerator, washing machine, dishwasher and
even sink placed opposite the stove. Fire and water clash; this might stir up
negative energies that may cause the family members to have disagreements with
one another.

8. Never allow your children to sleep on the floor because it may cause them to
get sick often. Ideally, positive energy flowing underneath the bed is
beneficial. So it is advised for your children to sleep in beds with space
beneath them.

However, it is not recommended for them to use double bunk beds because the
child sleeping beneath will get sickly.

9. The flowing of positive energy is generally interrupted by disorder or
clutter in the room. Positive energy should be allowed to flow freely in the
room, and from one space to the other. Clutter has to be removed especially
from the center of your house, which is considered the heart of the house.

10. Keep your bathroom clean and the bathroom door closed at all times since
you don't want the negative energy inside it flow outside. You might also want
to close all doors in the home as you sleep as it helps provide health domestic
relationships and promotes health.

For beginners, feng shui does not have to mean using particular tools to come
up with a harmonious home. Sticking to the basic aspects is enough to attract
the right energies into your home.

Clutter and Feng Shui

Part of having good feng shui is clutter management. If anything, clutter is
the biggest hindrance you can have for the best flow of chi, prosperity and
goodness in your life. However, few people are able to manage their clutter
wisely. On a daily basis, we get tons and tons of stuff we won't be really
using for a long time. Here are some tips for you to help reduce clutter and
invite good Feng Shui.

Anti-Clutter Feng Shui Tip 1: Sort your mail as it comes in

Incoming mail is one of the top sources of clutter. All those bills are not
just stressful if mismanaged and stashed somewhere in your home, but it is also
contributory to clutter in your home. If you are really serious about getting
good Feng Shui, make sure that you are able to screen your mail. Establish a
system for sorting all your mail. And this also holds true for other papers you
may be keeping in your home. If you neatly categorize them and throw away the
ones you no longer need, you will be much better off.

Anti-Clutter Feng Shui Tip 2: Opt for daily cleanings than reliance on major
general cleanings

A general cleaning schedule is good, but if you are still not in the habit of
cleaning on a regular basis, you may still find yourself filled with a clutter
problem. So the best thing to do when you are trying to apply good Feng Shui is
by exercising your cleaning powers on a daily basis, not just on a schedule. It
does not have to be too rigorous if done on a daily basis. You can just start
with the cleaning per day one area at a time to accomplish it effectively.

Anti-Clutter Feng Shui Tip 3: Clean as you work

While working on a project, clean as you go. This means that you will not just
leave stuff lying around on the table as you do your work. This ensures that
the work space remains clean, and this also implies that you are open for more
productive work in the future since the space is wiped free of any traces from
previously done work.

Anti-Clutter Feng Shui Tip 4: Be generous about your stuff

Give away the stuff you don't need. This is a rule of thumb when it comes to
cleaning up and freeing from clutter. Being generous involves giving away stuff
you don't really get to use. What you won't use for a long time and collect dust
may actually be an answer to somebody else's problems. Just make sure that you
are not transferring clutter but something that can really be of use to the
person you are giving it to.

Anti-Clutter Feng Shui Tip 5: Dust frequently

Dusting frequently helps keep your place clean. Dust, when accumulated also
forms the clutter which we are really trying to avoid in Feng Shui.

Anti-Clutter Feng Shui Tip 6: Evaluate your stuff brutally

If at all possible, have a peer to help you evaluate your stuff at home. What
you may hold dear and refuse to part with is not just a sign of bad Feng Shui
but may also be a sign of a hoarding problem. Aside from addressing your Feng
Shui issues, the mindset on clutter ma also have to be dealt with accordingly.

Feng Shui for Different Home Areas

The Chi, a positive energy that brings in prosperity, should always flow freely
through different areas in the home. The following are simple feng shui tips for
the different areas in the home.

The kitchen

- The stove must be away from the door, but the cook should be able to see the
door. If not possible, install a mirror.

- Never position the stove opposite the sink, refrigerator, or dishwasher. A
clash of the elements fire and water is not a good idea.

- Keep your cupboard and refrigerator well stocked with food supplies. It
implies wealth and abundance.

- Avoid positioning the stove directly in front of a window. Placing the stove
to the side of a window is better.

The bathroom or toilet

- Never place the toilet opposite the kitchen. The feng shui fire and water
elements will clash in this situation.

- The toilet must not be placed adjacent to the front door. Place the toilet
somewhere far away from the front door.

- Avoid positioning the toilet door directly opposite the front door. This may
lead to wasted opportunities.

- Place a huge mirror behind the bathroom sink. But never use the kind that is
split in the middle, often seen in bathroom cabinets.

- Make sure that the plumbing fixtures in the bathroom and toilet are not
leaking, especially the faucets.

The bedroom

- The bedroom should not be adjacent or opposite to a bathroom or toilet. If
this is unavoidable, make sure you keep the bathroom or toilet door closed at
all times.

- Position the bed as far away from the door as possible. But make sure you
still have a good view of the door from the bed. At the same time, do not place
your bed where your feet are pointed towards the door when you are sleeping.

- Mirrors should not be placed where they reflect your image as you sleep.
Round and oval shaped mirrors are ideal, but make sure they are larger than
your head.

- Sleeping directly on the floor is not suggested as it does not allow the Chi
to flow beneath you.

The stairway

- Traditionally, the favorable number of steps in a stairway is an odd number.
A spiral staircase is also a blunder because it confuses the Chi.

- The worst mistake that can happen is when the staircase leads directly to the
front door. This leads to the loss of opportunities, and the residents tend to
be always rushing, seldom settling in.

- A good way to slow down the flow of Chi outside the front door is to hang a
wind chime on the ceiling above the base of the staircase. A heavy figurine at
the floor level below may also act helpful.

Lobbies and hallways

- Hallways need to be free of impediments and are needed to be well lit. It
should also be clear to anyone where they are to go next in the house.

