Feng shui (traditional Chinese: 風水; simplified Chinese: 风水; pinyin: fēng shuǐ; pronounced /ˈfəŋˌʃueɪ/ foong-shoy in Chinese Mandarin, "fheng-schway" in American English) is an ancient Chinese system of aesthetics believed to utilize the Laws of both heaven (astronomy) and Earth (geography) to help one improve life by receiving positive Qi. The original designation for the discipline is Kan Yu (traditional Chinese: 堪輿; simplified Chinese: 堪舆; pinyin: kānyú; literally: Tao of heaven and earth).

The words feng shui literally translate as "wind-water" in English. This is a cultural shorthand taken from the following passage of the Zhangshu (Book of Burial) by Guo Pu of the Jin Dynasty:

Qi rides the wind and scatters, but is retained when encountering water.

Traditional Feng Shui practice always requires an extremely accurate Chinese compass, or Luo Pan, in order to determine the directions in finding any auspicious sector in a desired location.

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Feng Shui Art For Your Home

The first thing I do when I move is to hang up my art work. It makes it feel like home. Bare walls make a home or office feel as if you are just passing through. So to create a welcome space hang some art work.

You don't have to spend a lot of money on works by famous artists. Prints and posters will do if you are on a budget. Fabric panels or framed greeting cards also work nicely for the budget conscious. Art work does not have to hang on the wall. Sculpture adds interest and dimension to a room.

If you have a little extra money start investing in local artists at art fairs. It is a good way to build a collection. Or perhaps you might want to try your hand at photography or painting. Take a class at a local adult education center or barter for lessons with an artist in your area. Children are naturally artistic. Give their works a place of honor and frame them nicely. You can change the works on a regular basis.

But what kind of art work should you have? Here are some guidelines for Feng Shui friendly art work.

No vicious animals. Lions and tigers and bears-oh my! Stay away from portraits of vicious animals especially if you have small children in the house. In an office they can be downright anti-social. While pictures of baby animals are cute avoid the snarling wolf or growling lion. If you must have such a picture make sure the animal is facing towards the outside and not towards the interior of your space.

Landscapes are beautiful. Make sure they are healthy looking and portray growth. Pictures of dead trees or broken down barns do not inspire a good mental state. What we see each day affects our well being. What state of mind do you want to create for yourself?

Some people feel that spirits can inhabit portraits and dolls. If you have this feeling then you will want to avoid them. Don't arrange your photos so that pictures of the living are next to those who have passed on. Display them in different areas. Don't display photos of people you don't care for. Every time you see them you will become annoyed. Body parts do not make for good Feng Shui. The whole body should be shown not just an arm or leg, or worse yet a body without a head.

Still life art work, like landscapes, should have a feeling of health about them. No rotten fruit, flowers past their prime or dead animals please. A painting of a colorful bowl of ripe fruit would enhance your kitchen or dining room for example.

Double up for romance. Couples should look happy and loving in any art work that portrays them. A pair of Chinese ducks or love birds are often used as a reminder of romance.

Shapes and colors must be pleasing to the eye. You don't have to match your art work to the sofa but it should not clash with your surroundings. Don't have too many portrayals of the same subject. A house filled with paintings of a raging ocean would not make you want to stay at home. They might even affect your health.

So have fun choosing art work for your space. Remember the mood and state of mind you want to create. And try your hand at creating your own art work too.



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


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

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Is the Energy in Your Home Driving You Crazy - 3 Principles to Create Harmony in Your Living Space

We've been told that everything is vibration but what does that really mean? Simply put, vibration is reverberation, the variance between one thing and another. It's energy. It is the relationship between something and something else.

We know it easily with sound. When Paul, my mechanic, hears the purr of my 1965 Chevy pickup and smiles, I know he's tuned her just right. It's a little harder to grasp when talking about things like a chair or sofa. But I bet you can feel it, even if you can't name it or know how it works exactly. The thing is, we all experience vibration in the place we call home. This vibration is what creates harmony or discord. Objects have energy and they resonate with us or they don't. It's part of what goes into making up your particular style, the one that is very personal to you. Here are some principles to help you create a living space that you actually want to live in.

1. Clean and Organize. Feng Shui master Marie Diamond makes this step 1 in her Five Steps to Improve the Flow of Energy. Whether you are a fan of Feng Shui or not, the principle of clean and organize still holds. Think about Spring Cleaning and why it's such a tradition. The vibration of clean and organized makes us feel better. We vibrate at a higher frequency when we feel order. So here are some suggestions about how to do the initial process in a very short amount of time. This is not, I repeat, NOT the final product, only one that will get you started quickly.

STEP 1: If you have clutter, box it up and put it in a closet, garage, attic or basement. You will not leave it there indefinitely. This is a specific technique designed to get those who need order in their lives immediately. If you leave clutter hidden it will cause energy leaks because even if you think you can forget about it, you can't. Your attention will not get a rest until you take care of what is hidden.

STEP 2: Once the clutter is removed, dust all surfaces and vacuum the floors.

STEP 3: When your space is clean and orderly, remove one box at a time from its hiding place and sort, purge and find a home for each object, keeping only things that resonate with you.

2. Determine Your Style. Now that things are clean, go back through your home and look at what is there. Do you still love the things you have around you? Are they useful or serving a purpose, even if it's only once a year? I have a Thanksgiving turkey plate my aunt gave me over 25 years ago and it's not particularly beautiful but I use it every year during the holiday season and store it away out of sight at other times. Sometimes we buy things we love but after many years we don't love them or even see them anymore. Those are the things that are vibrating at a different frequency than you are.

STEP 1: To determine your style, make conscious choices about what you live with. Each object is a "yes" or "no". You decide.

3. Remove What Isn't You. Some of us have inherited items that belonged to people we loved and loved deeply. We keep these items and try to find a space in our home because we are attached to that person or a memory of that person. Sometimes it's an event or special time from our childhood. If you are no longer seeing these items because they have lost energy for you, if they simply collect dust, if they are actually draining your energy to have them around by causing you to wish they were somewhere else, if you are keeping them solely because you would feel guilty letting them go, then staying attached to the object is not a vibrational match for you.

STEP 1: The object, person it is associated with, or the event or special time in your life are all yours to keep. Breathe them in. Take a few minutes to remember and appreciate each one.

STEP 2: Removing the object that no longer holds pleasure or is used. This is a way to free your energy and allow yourself to come fully into your own vibration, to be more of who you are.

STEP 3: This is optional, but some of my clients find it helpful. Take a picture of the item you are releasing and put it with your other photos and memories. It is sometimes soothing to be able to look at a picture of something even though you no longer want to own it.

These principles apply whether you want to be more productive, creative, happier, have an easier life at home or work. Finding your vibrational match is happening consciously or not in every moment of your day. Making conscious choices to surround yourself with objects that are pleasing will increase your energy, and bring a new freedom to your life. It's Spring now but if it isn't when you read this just pretend it is. Start with principle 1, clean and organize. Find out just how much harmony you can create in your life and your space.



Autor: Judith Blazer

Judith Blazer is the owner of Blazer's Organizing Solutions, a business devoted to "Putting it All Together" for those in transition, overwhelmed, or wanting to live a more conscious, productive, fun-filled life. She does both on-site and coaching by phone. Judith is a member of NAPO and a graduate of the Hendricks Institute.

