Feng Shui Tips

Maintaining Good Feng Shui

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 27 Sep 2005 19:33:00 -0400

Maintaining Good Feng Shui
By Suzee Miller:

"Feng Shui is a way of life, that when monitored and maintained, enhances the prospects for health, wealth and good fortune in your career and personal life. When the "five elements" in your home, work and landscape environments are in harmony and balance, joy, peace, prosperity and healthy relations are just a few of the blessings that are derived.

Occassionally I receive letters or calls from clients who initially experienced positive results from Feng Shui, then things seem to go in reverse. My first response to them is always, "tell me about the condition of your garden/landscape and the things you've added to your home/office." Invariably, they discover that there is debris, dead/dying plants or barren areas in their garden and almost always... more clutter in their home/offices.

It's easy to get excited about Feng Shui in the begining, but in reality it is more important to maintain good Feng Shui as a way of life. There is also the tendency, in human nature, to overlook the less appearent blessings surrounding us daily, such as improved health, contentment, more serenity and peace, restful sleep, better grades and behavior, less effort, better relations and an overall feeling of well being...than it is for us to relate to the excitement of more business, more money and more abundance in our lives.

FENG SHUI TIP #1

Feng Shui is an earth art and an earth science, thus you can NEVER over improve the grace, beauty and richness of your garden or landscape environment (this even includes parking lots). NATURE is the primary magnet for good fortune in your life.

FENG SHUI TIP #2

Less ALWAYS means more Ch'i...life force in your life. Thus the importance of constant space clearing...gifting away, throwing away, storing away or burning away "things" that do not enhance or enrich your life. CH'I is the primary force of health and blessings in your lives.

Feng Shui is not superstition, philosophy or a religion.

It is the art and science of living in harmony with our interior and exterior environments.

Suzee Miller is a nationally recognized expert on Feng Shui principles and their applications in business and real estate. She has authored 17 audio programs on Feng Shui and appears as a frequent guest on radio and television talk shows. Dedicated to healing the planet and to empowering people, Suzee is fast becoming the most sought after Feng Shui speaker and consultant in the nation.

www.fengshuiplaza.com
www.fengshuiparadigms.com
800-499-7844"

Believe me, when we start to change we think its the hardest thing in the world. Believe me, this isn't true in most cases. Generally the hardest part is keeping something going once it looses its "new/wow/cool" factor. I hope this article help you to maintain good feng shui for a long time to come.

For now,

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Feng Shui for Your Health and Vitality

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 27 Sep 2005 19:29:00 -0400

Feng Shui for Your Health and Vitality
By Rodika Tchi:

"How many of us wake up in the morning feeling refreshed, happy and full of energy? How many of us, after a few hours in the office, still feel full of energy? Why certain environments uplift our spirits and make us breathe deeper, while others drain our energy? We seem to have forgotten how deeply connected we are with the space we live in and how important is for our well being to live in a balanced environment.

As our lives are certainly not getting easier, the need to create a healthy and vibrant home environment cannot be overestimated. We have to have a safe, peaceful and energetically balanced space where our bodies can let down the daylong protective shield and focus on regenerating and self-healing.

Feng Shui is an ancient art and science that has been used for over 5,000 years to heal, balance and enrich people’s lives. It is a very complex body of knowledge that reveals how humans are connected to their environment and shows numerous ways to change specific aspects of one’s life by changing the living or working space.

Being aware of this deep connection and its influence on all aspects of your life, it would be wise to employ feng shui knowledge in your home (and business!) to improve your health, vitality, and general well-being.

One of the main theories of Feng Shui is the theory of Five Elements, which are Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood. The elements are the five manifestations of Chi, or universal energy, and are represented in your environment by colors, shapes, textures, smells, taste, etc. They interact with each other in certain ways, the basic cycles being Constructive (where each element supports the other) or Destructive (where one element destroys the other). Understanding this theory and its applications in your life can be a very powerful tool indeed. In order to experience high vitality levels and an increased level of well-being, feng shui masters recommend living in a place that supports and nourishes your birth element.

Each of us has a predominant element, which is calculated by the year of birth. (You can find out your own element from specific tables in many feng shui books or by visiting our website) Once you know your own element, look around your place and see which element is predominant in it. Yes, any specific environment also has its own predominant element. For example, if your living room has purple curtains, art with predominant red-orange colors, lots of candles, a fireplace, objects in triangular, pointed shapes etc; the energy in the room is predominantly Fire.

If your birth element is Wood, and you live in a Fire environment you will tend to experience headaches, inability to relax, have constant arguments with you family, often feel “burnt out.” As Fire burns the Wood, you need to focus on reducing the element of Fire in your environment, thus improve your well being. To remedy this situation, you may want to bring some of your own element (Wood) and/or the element of Water (which puts down the Fire.)

Wood element can be brought into your environment by colors brown and green, plants (green bamboo is especially powerful!) objects in rectangular shapes, actual wooden objects and other. Water can be represented by actual water (a fountain) or images of water – oceans, lakes, rivers; as well as mirrors, wavy and curved shapes, colors black or deep blue, etc. The scenario described above will also be true for a person whose birth element is Metal, as Fire melts the Metal. However, an Earth or Water person will feel very good in that environment, and you can easily guess why. Both of these elements are not overpowered by the Fire energy.

An old Chinese proverb states that feng shui consultants double as doctors. And for a good reason. The art and science of Feng Shui has a wealth of recommendations, cures, solutions for every person and virtually every space, be it home, business, garden, etc. Just like your body has a specific anatomy, the space you inhabit also has its own anatomy, with its own “do’s” and “don’ts.” Specific areas of your life, as well as specific body organs relate to specific areas of your home. For example, East is the area “responsible” for Family and Health. The element of East is Wood; therefore it is wise to avoid the placement of objects representing either Fire or Metal in this area of your home/business. If you suffer from certain body ailments, you can choose to place in the East area a picture, or any other representation of a medicine plant particularly healing for you (for example dandelion for liver problems)

Here are some feng shui remedies to improve your Health and increase Vitality:

* Keep the center of your House clean, clutter free and open. This is considered the Heart of the House and is a sacred area in many old cultures. No heavy objects should be placed here. The center of your space is a very good place for a fountain, some crystals, bells/chimes with a harmonious sound, happy pictures of your loved ones, or any other items that speak to your heart.

* Reduce or eliminate metal objects from your Bedroom, as metal conducts electricity. Work on reducing the electromagnetic fields in your bedroom. Provide an ideal space for your body to regenerate, replenish and heal itself during sleep. Do not sleep under beams or sloped ceiling. Do not sleep with your feet in line with the door. Have a good, supportive headboard. Choose a natural mattress.

* Become aware of the quality of air in your space. Aerate your home often and use essential oils like lavender, chamomile, sage, frankincense, bergamot, etc to purify the space, uplift the spirits and improve your sense of well being. Consider using an air ionizer should this be necessary. Have specific plants that purify the air, such as peace lily, boston fern, spider plant, etc. Color green is very healing.

* Have a pleasing welcoming entrance. It should be well lit, spacious and have uplifting energy. If you face a wall or stairs, apply specific feng shui cures or your life could be stuck in unnecessary struggles.

* Surround yourself with objects you love and people that uplift your spirits. Try to spend some time in nature at least once a day. Make your home a healing refuge from the stress you encounter during the day by applying various feng shui cures and reducing the internal pollutants present in most homes.

By following these simple, basic feng shui recommendations you can greatly improve your sense of well being. You can bring healing beauty and harmony into your life and create an environment that is fully supportive of you and your loved ones.

Rodika Tchi, MSc, is a professional feng shui consultant. Her Vancouver-based company offers feng shui information, services and products. She can be reached at www.TchiConsulting.com

About The Author

RODIKA Tchi, MSc, has been a researcher and practitioner of the field of feng shui for over 8 years. She has several feng shui certifications from the International Institute for Feng Shui and Geobiology based in Germany and happy clients in many countries. Raised in Europe and educated in the US, Rodika lives in Vancouver, British Columbia and consults internationally. She can be reached at www.tchiconsulting.com

rodka@tchiconsulting.com"

I'm really not sure when I'll be able to next update the blog. I don't know a whole lot beyond what happens after today. I'm about to embark on an uncertain journey leaving behind a permanent role with a great company in Sydney Australia for the uncertainty of a contract role with a company of similar repute in a smaller city where I should be able to buy a home and raise a family.

I wanted to leave my blog on a good note in case this was my last post. Today I've found two really great articles. One is how to create a positive enviornment using feng shui, and the other is how to keep it.

Best wishes for the future.

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Feng Shui Tips for Your Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 26 Sep 2005 06:36:00 -0400

Feng Shui Tips for Your Kitchen
By Stephanie Roberts:

"Feng Shui (say "fung shway") associates the kitchen with both health and prosperity. Couple this perspective with the role of the kitchen as "the heart of the home," and you can see that any feng shui problems in this room can have a significant impact on your family. Here are some quick tips for improving the feng shui of this important area of the home.

* Good housekeeping is good feng shui! Keep your kitchen shiny and clean for the best possible energy. A cluttered, dirty kitchen will have stagnant, dirty energy, which interferes with your ability to cook and enjoy healthy, nourishing food. When you are poorly nourished, your ability to work hard and earn a good income will suffer.

* Hidden clutter counts. An excess of stored food in the pantry or freezer can become clutter if it far exceeds a reasonable amount for your family. Old, stale food has old, stale energy, even if the expiration date is still months (or even years) away. Clean out your food cupboards and refrigerator regularly.

* Good nutrition is also good feng shui, so try to add more healthy, organic foods to your diet, especially fresh fruits and vegetables. Start thinking of junk food as clutter that you are putting into your body, and maybe you'll be able to resist that next cookie or donut.

* A stove that is not in good working order implies a problem with financial resources. If any part of the stove (burners, oven light, fan, etc.) does not work, get it fixed as soon as possible.

* An unused stove implies untapped resources or ignored opportunities. Even if all you do is boil water for tea, rotate which burner you set the kettle on so that all of them get regular use! And use the oven, too, from time to time, instead of always relying on the microwave.