- A nice piece of art may be hung on the wall to the end of a hallway. However,
never place a mirror there; it will only reflect back the entering Chi.

- There should be no hallway in the house that leads directly to a toilet. If
it is already there, just make sure the door is closed at all times.

These are some tips to overcoming and preventing Chi flow problems, giving you
a harmonious feng shui home.

Decorating Your Home With Feng Shui

Feng Shui is the practice of bringing good fortune by achieving balance between
various elements. In the US, more people are beginning to consult Feng Shui
experts in decorating their homes. For you to understand what they say, you
need to learn the basic Feng Shui areas that need your attention so you will be
able to decorate it properly.

The first step is to draw a layout of your home. When you are doing it, you are
noting down the north points in the house.

Then it is time to work on the door. Ideally, the front and back door must
never line up with each other. This is because according to the principles of
Feng Shui, energy that enters the house will just go out without bringing any
benefits to the homeowner. If this is the case in your home, put a plant or any
other obstruction with an angled throw rug to encourage a path in a sideways
direction.

To bring more energy in the home, bring in some light. This doesn't mean
turning the lights on but simply opening up the curtains so the sun can come
in. You should also add green plants since in Feng Shui, the color itself
brings joy and happiness. Other decorative items you can use include mirrors,
wind chimes and brighter colors.

You can also bring good fortune to the home by putting in an indoor water
fountain. This is because water refreshes Chi. At the same time, you can throw
in some goldfish as this also encourages wealth. Just make sure to keep the
pond clean and never let it stagnate.

Red is a very strong color in Feng Shui because it is hot, passionate, rich and
celebratory. You must use this color for a living room set because too much of
it may bring restlessness, a burst of anger and over stimulation. If you want
to use it, use it only for details and accessories.

When you note down the north point of the home, it will be easy for you to work
in other areas such as the southwest area of the house. This area is vital
because it will allow you to have satisfying relationships. You can do this by
eliminating clutter and replacing it with symbolic items ideally in pairs. Some
good examples are candles and other figurines. Never make the mistake of putting
wooden or green items here.

As for your dining room, the best ones to get are circles as this symbolizes
heavenly blessings. The chairs should be even in number and comfortable to sit
in. The decor should be simple so people will not get distracted and be more
focused on having a good meal.

Watch out for exposed beams. If there are, these should be covered up because
it creates an oppressive downward energetic flow that may cause health problems
and other misfortunes in your life. The other option is to have two Feng Shui
flutes installed at 45 degree angles on the beam, one at each end.

As for the bedroom, make sure that the bed is not directly facing the door. You
shouldn't also place a mirror on the opposite side of the bed as this could
attract a third party into your relationship.

Peace and prosperity can only be achieved by decorating your home with Feng
Shui. You can start now with some of the basics then get help if you think you
need it.

Enhancing Your Life with Feng shui

The ancient practice of Feng shui is one of the oldest forms of geomancy in the
world and can be traced back as far as 3500 years ago in ancient China. The word
literally means wind and water and this practice believes in the notion that qi
or vital energy can greatly influence and improve a person's life by achieving
balance and harmony in their surroundings.

To apply this practice means having to recognize the relationship between man
and the environment he lives in. The key to this practice is locating the all
important qi by arranging objects inside or outside of your home or even your
office space so that qi continuously flows freely in the space thereby
producing a positive impact in different aspects of your life. This ancient
practice and belief is still being applied today and here are some methods
where the art of balance and harmony can make a difference in a person's life.

Using the Five Phases Method

The five phases method relies in the five elements or phases of fire, earth,
metal, water and wood. These elements interrelate with each other through a
creation cycle where fire produces earth, earth produces metal, metal produces
water and water produces wood. Each element also corresponds to a particular
direction where water is placed in the north, fire is the south, east is wood,
west is metal and earth is the center.

The best way to apply this method is to make sure that your room or the space
you live in has a balance of all these elements to produce good qi otherwise
too much of a particular element might go against the other elements and
produce harmful qi instead.

Using the Flying Stars Method

Probably the most difficult method to apply Feng shui is the flying star method
which takes into account the date your house or office was built, a detailed
floor plan and the outside environment of the place. It is similar to having a
birth sign in astrology only this time it's your property's birth sign.

Although this method can be complex, it is the most accurate of methods and
usually done by master practitioners of the craft. What this method aims to
achieve is to harmonize your space by finding out the best elements to enhance
it and the elements that need to be avoided.

Using the Eight Mansions Method

The most popular application of Feng shui is the eight mansions method or the
Ba Zhai. This method requires you to calculate your kua number based on your
birth date. This will help you determine your auspicious direction because each
kua number corresponds to a particular direction.

This method aims to find out which directions are good for you and which to
avoid. It also helps you find out if you are compatible with that particular
area you're living or staying in. Finding out the best direction for you and
enhancing that space can help you become more productive in terms of career,
relationships, health and luck.

Feng shui-Proof Your Life

Testimonies of the benefits of this ancient practice are many and its
effectiveness can be traced from ancient times otherwise this practice would
not have survived today. The concept is simple and everyone can benefit with
some semblance of balance and harmony in their lives. It's just a matter of
recognizing the value of qi and making sure everything in your surroundings
brings you peace.

Feng Shui Symbols for Prosperity and Abundance

Choosing Feng Shui symbols need not be hard. You don't really need to stuff
yourself with crystals, essential oils or other things that may not necessarily
be in harmony with each other. The key to having good Feng Shui is balance, and
you need to be able to have the qualities of balance to invite the good things
and experience the pleasurable effects of Feng Shui in your life. There are
many kinds of Feng Shui symbols, and you may have to orient yourself properly
about these Feng Shui symbols before hanging any in your home.