To visit her website, go to http://www.blazersorganizingsolutions.com


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

Thursday, May 28, 2009

6 Super Tips to Balance Feng Shui Colors and Iron Wall Grilles

Did you use Feng Shui to balance the colors of your home walls? Feng Shui is the Chinese art of positioning objects in places such as rooms, to create a balance of the yin and the yang. According to this ancient Chinese system, using Feng Shui also helps to improve the flowing of the energy chi. Here are some tips to help you use Feng Shui to balance the different colors in your home rooms (including the walls):

1. Know the five elements:
- Earth
- Fire
- Metal
- Water
- Wood

Feng Shui teaches that you should use the different elements in particular areas of your home. The basis should be the Bagua, or your energy map. By using various colors, you can combine various elements of your rooms, including the wall colors, wall decor, paintings, and so on.

2. Use Earth to represent constancy and sustenance
The element of Earth is for the Northeast, Southwest, and Center of your house or apartment. Earth helps to create a balance in all of your relationships with others. The element Earth includes the colors tan and yellow (bright). As with the other elements, you can use various types of wall decor, such as iron wall grilles, to create an overall balance in your home.

3. Use Fire to represent passion and high levels of energy
According to Feng Shui, Fire is the element of the northeast and southwest regions of your home. The colors of the fire element are orange, pink, purple, red, and yellow (bright).

4. Use Metal to represent precision and clearness
Feng Shui teaches that the element Metal will help to make your life both light and clear. The element Metal is ideal for both West and Northwest regions of your abode. Also, the colors of the Metal element are grey and white.

5. Use Water to represent newness, abundance, and simplicity
This element will create a refreshing atmosphere in your home. The element of Water is ideal for the Northern region of your home. You could also use it for the East and Southeast region of your house or apartment. The colors of the element Water are black and blue.

6. Use Wood to represent liveliness and wellbeing
As with the other four elements, you can use various types of iron wall grilles to help create a balance in your house or apartment. This element, Wood, also creates abundance, which serves as a Feng Shui panacea for success and wealth. Wood is the element of your home East, Southeast, and South regions. The colors linked to the Wood element are brown and green.

When designing or remodeling any room in your home, consider using the Feng Shui method to create a balance in your home and to increase its liveliness. By using these elements with wall decor such as wall grilles and large wall decor, you can perform a perfect balancing act!



Autor: Alyssa Davis

Alyssa Davis is the senior staff writer for Metal-Wall-Art.com a unique wall art store specializing in iron wall grilles and large wall decor.


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

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Feng Shui - For Good Luck

Whether you desire good luck or a healthy love life or abundant food on the table, Feng Shui experts believe that the right use of space and objects can make your dreams come true.

Ancient Chinese emperors believed that the positive energy radiated by Feng Shui improves the fortune of their lifetime as well as that of the next several generations.

Modernists also share this belief as more and more people buy Feng Shui objects and follow the rules of Feng Shui.

According to Feng Shui, the objects in your home can rev up or slow down your progress in life. The proper use of d�cor and objects create balance and harmony in your home which leads to a positive channeling of energy within the home.

Though it appears quite simple, Feng Shui is based on certain tenets.

For Feng Shui to work at all, one must be aware of the areas of the home that correspond to life and the objects that must be placed in certain areas to bring in good fortune.

However, the crass commercialization of Feng Shui has led to mindless churning out Feng Shui objects with little knowledge of how these must be used. Hapless customers are disappointed when the 'magic' refuses to work.

The principles of Feng Shui work on a map of your home (or office). This map corresponds to the layout of your house and identifies the energy centers that usher in good fortune and positive energy ('Chi') into your life. Identifying these energy centers accurately is vital to the success of Feng Shui.

For example, many people know that they must de-clutter to allow the free flow of energy. But not many know that it is the South side of the living space that impacts energy flow the most.

Once energy blocks such as these have been cleared, Feng Shui also provides you with various objects that attract positive energy. For instance, tall triangular shapes, the color red or the number '9' are strong symbols in Feng Shui. But, it is not enough to know these symbols. Accurate placement is everything in Feng Shui.



Autor: Cynthia Parker

So, the next time you have a sticky problem that just doesn't seem to go away, or a promotion that is taking forever to come across, check whether you are following the principles of Feng Shui.

In energizing the areas of good luck in your living space or merely acting on false information. It could make all the difference. Find out more about Feng Shui at: http://www.FortuneCompass.com


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

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Feng Shui - Indoor Plants

Feng Shui and landscaping. Many think of feng shui and plants - be they shrubbery trees or landscaping only for "Outdoors". Not so. Feng Shui practices and precepts often involve the beauty of, value and indeed the positive role of plants both inside your home, office or abode as well as outside in your finely landscaped and Feng Shui tuned yard and its environments.

It has been often said and noted well by interior designers - be they for home d�cor or the office or hotel trades that plants can well fill spaces where qi seems to be absent, or indeed the qi is lacking in either quality or quantity. Similarly in areas of rooms and buildings where sharp corners come to play in rooms as well as hallways the secret areas of sha qi may necessitate planning to fill in those places with most vital qi. It is not always so easy and simple to fill a room with indoor plants in efforts to remedy these situations. Wrongly or poorly placed or centered indoor plants can even serve to make mattes worse by actually slowing qi and the travels and movements of that qi down to a slow crawl of flow.

It is important to choose what works well for your immediate local areas. Follow your heart, internal guidelines as well as cultural traditions when it comes to indoor plants. You may well have been brought up in a rural upbringing where the rules and standbys where plants and animals where for "outside , whereas someone brought up in the "city" may feel that plants and floral arrangements are just fine and that dogs and cats in the home make for wonderful pets and companions.

Overall though there are some basic considerations when it comes to choosing indoor plants. First of all a healthy plant is the best choice not a sick one, are the best choice overall. Even if you feel sorry for the living plant and feel that you can "nurse' it back to health, resist the temptation. Choose the health plant for your home. A flourishing, vibrant plant will improve your Feng Shui. A sick plant or even a plant that is not in the best of health may not. True though what is considered a lucky choice by some cultures - and indeed some gamblers, many are considered unlucky by others.

Feng Shui plants vary from region to region , however there are some plants that traditionally are considered to create harmony overall.

Among the best choices are - the Impala Lily, the "Money" plant, Cacti, "Chili" plants, Plum Blossoms and lastly indoor plants that have red yellow or orange flowers.

The "Impala Lily" (Advenium obesum) is also called the "flower of wealth and prosperity". The Impala Lily plant is well placed in your living room or room near the front of a shop, business or even hotel lobby. Next in line the "Money Plant" (Dracaena), which is a plant of the evergreen family which has a well deserved reputation of bringing wealth and long life to the inhabitants of those spaces in which it is placed to grow and prosper. Hence choose and place these Money Plants in offices and studies. Cacti and various Cacti like succulent plants can be used for their powers of warding off evil spirits and the like. Not only that, but mean people seem to have the habit of touching Cacti unnecessarily and being pricked by their prickly sharp spines. Perhaps these types will decide not to come back and visit you in the future. It could be a lesson well learned. The Chili Plant symbolizes growth and wealth and as the Chinese New Year approaches the Chinese often bring plum blossoms themselves into their homes because these bright lovely blossoms represents growth and renewal - which we need all the time all year long. Lastly indoor plants with red, yellow and orange flowers will add bright yang colors to a yin room.

Feng Shui.