* If you stand facing the wall while you cook, this leaves your back exposed, a position that is considered weak in feng shui. Hang a mirror on the wall over the stove so that you can see what's going on behind you while you cook.

* Hanging a mirror so it reflects the stove burners visually doubles the number of burners. This symbolizes doubling of your income; more good food = better health and strength = ability to earn a good income.

* Fire and water fight each other, so the placement of the stove and sink is important. If they are directly opposite each other, this can lead to arguments and conflict within the family. Fix this by placing something green between them, such as a green rug on the floor or a living plant on a table in the center of the room. (A sink and stove that are side by side also weaken the energy of the kitchen. Again, place something green between them.)

* The stove is symbolic of wealth, so it is important to keep its fire energy strong. Wood feeds fire, so plants or plant imagery (or again, the color green) are all good to have around and near the stove.

* Fresh flowers bring beautiful uplifting energy to the kitchen. Place a bowl of fruit, a vase of flowers, or a living plant on your kitchen table, windowsill, or wherever the layout of your kitchen allows. (In feng shui, dried flowers have no life energy in them, so they are not recommended. If real plants are impossible, you can use very lifelike fake ones, but the effect will not be as strong.)

* Since nine is a feng shui power number, and oranges symbolize good luck, you can bring good luck energy into the kitchen by placing nine of the biggest, roundest, most perfectly orange oranges you can find in a bowl in the center of the room, on top of the stove (yes, you can move them while you are cooking!), or in the far left corner of the room. Always keep some oranges on hand, so each time you take one from the bowl you can add another to keep the total number at nine. Be sure to use the older oranges first, so none of them rot or dry out; if it's not good to eat, it's not good feng shui!

When your kitchen is clean, bright, and welcoming, the heart of your home is filled with good feng shui. The care and attention you give to enhancing this important area of the home creates a powerful, positive energy that supports the health and prosperity of your family.

Copyright (c) 2003 Stephanie Roberts

About The Author

GOT CLUTTER?!? Clearing out clutter is the most important and powerful way to dramatically improve the feng shui of your home. Stephanie Roberts' "CLUTTER-FREE FOREVER!" Home Coaching Program provides all the insight, motivation, and step-by-step guidance you need in an in-depth ebook and 6 weekly lessons. Plus, you can join our Affiliate Program and earn a commission on every referral sale. Find out more at http://www.clutter-free-forever.com

stephanie@clutterfreeforever.com"

I'm sure I don't need to tell you of the risks and importance of creating the right environment in the kitchen. I hope this article helps.

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Bedrooms – Should Be A Safe Haven

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 26 Sep 2005 06:32:00 -0400

Bedrooms – Should Be A Safe Haven
By Beverly Marshall:

"We spend a great deal of time in our bedrooms, hopefully 8 hours, and decorating ideas for them should reflect that and be well thought out. Very few other places should capture our attention like that of the bedroom. It doesn’t matter if you are alone in the bed or not, you might try looking at this room with Feng Shui eyes. Feng Shui is the Chinese art of placement. In Feng Shui, it is said to make a difference how you feel according to where you place the bed and what is around you when you sleep. Feng Shui suggests that you should feel safe and secure in a bedroom. You don’t need to practice Feng Shui to realize that. You should also feel comfortable and very calm energy there because you spend so much time in that room. Sometimes that feeling you get speaks volumes about how you sleep and it can determine how much time you really want to spend in the bedroom.

When you think about the bedroom, you may be thinking about a partner or finding a partner. Since practicing Feng Shui involves a lot of metaphor; take a look around your room and see what you are telling the universe by your furniture placement and surroundings. If you have pictures around you of a figure standing alone, you are reinforcing the reality of being alone. If you want to feel more comfortable, sleep well and/or find a partner; check out a few of the following guidelines.
ac • Place two pink candles or hearts on a side table in a bedroom; suggesting you would like a partner
• Don’t have photos of family or other friends in the bedroom as this is “your” space. Pictures of you and your partner is okay
• Place the bed so that the head of the head of the bed is opposite the door. You want to easily see people as they enter
• The head of the bed should not be over a window or you may feel lack of support
• Don’t have a TV staring at you in bed. If you must watch TV, cover it up before you go to sleep at night
• Try not to bring work home from the office; only to work on it in the bedroom. You are sending the wrong message
• Do not have a lot of books surrounding your head when you sleep. All of that information could be confusing and distracting your sleep
• Never place a ceiling fan above the bed because you don’t want the feeling of having fan blades above your head
• Having a night table on each side of the bed suggests there is another person in the bedroom, even when you do not have a partner
• Paint your bedroom pink. I painted mine pink and two weeks later I met my husband
• Make sure your bedroom door opens and closes easily. Noisy doors are disturbing
• Place earthy elements in a bedroom such as plants, stone, crystals or things that remind you of the earth

These are just a few bedroom decorating thoughts using Feng Shui as a guide. Have a clear intention of what you want in life and go about getting it. You can apply Feng Shui guidelines throughout the home and office with this ancient art and just see what a difference you will feel in your home or bedroom with a few subtle changes.

Bev Marshall is a successful freelance writer, Aromatherapist and Feng Shui consultant offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying a duvet cover, mattress, bedspread, baby bedding, comforter and more. Her many bed linen articles can be found online. She gives information and tips to help you save money and make informed buying decisions."

Well, it seems like my mind is dwelling on the uncertain present. Great waste of time I admit. Not much I can do about it right now so why worry? Still, preperation is important to success. Here's an article which helps you to create the right environment.

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Interior Decorating For Cats - Protecting Your Possessions

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 24 Sep 2005 06:11:00 -0400

Interior Decorating For Cats - Protecting Your Possessions
By Joey Lewitin:

"Part 1

The first thing a cat owner should know about home décor is to keep it simple. Cats are completely convinced that they are in charge, that the house and its possessions belong to them, and that they have every right to break rip or shred anything they like. Even a well trained cat (a possible oxymoron) will occasionally get overzealous, and with an inadvertent sweep of their tail will knock your favorite decoration from its place to a pile on the floor.

This disregard for your possessions, overt or otherwise, requires that you use some strategy when deciding on the placement of various decorative pieces. This is going to amount basically to common sense. Any surface that a cat can reach, they will walk on. Therefore low shelves or dressers should not contain any objects that are fragile. Items should be moved towards the middle of a surface, or back against the wall, to prevent them being knocked onto the floor. Items that have a broad or sturdy base should replace other more top heavy objects. Decorative accents that can shatter, such as ceramics or stone statues, may have to be replaced by steal or wood.

One way to display fragile items is to move them up. High shelves that are isolated from cat “stepping stones” will be out of dangers way. The same may be true of tall dressers, although unfortunately some cats will take a tall isolated dresser as a personal challenge, which they simply have to climb. Your décor will have to be matched to the personality of your cat.

Mirrors can also provide a problem, as some cats tend to attack their own reflection. If your cat has a problem with this, buying velvet or satin cloth and draping it over the mirror can be a decorative way to solve this.

Plants can be one of the biggest décor problems a cat owner will face. Your pet can chew on leaves, dig in the soil, or urinate in them. Luckily, there are ways both to decorate around these problems as well as to train your cat out of them. For biting and chewing of leaves, a natural spray repellent applied to the plant will cause most cats to avoid it. To stop a cat from rooting in or excreting in your plant you have to realize that the dirt in the pot is reminiscent of the cats litter box. In order to change this, use stones or gravel to fill over the top of the dirt. This will remove the cat’s fascination with the soil, and can be a lovely decorative accent to your plant

Cat grass is a special kind of plant you can grow in your home that is specifically formulated to be safe for felines, and to provide them with certain vitamins they may be lacking. Purchasing this can give your cat an acceptable alternative to messing with your plants. When you see your cat eating the cat grass, reward them lavishly. When you see them going near other plants, pick them up and place them in front of the cat grass. If they eat the offered vegetation, then reward them. In this way you can use positive reinforcement to turn one behavior into another

Cats will scratch anything which is made of cloth, including couches, drapes, and pillows. Because of this, you may want to start by spraying natural cat repellent on your more attractive pieces. A plastic couch cover may have to be used for a short time while the cat learns to behave itself. Buying your pet a scratching post and praising it for scratching that instead of your couch is a good way to positively reinforce the negative behavior out of the cat. You will have to carefully monitor their progress, and only remove protective coverings from your furniture when you are sure they are safe.

While cats are a hazard to most décor, planning ahead can minimize these problems. Cats are so difficult to train that it is often easier to simply decorate around them. Using common sense, and paying attention, should allow you to develop a setting that compliments your pet owning experience.

Part 2: Protecting your pet

If you own a cat, then designing the décor of your home will require taking several precautions in order to protect your pet from harm. Glass items should be avoided both because they are easy to shatter, and because fragments of glass can then become embedded in your cat’s skin. Other items to avoid are those that have sharp edges, spikes, or that have small pieces which can break off and be swallowed.

You should also consider whether any object you bring into your home would be unhealthy if eaten by the feline. These items may include plants, flowers, and scented candles. Cats are fairly self-sufficient, as well as intelligent, however they are also curious, and you do not want to give them any easy method for hurting themselves.

Cats are fascinated by string, as part of their inherent instinct to kill snakes. This fascination may carry over to electrical wires. If you catch your cat attacking or playing with electric cords you should stop them immediately. This is a very dangerous problem that can not only result in the cat electrocuting themselves, but also in causing a fire. If your pet persists in this problem, one way to protect your wires is to wrap them in duct tape. This will make them harder to break through and less appetizing for a cat to chew on. There are also many natural sprays which have specially formulated smells that will cause a cat to avoid an area in which it is sprayed.

Curtain cords hold much the same fascination that electrical wires do, and they can also be a danger from strangulation. If you have rope that dangles too far from your curtain, the cat may attack it, causing it to tangle. If the cat becomes caught in the tangle itself, it can be very dangerous. Long hanging cords should be tied up out of the cats reach, or cut so that they do not dangle where a feline can reach them.

The level of caution you should use is based upon your individual cat. Monitor your pet and your home, and change your setting as necessary. Always use caution when bringing a new object into an area, and be certain you don’t introduce anything which can be harmful to the cat. Mostly, just use common sense and try to remove any obvious hazards to where they can’t be reached.

