Easy Feng Shui - Relationship Areas - Helpful People and Travel

The Helpful People and Travel area of the bagua is also a relationship area. The Helpful People and Travel area of the bagua (HPT) is located in the front right corner of your home to the right of the main entry and career area. It has no element. The colors for this area are gray and silver. This color is logical because the HPT bagua is between Career area which is Black and the Creativity and Children area which is white. Gray items enhance this area.

Helpful people are the people you rely on for services; doctors, plumbers, mechanics, hair dressers, etc. They are people you need when you need them and people you have to trust. Put the business cards or names of people you rely on for help in a silver container in this area to remind you that you can attract the help you need. Help comes from family, friends and strangers as well so this area is also about letting yourself rely on people and creating the space to allow them to show up for you. You must be able to accept the help when it is offered. It is as important to receive gracefully as it is to give. Receiving is a gift to the giver and it is you valuing your self enough to simply receive and say thank you.

Other enhancements for this area include pictures, statues or symbols of helpful beings. They can be spiritual or practical any one you consider helpful in your life. I have a large poster of Albert Einstein in my Helpful people area as well as books by my favorite metaphysical authors and a deck of angel cards. I consider all of them helpful beings in my life. I also have a silver angel wind chime hanging in there. This represents a helpful being, the color silver and moves chi.

Symbols and pictures of favorite places or places you want to go are enhancements to this area. A vision board for travel is great in this area. Be sure to load it with affirmations of happy travel. See my previous article on vision boards for more information.

Keep your Helpful People Area free of clutter. You don't want to impede the help that is on its way. Keep it clean and dusted because that is simply respectful to your Helpful People as well as to your intention. Drains need attention anywhere in your home but pay special attention to them here. This area is directly opposite the Prosperity corner so the same things that are harmful there are harmful here. Drains drain away chi so keep your sink stoppers down and put red ribbon or tape around outgoing sink drains and you can put red enamel paint in tub or shower drains. Mirrors keep Chi "up" so use them in this situation. If toilets or trash cans are in this area keep them as clean and fresh as possible.

My next Feng Shui article will deal with the relationship aspect of the Happy Family Area

Namaste'

Autor: Kelly Whetstone

My name is Kelly Whetstone. I am an artist, a Feng Shui practitioner, a faux painter and a Mystic. I teach metaphysics and spirituality. I counsel through http://www.12listen.com. I believe that creating a supportive environment, a personal sanctuary in our homes has a major affect on our lives in the outside world. Home is where we go to rest, restore and revitalize. It is our sacred space, our refuge. By simply having things around us that we love, that make us feel good and that bring us into the present moment we are empowered. Please visit http://www.empoweringstyle.com for a large selection of products to help you create your sanctuary.

Added: December 31, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Easy Feng Shui - Relationship Areas - Happy Family Area

The Happy Family area is about people in your life that feel like family as well as your biological family. Standing in the middle front of your home it is located on the left in the middle between Self Cultivation and Knowledge and the Prosperity corner. The element is wood and the color is green. This area represents safety and security in life, a strong foundation. This is an area that can hold the energetic intention to forgive and be at peace with family and friends.

Family energy and agreements can be some of the most difficult to navigates. When we incarnate we choose our parents and the family we are born into for our soul's evolution. We pick the place where we can learn the most to fulfill our soul's purpose. Sometimes we have wonderful families and sometimes we don't.

The Happy Family area is where we can make an energetic intention to bless, forgive and release past family energy so that we can be empowered. When we forgive someone we do it for ourselves, for our freedom and happiness it has nothing to do with the other person. It is also a prosperity area for day to day money, money to pay the bills which contributes to feeling secure.

Healthy plants are great enhancements in this area. Place photos of family in wooden frames in this area. Use representations of water and the color black. Water feeds wood in the creative cycle.

My dining room is in the Happy Family area. I have an old dining room set with a large buffet. I have a green velvet scarf on the buffet with glass and crystal pieces on it and a mirror behind it. Glass and crystal that reflects light is wonderful for moving chi and is a symbol for water. The shape of water is undulating so light dancing through glass and crystal is perfect for the element of water. I also have a window seat that is full of pictures of family and plants. The whole feeling of this area is light.

Things to avoid in the Happy Family area are metal objects, round objects and the color white. Metal chops wood in the destructive cycle. So if you can't move out some of the above from your family area add the color red or candles or even better, red candles. This represents fire which melts metal.

All of life is the relationship that begins with us as individuals remembering that we are the embodiment of the Divine. When we know that we lack nothing and are worthy of everything we desire we start to value ourselves. Creating a supportive environment through the practice of Feng Shui further affirms that value. If we nurture the relationship we have with ourselves through self love, forgiveness and validation we bring peace to our lives. That peace then extends to those closest to us and radiates out from there to encompass our fellow man and our planet. We are all one and healing begins at home.

Namaste'

Autor: Kelly Whetstone

My name is Kelly Whetstone. I am an artist, a Feng Shui practitioner, a faux painter and a Mystic. I teach metaphysics and spirituality. I counsel through http://www.12listen.com. I believe that creating a supportive environment, a personal sanctuary in our homes has a major affect on our lives in the outside world. Home is where we go to rest, restore and revitalize. It is our sacred space, our refuge. By simply having things around us that we love, that make us feel good and that bring us into the present moment we are empowered. Please visit http://www.empoweringstyle.com for a large selection of products to help you create your sanctuary.

Added: December 30, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

5 Interior Decorating Tips For Feng Shui

Practicing feng shui when it comes to decorating a room has become a popular way to style a room. Feng shui is all about utilizing the space in your home effectively to maintain good chi (energy).

There are certain things that a homeowner must or must not do when it comes to decorating and having the right feng shui in the room. Here are some interior decorating tips if you want your home to maintain its chi.

Include Color in the Room

In feng shui decorating, there are certain colors that you should use if you want to promote good energy in the room. All of the colors stand for different things, such as the color red stands for good luck, which is why most people will include red in their decorating.

Decorate with green if you want a fresh and peaceful look. Use yellow as another good luck color. None of the colors that are used in decorating should be unappealing or distracting to the home owner. If should have nothing but a comfortable feeling to it.

Keep the Room Simple

Feng shui decorating does not involve overly crowded spaces full of stuff. Instead the room should be kept fairly simple with the basic furniture and few accessories. The room should not be cramped as that will only offer negative energy from the room.

Start out with the basics like a piece of furniture and maybe another added piece to begin with. Then add a few items as needed, making sure to not go overboard on the accessories or d�cor items.

Use Natural Materials

Whenever possible use natural materials for the room. Natural materials like bamboo, hemp, and organic fabrics help to keep the negative chi away that can be found with artificial products. If you want to practice feng shui, a great way would be to have a bamboo wood floor or have an organic cotton slipcover over your couch.

Decorate with Plants

If you want your room to have good chi, then you definitely want to decorate with plants. The fact that plants are a living object that helps the environment makes it a wonderful addition to any feng shui room. Use all types of different plants in your home to achieve a unique look in each room. In one room you may have a small potted plant, while in the other you may have a large standing tree in corner of the room. Both of these plants make a great addition to a room.

Decorate and Design According the Bagua

A bagua is an energy map for a room. If you are really serious about feng shui decorating, then you need to follow the bagua specifically according to the shape and size of the room.

A long dining room is not going to have the same energy map as a small kitchen. Use the bagua to determine the life areas so that you can start decorating the different rooms according to the decorating practices.

Feng shui decorating is becoming more and more popular and has since become known more as a decorating style rather than a philosophy. Embrace the feng shui life and read up more about it if you want to get some positive chi in your home.

Autor: Leon Tuberman

Leon Tuberman has been part of the home furnishings and interior decorating business for 4 decades. He is the owner and operator of popular furniture store in California. They have a large inventory of handcrafted American built solid wood furniture for your bedroom, home office and living room. Whether you're looking for a chest for your bedroom or any other type of Amish bedroom furniture then they have everything you need.

Added: December 29, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

A Feng Shui Fountain Means Wealth and Health at Home

Feng Shui is all about the main 5 types of energies and combining them harmoniously with everything that surrounds us. The 5 elements that Feng Shui is dealing with are water, fire, earth, metal and wood. Most people are happy when there is a strong harmony between these 5 elements and the proper placement of various objects in your home or office.

It is said that if you place a Feng Shui fountain in your home, you could be attracting success in your career and wealth into your life by inviting in the right types of energy.

The Bagua map guides the various areas of the room so depending on where the different objects, such as the bed, the water fountain, the table or the TV are placed, they can enhance the quality of your life at home, office or anywhere else that you spend most of your time. Some of the important life regions that are affected by the Chinese art are career, health, prosperity, family, etc.

If you really want to devote some of your time to this ancient art form, be prepared to learn about the elements, the Bagua map and its applications, as well as about combining the elements with the main aspects of life. For example you will learn how the water element integrates in the wealth and career aspects. To bring prosperity in your life you need to have a running source of water around in order to facilitate the flow of many opportunities and wealth into your destiny. This is why it is useful to have a water fountain or an aquarium in your home.