In choosing the right Feng Shui symbol, you must have some emotional
relationship to the object you are using as a Feng Shui symbol. Some of the
Feng Shui symbols are meant to provide cures for bad luck. The others are meant
to supplement what is already inherently there in your home or office. The mood
that you want to convey must be established right from the very beginning
before you shop around for Feng Shui symbols so that you will find the
appropriate symbol that will fit your needs.

Crystals

There are quite a lot of crystals available for Feng Shui, and familiarizing
yourself with each one of them and their functions will help you acquire what
you need to be able to invite prosperity and abundance in your life. When you
are using crystals, make sure that you take good care of it and wash it
regularly to avoid dust or clutter from overpowering it.

Essential Oils

Some of the more relaxing oil varieties include the lavender oil, which is very
good for helping you attain peace of mind in your environment. Essential oils
are very conducive to providing a positive environment for your home or office.
Just make sure that you use the right amount of oils so that you will not
overpower your environment with too much oil. Also, for purposes of variety,
have some stock of various oils so that you will be able to experience
different modes of environment even by just changing the scent.

Fountains

Fountains provide serenity and the element of water in the environment. If you
have a fountain that is quite unobtrusive and physically appealing, place it in
such a way that it will complement metal and not overpower your fire elements.
Fountains complement metal elements so make sure that you are able to position
it with the metal elements in your home or office.

Bagua and other Feng Shui Tools

The right orientation for the Feng Shui bagua is also important if you are to
use it in your home. The Feng Shui tools that you might need must also
complement each other so that you will not find yourself in the middle of a
clashed set of Feng Shui symbols. Chinese coins tied with a string are also
another form of good luck charm.

Animals

Animals are also considered part of the Feng Shui symbols. Some of the
attributes of the animal being used is actually assimilated by the environment
according to Feng Shui experts.

The Color Factor

Color is also an important aspect of Feng Shui. The visual appeal must not only
be derived on what goes with where, but it must also be grounded on the right
colors you need. It all depends on the mood that you want to convey.

Feng Shui Theories

Feng shui theories today mainly work with the goal to arrange the environment
made by humans in certain spots known to have good Qi. In order to find this
spot, it should be the right location and an axis in time based on the accepted
theories. In order to understand it better, here are some of the theories that
feng shui has been known to uphold in its practice.

Qi

The Qi, pronounce as "chi", is a difficult word to understand and is usually
left as it is, without translation. In the most literal sense, the word means
"air". In today's feng shui, Qi is similar to the word "energy". A more
traditional explanation of Qi as it relates to understanding of local
environments, the orientation of buildings, and the interaction between the
land to the vegetation and the soil quality. An instrument that is used to
determine the flow of Qi is the luopan.

The theory of Qi stems from the different beliefs from the Axial Age. One such
belief holds that the heavens influence life on Earth. This may seem outrageous
to some people, but scientists today now know that space weather exists and can
affect some technology such as GPS, power grids, communication and navigation
systems, etc. and the internal orienting faculties of even birds and other
creatures.

Polarity

Polarity is another theory used in the practice of feng shui. It is expressed
in feng shui as the Yin and Yang Theory. Polarity that is expressed through yin
and yang can be compared to a bipolar magnetic field. It is made up of two
forces- one creating a force and one receiving it. Yang is the force acting and
yin is receiving. This interaction is considered as an early understanding of
Qirality. The Yin Yang Theory and connected to another theory called the Five
Phase Theory or Five Element Theory.

The so-called "five elements" of feng shui are water, wood, fire, earth or
soil, and metal. These elements are said to be composed of yin and yang in
precise amounts. The interaction between the two forces became the foundation
for the practice of feng shui and how it is said to strive to achieve balance.

Bagua

The two ancient diagrams that are known as the bagua are common fixtures in the
practice in feng shui. They can be compared to the cardinal points of the
compass today. The bagua diagrams are also linked with the sifang or "four
directions" method of divination that was popularly used during the Shang
dynasty although the sifang is considered to be much older.

It was also known to be used at Niuheliang as well as a big fixture in the
Hongshan culture's practice of astronomy. And it is in this area of China that
can be connected to Huangdi, who was also known as the Yellow Emperor. It was
Huangdi who was known to have invented the south-pointing spoon.

The cardinal directions that contained in the bagua diagram are said to be
determined by the marker-stars of the mega-constellations known as the Four
Celestial Animals. The East is considered to be the Blue Green Dragon. The
South is the Red Bird. The West is also known to be the White Tiger while the
North stood for the Dark Turtle.

These feng shui theories also loom large even in today's practice of trying to
achieve a good balance in the environment as well as the lives of people.

Love, Relationships and Feng Shui

If you think that Feng Shui is only good for your home or your office, think
again. This can also be used for love and relationships. Here are some tips you
should know.

1. If you are married or in a relationship, hang pictures of you together with
your mate.

2. For married couples, place a pair of objects in the far right corner of the
bedroom otherwise known as the southwest corner. A few good examples are a pair
of Mandarin ducks or cranes as these are symbols of marital bliss. Another is a
heart shaped figurine made from pink quartz crystal.

3. You surely have mirrors in the bedroom. If they are facing the bed, relocate
them because it reflects the couple on the bed. Some believe that this will
cause a failure in the relationship because of the entry of a third party.
Believe it or not, televisions are just as negative as mirrors do get rid of it.

4. As for the bed, make sure that this is not in direct line to the door. This
is because the dead take your with your feet first. It should also be
accessible from three sides as this will allow you to keep your partner.

5. You should always treat yourselves to fresh flowers and once they wilt,
replace it. Never put these in the southwest corner of the room as this will
clash with the element of romance, namely earth.

6. If there are any abstract, dark or sad artworks in the bedroom, take it out.
These things encourage negativity when this room should be peaceful and safe for
those who sleep there. You can replace it with a painting of Peonies, love birds
or silk flowers as these represents love.