Interior Decorating for Cat Owners
Part 3: The Beauty of Cat Decor

For the most part cat décor is less about being beautiful and more about keeping your pet safe and comfortable. However there are so many manufacturers of cat products that you can fine almost any of the items mentioned above in several different colors. Try purchasing items such as litter boxes and scratching posts in matching or complimentary colors. If you match the hue to the rest of your setting you may be able to blend them seamlessly into the area

Alternatively, you may want to set aside a space just for the cat’s things, in order to separate them from the look of the rest of the room. While this won’t completely eliminate the intrusion of cat toys onto your setting, it can allow you to create interplay between the cat’s possessions and yours. If your home is predominated by a single color such as green or blue, purchasing matching black cat possessions can actually compliment this look. If your colors are more mottled, then patterned cat toys, or subdued sandy colored ones, may be a better way to create equality in the room’s hue.

The litter box is one of the most troublesome cat possessions to decorate around. It stinks, it’s dirty, and it’s generally surrounded by stray litter tramped out of the box by your oblivious cat. One way to deal with this item is to hide it, either in a bathroom, or somewhere out of the way such as a closet. If you don’t have anywhere to hide it, then you should consider getting a covered cat box. They are much more attractive then leaving the litter bare, and will also reduce the smell. Unfortunately these are rarely attractive, and become dirty easy. To create your own custom covering, get a giant cardboard box and place it over the litter. Cut a hole in the front where the door is. Cover the box in decorative paper, such as wrapping paper, and then coat this in plastic to protect it from moisture. This method should only be used in conjunction with an existing plastic cat cover; otherwise moisture will seep into the cardboard and turn it to mush.

Cats can make wonderful loving pets. They are fairly self sufficient, and don’t require much attention. However, they are still animals, and will be oblivious to the beauty of your home. In order to maintain the look of your setting, while maintaining the safety of your pet, you will have to plan the décor that you develop in your home. Every cat is different, so let your home evolve with the pet, until you reach a stasis in which safety and beauty are at their best.

Joey Lewitin is an artist, author, and designer that specializes in innovative decorating ideas. Click here to see more Interior decorating and home décor ideas from him and experts."

Ok, so I just posted an article on tips for decorating for your child's room so if you're like me and don't yet have kids, here's a great article on how to make your cat the king or queen they are in their own minds.

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

7 Tips for Decorating Your Childs Room

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 24 Sep 2005 06:08:00 -0400

7 Tips for Decorating Your Childs Room
By Liz Hekimian-Williams:

"If you're not sure where to start or how best to tackle updating your child's bedroom, you're not alone. In a lot of families, the baby nursery takes a lot of planning and decorating time but there's often less thought and energy put into decorating the same child's room as they grow older.

It's common for baby toys and furniture like diaper disposals, pull toys and cribs to get removed, but other things often stay around for quite a bit longer than the growing child might wish. For instance a wall paper border with prints more suitable for your baby or young child's room, may not be as enjoyed by your now older child (or teen?!).

Here are a few tips to help you get started with decorating your child's room. The best part about this is that your child can help you do it this time around. So this can be a fun project you can do together!

1. Select a new color to paint the walls, a color that your child likes. If you have a strong objection to it, though, negotiate with perhaps a lighter version of that color, or limiting their color choice to only one wall. (Or, encourage them to put up some nice posters to lessen the wall color's impact!)

2. Mood lighting! Kids of all ages enjoy mood lighting of one sort or another. Together, select either a night light, a small novelty lamp with a low-wattage bulb, or an interesting colored or black light bulb lamp. Other lighting effects kids enjoy include disco lights, dog statues, flowers with light effects, and glow in the dark items.

3. Bedspreads. Get rid of baby blankets and exchange for favorite cartoon throws or bed covers. When they're teenagers, they might enjoy sports, frilly, or even more adult taste bed coverings.

4. Personalize something for their bureaus or their walls, with their names and/or photographs. Photos can be made into a collage. Exchange those baby and stork photo frames with an upgrade to novelty photo frames. Try one with hearts, a sports theme or a safari look, for instance. Engraved stones with your child's name or an inspirational thought and personalized acrostic poem name prints are fun and unique decor ideas that kids enjoy. Engraved name stones become long-lasting gifts and keepsakes. Acrostic name prints use the letters of your child’s name to start off self-esteem enhancing phrases that can inspire your child and highlight their special talents and interests.

5. Create a comfort zone area in the room, for cuddling up cozy and reading. You can use big pillows, plush or inflatable chairs, anything your child might enjoy to sit on and relaxing in. You'll also want to conveniently have some books placed within their arm's reach. You can also place some music equipment by that area for them to enjoy. And if there's room, add an additional seating space for you. Then together you can enjoy reading, listening to music, or simply chatting with each other. If you have a teenager, they'll likely want to have another seating space for you or their friends to use.

6. Together with your child, agree upon a wall paper border that you can use to decorate their room with. This idea can be in addition to or used instead of painting their room. Adding or changing a wall paper border can be a very simple and quick way to change the look and feel of your child's room.

7. And... here's an interesting idea my daughter suggested when I asked her for suggestions about decorating a child's room ... (I simply had to share this intriguing idea with you!) She said, "tell them to get an extra thick room door so you don't hear your kids fighting!"

Can you tell that she shares her room with her sister and something about the noise level in their room at times?

Hmmm... she might have a good idea there after all!

Liz Hekimian-Williams is founder of Giftsprings.com, a home decor and gift shop that features unique personalized gifts including engraved stones and personalized acrostic name prints, as well as novelty decor photo frames and accent lamps. To delight your child with his or her name etched in stone, you are invited to explore the personalized engraved stones available at http://www.giftsprings.com/category/estones

© 2004 by Liz Hekimian-Williams, Giftsprings.com"

My partner and I are trying for children and not enjoying success, so if you have children, give them a great big hug, tell them how much they mean to you, and help them create a space that is truely as unique as them!

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Clutter & Creativity

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Sep 2005 19:22:00 -0400

Clutter & Creativity
By Linda Dessau:

"Take a look around you right now. Look away from the computer screen and scan around you – the surface of your desk or table, now scan farther to look at the rest of the room. Close your eyes and imagine the rooms you can’t see from here; particularly the space where you most often work on your creative projects. Take a deep breath and really take in the image. What’s the impact?

If you’re like me, a reformed pack rat and clutter-magnet (and I think many creative people are), you might even find it difficult to breathe - almost like the piles, mess, unwanted and un-useable items are taking up air. Well, they are!

Clutter, essentially anything you don’t need, use or love, affects your creativity on many levels. In your workspace, it’s messy and makes it harder to find and use what you need to get your work done. In your schedule, it creates chaos and a feeling of a lack of time. In your mind, it clogs the pathway to your intuition and feeds fear and self-doubt.

In your heart, it blocks out love and peace by hanging onto negative emotions from the past. In your body, it weighs you down by making it harder to take care of yourself and harder to hear the messages your body sends you. In your relationships, it clouds your communication and affects your ability to give and receive.

This article will give you come clues for how to spot clutter in your life, and tips on how to begin clearing it out.

Do you have physical clutter?

1. Do you spend a lot of time looking for things when you’re trying to work?

2. Do you feel uninspired, or even dragged down, by what you see around you in your workspace?

3. Does the clutter distract you by reminding you of things you need to do (broken things that need to be fixed, half-finished projects, unanswered mail, unpaid bills)?

4. Are there things in your workspace that you haven’t looked at in years?

5. Does anything in your workspace remind you of unpleasant experiences?

Creative energy needs space. While some of the artists I spoke to when writing my book, “The Creativity Interviews” (http://www.genuinecoaching.com/creativity-interviews.html), seemed to thrive in chaos and busy-ness, most equated creative flow with a peaceful serenity surrounded by open time and open space.

Aside from space and freedom from clutter in our “home base” (the workspace where we write routinely), sometimes it’s OUT THERE that we actually do our best work. Riding on trains, sitting in cafés or surrounded by nature.

Do you have time clutter?

On any given day:

1. Are there many things you did that you didn’t enjoy doing?

2. Are there many things you did that you didn’t need to do?

3. Are there many things you did that didn’t do you any good (maybe even did you harm)?

The clutter in our schedules can lead to a chaotic life while things just seem to “happen” to us.

Do you have mental clutter?

1. Are you distracted by thoughts while you’re trying to write?

2. Do you criticize yourself in your own mind?

3. Do you spend time re-playing conversations or events?

4. Do you spend time speculating about future events?

Sometimes the chatter in our minds is constant and difficult to decipher. Other times there are the same boorish and loud messages over and over again – messages like “You can’t do it!”, or, “You’re no good!”. All of them are distracting and make it much more difficult to hear our muse.

Do you have emotional clutter?

1. Do you “brood” about arguments long after they’ve happened?

2. Do you hold grudges?

3. Do you spend a lot of time focusing on the things in your life that you don’t like?

Emotional clutter stems from the same pack-rat habit of not wanting to let go. Instead of hanging onto an old sweater missing a button, it’s hanging onto an old emotion. Once an emotion is over, it’s over, unless we choose to hang onto it. That’s a powerful ability we have – to either stay enraged, sad or anxious over something that happened three days ago, or three YEARS ago, or let go and give ourselves the freedom.

Do you have relationship clutter?

1. Is there someone in your address book that you’d like to let go of?

2. Do you find it hard to concentrate and listen intently to people?

3. Do you find it hard to be open to what other people are offering you (i.e. the appreciation of your audience or a compliment from a friend)?

4. Do you find it difficult to freely give (i.e. to perform without being preoccupied with your own thoughts)?

5. Do you say “yes” to everything that’s asked of you?

Sometimes we hold on to broken relationships for the same reasons we hold on to broken things: because we think they can be fixed (and that we’re actually going to take the steps to fix them), and because they’re familiar and safe.

The clutter in the rest of your life blocks your communication – it’s just too hard to listen with your whole heart when there are layers of clutter in the way. This affects your inner listening as well – your ability to tune into your intuition, your “muse”. Stage fright is a BIG form of clutter.

Is clutter impacting your health?