The waterfall also brings about relaxation and gives various health benefits, and it is a great facilitator for meditation. Having running water reduces the negative ions in your room and this is why the fountain is great to have at home when you are reading, relaxing, watching TV, playing a video game or simply chatting with your friends and family.

Autor: Zoltan Zongora

Visit my website at http://www.indoorwallfountain.org/ to learn more about the indoor wall fountain that works so well with the art of Feng Shui.

Added: December 27, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The Harmony Between Feng Shui and Your Water Fountain

Water fountains are very popular and if you know a bit about Feng Shui, you can easily see why. You can even find nowadays the so-called Feng Shui Fountains, which are available for indoors and outdoors. You can find them as freestanding, table top, wall mounted and in many other types of models.

The reason why fountains are so very popular in Feng Shui is because they use the water energy, and water is one of the most ancient symbols that it is working with. The waterfall diffuses negative ions in the air, which helps maintain your health. It also adds humidity to the room.

When you want to buy your Feng Shui fountain, you need to know the best locations to place it. For example putting the fountain in the south area is said to be a big no-no due to the fact that South is commonly connected with fame and reputation and its energy is fire, which strongly clashes with water. The best places for the indoor fountain is either East, Southeast or North. East is all about the family and health, Southeast is about abundance and wealth, and North is dealing with career and job opportunities in life.

Another location where is not advisable to place the water fountain is the bedroom. Water also deal with worry, and bringing worry to the bedroom should be avoided at all costs. You can add your crystals to the waterfall to give you additional beneficial energy.

When you are looking at the various fountains to buy, go for one that has a quiet motor and it is a good quality and brand. Also look for one where that has a design easy to clean. You might want to look for a fountain that diffuses essential natural oils into the air, as this cleanses the air even more. If you like to meditate, having such a fountain in your house is a real godsend.

Autor: Zoltan Zongora

To learn more about the indoor wall fountain visit my website at http://www.indoorwallfountain.org/.

Added: December 25, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui Tips For Your Home For Health, Prosperity and Happiness

Ever since Feng Shui entered out lives it helped many of us growth healthier, happier and more spiritual. The art of Feng Shui is here to stay.

Here are some tips to enhance the balance of your home with the help of this ancient art form.

• The space in front of your main door should be clear and free, so do not have slippers or shoes outside of your door.
• Avoid having a TV in your bedroom, as this generates negative energy in the room and you will have a restless night ahead.
• Avoid placing a fridge, washing machine or sink in the kitchen against the stove. Stove is fire and the rest are water. The two elements are mortal enemies even in Feng Shui.
• When children study, have them sit with their back to a wall. This way they will have the needed support that allows them to study for longer time rather than only 30 minutes at a time.
• Also your bed should have the wall behind it to ensure good rest. Having a wall behind will give you a deeper sleep so the next morning you will feel refreshed, rested and ready to tackle the day ahead.
• Each day open your bedroom window for at least 30 minutes for the chi to enter the room. If you don't, next night you will sleep with the stale chi air from the day before and that is not healthy for your sleep.
• Marble tables in the dinning room are a big no-no. If you feel tired and have a lot of work pressure, try to replace that table with one made of wood.
• To attract positive energy and anything you want in your life, place a water fountain in the home, avoiding placing it South. Some great directions to place are North, Southeast and East. Do not add the water fountain in the bedroom, as the worry energy will enter you thoughts while sleeping, causing you anxious sleep and possibly nightmares.

These are but some of the many tips that you can use to your benefit if you practice this Chinese ancient art form on a regular basis.

Autor: Zoltan Zongora

If you want to learn more about the indoor wall fountain and its uses with Feng Shui, visit my website at http://www.indoorwallfountain.org/

Added: December 24, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Why is Your Front Door Important in Feng Shui?

In Feng Shui, the front door is considered to be one of the most important areas in your home or place of business. The main entryway is the largest opening that allows the energy of the outer world into your inner sanctuaries. Sending out an invitation to the universe for positive energies to enter begins with applying these simple Feng Shui principles to your front door.

Shui Door Tip #1 - create a clear path into your home or office space. Take a look outside, just beyond your door. Is the path clear of obstacles? Are there any large objects directly in front of your door? Even a large tree can cause problems energetically.

Clear away any restricting influences--anything that would result in making it difficult for positive Chi flow to enter your domain. If energy has trouble coming in, this directly impacts the ability of your dwelling to usher in more wealth and career success. If you have problems with Chi moving in, other cures you perform in other areas of the Bagua will not be as strong.

Shui Door Tip #2 - make sure your front door is strong and sturdy. Solid wooden double doors are perhaps the best choice when it comes to your main entrance. Even though you may only enter and exit through one door, the fact that a double door is present allows more Chi flow in.

Shui Door Tip #3 - make sure no harmful influences are pointing at your front door. Sharp corners from nearby houses, or even sharp angles from a traffic intersection can be negative influences that throw poison arrows at your door.

One remedy is to install a Bagua mirror over your front door, which can act to reflect the negative energy away from your entrance. You may want to investigate the proper use of a Bagua mirror before installing one, as this is a powerful cure. Your front door truly is your 'door to greater opportunity' in Feng Shui. Be sure to keep this area healthy!

Autor: Ling Meng

Ling Meng is a Feng Shui enthusiast, researcher and author. Like to take the Feng Shui door quiz? Live your best Feng Shui life starting today and invest in her comprehensive four piece Feng Shui information package available only from this site! Thanks for reading.

Added: December 23, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The Three Most Important Areas of a Home Or Apartment

In Feng Shui, as in life, certain factors or areas must take priority over others. In Feng Shui, the three most important areas of a home or apartment are:

- the main door
- the kitchen
- the bedroom

If positive energy (chi) collects outside and flows into these spaces, you'll bring money and opportunities into your life. If these areas are affected by a lack of chi or negative chi, any other positive changes you make won't have as much of an impact.

This article explores basic ways you can use Feng Shui for these three areas.

Feng Shui your Front Door

The front door represents the way life comes to us -- our opportunities and possibilities. It represents the yang dimension of experience. It is important to have a good main door and entrance to allow money, wealth and opportunities to come into your space and life. If the chi or life energy is not able to get into your house to circulate freely, it won't matter much what's going on in other areas within the space.

The main door is the chi mouth of the house. Make sure nothing is repelling, expelling or blocking the chi from entering the house. Additionally, make sure no objects that exude Sha chi (killing chi) point to the front door. This may include a corner of a building from across the street, a t-intersection, an item blocking the door or directly in line with the front door. The question to ask yourself regarding these items is, how far is it from your property.

To evaluate your entrance:

- Stand at the front door and look out. Verify that no trees, lampposts, mailboxes, pillars, planters or other items sit in direct line of the door. These items can impact your ability to take advantage of incoming chi and may negatively impact the health of your household.

- Stand outside your front door and look in. This area directly in front of the property is the Bright Hall (Ming Tang). Chi settles here and collects before the residents receive it. Make sure the chi can collect and circulate. Avoid placing anything here that repels, squeezes or blocks the chi from entering the space. You can learn more about how to Feng Shui your entrance here.

Feng Shui your Kitchen

The kitchen - specifically, the stove - represents our source of food and our ability to gain food through our work and careers. The stove has a great deal to do with our public life, our career, the recognition we receive, and our ability to manifest our goals and dreams. As a result, make sure the top of your stove is clean and all of the burners are working correctly. Use your stove regularly, even if just to boil water for tea. And try to use all of the burners rather than just your favorite burner.

If there is poor chi in the kitchen, this could result in career issues, money difficulties and bad health. Take a moment to look at the distance between your stove and sink - if there is a gap of less than two feet between the two, this can create a clash of elements between fire and water.

Feng Shui your Bedroom

We spend one-third of our lives in the bedroom. It's a space to heal, rejuvenate and relax, improving our health and vitally. Our bed is energetically connected to each of us. Sleep is a yin condition -- that the bed shelters, comforts and enables us to truly rest illustrates its great importance.

When evaluating this space look not only at how the Chi is entering the room, but evaluate where your bed is located in relation to the incoming chi and place the bed in a command position.

Your bedroom should be square or rectangular; this represents stability and makes the room suitable for sleeping. Avoid rooms that are round, L-shaped, triangular, or other odd shapes, as they do not allow a balanced flow of chi. Learn more about how to turn your bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary.

Autor: Ken D Lauher

You can find great tips to Feng Shui your entrance here in this article. The author also explains how to place a bed in a command position. This article certainly helps to turn your bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary.

Added: December 21, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui Elements - The Battle For Balance

The feng shui elements are one of the main foundations that feng shui is built upon. The five elements dictate how objects and furniture should be distributed and placed precisely around our home to attract the right type of energy we desire. Luck in wealth, love, family, careers, health, fame, children and education can all be achieved through correct use of the feng shui elements in your home, it's a core concept and should be fully understood to benefit from it's efforts. Each element has specific colors and location in your home associated with them and we'll get to those a little later but first, let's break down rights and wrongs of using the elements in your home.