7. You must never work out in the bedroom because this represents hard work
that is often a hindrance of romantic space.

8. Should the bedroom doors squeak, fix it because it blocks romantic energy
from entering the bedroom.

9. For those who have toilets and unfortunately this is located on the south
west corner of the room, don't worry because you can fix it by hanging a five
rod wind chime.

10. The bedroom should be well ventilated so old energy moves out of the room.

11. It will also be a good idea to buy yourselves a gift as this symbolizes
your relationship. Put this in a prominent place in the room or the home so you
are able to remember your partner.

12. But what if you are still single? Well Feng Shui may also work for you. You
do this by making a wish list of what qualities you want in an ideal partner and
also the ideal relationship. These are two different things and when you write
it, be specific. It may not happen today or tomorrow but one day, your ideal
partner will show up and you can have your dream come true.

Feng Shui can help you keep the love alive in your relationship by blocking out
negative things and then embracing those that are positive. This may mean
relying more of Yin which symbolizes femininity more than Yang which is
masculinity but it is all good as this causes a healthy balance with the
opposite sex.

The Yin and Yang of Feng Shui

Is Feng Shui really friendly for all genders? While there is no question to the
fact that it can invite some positive vibes into your home just by the mere art
of rearranging your furniture and the orientations of your surroundings, it may
actually reveal so much more about culture if one takes a good look at it.

For one thing, the Yin and Yang illustration is a very famous facet of Feng
Shui. It simply states that opposites are necessary to be able to appreciate
the beauty of things. You cannot appreciate the good without bad, light without
darkness and so on. This theory of opposites and balance extends to the elements
of the earth: water, wind, fire, wood and earth. These elements are also in
balance if good Feng Shui is present.

Yin is often characterized with strength, viability and aggressiveness. More
importantly, it is attributed to the masculine side of identity. On the other
hand, weakness and femininity are interchangeably attributed to the Yang side,
the softer side of things. Is this really a good thing? While it has been
maintained that it is a world for the masculine, the main precepts of Feng Shui
are actually more tailored to suit male, establishing them as the strong ones in
the spectrum of life.

The Feng Shui concept is already organized in its scope. Any person you ask
about Feng Shui may tell you its symbols: the bagua, the yin and yang diagram
and the charms used by Feng Shui experts to cancel bad luck. However, the main
concepts are not entirely original. The philosopher Heraclitus from Greece is
credited for having first denoted the concept of having opposites. And
consequently, psychology on colors and other visual media can also state some
theories that are resonant with Feng Shui precepts.

Interestingly, there are more women drawn to the Feng Shui habit than men, who
may or may not be conscious that they are actually supporting a form of belief
system that establishes males as strong and females as weak. But other than the
Yin -- Yang concept, there is no other outward manifestation of this gender bias.

Is it really a good thing to believe in Feng Shui and apply it? The answer is
relative. It depends on the person who is asking and the background under which
he or she is raised. If you are born in an open-minded culture which holds less
restrictions on what you can and cannot do, the applying of Feng Shui may be a
non-issue. Meanwhile, if you are under a movement that opposes the main beliefs
of Feng Shui, you may have to make a more substantial choice of lifestyle
changes.

Feng Shui also has its own Yin and Yang to speak of. If you are really intent
on ruminating on the deeper aspects of Feng Shui, you may have to dig deeper
beyond what you see on promotional materials and even hate literature against
Feng Shui. For the most part, Feng Shui is quite harmless in nature and it does
not really explicitly cause major changes in one's lifestyles or belief systems.

But if in case you choose to be more meticulous, you may find that analyzing
beneath the layers of promotion of Feng Shui that there is more to it than just
rearranging furniture.

Fame from Feng Shui

Do you want to be closer to fame? Well, it may not exactly be within reach
instantly upon applying Feng Shui, but it can at least help open the doors to
fame for you. Ushering in the mood that is conducive to fame is one of the
things that Feng Shui consultants are paid for. But if you have a tight budget
and just wish to try out Feng Shui for the fun of it, you may find these tips
useful for inviting fame and opportunity in your doorstep.

Famous Feng Shui Tip 1: Redden your atmosphere

Red is often attributed to good reputation and fame. So if at all possible,
have a lot of red things in your atmosphere. But don't overdo it, as success
may not be exactly attractive when under some form of overdose. Make sure that
you are able to decorate your office or home in red with good taste, and don't
make it clash with other furniture or things that you need to put in your home
or office. The middle portion is usually the best place to have a concentration
of red ojects.

Famous Feng Shui Tip 2: Fire it up!

Fire is good attractor of fame and favorable reputation, so make sure that you
have some elements of fire all over your area. Have a candlelit area in your
room, or better yet, amp up your fireplace. This way, you will be able to fire
up your reputation with it.

Famous Feng Shui Tip 3: Put wood and fire together!

If you have fire, it may also be good to have some wooden furniture to go along
with it. You don't have to put them in direct contact with each other, because
that would actually pose some hazards. All you have to do is make sure that you
have a healthy balance of both these elements, for these are two elements out of
the five that Feng Shui promotes you to have in your environment for a sense of
balance.

Famous Feng Shui Tip 4: Prop up your achievements

You may have some proof of achievement. Now, if you hang these achievements on
the wall, it invites more of the recognition that you aspire for. If you are
really very shy about your achievements, you can at least display it in another
part of your room, without being too blatant about it.

Famous Feng Shui Tip 5: Have a visual target or symbol for success

Aside from upholding the things that you have already achieved, it may also
help you if you have some target of sorts, a symbol for your success. It is not
just enough that you appreciate how much you have achieved so far; it is also
equally important to look forward to things that you can still have in the
future. Keep handy your symbols for success; it may be in the form of a
sentimental pen if you are a budding Nobel Prize aspirant or maybe something
else that holds specific and special meaning for you and your goals of success.