1. Are you “too busy” to exercise?

2. Is fast food easier because you can’t find your kitchen counter?

3. Do you exhaust yourself with a busy day and then putter around trying to “wind down” until late in the evening?

4. Do you not notice (or pretend not to notice) symptoms of illness or injury until they’re so severe that you have to take drastic measures?

5. Do you have a hard time falling asleep because your mind is whirling around or your emotions are surging?

If we’re surrounded by clutter and chaos, things like eating vegetables or walking around the block just don’t seem do-able or important. And yet if we don’t take care of our bodies everything else becomes much, much harder and can lead to fatigue, illness, trouble concentrating, pain, addiction and weight problems.

Tips for Clearing the Clutter

1. If you’re serious about tackling your physical clutter, I recommend the book, “Clear your clutter with Feng Shui”, by Karen Kingston. She has wonderful ideas for clearing your clutter and also helps you to have a much deeper awareness of how the clutter got into your life in the first place.

2. One simple method to get the physical clutter out is to create three piles (boxes are helpful), labeled: Give away, Throw away and Put away. You can add other categories if you like (i.e. recycling, repair).

3. To quiet down your mental clutter, try writing. In the Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron recommends writing three full pages every morning. Find your own method – write to do lists, poems, lists of everyone you’re mad at, talk back to your inner critic, write about whatever’s swirling around your hear. You can also write down questions for your muse – help with a particular verse or a request for general inspiration.

4. To deal with your time clutter, just say “NO”. This is a muscle that might need some exercising. Put yourself and your creative pursuits first – just because you’re at home, that doesn’t mean you have to be available.

5. If emotional clutter has your heart tied up in knots, practice letting go. Forgiving someone doesn’t mean condoning what they’ve done. It means freeing yourself and being open to positive emotional experiences.

6. To improve your relationship with your audience and combat relationship clutter, think about what they’re hoping to get from your performance – maybe to be transported by the music, to be inspired, to have their feelings put into words, to be soothed, to be “rocked”, to be energized or to be cradled. You have an enormous power to give them these gifts.

This article was originally published on the Muses Muse Songwriter’s Resource website (September 2004) http://www.musesmuse.com.

© Copyright 2005, Genuine Coaching Services. All rights reserved.

Linda Dessau, the Self-Care Coach, helps artists enhance their creativity by addressing their unique self-care issues. To receive her free monthly newsletter, “Everyday Artist”, subscribe at http://www.genuinecoaching.com/artist-newsletter.html"

Clutter?! Ha! If I had to submit to a clutter audit I'd flunk for sure! Most of it is mine and a lot of it is just work mess. I really do have the best of intentions but I never seem to get around to doing anything about it, somehow clutter seems to get in the way of me making any improvements! This article gave me some good ideas so I help it help you too.

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Are You In or Out of Balance?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Sep 2005 19:17:00 -0400

Are You In or Out of Balance?
By Suzee Miller:

"CLUTTER: When clutter starts to accumulate in an environment, imbalance in our personal, professional and social lives always follows. This can range from health and financial challenges to struggle and conflict with friends, family, co workers, affiliates, as well as with buyers and sellers. Feng Shui is the communication that takes place everyday between you and your environment. At a glance, take a look at your home, office, desk, car and briefcase and check to see if you are in or out of balance!

DE-CLUTTERING: This is the first step in reclaiming your health, vitality, energy and business! Creating a sense of harmony and peace in your space will reflect the same in your life and career. Consciously letting go of "things" that no longer serve your highest good, will invigorate and energize your personal Ch'i, and empower you to attract blessings, abundance, health, wealth and good fortune in your life.

FENG SHUI...
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

"Should I include porches and decks in the Ba-gua when I Feng Shui my listings?"

If a porch or deck completes the Ba-gua square (eliminates a missing corner or qua section) then, yes, include it. If it extends beyond the Ba-gua and is less that 50% of the width, then do not include it. The later scenario is called an "Extension" and is considered a fortunate blessing for the occupants.

"Given the choice to face one of my power directions at work vs. sitting in one of my best gua areas, what would you advise me to do?" Good question. Although some Feng Shui Masters would disagree with me, I would definitely honor at least 2 out of your four "empowerment" directions, at all times, when working or talking to significant others. Also, some Masters believe the sitting direction is more important than the ("eyes") facing direction. I believe the facing direcition is the most powerful school of all. Aligning yourself with your power directions will help to reduce stress and eliminate wasted time in the day. If you are lucky enough to sit "facing" 3 out of four of your best directions, it's possible to reduce your work time by a third, too. This phenomenon is based on magnetic energy alignment. Each human being has four out of eight magnetic "compass" directions that support them in almost every aspect of their lives. (Click onto www.chiquiz.com to find out your personal power element)

"How can I tell if a house has good or bad Feng Shui?"

The answer to this question is both simple and complex. The perfect form/shape of a house in Feng Shui is square or rectangular with no missing corners. However in Classical Feng Shui, we believe that the "unseen" energy inside a property will either support or deplete the Ch'i of the occupants. This is based on many factors ranging from "compass" sitting/facing directions, year constructed, your year of birth, whether you are an East or West Group person, the compass direction of main doors and bedrooms, as well as the location and shape of the land and building too. To embrace Feng Shui from a Classical perspective like this, requires a consultation with someone who practices both Traditional and Western Feng Shui.

"What is your 5 Element Business System all about? There is a gal in my office who had you Feng Shui her office last year and teach her this and now she is number one in our office, but she won't share anything with me, it's like some kind of big secret."

I'm happy, but not surprised, to hear she made #1!! However, I am sad to hear that your associate is not willing to share her success story with you and others. There is an "endless supply" of abundance in the Universe for everyone to tap in to, even within the same real estate office; therefore, it's impossible for competition to hurt anyone.

My 5EBS is not difficult to learn, and it is not a secret. It's a powerful color code system based on the "productive cycle" of five Chinese elements that when used properly, magnetizes business to you. This system is effective in any industry. It's our most sought after consultation; it's called the COMBO (a 2 hour recorded phone consultation) and includes the Feng Shui of your office, desk and learning a 5 Element Business System that supports high volume sales. This consultation has helped hundreds of Realtors® triple their existing sales and income in record time. However, because the 5EBS is designed to honor each individual's or company's visions and goals, it is impossible to duplicate the 5EBS on CD, thus the reason why it is done by consultation, one-on-one. (click onto the Consultation link at www.FengShui4RE.com for more information or to read a few Real Estate testimonials)

"I have a listing that won't sell, what can you do to help me sell this property fast before the listing expires in 30 days?"

Believe it or not, 90% of the time, it's the Ch'i of the land that needs to be Feng Shui'd more than the house to get it SOLD. Western Ba-gua, the simplest school to learn, is the easiest and fastest way to Feng Shui and sell a difficult or hard to sell listing. You can learn how to do this, step-by-step, on your own with our REALTOR® EMPOWERMENT program. It's fun and the results are fast and dynamic, and your sellers will love it too. You can order this unique marketing and sale program online at www.FengShui4RE.com by clicking onto the Product link. After learning this program, it will take you less than ONE hour to Feng Shui your listing!! Also, super star agents around the world are proactively Feng Shui'n all their listings today, even when they know they are going to sell quickly, because Feng Shui'd properties act like magnets to attract buyer, seller and referral business, effortlessly.

"Someone told me that single women artwork in my bedroom is affecting my ability to find a mate, is this true?"

Feng Shui is the language of symbols, colors and metaphors (among other things). Thus if you are single and desirous of a partner in life, this would be an inappropriate placement. Pairs of things would help to pull in partners i.e.. artwork of lovers kissing, dancing etc. would certainly enhance your odds. However, I have found that many clients, both male and female, with single object artwork in their living environment, are often times more "ambivalent" than desirous of a relationship. Thus the fourth realm of INTENTION always rules! You would benefit greatly by listening to TeleSeminar CD# 2 LIKE GRAVITY you Don't have Believe in Feng Shui for it to Work!!

"I've listened to your REALTOR® EMPOWERMENT program several times and think it's TERRIFIC! I also Feng Shui my listings using your program, and they all have sold!!! I love Feng Shui and it's amazing how both my life and career have changed since using your unique methods. Thank you so much!! I can't wait to learn more, can you tell me what books I should read or do next?"

Congratulations!! It sounds like you are ready for advanced Feng Shui! I suggest you join our monthly interactive Feng Shui TeleSeminar series. Classes have begun and are open for registration. If you are unable to participate LIVE, you can purchase this seminar and those you have already missed on CD or MP3 at www.FengShuiTeleSeminars.com All of our CD TeleSeminars include handouts that you can retrieve on line as well. This advanced course is presented in sequential order, so there is still plenty of time for you to catch up.

With Peace and Blessings,
SUZEE MILLER
Feng Shui Paradigms
www.FengShuiParadigms.com
800-499-7844

Feng Shui is not superstition, philosophy or a religion. It is the art and science of living in harmony with our interior and exterior environments. Suzee Miller is a nationally recognized expert on Feng Shui principles and their applications in business and real estate. She has authored 17 audio programs on Feng Shui and appears as a frequent guest on radio and television talk shows. Dedicated to healing the planet and to empowering people, Suzee is fast becoming the most sought after Feng Shui speaker and consultant in the nation."

I'm definately NOT in balance. If I were a washing machine I'd be banging against the sides and making a terrible noise and you'd probably come running to see what the noise was and to stop the machine before it destroyed itself.

How about you? How are you doing? Is your life in balance or are you a toy boat in a 5 year olds bathtub? Sometimes it's not possible to escape turbulence (anyone thats been on an airplane will know that it's not always possible to go around and sometimes you just have to slam through and pray you survive).

I hope this article offers you some help!

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Use Feng Shui Techniques To Design a Harmonic Website For Your Business

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 18 Sep 2005 19:40:00 -0400

Use Feng Shui Techniques To Design a Harmonic Website For Your Business
By Jakob Jelling:

"By following feng shui guidelines and techniques, you can build and design a business website that is not only visually attractive but also attractive to wealth and prosperity. The elements that are part of a business website are somehow equivalent to the objects distributed through a working space since the website is the electronic version of the actual business' offices. Therefore, the website design and the elements that will be in it should follow feng shui guidelines in order to be properly balanced.