Autor: Morris E. Brown

Morris E. Brown
Winnipeg Hospital Hotel
University Manitoba Hotel


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

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Isn't Feng Shui Just About Placement?

Feng Shui is thought to be three to four thousand years old, originating in Ancient China. It is based on specific principles of living in harmony with your environment and your environment being in harmony with you so your life can be balanced, abundant and joyful. Out of those simple principles grew a way of life that lead to prosperity and longevity.

Today there are at least four basic Feng Shui schools or philosophies and they don't always agree on everything or sometimes, even where to begin other than your front door. The couple of things they do agree upon is you should strive for balance in your life and you should unclutter your world, making it more peaceful and filled with joy.
Somewhere along the way over the last few thousand years Feng Shui got tagged with the concept that it was all about placement, not an overall lifestyle. Even though placement is important because that is part of what determines the flow of energy throughout your home and your life, it is really about living a lifestyle that creates calm and peace in your life.

My simple definition of Feng Shui is the use of positive energy in your environment to bring about the results you desire such as better health, improved income, less stress, even better relationships. Feng Shui is actually a tool that you can use to improve your life and help you create the life you want.

A Four Part Plan for Living

Feng Shui is really a four part plan for creating the life you want to live with less stress and not being a victim of circumstances. It's a way to improve your lot in life without conflicting in any way with existing religious beliefs and customs since most forms of Feng Shui do not contain a religious element. Be aware however there is a religious component to at least one of the schools being taught.

Part 1 always begins with un-cluttering your front entrance and then your home so fresh new positive energy can not only find your front door but always be welcomed inside to help you energize your life your desires and dreams. If the clutter is on the outside, life giving and life improving energy cannot enter. If the clutter is on the inside, energy gets stuck and stagnant everywhere clutter is located causing disharmony. Think of it in terms of your digestive system. If you put food (positive energy) in but it gets stuck (constipation) and can't get out you become physically ill. If old energy stays in your house year after year and gets stuck, new ideas, new thinking and new opportunities cannot enter because the clutter is keeping them out and you from improving your life. Make un-cluttering a priority.

Part 2 is where the placement comes in. Once you've un-cluttered your home you look at the flow of energy throughout. In order to prevent energy from moving through too quickly you can place pieces of furniture or a rug in its way to encourage it to meander in all directions throughout your home. You also do not want to prevent energy from flowing by having dead end corners and long unlighted corridors. Most of these things can be remedied by the placement of lamps, pictures on walls and even the color the walls are painted. Placement matters but it is only one step of the plan.

Part 3 is about enhancements. This is a process by which you use things you love to focus energy onto specific areas of your life. For example, it you want to encourage more money to enter your life, place a healthy upward shooting green plant in the east area of your living room. Add to it a small wooden money pot, placing into it 7 gold coins (US silver dollars or gold dollars work just fine). There are numerous enhancements you can do throughout your home to focus energy onto a number of desires or aspirations. Sometimes enhancements can be confused with the placement of things because focusing energy on specific areas of your life needs to be done in specific locations in your home.

Part 4 is often the missing link. You need to also Feng Shui your thinking. It's really great to have a home that is in perfect balance and provide you supportive uplifting energy but it can't work in a vacuum. If you haven't un-cluttered your mind and thinking from all of those negatives you've carried around with you for years and replace those negatives with positive thinking, you've only won half the battle. Take time to reflect, meditate or journal and really explore your core values and inner operating system. Find those thoughts that are no longer relevant to the future you want to create and delete them from your thinking. Aligning your inner thinking with your outer actions is the best way to create a peaceful joy filled life.

Feng Shui is so much more than just the placement of things. It truly is a lifestyle that aligns your thinking internally with your actions externally to help you realize your hopes and dreams and to create the future you are seeking.



Autor: Pat Heydlauff Pat Heydlauff
Level: Platinum
Pat Heydlauff, president of Energy Design, helps people eliminate chaos and stress at home and within oneself. As a consultant and speaker, Pat uses color, ... ...

Pat Heydlauff, president of Energy Design, helps people eliminate chaos and stress at home and within oneself. As a consultant and speaker, Pat uses color, design and organization principles to transform clients' lives. Her proven methods remove clutter and disorder, while enhancing personal growth, improved relationships, prosperity, and joy. Her new book, "Feng Shui: So Easy a Child Can Do It," provides changes that lead to personal success and abundance. For information on her consulting, speaking and artwork, visit: http://www.Energy-by-Design.com or call: 561-799-3443.


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

Thursday, May 21, 2009

How to Incorporate the Feng Shui Dragon in Your Home Decorating

The Feng Shui dragon is one of the most auspicious of all ancient Chinese symbols. It is not only one of the most powerful of the Feng Shui cures but is the embodiment of yang, the strong masculine energy.

The Feng Shui dragon is best known as the traditional cure for wealth and prosperity. If you consult the Bagua, the Feng Shui energy map, you will learn that the financial area of your home is in the southeast.

According to Chinese astrology, the wealth star changes every year. For 2009, southeast is the luckiest sector, with star 8 as the wealth star. Fire colors are recommended in 2009 to decorate your home office. A golden dragon here is the penultimate prosperity cure. If your southeast area is missing or incomplete, you can use a mirror to balance out the space. Chinese coins can also bring good fortune.

Traditionally dragons were believe to be able to control the climate. Wind, clouds and rain, all beyond our control, were thought to be controlled by dragons. This makes the Feng Shui dragon a powerful symbol for agricultural businesses and those businesses that rely on the weather.

Because the dragon is the embodiment of male energy and success, it makes a great housewarming or business gift for the man in your life. Selecting a dragon with a pearl or crystal in its claw symbolizes power, good fortune and a wealth of opportunities.

To strengthen the love and marriage area of your home, consult your Bagua, then be sure to pair the Dragon with the Phoenix. This pairing is the ultimate symbol for marital bliss.

Dragons also symbolize the number 9, the number of luck and good fortune in Chinese tradition... Having a dragon with the number 9 is a good way to bring good luck to those who possess it. Don't be tempted to place 9 dragons in your home for extra luck, the maximum number of dragons recommended is five.

The dragon carries a strong energy of activity and creativity, so avoid using in low energy areas like the bathroom or garage. Place the dragon around eye level, and not too much higher, and always treat the dragon with respect. Don't stick it in a closet! Place him in an open space, facing towards the center of the home, but not against a wall or corner. If there is a pearl or crystal in its claw, never face them towards a door or window.

Placed with honor, the Feng Shui dragon can bring success to many areas of your life, and allow you to harness the power of the dragon!

Feng Shui dragon, and to learn how to incorporate these principles into more balanced home decorating, without spending a fortune, visit: http://www.fengshuilight.com



Autor: Sean Lannin Sean Lannin
Level: Platinum
Hello, If you have found me I expect that you have some interest in pizza, parenting, traveling, or business...these are some of the areas that ... ...
Added: May 21, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Building Site Influence in Feng Shui

Harmony between buildings, nature and people is the function of Feng Shui. How can you create this harmony in your environment? The best way to do it is to start with selecting the correct piece of land. When you begin with land that supports your well being then you are ahead of the game.

Choose land without steep slopes that can drain away your money. Stay away from T intersections, highway overpasses, fast running water and land with ravines. Instead choose land that is basically flat where you can build far enough away from the road to avoid heavy vibrations.