The Productive and Destructive Cycle of Elements

Productive Cycle

The feng shui elements - water, wood, fire, earth and metal - can be arranged in a cycle where each element is used to create the next in the cycle. By using the correct locations, objects and directions, feng shui takes account of the elemental relationships and can use one element to assist or boost the another, bring greater energy for the life area they're placed in.

The productive cycle is as follows:

Water > produces > wood > makes > fire > produces > earth > creates > metal > makes > water and so on.

Example:

Out of all the feng shui elements, water is the strongest representative of your wealth energy, which is located in the southeast area of your home or space. Water related items should feature in your wealth area to energize it and attract more of it. In the productive cycle, metal is the elements that makes water and so metal objects can also be placed in the area to boost the wealth area. Water is the main element and so be sure it isn't overpowered too much by the metal.

Destructive Cycle

In the same way, if a destructive relationship of feng shui elements exists in the same location, this can bring about negative results which will harm your good intentions for the area. Most of the time, people unknowingly already have conflicting elements in the wrong locations which is why their wealth, career or any other area of life is suffering.

The destructive cycle is as follows:

Wood > devours > earth > destroys > water > extinguishes > fire > consumes > metal > demolishes > wood and so on.

Example:

As mentioned above your wealth corners main element is water. Earth destroys water in the destructive cycle shown above and so having any objects related to earth would devastate the positive effects of your water element, therefore your wealth. Things like ceramic pots, pictures of land or globes etc and will need to be removed before good wealth energy can flow freely into your life, unrestricted by the earth element.

Elemental Properties

For your reference, note the following relationships each element has with colors, locations (according to the bagua map) and objects in your home:

Wood - Green shades - East - Paper, Plants, Furniture, Pictures of Wood etc

Water - Blue or Black shades - North - Fountains, Aquariums, Pictures of Water etc

Fire - Red shades - South - Bright lights, Fireplaces, Candles, Pictures of Fire

Metal - Metallic colors, Gold, Silver, White - West - Coins, Jewelry, Wind chimes, Pictures of Metal etc

Earth - Brown shades - Center - Pots, Flowers, Ceramics, Globes, Pictures of Earth etc

Knowledge of the feng shui elements and their cycles help you too utilize the energy you need, and can balance out the destructive energy you don't. Balance is the always the key when using the elements, they can even be used to correct any existing elemental and location problem you have in your home.

Sometimes, structural things like fireplaces can't simply be moved. They'd naturally represent fire and if they're in the wrong location for that particular element, you can use water based objects to destroy the fires negative effects and again, balance out the energy. A firm understanding of the feng shui elements and how they work will be key to help you benefit from all the great things that feng shui can bring you and your family. Wealth, health and happiness can soon be all yours when you combine all of your feng shui knowledge to build a life-time of well being and good fortune!

Autor: Lin Mai

Lin Mai is a feng shui enthusiast and author. Visit Way to Feng Shui to start using feng shui elements to bring you all you desire!

Added: December 19, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Improving Your Relationships

Although fate, or Heaven luck as the Chinese put it, may govern your opportunities for meeting suitable life partners, Feng Shui certainly has a strong influence on how these relationship turn out. When moving in with someone, often the nature of a relationship will change in totally unexpected ways, and not just those associated with learning to live in close proximity with a new person. If you are the person doing the moving, ares of your life, such as career or patronage, might suddenly change for no apparent reason. The answer of course is that the movers Feng Shui environment has changed totally, whilst the partner whose flat or home it was originally will still have the same Feng Shui conditions. If both partners move into a totally new home, then both may be affected.

The practitioners claim that if the partnership Feng Shui is correctly positioned and stimulated then the chances of either partner wishing to embark on an outside relationship is fairly limited. One of the classic stimulators of ch'i is the fish tank or fountain. Some practitioners advise the setting up of such a tank near the main door of the house. However if this is placed on the right-hand side of the main door, looking out, it can increase the sort of ch'i which attracts other women to the husband, a development which will not be conducive to a happy marriage. It is for reasons like this that Feng Shui manipulation can not only solve, but can also create problems. A good Feng Shui adviser should however be able to avoid these pitfalls. The key features are not surprisingly:

-The location and layout of the bedroom
-The relative sleeping positions of the couple
-The Southwest sector of the bedroom-the sector of relationship and marriage
-Your personal Nien Yen direction

If there are children, then the West and East sectors of the house are also important because the behaviour of children often affects a relationship. The East is the sector of family relationship.

Autor: Chris Dimitrova

Find more decorating ideas for your bedroom and home in http://www.fengshuifurniture.net

Added: December 18, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Water in Macro Feng Shui

The emphasis when fengshui is mentioned is the use of objects and interior decoration to harmonize the internal fengshui. There are certainly benefits from the arrangement of the internal space to get the results we want. Simple common sense rules almost always do the job. And there are much published materials out there.

I would say stay away from the superstitious and those which do not fit into common sense and practicality.

Very often, tips are given. Use them but use your head too. Very often, the tips are based on superficial application of known fengshui theory and their uses are questionable. An example is not to have water (like building a swimming pool) near at the south end of your house as south is associated with fire and water therefore becomes a no-no. This is of course simplistic and silly as well.

Back to the subject of water, old texts do mention them. And there being no swimming pools back then, the water they mention are natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, streams, marshes and sea.

The use of water is also a good study on the application of Greater Gua.

In a case study, a house was built during the 3rd yuan (or cycle of 3) with an orientation of roughly northeast-southwest ( in Chinese the Gen-Wei orientation). Towards its south-west direction sits a body of water, a lake.

During the 8th and 2nd yuan (or cycles of 8 and 2), the bodies of water being favorable saw progress and wealth as well as much other good things. This was despite the fact that the orientation of the property was not so auspicious. Decay then started on the approach of the 3rd cycle and this decadence is attributed to the positioning of the lake in relation to the homes.

The above is an example of the application of the Zhen, Cui and Zhao theory of water fengshui. (meaning True, Stimulate and Draw respectively).

This knowledge can be used when we are selecting properties to buy, to rent or to live in. Instead of just only zooming in to the peculiar orientation of the property we are interested in, it is wise to take a look at the whole picture. Check out the surroundings for their impact on your home is huge certainly much more than the placement of a picture or good luck symbol ever will.

As often mentioned, if there is no sunshine, even the most fertile seed will not grow. Even if you have the best "to mountain to water" or 'DaoSan DaoShui' orientation it means little if the overall fengshui is no good. The picture has to be complete.

Autor: Marcus Lai

Marcus is a keen student of feng shui and blogs regularly on http://www.fengshui-insights.com.

Added: December 15, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui Interior Design - Bring on the Relaxation!

There was a time, not many years ago when you would walk into a home and be greeted to a living room whose plain, boring brown couches were straight up against the wall along with a brown chair and boring accessories. The room, though nice and clean, did not invite a warm feeling and you did not feel welcome as you walked into the room. Enter Feng Shui. These two little words were literally a foreign language not long ago, but since it made its debut on the design runway, it has become a household name. Feng Shui interior design is all about the placement of furniture and using the right types of fabrics and colors to make a room flow effortlessly while obtaining the most welcoming and comfortable room that it can be. This is not a type of designer, it is more of a feeling that one gets.

The first order of business when using Feng Shui is to clear the clutter. Having a messy room that is too full of knick knacks, paperwork or unnecessary accessories sets off bad energy and does not make a person feel at ease, which is ultimately what you want to do when you are inviting guests into your home. Once you have cleared the clutter, it is time to rearrange your furniture to produce a more open and inviting floor plan. Positioning your couches at an angle and away from the wall will subconsciously make you and your guests feel welcome and not "up against the proverbial all". Adding different textiles and colors to your couches will also help. Using natural fibers will relax your guests. Adding pops and splashes of color such as bright orange or red will stimulate your mind.

As with all Feng Shui interior design, you must always have a living plant or floral bloom inside of a room. The theory behind that rule is that even when you are not using the room, it is still being "kept alive" by the plant of flower setting off its living energy. That way, when you invite guests into a room you have not used in a while, it will not feel like a "dead room", but rather one that is alive and inviting.

Autor: Matt Murren

Matt writes more about feng shui interior design at http://www.instant-interior-design-ideas.com/

Added: December 13, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

How to Increase Productivity by Rearranging Your Bedroom

There are many things you need to consider when you are planning to use Feng Shui in your bedroom. According to this belief, the bedroom is a very productive place, but its productivity can be hampered in various ways. Here we see some things that you must do and some that you mustn't when you are planning to implement Feng Shui in your bedroom.

The colors on the walls are the first important thing. By all means use warm earth tones. This will create a positive energy and a sense of vibrancy in the bedroom. If you are looking for a partner or love, go for passionate colors like red. Or, use a color that reminds you of human skin. These colors are great to build a very positive human vibe in your bedroom.