The colors used to design your website are very important and you should choose it carefully. If you want a website which feels lively and active, it should contain yang elements, while if you wish it to be quiet or passive, it should have yin prevalence. Yang colors are all the bright and cheerful ones, while ying colors are all the dark shades. Therefore, a website with predominance of a light and bright color would be more yang than a dark or off colored one where yin would have prevalence.

It is important that you keep your business' website general appearance clear and tidy. A messy or cluttered website would not only make the user feel overwhelmed but it would also be an obstacle for your business prosperity. Your business website should be designed having its graphics and written content clear and organized. Besides this, the general appearance should be as natural and easy to follow as possible. Anybody who visits your business website should feel welcome and comfortable in it, and this should be achieved by providing a clear and welcoming main page and allowing an easy navigation through the entire website.

The lines you use for your business website and its graphics are also important regarding feng shui harmony. Straight lines and shapes with cutting edges are not natural and when having too many of them it can be harmful for your business' prosperity. Therefore, you should try to use as many curved and smooth lines as possible, since this would not only help you adding nature inspired elements to the website but also bring wealth to it.

About The Author

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.fengshuicrazy.com Please visit his website and learn all the feng shui tips you'll ever need!"

Most business web site drives me nuts! I think they're ugly, cluttered, eye sores. What most bosses don't seem to realise is that a web site will not make you money, only a business with successful sales communication tools make money. If you are a business owner with a web site I wouldn't like, I hope the article aove helps!

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

10 Feng Shui Tips for a Better Life

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 18 Sep 2005 19:36:00 -0400

10 Feng Shui Tips for a Better Life
By Glenn Murray:

"Ever walked into a house that felt like home? Ever reminisced about the best year of your life, and wondered why everything came together for you? It could be Feng Shui.

Simply put, Feng Shui is about creating a harmonious environment. It’s the ancient Chinese Science and Art of placement, intended to improve our health, harmony, longevity, career and wealth.

Pronounced, “Fung Shway”, it was a jealously guarded secret for thousands of years. Now, the benefits of Feng Shui can be enjoyed by anyone. In fact, Feng Shui is a part of everyday life for many Australian businesses, home owners, decorators, and architects.

June from June Turner Designs and Lifestyles has been an expert Feng Shui practitioner for 13 years. “Feng Shui can be simple or involved – whatever you’re comfortable with. Decorate a room or buy a home that is perfect for your family.”

The key is energy (or Qi “Chee”). June offers ten quick tips that can improve the flow, transformation, and containment of Qi in your life:

1) Remove shoes before entering a home. Don’t take your problems in with you.

2) Cook at least one meal a day and eat at the table as a family.

3) Never have knives on show – even in a block.

4) Always sit or stand facing the door (or its reflection).

5) Keep the toilet lid down and bathroom and laundry doors closed.

6) Don't sleep under white blankets or doonas.

7) Don't sleep with your feet facing the bedroom door.

8) Don't sleep next to the wall that has the metre box on it.

9) If your front door is in line with a tree or the door of the house opposite, place a Ba Gua mirror above the outside of the door.

10) Never have a Ba Gua mirror in the house. They are far too powerful.

It’s no coincidence that some of these tips are just common sense. You’ve probably been practising Feng Shui for years without even knowing it!

According to June, “this is just the tip of the iceberg. Just a few little changes can make the world of difference. But most solutions are specific to the individual.”

For more information, contact June Turner Designs and Lifestyles on Sydney (02)43992018.

About The Author

* Glenn Murray is an SEO copywriter and Article Submission Specialist. He is a director of PublishHub and also of copywriting studio Divine Write. He can be contacted on Sydney +612 4334 6222 or at glenn@divinewrite.com. Visit http://www.divinewrite.com or http://www.publishhub.com for further details, more FREE articles, or to purchase his e-book, ‘SEO Secrets’."

I found this article on the web. I think it's a great article full of easy to impliment tips. Isn't a better lifestyle what we all want?

Have a great day,

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Feng Shui Interprets Exposed Beams

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 15 Sep 2005 07:47:00 -0400

Feng Shui Interprets Exposed Beams
By Kartar Diamond:

"What constitutes a balanced room according to feng shui theory involves not one, but several aspects. Some of those aspects are non-obvious while some aspects are immediately palpable, such as the flaw of a room which is chronically dark or cold.

The look of exposed beams can be architecturally stunning, but when large looming beams hover over a person's bed, they can create an unbalanced flow of chi (air currents) within the room. This can have a predictable affect on the person sleeping below. For example, if a large exposed beam hovers over your waist, it could undermine fertility or cause digestive problems. A large beam that crosses over the knees could trigger or worsen knee problems. When the beam travels length-wise over the middle of the bed, the couple sleeping below can feel divisive. It is as if an invisible curtain divides the connection between the two people.

Feng Shui is a 3,000+ year old metaphysical practice, originating in China, but relevant to everyone since it deals with energy, nature, laws of physics and the environments we all create. The harmful effect of exposed beams is well-documented and a basic feng shui principle is that flat, beamless ceilings are much healthier to sleep under.

What do you do if you have exposed beams in your house? Well, if the room is big enough to handle a four-poster canopy bed, the fabric draped over the frame can work as a faux ceiling and deflect away the downward pressure of the beam. Some people are actually able to drop the ceiling in a remodel and thus eliminate the exposed beams entirely. This is only recommended if you will feel comfortable with the lower height of the ceilings.

Exposed beams in other rooms of the house, such as a den or dining room, should not be a concern. The beams are only a potential problem if you sleep under them or work long hours under them.

Written by feng shui expert Kartar Diamond. http://www.FengShuiSolutions.net Visit our website and let us know if you would like to see an article on a feng shui topic that interests you."

I gotta admit, I do love exposed beams, I just wanted to point out the dangers in play here if you have them in your home.

Got a question? Click on the "my feng shui ebook" link or visit this authors web site and ask away!

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Feng Shui Guidlines for Storage Spaces

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 15 Sep 2005 07:44:00 -0400

Feng Shui Guidlines for Storage Spaces
By Stephanie Roberts:

"Professional organizers and helpful-hint sources often recommend storage solutions such as shelves above doors and in corners, hooks on the backs of doors, and peg-board or tools and small appliances. They are masters at maximizing every square inch of a closet with bins, baskets, shelf dividers, and multiple hanging rods. What they don't realize is that, from a feng shui perspective, these techniques can cause as many problems as they solve.

For good feng shui, it's important to leave some of your storage space unused, for doors to open all the way, and to aim for visual simplicity. As you work toward achieving the organizer's dream of a place for everything and everything in its place, keep these guidelines in mind:

* Spaces that are completely full block the flow of "chi" (vital energy) into your home and your life. Full file drawers block the flow of new business; full bookcases block the flow of new information and knowledge; a full bedroom closet can block your ability to attract a new relationship, and so on. Wherever possible, keep 20-25% of your storage areas available for new ideas, relationships, and opportunities to flow your way.

* Storage units hung from the ceiling create oppressive energy that presses down on whatever is underneath them. Anything stored overhead can contribute to feelings of depression, anxiety, and overwhelm. A pot rack hanging over the stove is considered especially bad because it "weighs down" your finances.

* Shelves over a door, or on a wall beside your bed or desk have a similar oppressive effect, and can lead to headaches, poor sleep, lack of energy, or muddled thinking.

* A hook on the back of the bathroom door is fine if all you hang on it is a summer-weight robe and PJs. If the hook is piled with three terry robes and a few extra towels, so the door no longer opens all the way, that's a feng shui no-no. Never use hooks on the back of the main door to your home or on bedroom doors; it is essential that these doors open freely and completely, with nothing stored behind them. (That means removing anything stored on the floor behind the door as well.)

* Vinyl-coated wire shelves on the inside of a door can be a good way to keep lots of small items tidy; however, they should only be used on closet, cabinet, or pantry doors.

* Avoid under-bed storage if you can. If you must use this space, use it for extra bedding and for soft, seasonal clothing such as sweaters. Never store any kind of sharp objects, information (books, videos or DVDs, paperwork), or exercise equipment under the bed; you may have trouble sleeping or feel exhausted no matter how much rest you get.

* As much as possible, store things where they are accessible but out of sight. Peg board and open shelving create visual clutter, so limit these to the garage, workroom, or pantry where they won't affect the energy of the rest of the house.

* Be thoughtful about how much stuff you display in a room. Filling the den with knick-knack shelves so hubby can have his entire collection of sports memorabilia on display creates visual overwhelm. From a feng shui perspective, it's better to invest in closed storage such as drawers and cabinets and have only a few treasures on display at a time. Change the selection every three to six months, and with each rotation you'll rediscover old favorites. By displaying fewer items at a time, you'll actually enjoy and appreciate your collection more.

* Another common problem is family photos and snapshots scattered lavishly throughout every room and wall in the house. Select a dozen of the best ones, frame them attractively, and create a mini-gallery on one wall in one room or hallway. Store the rest or put them in albums. (Okay, okay, you can stick a few on the fridge, too!)

* Aesthetics are as important as functionality in feng shui. Keeping earrings and small jewelry in an ice-cube tray or egg carton works, but it's cheap-looking, cheap-feeling, and will drag your energy down every time you use it. It's okay to be budget-conscious, but appearance counts, too. A small plastic storage box is more attractive than an ice-cube tray and you can get one at your local discount, craft, or housewares store for less than three dollars. They even come in pretty colors so you can choose one to match your bedroom décor.

With these easy guidelines in mind, you can choose storage solutions that will keep your space tidy and create good feng shui in your home. For even better results, remember to get rid of clutter before you put things away. Why waste time and money finding clever storage solutions for stuff you can do without?

Copyright © 2003 Stephanie Roberts

About The Author

STEPHANIE ROBERTS is a feng shui consultant and writer in Maui, HI. She is the author of the popular "Fast Feng Shui" book series and the "Clutter Free Forever!" Home Coaching Program. For more tips and information, visit her websites at http://www.fastfengshui.com and http://www.clutterfreeforever.com.

stephanie@fastfengshui.com"

Let's face it. If you're anything like me, you've got too much "stuff" and too little "space" so I thought this article might be a helpful!