The soils should not be too dry, too rocky or too wet. Each of these can cause various problems for you. Vegetation should be healthy on the land you choose. Trees should be in good condition and growing well. They should not be overly large or too close to the building. Some kinds of trees should be avoided such as willow trees which thrive in wet areas and grow quickly. In addition to indicating wet conditions the roots can interfere with drainage and sewer lines. Some trees are messy and attract insects and snakes. So be careful what kind of trees you choose.

Be aware of your surroundings. Is it too hot or cold and windy? Are there strange smells? If your land is too exposed such as the top of a hill you will constantly be battered by sun, rain and wind. The views may be magnificent but eventually you will find it to be too strong for comfort. Your house will also suffer and deteriorate. If you live downwind from a factory, paper mill or a farm you may be assaulted by smells that can be very unpleasant and eventually will affect your health.

What about what you see around you? Anything you see will affect you. Surround yourself with beauty both inside and outside of your building. Are your surroundings in balance? Are you the largest building in the area? When you stand out this, you can become the object of unwanted attention. Are you the smallest building in the area? Then you might be overpowered by the surroundings, feeling pressure from nearby buildings. They can block your sun and air too.

Is the water too close or the mountains too close and high? Then they are out of balance with your surroundings. Too much and too little are to be avoided.

So go back to nature and take a look around you. Check out the neighborhood try to figure out who is doing well and who is not. See what the differences are between the two and apply what you learn to your own situation.



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


Added: May 20, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Monday, May 18, 2009

Feng Shui Tips For Important Areas

The Bedroom:
Sleep with the headboard or pillow side of bed against a solid wall.
Sleep away from the entrance door to the room, not aligned with it directly.
Avoid sleeping under exposed beams; use a canopy bed or create a false ceiling.
Do not sleep under/near low windows.
Cover big mirrors in the bedroom for sounder sleep.
Avoid sleeping against a wall with electronics on the other side of the wall.
Avoid sleeping against a wall with kitchen appliances directly on the other side.

The Office:
In a commercial setting, place your desk so you have a direct or side view of the door.
Do not sit directly aligned with the door.
Sit in between overhead beams or unfinished ceilings that have air ducts or plumbing overhead.
If the room is windowless, have pictures of landscapes to give depth to the space.
If the room is windowless, have sufficient full spectrum lighting.
Keep the room relatively organized and free of clutter.
If the room is small with low ceilings, place the pictures higher on the wall to give the illusion of more space.
If the ceilings are too high, place pictures on the wall lower so that it drops the line of sight down.
If a structural pillar/column protrudes in your office, try to place something in front of the corner edge of the column to soften it, such as a plant. Making file cabinets flush with the corner edge can also help remove the "poison arrow" affect.
Any bad views from a window should be blocked with plants, a partition screen or frosted windows.

Entrance:
Maintain a bright, cheerful entrance. If it is dark, then you may need to keep a light on or do some remodeling to add a window or skylight.
If there is a staircase directly aligned with the entrance, flank the stairs with a water fountain or a live plant to help slow down the direct path of chi.
If there is a front door aligned directly with a back door, add a live plant or water feature in between those two points.
If there is a direct view of the kitchen when entering, visually block it.
If there is a direct view of a bathroom when entering, keep the door closed.
If there is a wall very close to the entrance, that feels halting, cover it with a mirror to create the visual illusion of more space.



Autor: Kartar Diamond

Kartar Diamond teaches both introductory as well as more advanced classes and applications of traditional Feng Shui. For more information about Kartar's classes, books, and consultations go to http://www.FengShuisolutions.net/


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

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Good Feng Shui on a Dime - Or Less

There is a large umbrella which covers all the things we do in the effort to create good Feng Shui. This ancient Chinese art form looks at the many ways our physical surroundings affect us and sets out to correct imbalances which could otherwise sabotage health, well-being, or creative and professional potential.

Some people hear about Feng Shui and they are intrigued with the whole concept, but they shy away from getting advice because they hear that they may need to purchase exotic and/or expensive remedies for their home or work environment. It's absolutely true that some people make big changes to their properties and it is true that sometimes big remedies are required for the maximum results.

But what about being able to take advantage of Feng Shui principles when you're on a tight budget? Especially in the current economic downturn, not everyone can spend hundreds of dollars on water features, d�cor or furnishings purchases, never mind remodeling or landscaping. The good news is that there is a whole cache of practical and easy Feng Shui changes which literally don't cost anything.

There is a branch of classical Feng Shui called the "East-West School" which identifies your best personal directions based on your year of birth and gender. Everyone has four good directions and for different purposes. For example, one personal direction is for relaxing and sleeping while another one is for attracting wealth or good friendships.

Some of the ways these personal directions are used include:
Sleeping Direction
Favorable Entrance to a house or business
Best position for a desk for long periods of working or studying
Most effective standing positions for such activities as teaching or selling
Best orientation of the whole house for ideal personal compatibility

We are all in a relationship with the spaces we occupy and we can either draw energy from those spaces or have the space drain us, depending on how we position ourselves within the structure. It doesn't cost anything to move a desk around or sleep in a different direction. It might take an extra 30 seconds to use an alternative entrance to your home, but these are some of the tried and true ways that Feng Shui applications have been tested for thousands of years.

Much of this information has been kept secret for thousands of years and one had to prove themselves worthy of the knowledge before receiving it. Nowadays, there are hundreds of books and countless websites which can help people determine their best and worst personal directions according to Feng Shui theory. My own books cover this information, focused primarily on showing how you can harness and increase the good Feng Shui inherent in every interior space with a personal approach that is based on something called your Personal Trigram as well as your Chinese zodiac sign. As an example, a woman born in 1963 can attract more financial luck by sleeping head to southwest and a man born in 1964 can get sounder sleep with his head pointed to south. A person born in the year of the Ox should avoid sleeping with their head to the Sheep Direction (South/Southwest) because it can be very draining and make it harder to save money. And a person born in the year of the Rat can be especially creative and even become famous if they enter their house through the North sector. A woman born in 1967 can be more productive at a desk facing east than northeast.

Like making lemonade from lemons, everyone can position themselves in any environment to maximize the good flow of chi that suits each person individually.



Autor: Kartar Diamond

Kartar Diamond is a professional feng shui practitioner, consulting and teaching since 1992.
She has written four books and speaks about Feng Shui on a regular basis. Kartar also writes for several on-line magazines. For more information about Kartar Diamond, go to http://www.FengShuiSolutions.net


Added: May 17, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Friday, May 15, 2009

Feng Shui Makeover For Your Living Room

Let's talk a little about your Feng Shui Living Room. Are you one of those families that gather every evening in the living room? Or do you keep it for guests only? Does your family split up after dinner and spend time alone in their own bedrooms, den or craft room? Bring them back together again with a Feng Shui Living Room makeover.

Look around and observe your furniture, wall colors, ceiling, art work and accessories. What do they say to you? Is it relaxing? Is it comfortable to sit and have a conversation? Is there a quiet space for reading? Is there room for activities such as puzzles, games?
Is it a space where you want to spend time?

Consider the size of your room and the size of your furniture. The room and furniture should balance nicely. If your furniture is too big it can lessen the flow of qi creating dead spaces and lack of energy. You might feel blocked in your life if you cannot comfortably walk through a room without constantly bumping into things. Having too little furniture or undersized pieces can be just as bad. This creates a feeling of lack in your life. Make sure to have a well composed floor plan.