Famous Feng Shui Tip 6: Keep your humility intact

Of course, Feng Shui is no excuse for you to flaunt yourself too much in your
environment. The best way to invite success is to maintain your humility. There
are still other people who are better and smarter, so you do not have the
exclusive right to be way above in the clouds.

The Golden Ratio and Feng Shui

Since Feng Shui deals with balance, it is not far off to discuss the matters
about the Golden Ratio. The Golden ratio is one of the precepts that govern
Feng Shui. This ratio is numerically described as 1.62. The Fibonacci numbers
that we know today are also directly linked to the Golden Ratio. When you
divide a certain term in a Fibonacci sequence with the number prior to it, you
will find that it approaches the value of the Golden Ratio.

Beauty Equals Symmetry

The beauty of objects may be measured by its closeness to the golden ratio. The
symmetry of objects is the attribute that tells if a thing is beautiful or not,
for the most part. People naturally love balance of elements, and for the chi
to flow, the Golden Ratio must apply.

The Golden Ratio in History

The Golden Ratio is manifested in various works of art that have been lauded by
the world as masterpieces. The genius in Da Vinci lies in the symmetry of his
works that reflect the Golden Ratio. The drawing of the Vitruvian Man is a
classic example of man who had the ratio of 1.62 all over his body and was
considered as a picture of perfection.

The Golden Ratio in Famous Places

Famous places such as the pyramids of Egypt also employ the Golden Ratio. The
half of the bottom layer of the pyramids of Egypt is also a factor of 1.62.

The Golden Ratio in Plants

Even plants have distinct characteristics of Golden Ratio. They establish a
Fibonacci sequence in the number of leaves. Even the eyes of a pineapple follow
this golden ratio. Much of the things that are viewed as beautiful by the naked
eye establish the factor that possesses the Golden Ratio in one way or another.
The Fibonacci sequence can be more or less seen in the beauty of nature. Even
human DNA has factors that are assimilative of the Golden Ratio.

The Golden Ratio to Facial Features

If the ratio of your nose to your chin to the horizontal space between your
nose and one side of your cheek is more or less the same as the Golden Ratio,
you will find that the face is judged as attractive. In some experimental
studies done by scientists, where they showed pictures of women to infants, the
ones which had an impact were the more symmetric faces.

Applying the Golden Ratio in Your Office Space

In your office space, it is quite easy to apply the Golden Ratio for
establishing balance and good Feng Shui. Just make sure that the rectangular
objects in your office follow the 1.62 golden ratio. You don't need a ruler to
measure it on the dot. Just by looking at relative sizes between objects that
practice the Golden Ratio will already suffice for giving good balance and Feng
Shui to your office space.

Applying the Golden Ratio in Your Home

The Golden Ration may be a bit trickier to apply at home than in your office.
You might have to apply the ratio to different furniture in your home. Or, if
at all possible, the actual room space must at least have the Golden Ratio in
it if your furnishings are round or not viable for the Golden Ratio.

Good Feng Shui is actually possible if you already have the Golden Ratio in
your home or office.

Harmonizing with Feng shui

Perhaps one of the oldest forms of geomancy in the world is Feng shui which
originated from China more than 3500 years ago. This ancient practice is
literally translated as wind and water and is based on the belief that life can
be greatly improved with the help of Qi or energy flow. This Qi can be produced
by achieving balance or harmony through the use of the laws of heaven, which
pertains to the study of astronomy and earth, which is associated with the
study of geography.

The purpose of the application of this practice is to locate that Qi or that
vital energy in your surroundings by creating balance and harmony around you.
Here are some Feng shui theories that can give you a better grasp of this
concept of balance and energy.

The Power of Qi

Qi is everywhere and the key is to find it. This energy is a result of
interactions in the environment like the yin and yang and the five elements of
water, fire, earth, metal and wood. This theory believes that the way you
arrange your surroundings and position certain objects around you can affect
your energy levels. It also believes that these energy levels can even
influence your health, wealth, relationships and even luck. By properly
organizing your environment, qi can flow through the space freely and can
create a positive effect to those who live in the area.

The Union of the Yin & Yang

The yin and the yang are two opposing forces or energies that work together
creating a unity of opposites. The yin is characterized as the passive energy
that is associated with the characteristics of water, cold, peace and
tenderness while the yang is described as the active energy like those from
heat, fire, excitement and speed. In other words if yin is matter, yang is
energy and neither of them can exist without the other. The key to
understanding this practice is to achieving a proper balance of yin and yang in
our environment.

Balance through Bagua

The bagua is a popular Feng shui instrument that is shaped like an octagon and
is divided into the eight cardinal directions of North, South, East, West,
North East, North West, South East and South West. The theory of the bagua is
that each of these directions corresponds to a part of our life. For instance,
the North portion of the bagua pertains to one's career while the south
pertains to the fame or reputation of a person. The other categories of the
bagua are family, children, prosperity, relationships, wisdom, and travel.

The theory of the bagua also believes that each of the eight directions pertain
to a part of our life and in order to activate the energy or improve a certain
part of our life is to find the direction it corresponds to and make the qi
flow into that space positively.

Finding the Harmony

Understanding and appreciating the art of Feng shui is accepting that there is
an existing relationship between you and your environment. The theories of this
practice present information on how a person can achieve balance and harmony
with the environment which can have a great impact in particular areas of a
person's life.

Although each person has their own potentials in the area of health, wealth,
relationships and luck, what this practice really teaches is how to enhance
these areas for practitioners to make the most out of their lives.

Creating a Harmonious Feng Shui Home with Colors

Color is something that Feng Shui makes use of in attracting positive energy
into our living space. When you are planning your home's color schemes, you
should pick accordingly to the kind of energy you need. This guide will assist
you in choosing the best colors for you to come up with a harmonious home.