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

How to Buy a Home with Good Feng Shui

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 14 Sep 2005 07:27:00 -0400

How to Buy a Home with Good Feng Shui
By Kathryn Weber:

"Buying a home is usually a stressful experience. So much rides on a new home because this is where you relax, have fun, sleep, eat; in short, it’s the place central to your life. Not only that, but homes usually cost a whole lot of money and represent our single largest investment. Most homebuyers can usually find the objective requirements of house hunting, such as location, size, and price. But, there are also intangible factors when searching for a new home, but most people don’t know what to look for.

Helping you find the flaws
This is where feng shui comes in. Using feng shui, you’ll be able to spot the problems –or the potential -- in a house that exist outside of the objective requirements of number of bedrooms, amount of storage, etc. These are features that you might not notice, and a realtor will seldom, if ever, point out to you. But, with this checklist, you can at least feel more confident about your decision to go with a particular property.

Look at the space with “feng shui eyes”
When you are looking at a house – or any space for that matter – and considering whether to buy it, it helps to look at it with “feng shui eyes.” You will want to do this once you have considered all the other objective aspects of the house, such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, living areas, location, price, etc.

The next step is to run down a checklist of the subjective feng shui considerations that will help you make a feng shui assessment. Even if you aren’t house hunting, this list can give you some important information that might be very revealing about the house you are already in!

The list below provides some of the more serious feng shui problems.

Exterior
Street: Is house at the end of a cul-de-sac, dead end or T-junction?
Topography. Is the lot sloped away at the back? Avoid yards that slope down toward the rear. Select home with a rise at the rear. Is house below street grade? This will make for a constant “uphill” struggle while you live here.
Landscape. Is there a tree or pole directly in front of the front door? Dead trees or shrubs? Dead lawn?
Garage. Is it ahead of the house or front door?
Neighbors. Is this house smaller than houses on either side? Do neighbors’ houses have sharp angles pointing at this house or appear to overpower or dominate the house?
Views & proximity. Can you see or is it close to church, temple or other house of worship? Can you see or is it close to funeral home, cemetery, hospital, police station, sewage treatment, abandoned building or run-down house?
Water. Is water, lake, river, ocean at the back of house or too close to front?
Lot. Regular or irregular-shaped? House sits too close to the front of lot? Does backyard fall away from the rear of the house?
Paths. Driveway ends at house instead of garage? Walkways end straight at door?

Interior
House style. Split, bi-level, or center hall colonial?
Front. Front door lines up with back door? Does front door face stairway?
Structure. Overhead or exposed beams? Ceilings too high or are they low and slanted? Skylights over sleeping areas or kitchen? Foundation cracks or problems? Serious plumbing or electrical problems?
Entrance. Do you see toilet/bathroom door from the entrance? See the kitchen/stove from the front door? See the dining room from the front door? See the bedroom from front door?
Toilets. Located in NW, SW, center, or corners of the house? Bedroom, dining area or kitchen located under or over toilet?
Staircases. Spiral staircase? Staircase stops at front door? Split or scissor-style staircase?
Hallways. Too long? Divide the house into two sections? Too dark?
Bedrooms. Over garage? Over bathroom or laundry? Have empty space below, i.e., patio area? Is master bedroom too close to the front door?
Fireplace. In the NW portion of the house? Is it in the Southeast (wealth) sector?
Major locations. Problems with or missing sections in Northwest (man), Southwest (woman), North (career), or Southeast (wealth)? Bathroom, laundry, kitchen in center of house?
Odor. Smells musty, smoky, putrid?

Enlist a professional
Still not perfectly confident? Well, a home is a major purchase and we must always consider that important point. Most people take a used car to their mechanic before buying it — and its purchase isn’t as important as a house. So, if you’re still confused or just want to proceed with the sale in confidence, why not talk to a feng shui specialist about looking about the prospective house?

A professional feng shui consultant should be able to tell you what you can expect from this location, such as good financial or business opportunities. Or, maybe you’ll find out that buying this house means your health will suffer, you’ll discover an afflicted portion of the house, such as a toilet in the SW sector that can hurt your marriage. Give serious consideration to hiring a professional.

Fortunately, most problems have a feng shui fix
It’s important to know that every house has “feng shui flaws” and that no house is perfect. However, you should be aware of what you are buying so that you are knowledgeable about what kinds of problems might be associated with the house. The good news? Most feng shui flaws can be corrected.

Kathryn Weber is a certified master practitioner in classical feng shui and the publisher of The Red Lotus Letter a weekly feng shui E-Zine. She has been featured and quoted by publications and websites, including Seventeen Magazine, First for Women, Martial Arts Professional, the Indy Star Newspaper, Self-growth.com, and Transformations.com. Log on to www.redlotusletter.com to subscribe or to contact her about a personal consultation, speaking engagement, or workshop."

Yes, it's another one of those "not again" posts. I keep dwelling on this one because my partner and I are trying to look at creative ways to buy our first home. Why creative? In Australia, like in England, unlike in North America, house prices are stupidly expensive. I'm on a good salary and still I can't afford a family home. If you can, then this article should help with finding one with good feng shui.

Best wishes,

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Using Candles in Feng Shui Decorating

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 14 Sep 2005 07:22:00 -0400

Using Candles in Feng Shui Decorating
:

"The basic belief behind Feng Shui is that there are five elements, some combinations of which create a productive cycle, and some a destructive cycle. When one of these five elements – water, wood, fire, earth, and metal, respectively for the productive cycle – are combined with an element adjacent to the main element, a productive cycle is perpetuated. The reason being that water sustains wood, wood feeds fire, ashes create earth, earth creates metal, and metal holds water. So if you have a room where wood is the main element, it would be good Feng Shui to add a water or fire element to the room, as water feeds wood and wood feeds fire. This is where candles would be a nice touch of good Feng Shui.

A look at the destructive cycle will show which elements do not work well together: water, fire, metal, wood, earth. And we can see that water puts our fire, fire melts metal, metal cuts wood, wood clogs earth, and earth muddies water. Although these elements are generally considered bad Feng Shui combinations, one can be used with an adjacent element in the destructive cycle to minimize an overpowering element. For instance, if a room has overpowering metal elements, maybe filled with modern metal furniture, you can minimize that with wood elements like some green leafy plants, or with fire elements such as red throw pillows, a fireplace, or even candles.

It is beneficial to bear in mind the productive and destructive cycles while decorating, but for optimum Feng Shui, a room would have an equal balance of all five elements – none being too overpowering. If this isn’t the case and there is not one overpowering element, then the productive cycle is a good place to start when decorating.

Now that we have a basic understanding of the elements, we can see how to best utilize candles in our decorating. In areas with predominately metal or water elements – rooms which would have a lot of blue or silver colors or metallic furnishings – a candle would help minimize the overpowering colors and add balance. If you want to start using Feng Shui in a room with no overpowering elements, you could bring in a candle and a complimentary element like a plant or a brown oval rug since that color and shape are associated with the earth element.

Candles can be an easy way to bring a natural element into your home and can be a good starting place for implementing Feng Shui design. Not to mention that scented candles are often great Feng Shui because of the mood-enhancing qualities certain scents have. Candles provide a simple start in creating a pleasant ambiance and good decorating style.

About The Author

Jennifer Hall is the founder and editor of Candles 4U featuring scented soy candles and much more. When she's not online, Jennifer's spending time with her family, gardening, or playing the piano or accordion."

I honestly love candles! I don't know what it is. I do tend to have a fair amount of wood in my home, but probably only as much as I have metal. I have to admit that the rooms I prefer to have candles burning in do tend to have more wood and plants in and around them.

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Useful Feng Shui Career Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 13 Sep 2005 07:00:00 -0400

Learn some useful feng shui career tips
by Jakob Jelling:

"As it does with every main life aspect, feng shui also provides tips and guidelines to help you improving your career. If your career is not moving on in the way you wish, that is due to a lack of balance and harmony within your environment and the elements that affect it. Feng shui career tips intend to help you reach that harmony, but besides of following these specific tips, you should try to follow feng shui guidelines for all your life areas, since your life should be balanced as a whole as well.

One first and very important feng shui career tip talks about your desk position. The desk or table you use for working should be placed in a position that allows you to see the main door. Your desk should never be with your back at the door, since that would be very harmful for your career. And if possible, you should also try to place it in such an angle where you can also see the window.

You should be careful of not having your back towards a sharp edge or a poison arrow. If you can't avoid this, you could minimize the harmful effects by placing a plant or a crystal covering it. In case you have a door or a window at your back, you can also place a plant or a crystal to neutralize bad consequences.

It is also important that you design your office or working space according to the bagua map indications. If possible, you should try to create your working space at the south of the environment where it will be. According to the bagua, south symbolizes the life area corresponding to career, and therefore it is the ideal place for such purpose.

Another important thing to take into account is tidiness. Your working space, and especially your desk, should be tidy. You should get rid of clutter from your working space and maintain it as clean and tidy as possible. Besides, it is particularly important that you keep the south area of your desk free of objects since this area is the one which corresponds to career according to the bagua map.
About the Author

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.fengshuicrazy.com. Please visit his website and learn all the feng shui tips you'll ever need!"

Yes, this is another one I keep dwelling on. That's because I don't know how to progress with my career so I'm dwelling on it. I'm at the top of my career progression at this point (I've got five years experience and I'm up against people with fifteen years experience who are asking for the same hourly rate) and I'm struggling to work out how to climb out of the bucket I'm in so I can fall into the bucket of the one above. Lifts appreciated!

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Get Rid Of Clutter

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 13 Sep 2005 06:54:00 -0400

Get rid of that clutter
by Mary Lambert:

"Why is it that clutter seems to build up so easily in our homes? No sooner do you have a clearout than it seems to start creeping back in - one pile appears in the hallway and before you know it, it has spawned other piles that go down the hall and up the stairs.

So what actually is the definition of clutter? Basically it is:
• something you don't use or dislike every time you look at it or wear it
• an unwanted present
• a broken item that can't be fixed If you love an item, or it still has a use it's not clutter, so display it, wear it or store it where you can easily find it.