The lighting is important too, because the kind of lighting you use will directly influence the energy flowing into the room. Bright lights are definitely recommended, but if you think these are unsuitable for a bedroom then you can go for dimmer adjustments for the lights in your bedroom. Or, you could have some candles in your bedroom. When you need to dim the light, just light those candles up. There is an added advantage here. Perfumes and scents are highly praised in Feng Shui. So, see if you can lay your hands on some perfumed or scented candles of your choice.

The next important thing (though we aren't saying all these in any particular order) is air. The amount of air that flows into your bedroom is directly proportional to the amount of energy that's flowing inside as well. Hence, you have to make sure that there is ample amount of air flowing inside. Keep the bedroom window open as much as you can afford to keep. However, if you keep your windows closed all the time, there will be a musty non-aerated smell in your room, which is highly detrimental to progress.

You have to also look into the placement of the bed. How should you place the bed? Two things are important. Firstly is that your bed should not be in a proper alignment with the door. The second thing is that you must make sure your feet do not point toward the door because in local Chinese culture, this is a harbinger of death. Also, don't keep the bed touching a wall. It should be free to access from both the sides. There must be enough area on both sides of the bed. Place a bed table at either sides of the bed and always approach the bed on the side that you will be sleeping.

If you are looking for love, your bed should have a single mattress that covers it entirely and not two parts for either side of the bed. The positive energy that Feng Shui creates will make loving your partner a delight.

Besides these, there is one other much vital point. You must make sure that you don't keep anything related with work or even anything that's not needed in the bedroom. So, keep your laptops, your mobile phones your iPods, your television sets out of the bedroom and enjoy what these places are really meant for.

Autor: Fiona Slesinger

Fiona Slesinger is the person behind http://www.fengshuibedroomlayout.com and writes extensively about Feng Shui Bedroom Layout.

Added: December 12, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui House - Basics Every House Owner Should Know

Making a Feng Shui House is a several thousand year old practice that combines the art and science of living clean. Ancient Chinese cultures believed that everything has energies, positive and negative, bad and good energy, and Chinese Feng Shui was the practice of achieving a balance of those energies. If good Feng-Shui has been around for such a long time, what has brought about the rise in popularity?

One reason it has become so popular is seen each day on the news channels. All the overseas wars, warring against violence and drugs in our country and all the stress that comes from other parts of our lives. People want to find answers to make life easier to deal with. Since their home decor is able to be easily changed, more and more people are trying out Feng Shui design.

How to Feng Shui is not just about changing things in the home for the balance of good and bad energy; it is also a way of life. It is not a myth or a religious fad. Good Feng-Shui keeping a balance and things in harmony. It's actually a science that is well researched that actually shapes your entire being and world so that you can enjoy prosperity and health in each area of your life. Basically, a Feng-Shui guide gives you powerful tools to accomplish those changes.

Since Feng-Shui brings together art and science, these principles are carried through every area of the two subjects from studying the stars to architecture to decorating and design. You'll actually find, the same principles that define science itself also could be applied to the ancient practice of Feng Shui cures as well.

When it comes to science you learn to identify, describe, and take time to observe a problem, and do an experiment to come up with a hypothesis. In Feng-Shui, you must look to find any problems that could disrupt chi using certain tools, like a Ba-Gua and a compass designed for Feng-Shui. After that, make changes like the wall colors, how furniture is arranged and other options that help you to redirect your home's energies for a better balance of energy, or chi.

In the end, Feng Shui House is a way that people can be helped through art and science. Those who have used it, even with reservations, have changed their minds and started promoting Feng Shui House. This happens because Feng Shui design has totally changed their entire life.

Autor: Clark Meyer

Clark Meyer is a Feng Shui enthusiast and is devoted to teaching the best Feng Shui practices to his readers. You can see more of his practical, to-the-point Feng Shui writing on his blog Feng Shui House. To use Feng Shui in your life and benefit your life's 4 major areas - money, health, relationships; sign up for his acclaimed and popular free Feng Shui House newsletter today.

Added: December 10, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui and the Color Purple

There is no doubt about it. When it comes to colors of the rainbow and the powers practices of the eastern arts of Feng Shui the color purple itself holds great and greater power and sway than most of the other colors of the full spectrum of light and intrinsic lights. Why is this so?

First and foremost the color purple seem to have great power and powers in serving to help both you, your family as well as the rest of your household to gain recognition overall Thus purple is an excellent color choice to add in the south sector of your home or specifically your living room areas as well as office sectors. Specifically if you are in a "power position", such as the principal of a school, chef in a restaurant or catering operation or manager of a hotel or food services eatery then purple is a most wise color choice and selection.

No doubt about it, purple's strategic importance and power throughout history no doubt has been a factor in this. Leonardo da Vinci insisted that the color purple would enhance and focus the medical effects of pills and medications; purple was a favorite color of Cleopatra Thus add purple as a basic high choice decorating color as well as preferred personal choice when it comes to furniture, wall coverings and paint as well as furniture and decorating accessories. Make it a wise choice for south walls to add extra powers and prestige and as well work to enhance your further chances and ambitions for fame and greatness.

It seems to be no coincidence of good fortune that purple seem to be an excellent enhancement to any children's or even adolescent's "room" or "rooms". Painted on any wall or used in furnishings and accessories, purple thus serves as an "enhancer", enhancing skills, aptitudes and focusing good moral energy and energies even regardless of that person, person's or group's personal Feng Shui, powers, traits, likings and preferences.

The color purple also serves to enhance the "imagination" as well as the appreciation and effect of others in the group or family unit. Purple is a "family "color a wonderful effect. In addition the color seems to any wall or floor covering that it is painted on or chosen for regardless of where and how that wall points to or focuses its energy and energies towards.

In terms of the beneficial effects of the color purple towards health and mental effect benefits - be it on personal self image, self confidence, and ego or just too overall good health and wellness this portion of the rainbow can well be of great help and assistance when painted on an east or eastern wall. Do this and you will certainly notice its full effects on the improvement of overall health and wellness.

Lastly if you wish to inspire creativity and get the creative juices flowing - then paint your west wall with this coloration of the full spectrum of the chroma. Especially if a member of your family, or specifically your children are burgeoning actors or artists in the bud you can count on the vibrancy of the spectrum to fulfill their internal searching's and cravings for solid recognition. You can even finish and polish off the final effects by painting your south facing enclosures and dividers with this specific and most wonderful pigment.

Feng Shui!

Autor: Morris E. Brown

Morris E. Brown Folklorama - Encounter cultures, different people's worlds world without leaving North America - Winnipeg's Folklorama, -Manitoba Canada's cultural celebration, invites you to visit 40-plus pavilions to enjoy dynamic performances, tasty traditional home-cooked meals and vibrant display Quality Inn & Suites Winnipeg extended long stay hotel with theme rooms Located conveniently and centrally on Wpg's & Maniotba main highway arteries - Pembina Highway , nearby Bishop Grandin Blvd St. Vital , by Grant Ave easy access to Winnipeg's route 90 Portage Ave Polo Park St. Boniface StVital Hotel

Added: December 9, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Are Trees Bad Luck?

Feng Shui theories are complex yet the principles behind them are quite simple. The full face of feng shui requires years of learning but there are some basic rules which all can use. As often said if we can make things work in our favor without harm to others, why not? Even if it appears to be something mysterious which we cannot fully comprehend.

I love nature. I love trees. In feng shui, trees often are mentioned. Briefly, trees are a manifestation of nature and like other living things can be said to contain the qualities of yin yang and the five elements (of metal, wood, water, fire and earth). In other words, they contain Qi or life force.

So, are trees bad luck?

Have you heard from some feng shui pundits that trees growing in front of a house carry with it yin energy and thus, is not good for you?

If you do, you are not the first. You see them talking about it on videos and read about them in books, magazines and ezines. How far can they be believed?

I hope those who talk about them know what they are talking about. Some may have just borrowed them from somewhere. Others may have learnt it somewhere. The point is have they put some of their own thoughts into them and figured it out for themselves. Have they put what they hear or learn under the microscope? Some just ad-lipped it from somewhere.

To say whether a tree growing in front of your house is good or bad depends on so many factors like how big, how old, how near, in which direction, how it is orientated, what kind of tree, who are living there, where is the road coming from, when was the house built and some more. Often, "experts" make it look so neat and easy by outright declaring trees lining your front porch as bad luck.

But then there are a few rules we can use. As always, I prefer to look at and apply those 'no-no's as this is very practical and does not need too much study. Often, it is what we do not do rather than do that helps. This is particularly true when so many experts are recommending some form of feng shui remedy or other.

1 Trees too old should not encroach into the space of the house. Like humans, houses have a 'comfort zone' too. The branches and leaves should not overhang the eaves. Roots of most trees grow as far as the spread of the branches so it is a safe bet that if the branches do not overhang, then the roots would not have grown in under the floor. Roots can cause damage and harbor ants which is not what we want.