Of course it should be comfortable, but the shape and color of your furniture is important too. Consider the compass section that your living room occupies. Is it in the North? Then water colors and shapes are suitable. You can also use what will enhance the compass section, in this case metal colors and shapes. Be careful not to over do it with the metal. Keep things simple for a relaxing feel.

Neutral colors are more restful than bright and shiny colors. Keep the wall and furniture colors neutrals. That doesn't mean you have to use tan or white for everything. There are many shades and hues of all colors. Choose those that make a background for your life instead of taking it over.

Lighting is important. You need different lighting for different purposes. Remember not too bright and not too dark. Balance is important. Fireplaces are warm and cozy but they can cause indoor pollution and even loss of heat if it is extremely cold outside. There are certain places in your house where you should not have fire. Check with your consultant to see if your fireplace is positioned correctly.

Make a quick look around your living room for any shas you may find. Are you sitting under beams or a sloped ceiling? These will create a feeling of pressure and head aches. Move furniture out from under them. The same goes for ceiling fans. Are there any corners pointing at you when you sit? Move your furniture or soften the corner with plants, curtains or by some other means.

A good feng shui living room will draw your family in. Enjoy your time together.



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


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

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Your Feng Shui Home Office

You apply Feng Shui to your home. Can you take this further and apply Feng Shui specifically to your desk in your home or work office? Yes you can.

Where you place your desk is the most important consideration. You should sit with your back to a wall for support. When you have a window or door behind you then you will feel uncomfortable. You are unable to see when someone is approaching your desk and can easily be startled. Windows and doors can create drafts even when closed and this can give you a chill and be will disturb your concentration. If you know your most auspicious directions try to utilize one of them when choosing a desk placement. One of the best places to sit is kitty corner from the door.

Keep your desk top clear of clutter. When you can't see the surface of the desk for all the papers, plants, coffee cups and various electronic equipment how can you keep a clear mind and concentrate on your work. If you have the room, add a small bookcase and auxiliary file cabinet on wheels to help you organize. A bulletin board is a great help in keeping important information close at hand.

Make sure you have no shas in your office. When you sit at your desk you don't want to sit under a beam or sloped ceiling. These will create pressure on your head giving you headaches. No sharp corners or poison arrows should be pointing towards you. If they are, place a tall leafy plant in front of the offending shas. If you don't have room for a plant try a soft curtain to obscure.

Consider the smell of your office. Yes that's right-smell. What does your office smell like? Can you smell last night's dinner or do the pets tend to hang out in the room? Make sure there is a nice fresh scent in your office. Peppermint is a great pick me up. Have a bottle of essential oil of peppermint available in your drawer for when you are feeling that afternoon slump.

Keep art work to a minimum in your office but do have something beautiful to look at to refresh your eyes. A beautiful landscape or gentle waterfall that flows towards you is a good choice. Remember to keep the wall color neutral so you can concentrate and choose a color appropriate to the compass direction. Eye strain can come from inappropriate lighting. Have enough light on your work surface to see clearly but avoid glare.

Take a break every now and then. Shift positions, talk a short walk, shake out your arms and legs to avoid exhaustion and problems caused by repetitive motions.

If your office has a separate outside entrance you might also have a doormat. Make sure you do not have your company name on it. You don't want people walking all over you with dirty feet.



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


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

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

How Important is Your Door in Feng Shui?

Drive through your town and take a look at all the buildings, homes, offices, factories, retail establishments. Take note of the main entrance. Observe the decor, colors, direction, and condition of the area.

Your door is what we call the mouth of qi. This is where the energy enters your building. Qi is like food for your home. We all need food to survive. The quality of food is important, the higher the quality of the food the better our life can be. Your home needs food too. Without high quality energy buildings can deteriorate, develop maintenance problems, mold and eventually become derelict.

The color of your door is something to consider when thinking of the energy flow. Colors have their own energy. They interact with the energy that comes to your door. This is why choosing the correct door color is important.

As discussed in earlier articles each direction of the compass is associated with a color. But it is not enough to just to use that color. You must also consider the material of which the door is made. Then you also want to remember that the energies are always changing. They change day to day, month to month, yearly and in 20 ear cycles. So you must choose carefully.

Doors are usually made from metal, wood or now a days fiberglass. While wood is the preferred material, in some climates it is not always the most practical choice. In damp or rainy climates they can warp and stick. A door that doesn't function properly indicates difficulties in life.

So let's take a look at the compass directions and relate them to color and material.
Starting in the East we have the Zhen trigram. This is the spring direction and in the spring we have the lovely bright green color of new foliage. The material of the East is wood.

In the Southeast, the Xun trigram, early spring has moved on to late spring and early summer. The color is still green but a mature green. Wood is still the material.

In the South, the Li trigram, we have moved on to high summer. This is the hottest season and the material is fire. The color associated with the South is red. A word of caution-red must be used very carefully.

In the Southwest, the Kun trigram, the material is earth. This is the dry, late summer season. Yellow as in the color of dried grasses, tan, beige is appropriate here.

In the West or Dui trigram, metallic colors are suitable. This is the area of metal and the early fall season.

Northwest is the Qian trigram. Late fall early winter are here. Metal also rules this area

North is the deepest part of winter and the Kan trigram. Dark blue and black suit the water element in this direction.

Finally in the Northwest we find the Gen trigram. This is another earth direction. Whereas the Southwest is late summer and dry, this area is late winter and more damp. So a brighter, cleaner earth color works here.

Although you are using the color of the direction of your door please do not use bright colors. Use paler shades or whites that include a hint of the direction color. A more neutral tone will cause you fewer problems that the deep shades. A white can have shades of blue, green, yellow, black and red as an undertone.



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


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

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Water Placement in Feng Shui - How Important is It

Water, water everywhere...starts the old rhyme. We love water. We vacation at the lake or seaside. We have swimming pools in our yards. Fountains have become common both inside and outside our homes and even our businesses. Aquariums are popular in restaurants, nursing homes, libraries and at home. And then there are the fish ponds in our gardens. We love water. After all, our bodies are approximately 74% water and we have a natural affinity for it. The importance of water in our lives can not be denied.

How you place water in your environment and how you maintain it are extremely important. If placed in the wrong area or at the wrong time it can cause health, relationship and money problems. If the quality of the water is poorly maintained, it can do the same. Water must be kept clean and sparkling at all times. However, correctly placed water can provide many benefits. Water has a calming affect. It can cool an overheated area. Water can enhance your business, health and relationships. It brings beauty into our lives. It is worth the trouble to get it right.

Placement

Water can enhance your life or it can cause you serious trouble. Trouble not only for you, but for your neighbors as well. If water is placed in the wrong direction in relationship to you it can block good energy, or qi, from arriving at your door. It can also trap bad qi and return it to you. Good placement of water for you may result in trouble for your neighbors. Naturally occurring water such as lakes and rivers can have the same auspicious or inauspicious consequences.

Timing

Timing is important for both natural and man made water. During a certain period of years your swimming pool may enhance your life and during other years it may have an adverse affect. When you clean your fountain and restart it, you need to pick a good day and hour to enhance your luck. Traditional feng shui deals in 20 years, yearly, monthly, daily and hourly time periods. Choosing the correct time and location for your water features is crucial. Have your feng shui consultant advise you on the type of water, its location and when to start and stop the water for best results.

Maintenance

Naturally occurring water on your property is also important, be that a stream,
Artesian well, soggy soil, seasonal runoff, rain gutter water, or pond. Pay attention to the quality of the water and the surrounding area. Stagnant, dirty or smelly water is to be avoided. Perpetually soggy soils should be avoided also.