Clearing out your clutter is the first aspect of feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of furniture placement and energy flow. Improving the flow of energy (chi) in your home and creating good feng shui is believed to improve different areas of your life, bringing about increased wealth, career success and better health. But when you home is full of clutter, the energy that first comes through the front door will struggle to move smoothly around the rooms if it keeps encountering piles of junk stored in the hall, hidden behind doors, sofas or crowding surfaces in kids' bedrooms, the kitchen or bathroom. The slow, sluggish energy that this creates then has a negative effect on you and your family, often making you feel confused, blocked, lethargic, depressed and reluctant to progress or move on in any area of your lives.

Clutter hotspots So which are the worst areas in the home where clutter tends to gather?
• The door and hallway - Piles of children's paraphernalia, shoes and bags, boxes and newspapers stacked around here makes a bad impression for visitors and can stop energy entering positively, and prevent new opportunities coming in.
• Attics and lofts - these can become veritable dumping grounds for our past. They are often full of mementoes and memorabilia that creates a heavy, oppressive energy that is constantly hanging over us - old love letters and tokens, old school books, diplomas, old appliances and sports' gear and ancient board games - all gather here.
• Wardrobes in bedrooms - these are havens for old clothes, items that no longer fit and shoes that are too tight or never worn. Most people only wear about 20% of their clothes. Your wardrobe should reflect the person you are now, not who you used to be.

Clear out and move on So have a big clearout, be ruthless keep only what you really like and want. Do a few hours here and there and see how you lift your home's energy and atmosphere. It is truly liberating, once you create a shift and dump that rubbish that has being annoying you for months, you will soon notice new exciting things starting to happen.

Clutter clearing tips
• Go round each room with a pad and assess your junk, highlight the priority areas to sort out first.
• Do one small area at a time, focus on clearing out a drawer, cupboard or a wardrobe - don't overwhelm yourself.
• Get together five bags or boxes and label them: Junk, Charity shop or friends, Things to be repaired or altered, Things to sort and move and Transitional (keep in the loft for 6 months, if you don't miss them, throw them out). Sort out all your clutter into these bags.
• Don't hold onto presents you don't like just because a friend or relative gave them to you, give them to charity or someone who will like them.
• If anything is broken, get it mended or get rid of it as it promotes negative energy.
• Remember linking yourself to past relationships won't let new ones come in, so keep a few romantic mementoes, but throw away the rest.

About the Author

Mary Lambert is an experienced feng shui and decluttering consultant and can be contacted at www.marylambertfengshui.com"

I know, another "get rid of clutter" article Sam? I can explain. I live in Australia so it's spring time here and of course with spring comes spring cleaning, but that's not all. I'm at a stage in my life where I'm trying to work out what I want my life to be like for the next 30 years (yes, it's my 20's, remember yours?)

I'm doing a lot of throwing out the clutter, organising the mess, and focusing on a leaner, cleaner lifestyle where meaningless junk doesn't drain my energy. I really do think these articles are of great value, which is why I keep posting them.

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Maintaining Good Feng Shui

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 12 Sep 2005 17:40:00 -0400

10 Feng Shui Tips for a Better Life

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 12 Sep 2005 17:39:00 -0400

Wind Chimes Soothe The Soul

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 11 Sep 2005 05:09:00 -0400

Wind Chimes Soothe The Soul
By Lee Dobbins:

"They can be pretty to look at and soothing to hear, but did you know that that wind chimes also have healing effects? Just listening to the tones of the chimes can help calm your mind and release stress. Calming your mind, the tones of the chimes help to release all that stored up stress. This soothing effect helps open our spiritual awareness and has been used by many cultures for centuries.

As a Feng Shui cure, your wind chimes could help you gain luck and prosper. Metal wind chimes are recommended for the North, West and Northwest, Wood for the East, South and Southeast. For good luck, it is recommended to use chimes with 4, 6, 7, 8 or 18 rods. If it’s bad energy to want to keep away, then go for a chime with 5 rods. For outside the house, bamboo chimes are best.

You can hang wind chimes anywhere and on any type of hook - hooks sold for bird feeders work pretty good. Just make sure whatever hook you choose can support the weight of your chime. Make sure you do not hang it too close to any structure as you want it to be free to flow in the wind. Or you can use a fancy hanger to add more interest. When hanging your chime, remember to pick a spot that is protected from strong gusts of wind to avoid damage to your chime.

Some Ways To Enjoy Your Wind Chime:

# Hang it near your hammock and take a soothing nap to the melodic tones of your chime.
# Plant some flowers while listening to the music of your wind chime.
# Bring dinner outside and have a romantic supper while listening to your chime.
# Set your chimes up in your bedroom window so that you can hear them when the breeze wafts through on a hot summers evening.
# Put some chimes in your office and to help release the stress of the workday.
# Hang your wind chime by your door so that you can hear it first thing upon arriving home.

Find out more about the soothing effects of wind chimes at Wonderful Wind Chimes"

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

What Clutter Clearing Can Do For You

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 11 Sep 2005 05:08:00 -0400

What Clutter Clearing Can Do For You
By Stephanie Roberts:

"You can get a pretty good idea of the benefits of clutter clearing simply by imagining your life free of all the negative effects of clutter: lack of focus and clarity; feelings of being professionally, creatively, spiritually, and/or romantically stuck; insufficient time and attention for self and family; increased stress, irritability and depression. Wouldn't it be great to be free of all these?

No matter what other factors may be dragging you down, I guarantee you that clearing your clutter will dramatically improve your mood and energy. And then any other problems you are confronting won't seem quite so bad.

When you first start clutter clearing you may be surprised at the emotions triggered by the simple act of dealing with your stuff. You think you're just cleaning out your home, but what you're really doing is rooting around in dusty corners of your psyche and coming eyeball-to-eyeball with unresolved business from the past. The personal relics that lurk within your clutter - college papers, family memorabilia, detritus from a long-dead marriage - can be easier to ignore than to carry to the dump, which is why they've been haunting the back of your closet for so many years.

As you persevere with clutter clearing a moment will come when you realize how much lighter and happier you feel. In the process of coping with your clutter, you've reconnected with your inner self, with dreams and wishes long ignored. Those you've outgrown can be released with a fond smile. Those that make your heart leap with recognition and longing... well, now you have the space, time, and energy to pursue them.

Clutter clearing gets you out of your rut. It shakes loose frozen aspects of your soul and allows them to journey into your heart where they belong and where you can listen to and act upon them.

Eventually, you will find yourself turning to clutter clearing instead of aspirin or caffeine when you notice that you're not as clear-headed, focused or insightful as you'd like to be. If you're feeling lethargic and don't want to exercise, you'll know to examine whether you've allowed a zone of stagnation to creep in around the couch (where you are most likely to be having lazy thoughts in the first place). If you can't seem to decide on priorities for your business, you'll realize it's time to clear off the desk and catch up on paperwork. And if you're not eating as well as you should, you'll remember that clearing off the kitchen counter and cleaning out the fridge will help get your eating habits back on track.

What this all boils down to is that managing your clutter helps you feel like less of a victim and puts you back in control of your moods and your life. You have greater confidence in your abilities and decisions, so you feel more hopeful and optimistic about the future. You respect yourself more, and will probably find that other people treat you better as well. You feel less stressed, and have more courage to try and do new things. You stop turning to material objects to make you happy, because you are content with less.

Clearing out your clutter creates space for possibility. You may find yourself deciding to go back to school, change your career, start your own business, go out on a date, take up painting or singing or ballroom dancing, try out for a part in a play, or... what's your dream? (No wonder clutter clearing can be a little scary! Suddenly there are no more excuses for why you can't pursue that dream.)

Your friends will say you look terrific. They'll wonder where that sparkle in your eye came from, and how you manage to look both energized and serene at the same time. It's because you have released from your life everything that is no longer useful to you. You have let go of the past and are no longer hoarding for the future. You have made space for living freely in the present, where peace resides.

© 2003 Stephanie Roberts

[excerpted from "Clutter-Free Forever!", Lotus Pond Press, 2003]

About The Author

GOT CLUTTER?!? Clearing out clutter is the most important and powerful way to dramatically improve the feng shui of your home. Stephanie Roberts' "CLUTTER-FREE FOREVER!" Home Coaching Program provides all the insight, motivation, and step-by-step guidance you need in an in-depth ebook and 6 weekly lessons. Plus, you can join our Affiliate Program and earn a commission on every referral sale. Find out more at http://www.clutter-free-forever.com.

stephanie@clutterfreeforever.com"

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Using a Feng Shui Compass

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 10 Sep 2005 06:28:00 -0400

Using a Feng Shui Compass
By Jakob Jelling:

"What should you look for in a feng shui compass and how should you use it?

A feng shui compass is a very helpful element when it comes to finding out the location and orientation of a house or building. It will allow you to apply feng shui guidelines in an accurate manner since it will provide you with knowledge on the exact orientation your house has.

There are different kinds of compasses, and the most useful feng shui compass you can find is the one which allow you to look at the numbers it shows at the same time than you look at the building and keep aligned with it. Other kinds of feng shui compasses, the most traditional ones, require you to look down in order to watch the numbers they show, and this is not as helpful as if you can watch them while keeping your sight up.

A traditional feng shui compass' name is "Lo Pan", "Lo" has the meaning of "everything" and "Pan" means "bowl", and the correct interpretation of the term means a bowl which allows you to have access to the universe mysteries. This feng shui compass is also known as the traditional Chinese geomantic compass.

The Lo Pan feng shui compass has different concentric rings which provide the information through a magnetic needle. One of the most important rings is the one called "the twenty four directions ring". This ring is the third one and accurately tells you which direction the building faces.

Another important ring you may find in a Lo Pan feng shui compass is the one called pre-celestial. This ring is placed at the center of the compass and provides information about the way chi flows in every specific environment and the realm of that space. This would allow you to find out the right way to improve the chi of that specific place.

As you can see, a feng shui compass is a very important feng shui tool which must be taken into account at the time to professionally apply feng shui within a space. A feng shui compass would provide you with accurate information regarding all the important aspects considered by feng shui and therefore allow you to properly balance and harmonize that space.