2 The leaves of the tree or trees should be constantly swept away and dispose of. Superficially, dead leaves are symbolic of decay. From the aspect of energy, they represent the quality of old mother. Before you misunderstand, this is just a label. The essence of feng shui is very much about energy and in application, the old mother is neither good or bad. It is just an aspect in the interplay of forces.
Experienced practitioners with a keen eye can see this interplay but for us, it is better to keep those leaves swept.

3 The tree should not be in the direct line of sight looking out from the front door. This one has some supernatural explanation to it but will not be dealt here. The feng shui label for this is 'sha' which loosely means something that can cause harm.

If you have a tree right smack at your front door, remove it. If the local council does not permit you to do so, consider relocating the front door.

On a related point, what about trees outside your window? The same rule applies. If it is a bedroom window, I have reason to say that a huge solitary tree in a direct line of sight is even more potent.

4 The roots of the tree should not be exposed in that they appear to be creeping and crawling above the surface.

5 Hanging creepers and roots are to be avoided. As was said earlier on, much depends on the nature of the tree but for the benefit of reaping more yang energy, it is better not to have a tree with creepers and hanging roots. Humans thrive on yang for the added boost in perseverance and expression. Having said this, on balance, yang is missing in most of our contemporary environment.

These are just some quick pointers. I only hope that this does not start an anti-tree crusade. I love trees and my house is surrounded by trees.

Autor: Marcus Lai

Marcus blogs on http://www.fengshui-insights.com, http://www.mixedjar.com

A curiosity nut. Spent decades, maybe too much, studying feng shui and related metaphysics. Believes the oriental sciences has lots to offer for good health and well-being. Studied wing chun kungfu and others and reckons them to be great for discipline and confidence. Reiki teacher before it became fashionable. Co-founded Inner Journey magazine covering healing and metaphysics. Published a book on feng shui. Sees travel not as visit of places but soaking in of people and cultures. A Chartered QS by profession. Hopes to make this life purposeful.

Added: December 7, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Is the Wealth in Your Family Literally Going Down the Toilet?

Feng Shui is a popular belief system which concerns the layout of your home. Based on a combination of spiritual and scientific beliefs, it has been around for a very long time and it concerns the way that the layout of your home can affect the way the energy moves into and out of your life. The study of Feng Shui can be absolutely fascinating, and even life changing. For instance, it is believed by practitioners of Feng Shui that one part of your home where your wealth may be literally going down the drain could be your bathroom. I'm going to show you new ways to improve your prosperity and deepen your understanding of this system.

You may or may not have heard of the Feng Shui bagua, which is otherwise known as the map of the space where you live. For instance, and perhaps not surprisingly, the bedroom relates to the marriage and should therefore be positioned in the marriage area of the Feng Shui house. The office belongs in the knowledge, wealth or career area. However, did you know that there is a good place and a bad place for your bathroom to be located if you are hoping to be prosperous? Your bathroom relates to wealth, prosperity, career and cash flow, which is the water element. However, it also is associated with waste and elimination. So therefore, the position of your bathroom is vital to avoid draining Chi away from you before it has a chance to circulate through your home and thus into your life.

In fact, the bathroom has no particular place on the Feng Shui map, so wherever you put it, it will be slightly out of place. Nevertheless, it's probably worth telling you where your bathroom should not be located. Time-tested Feng Shui wisdom advises that you must never put your bathroom next to or above the front door. Bathrooms on the first floor, directly above the kitchen or the front door are also inadvisable. You must not put your bathroom in the centre of your office area, nor under the stairs.

Organize Your Bathroom, the Feng Shui Way

Of course, you don't always have any choice about where your bathroom is located. If this is the case, and you feel that it is in the "wrong" place, there are precautions you can take to keep the wealth in your home. It is worth knowing that faulty plumbing, wherever your bathroom is located, is related to the draining out of energy. Putting a mirror on the back of the bathroom door will help to keep the energy from draining out of the bathroom. Also, keeping the toilet seat down helps and putting a bowl of pebbles on the cistern will enable the earth energy to counteract the draining element of the water and keep the energy in your home.

If you use these principles, you will have taken every precaution to keep wealth in your life - it has to be worth a try.

Autor: Pam Stinson

Pam has been writing articles for blogs and article directories for several years now and specializes in diet, health and fitness, travel, home decorating, frugal living, cooking and pet care. Visit her latest site Cheap Bamboo Flooring, where she also has a recent Bamboo Flooring Review.

Added: December 5, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui 101 - Marriage of Art and Science

Many times people hear the phrase "Feng Shui House" and they've never heard it before they think it's some type of Chinese food! They have part of it right. No, it's not a food dish, but it has roots in China. Feng-Shui design is a combination of art and science that comes from China and has been used for years. It is a delicate combination of knowledge from art and science working to balance energy within things around you, so you have good things like fortune and health in life.

When you take apart the word Feng-Shui, wind is the meaning of Feng and water is the meaning of the word Shui. Water and wind are two of nature's elements out of the five elements that are often used in Feng Shui House. The ancient Chinese have always seen water and winds as a sign of good health and a good harvest.

The Taoist environmental view is that energy is in each living thing. Feng Shui House is based on this particular visionary concept. You'll find as you delve deeper into this ancient Chinese concept that yin and yang (passive and active energy forces) are derived from this particular view as well as the elements in nature, and are all used within Feng-Shui home.

The elements in nature used in Feng-Shui involve water, metal, fire, wood, and earth. In nature, they all interact with the others and this includes work areas and your home.

Those who practice Feng Shui House have some tools that they use in order to take a closer look at information about a work space or home. The first tool is called the Feng-Shui Ba-Gua and is a map with an octagonal grid with various symbols from an ancient prophecy. The Ba-Gua or map is one of the best ways to figure out a home's Feng Shui.

Although for some time it wasn't popular, Feng-Shui design is quite popular today in architecture and interior design. In fact, there are different schools of Feng-Shui that sometimes can take many years before you really know everything about Feng Shui House. Of course, you do not have to be an expert in order to make a few positive changes in your life by using the principles of Feng Shui House.

Autor: Clark Meyer

Clark Meyer is a Feng Shui enthusiast and is devoted to teaching the best Feng Shui practices to his readers. You can see more of his practical, to-the-point Feng Shui writing on his blog Feng Shui House. To use Feng Shui in your life and benefit your life's 4 major areas - money, health, relationships; sign up for his acclaimed and popular free Feng Shui House newsletter today.

Added: December 4, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Two Powerful and Practical Outdoor Feng Shui Strategies For Attracting More Wealth and Happiness

Below are two powerful outdoor Feng Shui strategies you can do over the next few days or over the coming weeks and months to attract the flow of wealth and happiness to you and your family. Feng Shui for your surrounding yard and outdoor spaces plays an important role in helping you attract more of what you want in life!

1. Energize your yard and home with solar lighting. Solar lighting, considered to be an important aspect of "the power of green" is a fantastic way to illuminate the pathway to your home, surround your garden or light up any other special outdoor areas. Solar lights are a proven energy saver.

They store up the sun's energy during the day, and then use this power to cast beautiful illuminations at dusk and night time.

When you make a smart and considerate environmental choice such as using solar lights, your actions are rewarded under the law of reciprocity (universal law) that those who practice Feng Shui understand.

In other words, when you treat the world you live in with consideration and kindness, kindness is returned to you in the form of more opportunities and wealth, better self-esteem and a stronger resilience to life's challenges which directly relates to living a healthier and happier life.

Lights that attractively line the way to your front door are beneficial to the flow of healthy Chi into your home or office. If you haven't built a pathway to your door yet, consider installing a gently meandering path highlighted with solar lights, rather than a straight path leading directly to the entrance.

Although solar lights may not shine as brightly as incandescent or fluorescent lights, the savings benefits and the fact that you are attempting to reduce negative impacts to the environment make good reasons to use them. Try to place them in areas where they will receive more sun, rather than under trees or in the shade.

2. Notice how you feel, when it comes to objects or plants in your immediate outdoor surroundings. We are all affected by the influences around us. For example, let's say you "inherited" a few unwanted shrubs in the yard when you purchased your home, and you dread having to trim these back every year, plus they are a pain to mow around and are a haven for mosquitoes.

For whatever reason, these shrubs just don't appeal to you.

Every time you see these shrubs or have to deal with their maintenance, because you don't like them you are experiencing a depletion of energy. The sight of them is affecting you in a negative way, and it is affecting you whether you are consciously aware of it or not!

The Feng Shui answer for your distasteful shrubs is to remove them and plant something that you love...something that makes you feel good every time you see it, smell it or touch it.

Walk outside and take a look around. Are there eyesores that need to be addressed on your property? Is there a cement walk that is old and broken up by tree roots? Having a "broken walk" is not what you want on your property, especially if it is leading to your front door.

A good Feng Shui rule of thumb is to fix anything broken on your property, whether inside or outside.

Take some time to make your energetic assessment. Write down a list of things that you either want to replace, hide from view or fix. Then prioritize your list, and write down a feasible date for completion. Doing this will start the flow of positive energy toward you.