Indoors make sure your fish tanks are properly filtered, and the glass and water clean. Keep your fish healthy and active. Take care that moisture buildup in the area is controlled or molds can develop. This holds true for fountains as well. An unattended fountain can run dry, or water and tubing can become slimy. Splash over or too large a fountain for the area causes excess humidity.

Pools and fish ponds need the same attention paid to them. Make sure filtration equipment is functioning properly. Surrounding plants must be healthy. And make sure your fish are protected from becoming part of a wildlife buffet.

The Beauty of Water

So enjoy the beauty and benefits that water brings to your surroundings. But be aware that the type, amount, the quality and the timing is important in dealing with water. Consult your feng shui practitioner.



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


Added: May 11, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Lucky Bamboo in Feng Shui

Lucky bamboo has become very popular and more widely available in the past few years. You can now find it at most supermarkets, as well as floral shops and online. Not really a bamboo, this intriguing plant is actually a member of the Dracena family, Dracaena sanderiana. A healthy, green plant brings a lively qi into the home and this little plant adds a lot without asking much of you.

One of the reasons it has become popular is that it is so easy to grow. It does not require a great deal of sunlight. In fact you should keep it out of direct sunlight. It can be grown in water or in soil, and requires little care. Most often you will find it "planted" in a small pot filled with pebbles and water. Some people feel the water should be changed every week and others simply replenish the water as it evaporates. As long as the water is clean and clear, simply refilling the container will keep your lucky bamboo happy. Add a dilute fertilizer every now and then to give it a boost. If you have chlorinated or fluoridated water you can use spring, or distilled water to keep your plant healthy. Or simply leave your tap water exposed to the air overnight in a bowl to rid it of these chemicals.

Many plants in the dracaena family are known to have toxic properties that can be dangerous to pets and small children. To be safe it is best to keep them out of reach of tiny fingers and paws. For more information on toxic plants visit the ASPCA web site.

Lucky bamboo can be found as single stalks, bundled together with red string, in fantastic woven pieces that resemble vases and other shapes, and in curly and straight forms. You can create your own curly version if you have the patience. Place your bamboo in a room where there is a single source of light. In a few days the bamboo will start to bend towards the light. Turn the plant slightly away from the light source and it will again bend towards the light. Continue this process until you get the desired curve. If you are curling a number of stalks it might be easier to control if you have each one potted separately until the process is complete.

Here are a few more words on care. Remove that red string. If it is tied too tightly it can damage the stalks as they grow causing disease. Another reason to remove the red string is that red represents fire and the plant represents wood. Obviously fire consumes wood, not a situation you want to promote if you plan to enjoy your lucky bamboo.

A yellowing leaf is usually caused by too much light and will eventually progress down the stalk. It can also be caused by chemicals in the water. Give your bamboo less light and clean water. If one of the stalks turns yellow it is beyond help. Remove it from the container or it may sicken the remaining stalks.

When replacing/replenishing the water in the pot try to keep the same level. The water line is where roots will form and if you raise the water level your plant will grown more roots. This is a tropical plant and needs a warmer temperature, at least above 60 degrees, but would prefer warmer.

Where should you place your lucky bamboo plant? Their natural home would be in the east or southeast. Both of these areas symbolize wood and they provide a gentler quality of light your plant will appreciate. How many stalks should you use? The east is associated with the number 3 and the southeast with the number 4. The number 8 is an auspicious number in feng shui and if you want a more dramatic display this could work for you.

Now that you know a little more about lucky bamboo, even if you have a black thumb, why not give it a try?



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


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

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Auspicious Feng Shui Office

There are three places in each home that are of special concern and we want to have each of these areas arranged appropriately to receive the best benefit. The first area of concern is the bedroom, the second is the stove and kitchen and the third is your home office. We spend a considerable amount of time in each of these rooms and we receive their energy, be that good or bad. So why not make the most of them.

In this article I would like to concentrate on the home office. The basic guidelines for your home office can also be applied to your space at work if you have the flexibility. The location of the office in your home, the location of your desk and chair within the office and the direction you face while sitting are the three most important things to think about.

Locate your office somewhere else other than your kitchen area or bedroom. You need to have a place devoted to work without the distraction of the constant traffic a kitchen usually experiences. The kitchen will also remind you of the work you have to do-shopping, cooking, cleaning for instance. Also, your office equipment and supplies can be damaged by moisture and cooking vapors. You might also gain weight by having your office in view of the kitchen. When you have your office in your bedroom you become sleepy while working. The bed calls you to nap. And on the other hand when you do want to sleep you are reminded of the work you didn't have time to finish. Also all the electronic equipment creates vibrations that will disturb your sleep.

So where does your office go? Each person has four beneficial locations/directions and four inauspicious locations/directions. Set up your office in one of your beneficial locations if at all possible. Once you have found the best room for your office, place your desk. You do not want to sit directly in front of the door. This position is too strong and will disturb your concentration. You will be distracted by anyone who walks by your room. Do not sit with your back to the door either. This makes you feel uncomfortable because you can be surprised by someone walking in on you.

Generally the best place for your desk is in the corner opposite the door. Place your desk so that you have a wall behind your back. That way you can see anyone who approaches without being surprised. Some schools call this the power position.

If you have many windows in the room, control the light with curtains. Glare makes it difficult to concentrate and causes eyestrain. Also invest in good task lighting for your desk. It is well worth the money and less expensive than a new pair of glasses or migraine medicine.

Keep your desk neat and clean. Have a good filing system and supplies close at hand. This will minimize the clutter on your desk and make your job easier. Too many files, to- do lists and family photos on your desk keep you from concentrating on the work at hand. Book cases are great for organizing papers, reference material and supplies. It is beneficial to have doors on the bookcase to eliminate visual clutter.

Your office should be painted in neutral colors so as not to interfere with your work. Keep it light. Dark colors can be depressing and too strong for an office. Choose a color appropriate for the compass direction of the room. A well organized bulletin board is helpful, but keep it neat. Art work should not be too distracting.

In other words, keep your surroundings simple and calm. This will allow you to do your best work. Choose a good location to receive good energy and the battle is more than half won.

Now get to work and finish that novel you started.



Autor: Diane Kern Diane Kern
Level: Platinum
Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from ... ...

Diane Kern has been trained in the ancient art of Feng Shui in the traditional method. The knowledge has been transmitted through 13 generations from Masters to student via an apprenticeship of extensive study and practical field experience. Ms. Kern was included in a small group of students selected by her Master for advanced training. She is a member of an international team of experts, Alliance Feng Shui, whose resources can be called upon to accomplish your goals.

Ms. Kern assures the privacy and confidentiality of clients. Your name will not be used for advertising or referrals. The culture of integrity, respect and discipline instilled by her Master ensures you a productive working relationship and attention towards successful completion of your goals.

http://dianekern.com


Added: May 8, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Let Chi Flow Smoothly in Your Garden

In every good Feng Shui design, careful planning and following the principles of this ancient Chinese system is necessary. And with the right effort that you put in it, you will have love, luck, health and wealth.

Many people who want to capture the right harmony in their homes, unfortunately, are wrong to believe that creating a good harmony and balance in their life is only a one time event. Proper maintenance and continued effort will do people a great help in applying the Feng Shui principle in their homes and lives.