Red -- This is the color of fire, which represents divine energy. It is advised
to use red with caution. Red is best as the color of small decorative pieces in
your living areas, rather than with huge furnishings or wall color. This color
brings confidence, joy, courage and passion into your life.

Blue -- Creating a feeling of serenity, blue is the color of the sea and sky.
This color is best used in the east and southeast portions of your home, in the
form of wall color and decorative items. Depending on the kind of energy you
need, you might want to employ deep blue to promote sleep, or lighter ones to
liven up the space.

Yellow -- Dull spaces with little sunlight will benefit from the color yellow.
This is the color of sunlight, so it evokes a feeling of warmth and
cheerfulness. It also brings the fire energy, but in a much gentler way than
red. However, it is said that prolonged exposure to this color causes anxiety.

Orange -- This color is a brilliant choice for your living room, dining area or
elsewhere where lively and playful energy is needed. Orange evokes creativity,
one's sense of purpose and bubbly conversations. This is also the color of
choice for those who find red too strong.

Green -- Surrounding oneself by the green color of nature is refreshing and
nurturing. This color represents the wood element, evoking the healing
vibrations from nature into your home. It is best for those who need growth,
peace and new beginnings. Having several different shades of green in the home
makes the most of the color's effects.

Purple -- Excellent for spiritual and mental healing, purple should be used in
moderation. Experts do not recommend this as a wall color, especially in the
east and southeast areas of your home, since it is a very strong, high
vibration color. Purple is best used in a meditation space; or go for lighter
tones such as lavender in adding color to your room.

Pink -- The universal color of love, this color is perfect to soothe and fill
the heart with love. Pink brings a very fiery energy into your life, especially
when coupled with orange. However, too much of this color in one's home makes
the residents tend to live illusive lives.

Black -- Although it may convey a feeling of heaviness if used in large
proportions, black symbolizes career and sophistication. The color is best used
indoors, in the form of furniture shades, frames, and other small decorative
items. Black adds depth and definition to any home space.

White -- Excellent for use anywhere in the home, especially to contrast bright
colors. White soothes the mind by filling it with energy of innocence,
tranquility and a bright new future. However, try to limit an all white color
scheme in the east and southeast areas of your home.

Feng Shui maintains that the colors used in our living environment as something
that affects us physically, emotionally and psychologically. Picking the right
Feng Shui colors in your home will attract the kind of energy that will work
for you best.

The Wonderful Colors of Feng Shui

Colors affect people in different ways. By using the right colors, you can
strengthen the elements of Feng Shui. These wonderful colors are divided into
cool which is Yin and warm which is Yang. There must a balance at all times
because everything possesses these two components.

Aside from Yin colors being cool, it also represents healing and relaxation. To
give you an idea, here are the colors.

* Blue has yin energy because it reflects love. It also creates a feeling of
peace and trust. Since it is the color of both the sea and sky, Feng Shui
experts associate it with adventure and exploration. Among the different shades
of blue, navy blue is the color that best describes intellect and wisdom.

* Black symbolizes money and income. It is great for those who are focusing on
their careers especially when this color is combined with metal. In Feng Shui,
it is the color of emotional protection and power.

* Next is purple that lies at the end of the spectrum. In Feng Shui, it is
associated with spiritual awareness as it is excellent for physical and mental
healing.

* White represents confidence, poise and purity. Feng Shui experts use this
color in combination with gold and silver as it generates a calm atmosphere.

* You also have green which is represents balancing, normalizing, nurturing and
refreshing. It is the color of balance, harmony, healing and health in the
emotional, physical and spiritual aspect of things.

Yang colors tend to be fire and wood elements. It is these colors that provide
you with positive energy or enthusiasm and here are the colors.

* Yellow represents cheerfulness and friendliness. However, too much exposure
to this color can be bad because it often leads to anxiety.

* Orange helps you strengthen your concentration especially in times when your
creativity runs dry.

* Tan or being represents the colors of the earth. It portrays neatness and
helps conceal emotion.

* Lavender is the color of sexual indecision. Feng Shui experts believe this
color suggests an ability to be manipulated.

* Maroon is one of the shades of red. In Feng Shui, this represents
indecisiveness.

There are other colors aside from those mentioned that represent Yin and Yang
in Feng Shui. If you want to know more about it, do some research as this is
written in books and also posted online.

As mentioned, these colors should be used in different combinations with other
Feng Shui elements in order to balance the Chi. These elements are namely
earth, water, fire, wind and metal.

Each of the colors above represents one of these elements and by making sure
there is balance, you will be able to bring prosperity wherever you need it
like in your home or for your business.

For instance, if you want balance in the bathroom, you shouldn't add the color
black as there is enough water already there. Doing so will cause an imbalance
and surely you wouldn't want that to happen.

The wonderful colors of Feng Shui can be used to your advantage depending on
the energy you need. For you to achieve prosperity, you have to bring them into
your home or office not only in the colors of the wall but also the furniture
and decor as well.

Feng Shui Arrows

In Feng Shui, the term arrows refer to sharp objects that bring bad luck and
negative energy. In a way, like an arrow, it cuts through all the positive chi
or energy within an environment. These arrows are inadvertently distributed all
over the world, and if you are a budding Feng Shui enthusiast, it may be helpful
to know what "arrows" in life you must watch out for.

The Arrow of Staircases

The most popular arrow is the arrow from staircases. To locate this arrow, just
try to find that space underneath the staircase of your home. From just standing
there, you will already feel all the heaviness, not just from footsteps, but
also from the energy that is being siphoned off in that area because of the
staircase arrows.

As much as possible, avoid hanging out underneath staircases or placing living
rooms directly underneath staircases. In case this is unavoidable and you are
cramped for space, you may have to buy some Feng Shui charms to ward off then
negative effect.