When it comes to Feng Shui outdoors, keep in mind that the objects you encounter in your yard, whether you are completely aware or not, impact your moods and sense of well being for better or worse.

Take these strategies and put them to work for you today!

Autor: Ling Meng

Ling Meng is a Feng Shui enthusiast, practicer and author. For more Outdoor Feng Shui strategies and tips to help you get the most from Feng Shui, sign up for her free 10 part Feng Shui ecourse designed to help you easily live your best life in a beautiful environment of your own creation. Home page for ecourse: http://www.fengshuipearls.com Thank you for reading and taking action in your life by applying the principles in this article!

Added: December 3, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Using Feng Shui to Improve Family Life

One of the most appealing aspects of Feng Shui's potency is the way it can be harnessed to vastly improve family life. By this one refers not only to overall harmony within the family, but also it can be used to correct potentially tragic situations.

Thus, there are special Feng Shui orientations that can be activated:

• to produce children to childless couples;
• to increase affections between husband and wife;
• to reduce areas of friction between members of a family;
• to entice home a way-ward son or daughter;
• to entice home a way-ward husband or wife;
• to bring about a marriage or a birth in the family;
• to improve the health of any sickly member of the family;
• to effect reconciliation between quarrelling members of the family;

There are formulas for activating all and each of the "family happiness" situations mentioned. These involve the use of the Lo-Shu numbers and the compass direction orientations. The Lo-Shu numbers that correspond to the Yen Nien (relationship) position and directions are the most effective creating family type "happiness" situations. Thus depending on which member of the family is affected and depending on what aspect of the situation is to be activated, the practitioner can make changes to the sleeping position or to the direction of the stove-mouth. Or changes can be made to room locations of the children who appear to be creating "problems" for the family.

If there are problems relating to the health of any member of the family, then it is the Tien Yi (health) number(s) that should be activated. Tien Yi is conducive to bringing about the return to health of ailing family member. Once again it is the sleeping position or the direction of the stove-mouth that could be altered.

One very difficult problem that afflicts modern day families is the appearance sometimes of a third party from outside who threatens to break up the family. Usually a situation like this would never arise if the Feng Shui of the house had been oriented correctly in the first place, particularly the location of the bedroom and/or the sleeping direction of the husband and wife.

Another common problem facing families pertains to way-ward or disobedient children; or to juveniles who have a hard time taking their schoolwork seriously. Such children often mix with unsuitable peer groups or indulge in other anti-establishment type behaviour. Once again Feng Shui can often "cure" the situation. The recommendation given is such cases are to activate the child's Yen Nien direction (which will bring him/her closer to the family); or to activate his Sheng Qi (success) direction (which will make him mores serious in his work). Often, if the Sheng Qi can be effectively tapped by changing the sleeping and sitting directions, a change can be seen and felt quite speedily.

Autor: Alyn Ooi

Alyn Ooi is a Metaphysic enthusiastic. She has spent more than 10 years in research on how to apply Metaphysics science in self development and has created this website http://www.101selfdevelopment.com to share her research.

Added: December 1, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui House - Principles of Feng Shui Energies

When you study Feng Shui design in order to apply it to your living space, "chi" will be a term you see frequently. Chi is referring to universal energy. Basically this means the ancient Chinese believed that everything around you - the buildings, trees, and land - has energy of its own.

There are two sides to Feng Shui Chi, just like yin and yang, meaning that there is a good and bad Chi. Chi also exists in various shapes based on nature's elements - fire, wood, earth, water and metal. To take it a bit further, Chi can be broken down more than just to the five elements of nature to the elements corresponding Feng Shui colors.

Feng Shui House has several goals but the most important one involves Chi, and learning how to guide it in the area where you live and work. You want good Chi in your living and work space because it keeps the energy flow positive and feeds your spirit too. The positive Chi that enlivens your environment is called Sheng Chi. There is negative where there is positive as well. This negative energy is called Si Chi and it is also called Sha Chi which means depressing, attacking, and low.

Sheng Chi in detail

The word Sheng actually refers to energy with a rising movement. This means that Sheng Chi is uplifting and vibrant energy. This positive life force is is good for your entire well being.

There are many forms of Sheng Chi, most derived from nature or clean and simple indoor environment. Keep in mind, Chi is that energy contained in everything. Well nothing has more powerful energy than parts of nature that thrive such as the beach.

Si Chi and Sha Chi = Bad Chi

When you have bad, you'll have good too. Si Chi is energy that is festering and depressing. It can make you feel stifled, almost like you are going through a slow death. If you spent much time in this environment, you would start becoming ill.

Sha Chi refers more to the architectural elements or decorative elements in or out of your home that is of violent nature. Outside structures that have corners or sharp points pointing into the space for living or work are Sha Chi.

The whole purpose of understanding the good and bad Chi is so that you can use the practices of Feng Shui decorating to combat energy that is destructive and negative and turn it into a cleansing, well-balanced positive energy.

Many Feng Shui consultants, who have studied Feng Sui tradition for years, will be your Feng Shui guides to help you balance the Sheng Chi and the Sha Chi and achieve an hospicious Feng Shui House.

Autor: Clark Meyer

Clark Meyer is a Feng Shui enthusiast and is devoted to teaching the best Feng Shui practices to his readers. You can see more of his practical, to-the-point Feng Shui writing on his blog Feng Shui House. To use Feng Shui in your life and benefit your life's 4 major areas - money, health, relationships; sign up for his acclaimed and popular free Feng Shui House newsletter today.

Added: November 29, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Baby Nursery Feng Shui - Create a Space Full of Health, Harmony Happiness

Imagine creating a space within your home for your baby to grow and develop while being healthy and at peace.

I've consulted on many nurseries for existing and expecting parents. Here are 9 tips to consider when creating a nursery for the new baby.

1. Crib Position: The crib should be placed in the command position of the room. To be in the command position, the location should have a view of the door but not be in direct line with the door or on the same wall as the door. There are a total of three command positions for a room, view this recent article about the command position of a bed.

2. Flow of Chi: Make sure the door into the nursery can open a full 90 degrees. This may mean no coats or clothes hanging on the back of the door. Also, make sure that you can easily move around in the space and open dresser drawers and closet doors with no obstructions.

3. Color: Consider light colors to soothe and multiple colors to inspire the baby's development. Light blues, pinks and greens are recommended. Keep in mind that a bedroom and nursery are yin energy and should be created for relaxing and rejuvenating.

4. D�cor: Pay close attention to what you hang above or around areas where the baby spends a lot of time. Don't place shelving above the crib or changing table as this can create a downward pressure, reducing the baby's development. There's also the potential for heavy objects or shelves to fall.

5. Lighting & Ventilation: Make sure you have enough light during each part of the day and night. Nurseries often don't have enough light, especially in the middle of the night when parents want to check on the baby. I personally recommend Himalayan Salt Rock lamps for the perfect night light. It produces soft shades of pink, peach and orange, warmly lighting a room while infusing the space with negative ions to remove pollutants and adding chi or life energy.

6. Development: To help a baby develop motor skills, consider purchasing a baby-safe mirror at the two-to-three-month stage.

7. Access: Be sure all items you use frequently - diapers, wipes, blankets, first aid essentials, etc. -- are accessible. You don't want to hunt for the thermometer in the middle of the night. Keep a stock of diapers and wipes close at hand, with extras in a convenient place. Don't place these baby essentials in awkward spots, where other items fall on you when you reach for them, or where you'll have to stretch to the back of a drawer or closet for them. This just increases frustration when the most important task is to be present for your baby.

8. Electrical Overload: Dozens of tech gadgets available today help you monitor your baby around the clock. Even so, keep electro-magnetic fields around your baby's crib to a minimum. This includes heart monitors, baby monitors, video cameras and multiple plugs within an outlet; decide which devices you really need and choose products that serve multiple purposes. Also, pay attention to what is on the other side of the wall as this can have an impact on the baby's development and sleep.

9. Parent's Room: Creating a nursery for the baby is an exciting time. When the baby arrives, the nursery can easily carry over into the parent's room, especially when a baby co-sleeps. Make an effort to keep your own bedroom for relaxation, sleep and rejuvenation without permitting the nursery to take over the room. You'll be glad!

Autor: Ken D Lauher

Celebrity Feng Shui Consultant and Speaker, Ken Lauher, helps individuals and their environments enhance their quality of life through time-tested techniques. His inspiring work with celebrities and corporations has made him a sought-after speaker on Feng Shui and life enhancement. Visit his site for your free Feng Shui Tips, guide, or to hire Ken for a speaking engagement.

Added: November 28, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui Colors and Elements - Beginners Tips

For your good Feng-Shui home, the directions in your home should be mapped out with the Feng Shui Ba-Gua. Based upon those directions from the Ba-Gua, you would then use the Lo-Pan or Feng Shui compass to find out more about which elements will go with the eight different directions. Because a color goes along with each element, then you can figure out which colors will help to promote good Chi.

