Feng ShuI, a term that has crept into our decorating vocabulary, is still unheard of by many, and for others the meaning is irrelevant. But if practised, it is said to affect our lives positively. Feng shui, pronounced 'fung schway', is the art of placement and layout of physical objects in our environment and how it affects the flow of energy in our lives.
Feng (wind) and shui (water) are two natural elements that profoundly affect our everyday life. Chi, pronounced 'chee', is the positive energy that flows continuously through our pathway. One therefore has the option to direct this energy towards manifesting one's goals and dreams. There are five basic elements of Feng shui: fire, earth, metal, water and wood, which we use every day in
our lives, even though we are not aware of it. They relate to and represent our emotions, the physical plain of our existence, our thought process, our spirituality and intuition.
For thousands of years the elite and rich have used the principle of feng shui. Today, millions, of successful business people, including Donald Trump and Oprah Winfrey, use feng shui in their everyday life. It is said that powerful cities like Washington DC were designed by architects who use feng shui in the physical layout and design.
For the principle of feng shui to be 100 per cent effective in your life you have to first believe, then follow the guidelines and prove it for yourself. For example, the moment you choose to purchase a house, feng shui can influence your choice. It is said that the direction your house faces can benefit your life.
The terrain the house is on is important, based on the land formation; it can cause financial troubles, bad health, loss in business and connection with influential people. But if the land is appropriate, positive energy (chi) will be retained, so will your money, health and all that's good. The street your house is on can attract positive energy (chi) or negative energy (sha), depending on the people, money and the activities around your house.
Feng shui recommends a dramatic entrance to your home. It is the mouth and source through which energy enters your home. You should strive to make a good and lasting impression. If your entrance is untidy and filled with junk, and your garden unkept, people's perception of you will be negative. You should therefore ensure that your entrance projects a positive image of you and your family.
THE MASTER BEDROOM
The position of the master bedroom is very important. Surprisingly, it is said that this bedroom should be at the back of the house. A master bedroom at the front of the house attracts negative energy (sha) and creates discord and chaos. The living room is where you will find family energy, it is the centre of the home where memories are made and kept. This room should be visible and accessible from all the other rooms.
It is important to have your living room facing the direction that attracts energy (chi) to inspire conversation, bonding, creative and positive ideas. For your dining room your object is to create a feeling of abundance. One good way to reflect this is by placing a mirror on the wall, which will actually double things up. Positive energy must flow through this room, for here is where important discussions are made.
Since your entrance is the mouth of your home, the kitchen is therefore considered the stomach. There shouldn't be a lack, nor should it be overstuffed and so cause visual indigestion. The kitchen should be inviting and filled with nourishment. It is essential to maintain harmony and balance since it reflects the centre of the wealth, health and prosperity of the family.
One would think that the bathroom has no impact on how well you prosper, but it sure does. The very direction that your bathroom faces is very important. Water (shui) is a constant flow in your bathroom for washing and cleaning. It is therefore not surprising that you might be flushing away qualities such as fame, reputation and recognition.
Whatever your misconception of feng shui, one thing is for sure, we all long for lasting happiness, better family life, a better job, financial success, to be honoured and respected. Why then should you not try simple everyday steps to achieve all that you so long for when your life is in the flow of energy (chi)?
Send your feedback and queries to Sharon at sharonintdec@yahoo.com