The Arrow of Complex Architecture

Complex architecture may be lovely to look at but not necessarily good for
business. If you are really after getting the most out of your buildings and
inviting all the positive energy, avoid complex structures. By complex
structures we mean architectural designs which have too many pointed edges
(e.g. star-shaped buildings.). All these arrows are actually detrimental to
people who will be standing directly in front of these arrows.

The Escalator Arrow in Malls

Getting the right stalls from malls may be quite tricky, but here's a rule of
thumb: Avoid the stalls which are directly in front of the bottom step of the
escalator. This is because all the energy and prosperity is being drawn off and
invited out of the stalls by the negative arrow of the escalator. While people
may think that positioning one's self directly to where customers can view the
store as they alight the escalator, it's bad Feng Shui and detrimental to one's
profit.

Arrows from Attics

If you have an attic, chances are, you get the irregular ceiling shapes from
the walls. Try to soften the arrows from your attic ceilings by hanging chimes
and other charms of Feng Shui. The arrows from attics can invite more stress
and carry over negative energy from the past, especially if you are using the
attic to store up old stuff.

Arrows from Irregularly Erected Walls

Irregularly erected walls or walls that lean diagonally forward may be
dangerous. If at all possible, avoid placing the bed beside the region where
the wall leans. This is where the arrows will hit you while you are resting.

There are other arrows in the world, and you may actually name some more based
from your direct experience. Whether the exposure to arrows may bring bad luck
forever or not, the practical side of Feng Shui avoids complications and wants
a bright space where light can quickly come through. All the other invisible
elements like the energy just follow suit.

Despite the warnings on arrows, this is not saying that we must abolish arrows
in our lives. The whole key to the Feng Shui concept on arrows is consistency
and ability to put the arrows in a place where it can do minimal damage.

Feng Shui Tips for Business

Feng shui has not only been used for achieving harmony and balance in life and
home. It can also be used to achieve success in business. Feng shui and
business go together especially in the orient. And in the West, some businesses
have already tried applying the practice in trying to ensure success. Here are
some useful business feng shui tips that you can use.

When it comes to your store, how you design and arrange interiors as well as
its exterior may affect the flow of good chi. First off, you should start by
looking at your store's facade. In order to achieve good feng shui, your
store's name, design and display should stand out. This is the result of good
chi flowing into your store. The strong flow of the energy can be created by a
strong and clear presence in the environment. In terms of your store, it should
catch the attention of a passer by through its attractive display clean store
name and good lighting.

After you have made well with your store exterior, you then need to check on
your interiors. When you come inside, try to take note of what part of the room
that instantly take your attention. Are you attracted to look towards the right
or towards the left? The location to where you are drawn is considered to be
the flow of chi inside your store. You can then make use of this idea to
determine how you should make the good chi flow through your store. For this
you may need to create some pathways for the energy to flow in the same way
that you would want your customers to explore and see the items that you are
selling.

The way you arrange your office space can also affect your business. This goes
with how you place your office tables and chairs. It is good feng shui advice
to always sit with a solid wall behind your back. It is not good feng shui
practice to sit with your back to the window for long periods of time. In the
same way, you should not be sitting with your face front on a solid wall while
working.

And because light and air flow greatly affects the flow of chi in the practice
of feng shui, you should also try to make good use of it in your office. Try to
make sure that air has a means of going inside your office by trying to open
windows. Try also to let as much natural light as possible into your office in
order to create an area where good chi might flow constantly. The positioning
of your office furniture should also be considered so as not to impede this
flow of energy into your office surroundings.

Since most offices today exists in a sea of polluted environments. This would
not be a good area for chi to flow in. Air pollution in particular must be
resolved by making use of different feng shui items that may aid in clearing
the air for the good energy to flow in. air purifying plants can be used in
order to help clean the air inside the office.

Other feng shui items such as essential oils, crystals and water fountains can
also be used to cleanse or raise the energy levels in the office.

Profiles of Feng Shui Enthusiasts

Feng Shui enthusiasts have different niches. Different personalities and
cultural backgrounds are incorporated into the Feng Shui attempts. The good
thing is that you do not have to limit yourself to a certain make to be able to
apply Feng Shui. However, it may do you a lot of good if you are able to find
the groups of people who have the same interests as yours as far as Feng Shui
is concerned.

If you are after the more rigid type of the loose application of Feng Shui,
these are all possible depending on your preference, for Feng Shui is really
all a matter of channeling the right energy to make the environment work to
your benefit.

The best thing about Feng Shui is that it attracts a huge variety of people.
You don't even have to look too far and you will easily find a person who is
into Feng Shui. And with the many challenges facing the world today, it is
understandable that we seek help in various places, including Feng Shui aid.
But different persons breed different motivations for applying Feng Shui, and
here are some of the profiles of people who engage in Feng Shui.

The Business Tycoon

The business tycoon is completely focused in profits. He or she will be most
likely to ponder positioning and orientation of his office building in relation
to the directions of prosperity. He may even alter the numbers of his landline
and address, if at all possible, to tailor to the lucky numbers for a given
season. But more often than not, the business tycoon won't have time to think
all about these things and will be most likely to hire a Feng Shui expert to do
it all under his approval.

Big-time business people who like Feng Shui can afford the most expensive form
of Feng Shui help there is and actually uses the profit to leverage in more
profits with proper design and good Feng Shui.

The Pad-Owning Bachelor and Bachelorette

The bachelor's priorities include adjusting to the adult world, getting
financial stability and having fun socially. Typically, they are the ones who
buy Feng Shui charms, remove flowers in the bedroom to avoid unfaithfulness in
relationships. Fun-loving and modern, they may find that they are heavy on
electronic or metal objects and may opt to balance it with a Zen fountain or
two.

The Housewife

The housewife is the one who pores through magazines and seeks out Feng Shui
tips online and offline. She may also derive the techniques from other fellow
housewives and friends within the neighborhood. Her common focus on Feng Shui
would most likely be oriented on home and family matters. The housewife who
likes Feng Shui is most likely into interior designing of home whether on an
amateur or a professional level.

