I’ve been asked several great Feng Shui questions on my Facebook page. I answered them there and will respond in more detail in my column. I thought this month we might delve into what Feng Shui is and how to use the principles to make your home a happy, healthy sanctuary!
Feng Shui began in Tibet and China about 4,000 years ago. So its not woo-woo or new age! It is the study of energy and how it can positively or negatively affect each of us. ‘Feng’ means ‘wind’ and ‘Shui’ means ‘water’. Wind and water represent the unseen and seen energies that are within us and all around us. Having a balanced flow of these energies creates harmony in your life and environment. This encourages prosperity, happiness, good health, loving relationships and good luck. If you experience stress or chaos in your home or office, the Chi (energy) is out of balance. Feng Shui was kept a secret and only known to ancient rulers. Over the years it began to spread to other countries. It became popular in the U.S. and I began my studies in the late 90’s becoming a certified practitioner. In my experience, every home consultation is different and they all allow me to creatively and intuitively solve issues and add to my knowledge!
Here are some of the questions and responses using Feng Shui principles. Feel free to contact me via email or through my Facebook page with a question!
Q. I bought a table water fountain and I live in an apartment. I’m not sure where to place it. I am unemployed and need the energy to support me.
A. The best places to put a water fountain would be in the Career area (usually near the front door) or the back left corner which is the Wealth area. Either place will work as long as you set an intention for what you want to manifest. The flow of the water must face towards the inside of your apartment, never towards a window or door. The water must always be kept clean for clarity of thought.
Q. I use a paper shredder for security purposes. Where do I put this in my home?
A. I would keep it in any area that’s convenient to you with the exception of the Wealth area (the far left corner of your home as you enter). The symbolism of placing it in Wealth area is that you’re shredding your money and you don’t want that! Since you mention security, it could be kept in the Helpful People area. This is the front right hand side of your home as you enter. Even though Feng Shui has many rules and principles, it is actually very practical. Use it where it is most convenient.
Q. I’ve heard that a Jade plant is good for wealth but that’s in my bedroom. I thought plants were not allowed in bedrooms.
A. I would not use fountains or plants in a bedroom as you need to water them. Water in Feng Shui is an unstable element. Plants are wonderful to use in any other room of the home because they represent growth and lively energy. You don’t want that when you need a good night’s sleep! Plants also release carbon dioxide into the air at night and some people feel uneasy sleeping with large plants in a bedroom. Set an intention and try one of these ideas: hang a picture of moving water, display a wealth Buddha statue, a small bank, Chinese coins tied with red string (for increased energy), gemstones such as Pyrite, Amethyst and Citrine, or items in the colors of green, gold and purple.
Q. Where is the best place in the backyard to put a compost bin?
A. With Feng Shui there is no perfect place to keep a compost bin! Make sure it is properly constructed and will not release odor. Let’s consider that composting is a way of giving back to the Earth. That’s a good thing! My choice would be an area that represents the Earth element such as Relationship/Love. This would be the far right back corner of your yard. Composting would ‘ground’ your relationships. The other Earth areas are Knowledge/Wisdom which would be too close to your home and the Health area which is in the center of the backyard. I don’t feel either of these would work. In the Five Element Theory, Earth creates Metal so the next best place would be a Metal area. This would be in Children/Creativity, in the middle right hand side of the yard. The bin would need to be a round container in this location.
Q. Do I need to be concerned about the garage with Feng Shui?
A. Yes! During consultations I note if the garage is attached to the home. If so, it is part of the home and would be included in the Bagua energy map. A stand alone garage can also negatively impact the energy of the area of the Bagua where it’s located. My suggestion is to keep the garage clean and organized. If you feel the energy is not supporting you, then it can be painted in the appropriate Bagua color. Also, most people drive into the garage and the headlights shine onto a wall of the home. It’s best to back the car in so the energy does not ‘attack’ the home. If this is not possible, with intention, hang two round convex mirrors on the wall in line with the headlights to reflect this energy.
Q. I’m trying to sell my home but buyers don’t seem interested. Can Feng Shui help?
A. This is a popular question especially with a slower economy. When I consult with sellers, I ask them to go outside and look at their home from the street. Using your ‘buyers’ eyes, what do you see? Is the landscaping overgrown or bare? Is the walkway or driveway cracked? Is the garage door damaged? Is the paint on the front door peeling? I could go on and on but I think you get the idea. What needs to be fixed? Once you identify these items, fix them! If you don’t have the funds for landscaping, make sure the lawn is mowed. Put yellow flowers in pots on the steps as it’s a very welcoming color. I usually suggest a fresh coat of paint on the door and a new welcome mat. The idea is to make the outside so attractive with good Chi (along with an appropriate price) that the buyers can’t wait to come inside. Once they do, don’t disappoint them! De-clutter and clean!
I mentioned the Helpful People area of the Bagua. This is a great place to display angel statues or any deities that provide you support and comfort. This is the front right side of your home as you enter. If you’re selling your home, you can place your realtor’s card there with the intention that they will quickly bring you a buyer!
The Angel of July is Verchiel, known as the Angel of Affection. He is one of the rulers of the Order of the Powers in Heaven. He encourages us to stop and smell the roses, have fun and play. Notice all the miracles of life around you and have an open and grateful heart. Ask him to guide you to what makes you truly happy!
My life purpose is to bring peace and harmony to one person and one home at a time. You can live an inspired life! Let’s work together with life coaching, angelic connections, holistic healing and onsite or virtual Feng Shui consultations. Please keep sending me your Feng Shui questions! When my new website is live, I’ll be having a virtual party! Please connect with me on Facebook and Twitter for the details. Contact me for Bellesprit reader discounts. Have a safe and happy U.S. Independence Day on July 4th!
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