The Feng Shui is a principle which believes that the right flow of chi (life energy) in homes, offices, and in the environment will bring prosperity and best accord in a man's life.

When we say environment, we mean our surroundings, your surroundings which includes your garden.

Imbalance of chi in your garden will negatively affect your own energy and your own life. Therefore, you must apply good Feng Shui in your garden to bring the best out of your existence.

Let chi flow smoothly in your garden, and to do this to make sure that nothing blocks in its way or else, it will affect your life badly. To start with it, you need to imagine the chi as like a river that flows in your garden. And with this, look out for possible chi-blocking elements in your garden. You will be guided by your instincts as what the principle of Feng Shui believes.

Some places are trouble spots-meaning they block the easy, free and smooth flow of chi. Look out for these possible trouble spots like clumps of trees and undergrowth or concrete solid gates and fences. Empty corners in your garden will cause chi to concentrate in just one place, preventing the positive energy to develop well in every part of the place.

Too fast flow of chi in the garden is also not good in Feng Shui. Life energy that moves to quickly does not let positive energy to stay and settle in the place. Avoid allowing your garden to have too many flat spots.

To help more in establishing the right harmony and balance in your garden, you can follow these do-it-yourself ways.

Clear Out

Clear out your garden that will distract the smooth flow of chi in it. Clear clutters that cause distraction such as debris, fallen and dried leaves, grass clippings, and other organic matters. You also need to cut down undergrowth and overgrowth and other ways of maintaining and cleaning your garden.

Make sure that the trashes blown into your yard are also cleaned up. Dispose the wastes of your pets regularly. Mow the grass and pull the weeds. You need to maintain your garden by making sure that your plants are very well taken care off. Cut deadhead blossoms, pull up annuals, and dig bulbs up if the cleaning requires. You many also hire someone, perhaps, a kid to do some of these tasks if you do not have any sufficient time.

Put Colors

Not only pleasing to the eye, but having a colorful garden can help in the smooth flow of chi. The passive (yin) and active (yang) energy in the garden can be enhanced or slowed down through the use of some colors.

The yin energy causes chi to slow down while the yang energy causes it to speed up. So depending on how you see the flow problem of chi in your garden, should you concentrate on either of the both.

Yang energy are activated by the use of bright colors, while energy are activated by the use of bright colors, while yin is activated by the use of darker ones or earth one colors.

Your imagination is the only limit you will have in doing this task since flowers and leaves come in different colors. Pastel colors can enhance passive or active energy depending on its brightness.

You can also us colors in order to bring the Five Elements of Feng Shui in your garden. White and pastel colors can bring in Metal element, green colors on the other hand bring in the Wood element. You may also use the blossoms and coloring of plants to symbolize other elements.

Let Life Come In

Letting life come into your garden is also a way of letting in Feng Shui. Chi is increased with the presence and activities of living things like plants, animals, and even your children.

Invite other life forms into your garden by attracting them. You may attract butterflies and birds by planting flowering plants and trees. There are specific animal and birds that are attracted to a kind of plant or two. By having these plants into your garden, you are actually raising the possibility of more living forms to dwell in it.

Let Water Flow

A good flow of water means a good flow of life energy in your garden. Water is the ultimate doctor for curing chi problems, especially flowing water. By adding a water feature in your garden, you are increasing the flow of positive life energy in it.

Put in simple fountains or a small waterfall. Make sure that the flow in these water features is moving towards the direction of your house and not opposite it. The water also adds a soothing sound that attracts more life energy.

Fish, like goldfish, can raise the flow of chi in your garden.

Scent up

The fragrances and scents in your garden also help for the good flow of chi. Certain aromatic features in your garden may increase the possibility of better chi-flow as well as inviting in other positive energies. Plants and flowers carry scents that are very attractive for the good flow of life energy. Try the following plants in your garden to pick-up the right chi.

Chi- awakening plants:

Citrus Orange, Jasmine, Basil, Cardamom

Chi-relaxing plants:

Rosemary, Marjoram, Lavender, Pine

Move Around

Chi is also attracted with moving things, thus, movements in your garden increases the smooth flow of energy in it. Movements or moving things hinders chi to be still and stagnant.

Put moving objects in your garden such as pinwheels, flags, banners, whirligigs, and running water. You can also increase the smooth flow of chi with the use of materials whose shapes seem to be moving like objects made of round shapes, circular and curves.

Soothing Sounds

There are certain sounds that increase the activity of chi. These sounds are generally soothing and pleasing to the ears and not noisy, irritating and annoying. These sounds can be created through the use of inexpensive and high maintenance cost systems. You can use the objects below to bring good music into your garden:

Running Water, Wind Chime, Nesting Birds.



Autor: Adrianne Kee Kennedy

Adrianna is an avid feng shui follower. Years ago she was introduced to Feng Shui and has followed it. Because Adrianna is a certified fanatic, she had to share her experience in a free report. Her years of research and practicing the art make her an expert. For more information on her new must have book: http://www.HowToDoFengShui.com Be sure to visit the site right away to take advantage of the special Free Report today!


Added: May 6, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Monday, May 4, 2009

Healing Through Your Environment

The practice of Feng Shui is often referred to as a system for living in "harmony with nature." For me, this explanation conjures up images of fields and forests, when in fact most of us are living and working indoors. Does this mean you have to spend more time outdoors to achieve the kind of balance Feng Shui adherents are referring to? Does this mean that apartment dwellers and workaholics cannot enjoy good Feng Shui? Absolutely not!

While it is enviable that some people can spend a lot of time out doors and luxurious homes are often built in the scenic mountains or at the beach, there is also an unseen, powerful aspect of nature going on right inside your home, right inside every single structure built on this planet. The Chinese call it "chi" and East Indians call it "prana." These energies exist within our own bodies and they also exist in our surroundings. There is a constant ebb and flow and co-mingling of energies inside our bodies and our immediate physical environment. And that is one reason why having a wood framed bed could have a different affect on you than a wrought iron bed frame. There is a transferring of energies from one object to another.

This is also why a blue room will have a different affect on your body than a yellow room. Everything in your physical environment can affect your body, intellect and emotions.

Many people have had an introduction to Feng Shui through the media and what gets discussed most often is the concept of "chi flow." This often boils down to furniture arrangement and architectural features in how they affect invisible air currents within our home or work place. These energy flows are determined to be healthful or hurtful depending on a number of factors. For example, we like to arrange a desk so that you can see and sense incoming people into a room. Having your back to a door can be unsettling and the chi flow will be hitting your back. If there is substantial clutter in a room, it will inhibit a healthy circulation of the air currents in the room, eventually resulting in ill health for the occupant.

What is less known about traditional Feng Shui is how we can alter the magnetic field of a room using raw elements. These elements are water, wood, fire, earth and metal.

An example of water is a fountain. Wood can be a live plant. Fire is real fire burning or a large display of red color. Earth is something really made or stone or soil. Metal can be copper, brass, bronze, gold or silver. Our own bodies possess ratios of these five elements as well, with our bones being an example of the earth element.

A common misunderstanding about Five-Element-Theory, even amongst Feng Shui enthusiasts, is that you can create balance by representing all these elements together in a room. This is the furthest thing from the truth. As elements, they have both a productive and a destructive relationship with each other. For example, water nurtures wood the way a plant is watered and it grows. This is an example of a productive relationship. However, water can destroy fire, so they are rarely put together in the same room. And putting all the elements together will cancel out all their affects. So, to learn how to use the elements powerfully and correctly, one must train in the traditional Feng Shui schools in the same way that one studies Chinese medicine over a period of time and with qualified instructors.