Employing the different Feng Shui colors is the best way to produce positive energy types bringing prosperity, health, and other things associated with good Chi. Light is quite important when working to produce good Chi. As you learn more about Feng Shui House, you will learn more about the eight directions on the Feng Sui Ba-Gua map and how the elements are related.

The five elements

The five natural elements each have specific colors that embody them. Keep in mind that different shades or hues of these colors can also be employed in your Feng Shui decorating plan.

1. Wood element - Browns and greens

2. Water element - Shades of blue and black

3. Fire element - deep yellows, reds, dark purples, and oranges

4. Earth element - Light browns and yellows, and sandy shades

5. Metal element - Gray, white, and gold and silver can be included

There are two cycles that rule the five elements - the destructive cycle and the productive cycle. Within the productive cycle, the wood elements is nourished by the water element, going on to create a fire element. The earth element is produced by the fire element burning , from which the metal element is formed and then the metal feeds back to the element of water. This cycle continues to revolve.

How to Feng Shui your house with these element colors

The colors of these elements give a boost to certain characteristics, including wealth, health, and more. In addition, certain directions as pointed out by the Ba-Gua specially correlate to the elements. For instance, the Southeast and East are represented by the wood element.

Feng Shui room is all about creating positive energy in the work or home area that is favorable. This means that particular colors should be used that correspond with the elements of that direction. You will also discover that certain colors are naturally pleasing and can be used outside the element if they are a part of that cycle. Red is one example, the color of fire and an energizing Chi. If you are faced with an unfavorable configuration of your home, the color red may help turn around that negative Chi.

These colors and elements have a complex relationship. The information listed above is just the beginning. Feng Shui design and it's complex nature are one of the main reasons people end up spending years studying to understand the principles behind Chinese Feng Shui.

Autor: Clark Meyer

Clark Meyer is a Feng Shui enthusiast and is devoted to teaching the best Feng Shui practices to his readers. You can see more of his practical, to-the-point Feng Shui writing on his blog Feng Shui House. To use Feng Shui in your life and benefit your life's 4 major areas - money, health, relationships; sign up for his acclaimed and popular free Feng Shui House newsletter today.

Added: November 27, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Three Garden Feng Shui Magic Tricks For a Healthier Happier Garden

These three garden Feng Shui "magic tricks" aren't exactly magic tricks per se, but they can do wonders for the way your garden thrives and can also attract more of the good energy vibes you want to have flowing toward you and your family!

The neat thing about implementing Feng Shui for your garden? The benefits don't just stop there...your family and your property derives ongoing blessings from the efforts you put forth in your garden.

Remember the goal of Feng Shui--to always create positive Chi flows that nourish your health, your wealth and your emotional and spiritual well being. By extending these principles to your garden spaces, you and your plants have a wonderful opportunity to thrive with Feng Shui!

1. Balance is the reigning principle. Those who live by the principles of Feng Shui understand the importance of balance in all aspects of life. Likewise, you want your garden to have a balanced feel and harmonious design.

On thing you will want to keep in mind is to maintain a balance of yin and yang energies in your garden. For example, aim to create a garden where plants receive good sunlight, and other areas where there is more shade.

Sunlight is yang and shade is yin. Some plants love lots of sun and others don't require as much. Having accommodations for both in your garden creates good yin and yang balance. If need be, add lights to your darker garden areas. Being sensitive to the energy balance will help you know when you've reached a nice equilibrium.

2. Be creative with paths within your garden, as well as the paths between your plants. What I mean by this is don't just settle for the commonplace--straight rows in a straight line! Straight line rows will rush the good Chi out of your garden and off your property, or even directly at your house which isn't good. This is why this concept is so important to understand and take to heart.

Chi enjoys flowing in paths that are curvy and meandering. Curving paths calm the energy and help nourish your plants. For a practical application of this principle, picture your garden in your mind. If your garden is rectangular in shape, as many gardens often are, start by rounding the four corners.

Picture your outermost row as turning gently, following beside the curve of each corner and beyond so that instead of the row ending, it actually continues parallel all the way around the outer perimeter and eventually meets up with itself. Do the same for your interior rows until you have an open area in the middle.

Doing this creates a healthy artery through the garden...it builds in a circulation path for the energy instead of the row being in a straight line.

If your garden is an oval or circular shape, planting rows can also follow the same shape as the perimeter, working their way toward the center. For you open area in the middle, this is a great location for an outdoor fountain, a creative design with rocks and wood...a colorful array of your favorite flowers...use your imagination!

If your garden is already planted and it is not feasible to make these design changes right now, another workaround is to "break up" your straight line rows by planting a vegetable or your choice or flowers somewhere in the line so that the Chi is forced to flow around it.

3. Variety is the spice of life! Whether you have a vegetable garden, flower garden or a combination of both, having a nice variety and selection is beneficial and invigorating. Have fun choosing from various species, and vary the colors and shapes of your plants. Doing this also ties in with creating a healthy balance.

Discovering different plant species that respond well to sun and shade can take a bit of research upfront, but it is well worth the effort.

By implementing these garden Feng Shui "magic" tips and tricks, chances are you'll have more of an interest in your garden, a healthier happier garden...plus you'll be more attentive and attracted to it!

Autor: Ling Meng

Ling Meng is a Feng Shui enthusiast, practicer and author. For more garden Feng Shui tips to help you get the most from Feng Shui, sign up for her free 10 part Feng Shui ecourse designed to help you easily live your best life in a beautiful environment of your own creation. Home page for ecourse: http://www.fengshuipearls.com. Thank you for reading and taking value from this article.

Added: November 26, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui For Hard Financial Times

These are hard times for everybody... unemployment, layoffs, foreclosures. We all need money, and work, and some financial help. But you can actually make more money using Feng Shui. I am not saying that Feng Shui will cure all your woes and make you rich overnight, but you can improve the energies that influence the wealth in your life by using it.

Spend some time studying the areas that might affect your wealth to decide what you need to do.

The most important areas are: Wealth and Prosperity, Fame and Reputation, Career and Helpful People and Travel. (Consult the Bagua Map in the site)

All these cures will apply to every room in your house, and of course, especially to the rooms where these areas fall on your house or apartment.

First thing to get rid of: clutter. Check that there's no clutter in any of these areas of any of your rooms, even the garage!!!

For your Wealth and Prosperity area:

If you don't have one by now, this is a good time to set up an aquarium. If it's possible, make it big enough to house 3 Goldfish or more, always in odd numbers. Use rocks and plants to decorate it. Make it beautiful. Of course, if you have money problems, maybe you can't afford an aquarium, but you can always find a picture or a painting of fish or an aquarium. If an aquarium is not something you really like, think of a table fountain. Flowing water is key. It can also be the picture of a waterfall.

Use things in shades of purple, red and blue: flowers (silk or live but never dried), candles, curtains, any decoration with these colors. Look around your house, move your furniture around, make it a comfortable corner.

Leave a lamp on in that corner 24/7. A lamp with low wattage will suffice, but keep it on. Obviously, if the wealth area of your home is in your bedroom, this would not be advisable, but do it in the wealth corner of your living room, or home office.

How about repainting that old dresser you have lying around, painting it red or blue or purple and using it in the wealth corner of your living room, bedroom or den?

We all collect our pennies and other coins somewhere in the house. Well, get a nice container (a copper bowl, a purple box or something nice) and put all your change in that corner. This is a great area to put valuable collections, antiques, pictures of stuff you wish to have like a car, a boat, etc.,

You have red or purple cushions lying around? Make sure you put them in this area.

If one of these areas (wealth, fame or career) happens to be a bathroom, it doesn't mean that you will forever have money problems, it just means you have to use cures to make the energy flow in the right way.

Keep the toilet lid down AT ALL TIMES. This is a rule in Feng Shui, but it's of the outmost importance if the bathroom is one of these important areas that are directly related to money.

Avoid all clutter as you would in any other part of the house.

Put a plant (silk or real, no dried flowers or herbs) in a place that is higher than the toilet.

Make the bathroom a comfortable and pleasant place to be.

Use the colors related to the area to energize the Chi. Candles with these colors are perfect. Towels, bath rugs, a picture.

Keep the bathroom door closed at all times.

For your Fame and Reputation area:

This area is important because your reputation is what gets you work, so you need to energize the Chi there.

Red, red and more red.... fire is key. Avoid using a lot of black (water color) in the Fame and Reputation area, since water extinguishes fire. If you already happen to have something black there, keep in mind that there always has to be a balance of all the elements, so although fire is the ruling element in that area, you need a bit of all the elements in every area, so don't forget to add earth, wood, water and metal elements.

This is another good place to put all your red cushions, flowers, and set up a nice plate with red candles and light them once in a while. A healthy plant works fine here too.

No clutter!! Try to avoid large mirrors. No fountains, aquariums, or pictures of water in any form.

Anything that has to do with fire is good. Electronics are considered fire elements, as well as animals and animal prints.

Great place for diplomas, awards, pictures or figurines of animals, triangular and pyramidal objects.

For the Career area:

The reasons to energize this area are obvious!

Here, you can use all the black and dark colors you want.