The Striving Employee

The striving employee who likes Feng Shui aims to make a miniature balance of
earth elements in his cubicle. This may involve him or her putting a small
mirror for water, a jacket to ward off the excessive metal in the corporate
workplace and many others. The striving employee may also invite relaxation and
peace of mind by means of a plant ornament or any lovely fixture that doubles as
a Feng Shui charm and a form of esthetic display.

Feng Shui History

Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese practice of utilizing certain so called laws
governing the heavens and earth that can improve through what is called having
positive Qi. Feng Shui history is an ancient one and covers over 3,500 years.
It is even older than the invention of the magnetic compass. A main portion of
its origins may stem from ancient astronomy.

The astronomical history of Feng Shui is evident in the ancient instruments
that were developed in its practice. The earliest known Feng Shui instrument
may have been what is known as the gnomon. This instrument was used along with
trying to circumpolar the stars in order to determine the north and south axis.
This was basically used in laying down early Chinese settlements.

The ancient Yangshao and Hongshan cultures in China provide the earliest
evidences of the practice of feng shui. As early as 4000 BCE, doors from Banpo
dwellings were aligned to the star called Yingshi just right after the winter
solstice. This allowed the homes to be sited for better solar gain. During the
Zhou era, the star Yingshi was known as Ding and had a great influence in
trying to determine the appropriate time to build their capital city. This is
according to records on the Shijing.

Another example of the practice of ancient feng shui can also be found from the
grave at Puyang that dates back to about 3000 BCE. This particular grave
contains mosaics of the stars called Dragon and Tiger along with the Beidou,
known in the Western world as the Big Dipper constellation. The mosaics seem to
be oriented along the north to south axis. The presence of round and square
shapes were also found at the Puyang tomb as well as at the Hongshan cultural
ceremonial centers and the former Longshan settlement. These evidences suggest
that the practice of gaitian astronomy (belief in a round earth and a square
earth) was already present in the ancient Chinese society.

One of the oldest instruments used in ancient feng shui were the liuren
astrolabes. These ancient instruments consist of a lacquered, two-sided board
equipped with astronomical sightlines. The oldest of the liuren astrolabes have
been found and discovered from tombs dating from 278 BCE and 209 BCE. These
ancient astrolabes show the cord-hook diagram and some those found even include
the magic square of three. The markings on these instruments remained unchanged,
from the ancient astrolabe down to the first magnetic compasses.

The practice of astronomy that bears a striking resemblance to many modern feng
shui devices and theories were also discovered on a jade artifact found in
Hanshan that dated at around 3000 BCE. Ancient structures in China which
included its palaces in the capital cities are all influenced by feng shui in
their design and layout. The rules that were followed were written during the
Zhou era on the "Kaogong ji", or the "Manual of Crafts".

The magnetic compass was initially invented for the practice of feng shui and
has been in use since its invention. Traditional feng shui instruments include
the Luopan or the earlier south-pointing spoon or the zhinan zhen. This shows
the extent of feng shui history and its long standing practice in ancient
Chinese history.

The History of Feng Shui

Feng Shui is the art of placing and situating a structure so it is in harmony
with nature. Also known as "Kanyu", cultural and social issues are influenced
by cosmological, metaphysical and natural factors.

To use this ancient technique, you have to understand the influence of
cosmology on earth. You should also have knowledge of how astronomy and
astrology influence the placement of buildings. You also need to understand
Confucian classic, the weathering process, the forces of nature, the magnetic
fields and how these all influence us. If you think about it, that is a lot to
study.

The history of Feng Shui originated in the West Han dynasty around third
century BC. Those who practice it believe that the earth is alive with energy.
If people built a structure on a land that has revitalizing energy, then they
would prosper. If this is placed in a site with bad energy, misfortune will
occur.

Originally, Feng Shui was used to help place tombs for those who have died
rather than for building homes for the living. Back then, they believed that
choosing a good burial site will bring peace and prosperity to those who
remained here on earth.

The instrument used to select the correct burial site was known as the "Lo
Pan." This invention was traced back to the Yellow Emperor where it is said
that the "Lady of the Nine Heavens" gave him this knowledge.

This ancient compass was called the Hin Shi and is described as a square base
called a diviner's board, holding a bowl of water which floated a magnetic
south pointing spoon. The Hin Shi then developed into the "Lo Pan" and during
the Sang Dynasty, this was used to navigate at sea. When this was brought to
Europe somewhere during the 13th Century, this was better known as the compass
which helped navigators explore the rest of the world.

But going back to Feng Shui, if the "Lo Pan" can be used to pick good burial
sites, couldn't it do the same for erecting buildings where people could live?
The answer is yes and so this device was now used to analyze the orientations
in a relationship to the main door, the bed and the stove.

Since then, both the rich and the poor incorporate this in their architecture.
Archeological studies have shown that ancient Chinese city planners were made
in concentric rectangles surrounded by walls that were then surrounded by
lakes, hills, valleys, gardens, courtyards and parks which were to enhance
positive energy.

As for buildings, these were constructed to enhance a healthy relationship
between family members and the country.

This is where Yin and Yang comes in which this is considered to be the
foundation of the universe. Coming from Taoism, these two are complete
opposites that cannot exist without the other.

For them, the left side of the building must represent Yang or the male force
while Yin or the female force is on the right.

Examples of Yang in the past included sunlit roofs, built areas and an
elevation in the front. For Yin, there must be empty areas, shadowed eaves, set
back structures and elevations in the back.

The history of Feng Shui was almost forgotten when the communists took over in
1949. If it wasn't for the masters who practiced it and shipped it out to Hong
Kong or China, we would have never known it existed. Feng Shui made its way to
the US only in the 1970's. Various articles and shows have focused on it and
people now use it to help in building a house or a building.

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