In Feng Shui philosophy, we want to live in harmony with our own environment and the good news is that we can control a lot of those energies. Given that there is so much in this world which we cannot control, Feng Shui principles can provide both protection from harmful circumstances as well as ways to enhance areas that are already good, making them even better.

Beginning in February of 2009 (for one year), there will be a particularly harmful energy residing in the west sector of every person's home. This is one of nine different annual energies that can be calculated. And by using a compass and learning how to divide up a floor plan, you can learn how to locate the west sector of your home. For some people this is going to land in a relatively unimportant area like a bathroom or dining room. For others, this harmful annual energy will have a big influence if the west sector is someone's bedroom or entrance. This annual energy is related to sickness, depression, bleeding or miscarriage. It is a type of earth energy that is obviously considered negative and it needs to be weakened or depleted so that it will not have an influence on the occupants. Metal happens to be the element which will drain or weaken this annual influence in the West in 2009. This is just one example of using Five Element Theory correctly and strategically to improve health and well-being. What would be a disaster waiting to happen would be a large display of red color (fire element) in the West in 2009 because fire strengthens earth and you do not want to strengthen a visiting energy that can cause sickness, depression, or bleeding.

Every house is a combination of positive and negative influences, permanent as well as transitory. This is why Feng Shui can be called a predictive art like astrology: because some permanent energies are determined based on when a structure is built and others come and go with yearly cycles.



Autor: Kartar Diamond

Join Kartar Diamond of Feng Shui Solutions for local or long distance assistance. You can learn feng shui from an experienced expert or you can have Diamond assess your space and give you all the answers you need to balance and enhance your own personal or professional surroundings.
Visit us on the web at http://www.FengShuiSolutions.net


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

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Dragon's Breath in the Earth

The Chinese call the essential life force Dragon's Breath but you've probably heard it being referred to as Qi or Chi too.

The Chinese have placed, and still do, a huge emphasis on the importance of controlling 'Dragon's Breath' in architecture and landscapes. There are professionals who find imbalances in the energy and they are very much in demand - not only for domestic buildings but for offices and places of work too.

If there have been a series of unexplained illnesses and misfortunes it's quite common for a Feng Shui diviner to be called in after all logical explanations have been ruled out. The consultant will visit the premises and use a special magnetic compass with up to 38 concentric rings around the needle. Each ring is divided into special traditional measurements of space and time.

Outside of the building the consultant takes sightings along what are called the veins of the dragon. These veins are raised features of the landscape, such as trees, rocks, water courses etc. In the building the diviner will consider things such as doorways, halls, the directions of the corners etc. All recommendations are carried out with great seriousness.

If it is possible a small garden, properly aligned, is made outside and dedicated to the dragon of the region. Inside a shrine is placed in an appropriate corner to honour the dragon. Both inside and out, images of dragons are encouraged because it's thought to bring good fortune if you remember and honour the dragon.

Dragons Breath can also become sour or noxious inside of the Earth. Underground running water, fault lines and certain mineral concentrations can all distort energy with the effects felt by those who live above these 'black streams'.

In the West we call this geopathic stress (GS) . There are no scientific methods to detect GS so dowsing is used (both pendulum and with rods). This is a form of geomancy which was practiced frequently until the late 1700s in Europe.

Constant tiredness, headaches, infertility, plus a wide range of serious conditions such as cancer have been attributed to geopathic stress. Geopathic stress doesn't actually cause illnesses but instead lowers the body's immune system.

The underground 'black streams' can be turned white again by placing an iron stake in the ground where the GS lines occur. This is effectively acupuncture for the Earth!



Autor: Lyn Thurman

Lyn is a UK white witch and co-founder of http://www.wizardandwitch.com - a website dedicated to delivering ethical magic, readings and advice. She is a writer, psychic Tarot reader, spell caster and healer. You can catch up with her at http://www.witch-blog.com


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

Friday, May 1, 2009

Feng Shui - Can Living in a Condo Cause Cancer?

Some time back, I got a call from a couple who were about to purchase a gorgeous condo in an upscale neighborhood. The closing was the next day and as one final thought, they asked me to look at the place and tell them if the energies in their future home were auspicious. I hurried over to the condo and what I found was hair-raising: the unseen energies in that condo had the potential to cause blood cancer. The couple was very upset - they loved the condo and had already committed their "earnest money" on the deal. Canceling the purchase would have been a huge deal. So, the wife went back to the building just "to look around." Unbelievable as this may sound, she bumped into a man who lived directly over the condo unit she was thinking of buying.

They got talking and the man told her that as much as he loved living in his condo, his enjoyment was tempered by the fact that he had been diagnosed with blood cancer shortly after moving into his condo. My client couldn't believe her ears and no longer hesitated to cancel the purchase of her condo.

Now in diagnosing any environment, we must calculate the interplay of the natal chart of the building and, if it's a condo or apartment, the natal chart of the individual condo unit. We must also assess directional and planetary influences as well as the birth dates of the occupants. Obviously, this takes a professional consultation by an authentic practitioner of Classical Feng Shui or Vaastu (Indian Feng Shui). However, here are some general guidelines that signal the potential for negative health issues as well as financial issues:

1. Broken Windows. Windows that are fragmented or shattered can literally attract eye problems or distorted vision. They can also prevent a person from seeing things clearly in his life. Any broken windows should be repaired as soon as possible.

2. A Toilet Behind the Bed. Over time, a toilet that backs against the same wall as a bed has the potential to lead to kidney-related problems. If a toilet is on the other side of a wall shared by your bed, reposition the bed to another wall in the room.

3. A Pillar or Column. Having a structural -- or even a decorative -- pillar in the center of your home can potentially lead to problems that involve the abdomen or other organs in the abdominal area. Also with regard to Vaastu, center pillars are seen as a major defect. While a structural pillar may be difficult to remove, try to avoid placing any decorative pillars in the center of your home.

4. Leaks. Water that constantly runs can attract unending expenses. Literally, leaks can energize patterns that stimulate high expenses so money flows out almost as soon as it flows in. If you can't seem to get control of your money, don't just check your spending habits, also check for leaks around sinks, toilets, washer-dryer connections, and pipes.

5. Broken Steps. If the steps leading to your home are broken or in bad repair, your house may be attracting financial ill health. Damaged front steps can energize career hardships for the head of the household and intensify energetic patterns causing expenditures to exceed income.

Truly, your home mirrors your life. The energy in your home can also cause problems in your life - especially where health and financial health are concerned. If you're experiencing health issues or are thinking of buying a new home or commercial property, a professional Feng Shui or Vaastu consultation can literally save your life!

(c) 2009 Rupal Mehta Turner



Autor: Rupal Mehta Turner Rupal Mehta Turner
Level: Basic
Rupal Turner is one of only a very few consultants worldwide certified in Classical Feng Shui and well-versed in the ancient science of Vaastu. Through ... ...

Feng Shui and Vaastu Expert Rupal Mehta Turner publishes "The Prosperity Report," a biweekly ezine that reveals Feng Shui and Vaastu secrets for a thriving business and personal life. If you're ready to improve your finances, health and relationships by using the forces in your environment, get your FREE tips now at http://www.ClassicalFengshui.com


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