The area is ruled by water, so a fountain is also recommended here. For wealth, I personally like to have my aquarium in the Wealth and Prosperity area, but the Career area is also a good place to put it.

You can also put pictures of oceans, rivers or waterfalls.

If your front door is in this area, you have to make it super welcoming! Nice round rug, a mirror, a healthy plant (or a healthy looking silk plant), crystals objects .

Absolutely no clutter!!

Think of ways to energize your Career area. Get your creativity flowing and if you already have a table there, maybe you can paint it black or dark brown or blue.

Remember that if you can't afford a table fountain, or a painting, you can even use a piece of paper of the color you need and lay it on a table or hang it on the wall!

Try to keep mementos related to your career in this area. Keep in mind we are doing this in every room, so if you can't keep your diplomas near the front door, maybe you can do it in the career area in your bedroom, or your home office, just make sure that the career colors and elements are represented in every room.

For the Helpful People and Travel area:

Helpful people here could be your boss, your potential boss, a contact that might get you a job, even a religious figure. Use colors in the shades of white, gray and black in this area.

This is the place to put any images, paintings, posters or figures of spiritual guides, gods, goddesses, saints and angels. Pictures of mentors and influential people in your life. Maybe the picture of someone that you are hoping will give you a job, or who you would like to work with. Since it's also the Travel area, this is the place to put pictures of your favorite vacation spot or a place you want to travel to.

The important thing to keep in mind is that Feng Shui works, and if you take a serious look around and make an effort to avoid the clutter in these areas of your life and energize the Chi, your situation will improve.

Autor: Rebeca Rambal

If you want to learn more about Feng Shui and find more very useful information, please visit me at http://www.lifewithfengshui.com

Added: November 24, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

7 Feng Shui Tips For Good Luck

Are you looking to change your ability to attract good luck into your life? Some people seem to be able to attract good luck into their lives whilst others seem to be unable to attract any good fortune into their lives. Have you ever wondered why this is so! The Chinese art of Feng Shui reveals why this happens and how to attract good luck and fortune into your life.

Feng Shui is the placement of items in a certain manner which attracts and abundance of good or positive energy into your personal and living environment. The Chinese people believe that attracting anything into your life depends on the energy or chi which surrounds you and your environment. This includes all areas of their lives - health, wealth, money, love, relationships, happiness and good luck.

In Feng Shui there are principals which govern how to arrange the interior and exterior of you home and office to attract extra luck into your life.

7 Feng Shui Tips For Good Luck

* Cleanse and clear all clutter from your home or work environment. To attract good luck and fortune in your life the chi needs to be able to flow freely around your living environment. Donate to charity or throw away all old or unwanted books, clothes or unused items

* Spring clean your living environment so the house is sparkling clean.

* Place an ornament of a dragon in your home or work environment will assist in attracting good luck to you. Ensure the dragon is not facing outwards towards the door or window as this will send the luck away from you.

* Place Chinese gold coins on a red ribbon will assist in attracting good fortune with money into your life

* Especially clean out your wallet. Remove all old dockets and unnecessary items from your wallet and handbag. If the wallet is old or shabby replace it immediately.

* Place a healthy pot plant with shiny round green leaves in a gold pot in you home to attract positive chi into your environment

* Lucky bamboo is also considered in Feng Shui as a wonderful aid to attracting luck into your life.

The energy or chi of your environment greatly affects your own personal energy field and consequently has a major effect on your ability to attract good luck into your life. The Chinese spend thousands of dollars perfecting the art of Feng Shui into all areas of their lives. This practice is a spiritual belief and has now spread across the world.

Autor: Yvonne Handford

There are Feng Shui methods to attract good luck into all areas of your life, health, love ,wealth, prosperity and anything you wish to have; To learn more about the ancient art of Feng Shui and how you increase good luck into your life using these techniques into your home and work environment visit Feng Shui Tips or visit http://www.Universalhealingcentre.com

Yvonne Handford is an Author, Speaker, Soul Healing Coach, Psychic and Healing Master trained in Usui Reiki and many other healing modalities and alternate therapies. Yvonne is a Healer who specializes in promoting the "Golden Keys" to Healing Within and assisting others to live the life of their dreams.

Added: November 23, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Create a New Love Relationship With Feng Shui

Years ago I became interested in and began reading about Feng Shui. I became a believer as I read and tested some of these ideas. I've found that it has improved all areas of my life, especially romance. The idea that by moving objects around in my home could bring friendship and even love into my life intrigued me.

We each have different ideas of what is romantic. You decide what is romantic to you and do that. When I was single, my dining room was the relationship area. I hung a large picture of a knight in armor leaning from his horse to embrace a lovely young woman.

I painted my bedroom a lovely soft peach and placed a peach hurricane lamp on my bedside table. I called it my Love Lamp and put a heart shaped rose quartz next to the lamp.

One day when still dating my now-husband, I was feeling a bit insecure when he hadn't called. I turned on my Love Lamp and the phone rang. "This is really woo-woo" I thought. Woo-woo or not, I tried this several times and it always worked. It's another way of setting your intention and then allowing it to happen.

Our relationship area is in the kitchen. What can you do to make the kitchen a romantic spot? My husband and I found a poster of a couple dancing the Flamenco which we have had framed and hung it in the kitchen. Colors for the Love and Relationship area are red and pink, burgundy, or red-orange. We also hung a red metal Chinese love symbol on one wall that we found on a particularly delightful excursion to Cambria, California. In your relationship area do everything in twos, two roses, two people in pictures, etc.

If you want a new romance, use only paintings or photos of two happy people in your relationship area. Do not hang a painting of a lone person no matter how beautiful it is. The bedroom is not a place for family photos- only photos of the two of you taken in happy circumstances.

My husband and I have been and continue to be blessed in our relationship. I believe that is because we honor each other's space. Our own bedroom is painted in a warm soft terra cotta. A Himalayan salt lamp lends a soft warm glow to the room. A soft scarf over the chest of drawers and silk and velvet pillows on the bed give a luxurious feel to the room. Our room feels warm, comfortable, restful and inviting to us. That's the way yours should feel to you.

We express our personalities in our homes. You are the one who is living there. Make it feel good to you. Make it beautiful warm and inviting to you. Have fun with Feng Shui and see how it can transform your life.

Autor: Gail Manishor

Gail Manishor is the author of From Here to Serenity, A Spiritual Guide to Transform Your Life, Gail's mission is to help people come to the realization of the Truth of who they really are and guide them through her counseling and writing to a place of peace and serenity. Visit Gail's website at: http://gmanishor.com

Added: November 21, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Feng Shui Mistakes - Avoid These 7 Feng Shui Mistakes to Create a Calm, Serene, and Peaceful Life

Creating good feng shui in your home is one of the most important aspects of improving your chi and attracting positive energy in your life. Only when you have facilitated smooth flow of positive energy around your home, you can focus on creating positivity in your life.

In order for this to happen, your indoors should be facilitate flow of positive energy rather than debilitating it. Here are the 7 brutal feng shui mistakes most people make when it comes to decorating their home:

1. Place your sofa"s at an angle rather than at sharp square like blocks. Placing them directly opposite to each other creates confrontational energy and blocks the optimal flow of chi.

2. Place your dining tables in a place where they have sufficient space around them so that they don"t appear cramped. It is critically important to not place them directly under the toilets or next to toilets. If you are in shortage of space, place a mirror next to dining table so the space is extended visually.

3. Avoid placing water to the right of the front door - doing so attracts infidelity. The right side of your door is the right hand side when you are inside looking out. When this rule is broken, man of the house tends to start looking around and may secretly start a second family. Read this article to learn more on the secrets of orientations and placement of water features.

4. Avoid placing mirrors facing the beds in your bed room. Also, avoid placing mirrors that reflect your beds anywhere in your bedroom. This kind of arrangement brings third party in your marriage - it is considered to be one of the main reasons of break up in marital relationships. If you have large reflective surfaces in your bedroom, try to cover them up with decorative screen or curtain.

5. Avoid Windows behind your bed. It is believed that having windows behind your bed makes your vulnerable to yin spirit formations, thereby making your short tempered and stressful. If you have a window behind your bed, close it when you go to bed and cover it with heavy curtains.

6. Bedroom televisions disrupts relationships. A bedroom television is considered to be reflective surface and thereby acts as a mirror. It has similar affects of having a mirror reflecting your beds, i.e. causing marital disharmony and disturbances.

7. Use circular dining tables instead of sharp edged dining tables. Circular wooden dining tables result in harmonious meals and family accord. Families quarrel and disagree less when the dining tables are circular and made of wood.

Avoid these 7 mistakes to create a life filled with harmony, love, and peace!

Autor: Amy C.

Amy C. is an expert on feng shui applications of water fountains. She has experienced potent benefits by applying easy-to-implement feng shui principles in her day to day life. Amy invites you to browse her personal favorite collection of bamboo fountain kits and feng shui fountains at http://www.TabletopFountainStore.com

Added: November 19, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/