About The Author

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.fengshuicrazy.com. Please visit his website and learn all the feng shui tips you'll ever need!"

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

All You Need To Know About The Feng Shui Bagua Map

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 10 Sep 2005 06:26:00 -0400

All You Need To Know About The Feng Shui Bagua Map
By Jakob Jelling:

"The feng shui bagua map is an octagonal shaped map which allows you to evaluate in feng shui terms any living or working space. The feng shui bagua is a very important feng shui tool and indispensable when we wish to harmonize a place and the elements in it.

According to the feng shui bagua map, each part of your house corresponds to a different life aspect. The life aspects are nine and each one of them has its own characteristics and elements. By properly harmonizing each of the bagua areas within your home or working place, you will be harmonizing each area of your life.

The nine life areas symbolized in the feng shui bagua are: prosperity, fame and reputation, relationships and love, family, health, creativity and children, skills and knowledge, helpful people and travel, and career. Prosperity is the area which you should pay attention to when you are having money related problems, its color is purple and the elements you should use in it are wood and water.

The feng shui bagua life area called fame and reputation is the one which should be paid attention to when wishing a reputation improvement of any kind; it is represented by the color red and its most important elements are fire and wood. Relationships and love area is the one which should be improved when looking for starting or improving a relationship of any kind; its color is pink and the elements are earth and fire.

Family is another feng shui bagua life area and you can harmonize family boundaries by working on it, its colors are green, black and blue and its main element is water. Health, another life area represented in the feng shui bagua map, can be improved by working on that area of your house. Health colors are yellow, brown and orange, and its main elements are earth and fire.

The next feng shui bagua life area is creativity and children. Creativity and children should be harmonized when having problems with children in the family, when wishing to have children or when wishing to improve our creativity. The colors of this area are yellow and earth tones, and its element is metal. On the other hand, the colors you should use in order to improve the skills and knowledge life area are black and green and the element you should add is earth.

Helpful people and travel is another feng shui bagua life area and it can be improved by using the colors white and black and by making sure it contains the elements metal and water. The life area of career can be harmonized and improved by using blue and white in the space which corresponds to it as well as by adding some metal in it.

About The Author

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.fengshuicrazy.com. Please visit his website and learn all the feng shui tips you'll ever need!"

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Feng Shui North versus South Hemisphere

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 9 Sep 2005 03:42:00 -0400

Feng Shui North versus South Hemisphere
By Peter Corbett:

"The North South Hemisphere Question:

The question of whether or not the orientation of the Lo Pan, Lo Shu should be reversed when applied to the Southern Hemisphere has been thrown back an forth for years so lets consider the excellent arguments put forward in Qi Concepts at the www.dragonsbreath.co.uk

Feng Shui originated in China between 3000 and 5000 years ago. China is a vast country however its placement is entirely in the Northern hemisphere no part is closer than 18 degrees North of the equator. There is neither authentic historical data, nor are there any records regarding the application of Feng Shui theory in the Southern Hemisphere. Evidence simply does not exist, so unfortunately we have to debate the question, postulate our theories and make our own decision on what we feel comfortable with. Certainly if you live close to the equator, you need to be aware of the difference between the geographical equator and the magnetic equator, as I have already pointed out in the previous section. The difference can be quite considerable as much as 12? of latitude that's 720 nautical miles or 828 statute if you like.

Isogonics Charts show the magnetic flux. It can range from 0° to 30°. Interestingly the large area over China has no Magnetic Variation. This diagram is only to illustrate the variation in flux. To see a good example of an Isogonics Chart visit the British Geological Society Web Site

If you look at the earth you can see that the earths axis is inclined at angle of 23.5? to the plane of its orbit around the sun this is called the ecliptic. It maintains this tilt pointing rigidly and parallel to the same point in space towards the Star Polaris. If the angle of the Earths axis remained perpendicular to the plane of the Sun then the Sun would be overhead at the equator at all times. This is not the case however and we are stuck with it the way it is.

The Earth orbits the sun in 365 days. The suns apparent motion crosses to the North side of the equator for around for six months peaking during the summer solstice on the 21 June, over the Tropic of Cancer where it reaches its maximum declination* North around 23? North. It then starts to decline and crosses to the Southern side of the equator crossing the point of Libra around the 21 September. It continues its loop South until it is over Capricorn around December 22nd, the winter solstice, where it is at its lowest West point.( Reversed for the S Hemisphere) It should be clear from this now how the seasons are formed. (*the angular distance of the sun North or South of the Equator)

From this model, we can see that most people in China lived above The 22nd Parallel of North latitude. This means that their view of the sun, from Quinghai Province North Central China for instance, on the 21 June would have been rising East North Easterly approximately 064? True (24°N of E).

The sun would traverse the sky, reaching its maximum altitude of 74? at mid day, when it bears due South, and the proceeds across the sky Westward where it sets West North West around 290?True (16°N of W)

Now if we consider the fact that the earliest school of Feng Shui was Form School Feng Shui, which supposedly predates the compass by at least 2000 years and was concerned with the topography of the landscape using the four celestial animals configuration we can see a pattern forming.

We have in Chinese Form School an arrangement naturally looking towards the midday Sun/South our biggest source of energy and the ultimate Yang. the source of our warmth and light. This is the Phoenix to the front Red /Orange its element is Fire like the rising and setting of the Sun. It is only natural that this would be the direction for the Yang rooms of a home to face. These would be the rooms that are most active and used during the day.

They would be the most open rooms with the largest windows The entrance hall, living room, family room, conservatory, courtyard, sundeck,

The Turtle is to the North at the back of us providing protection. Blue/Black/ Yin Cold and dark like the long far Northern nights. The Black Turtle historically represents the shady side of the hill. It makes sense that this direction with the least light smallest windows and being the most Yin should be considered the most suitable for the Yin rooms of the house such as the bedrooms toilets bathrooms store rooms.

The Azure/Green Dragon the colour of the Eastern plains and the China sea, is to the left/East and the rising Sun, Its wood element is expansive and represents the growth of spring and the dawn of each new morning. This area is conducive to a kitchen being yang but lesser yang than the South and good for breakfast room, if there is a garden then this is an area for a vegetable plot or an orchard especially if they can be orientated to a southerly aspect.

The White tiger to the right/West, towards the snowy peaks of the Himalayas and the setting Sun. its metal element is representative of contraction and autumn it is yin, feminine, conserving and protecting by nature. This is also a good area for children's bedrooms and nursery especially for the youngest daughter.

It is relatively easy to see how and why the ancient Chinese configured their homes to face in these directions. This configuration is just as relative today to homes in the Northern hemisphere as it as 5000 years ago in China. If we had the option to build our perfect home, this would be the configuration we would be most likely to choose, for sure.

The energy pattern and qualities of the sun's apparent motion in the Northern Hemisphere as viewed down on the North Pole is clockwise. Likewise, the major ocean currents and major air streams the trade winds and monsoons circulate in a clockwise direction.

(The World Climatic Chart for July in the Admiralty sailing Directions NP136 is an excellent illustration).

In harmony with the laws of nature; and therefore balance, the Yin and Yang. The opposite exists in the Southern Hemisphere. Although the Sun will still rise in the East, the Suns apparent motion when viewed from the Southern Hemisphere is anti clockwise. The major currents and air streams are anticlockwise. The Sun, the major source of energy is to the North and the cold dark and shadows lie to the South. The four seasons are not reversed i.e. Autumn, Summer, Spring, Winter as often stated, but complement their opposites Spring and Autumn, Summer and Winter, Autumn and Spring, Winter and Summer. The wave patterns are cyclical, alternating but equal in frequency and amplitude providing a dynamic balance and overall harmony. Common sense dictates that you would not through choice build a home facing the cold Yin South, the shadow side of the hill in the southern hemisphere.

There are a number of other very powerful phenomena and examples in nature that reinforce the idea that the orientations are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere and we should be observant of our surroundings and take notice of and listen to Nature and our environment after isn't that what Feng Shui is all about.

The earth's rotation when viewed from above the North Pole is clockwise. The earth's rotation when viewed from above the South Pole is anti clockwise. The Corriolis force reverses from one Hemisphere to another. The Ocean currents change their direction of flow when they cross the equator. Weather systems Tornados and Storms revolve in opposite directions in each Hemisphere. The trade winds change their circulation on crossing the equator from one hemisphere to another.

The huge upper air masses warm and expand and rise upward over the equator diverge in a direction towards the poles. Yang The huge upper air masses get cold heavy and sink converging on the Poles, Yin. The four seasons are opposite. Plants and trees lean towards the sun the source of all energy the ultimate yang. The further North or South you travel as you approach the poles the speed of the earth's rotation slows Yin. The nearer you approach the equator the faster the rotation goes Yang. The further North or South you travel as you approach the poles the earths the earth grows colder darker stiller Yin. The nearer you approach the equator the brighter warmer livelier, lusher and more animate more Yang.

Peter Corbett author of Qi Concepts and the http://www.dragonsbreath.co.uk site. He examines the question of north south hemisphere and the compass or true north questions."

All the best,

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

The Five Feng Shui Elements and Their Characteristics

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 9 Sep 2005 03:41:00 -0400

The Five Feng Shui Elements and Their Characteristics
By Jakob Jelling:

"Feng shui handles five main elements in order to achieve harmony and balance in any space. These five feng shui elements are: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each one of them has its own characteristics and properties, and we will detail them in the following lines.

According to Chinese traditions, everything is constantly changing and interacting and that happens through these five main elements. Feng shui traditional knowledge and all its guidelines are based on these five feng shui elements. Therefore, when wishing to harmonize a place according to feng shui, these elements must be properly employed according to their characteristics and effects.

One first feng shui element is wood, which has the Chinese name of Mu. Wood represents innovation, creativity and birth, and it is a sociable element. This element corresponds to the color green and the east direction. By placing this element at a strategic spot in any space, you would be adding all of which it represents.

Another feng shui element is fire, called Huo in China. Fire symbolizes and brings activity, enthusiasm and energy to the places where it can be found. It is a warm element that must be treated with measure since too much of it can destroy what surrounds it. Fire is represented by the color red and direction south, and symbolizes the puberty years.

A next element is earth or Tu in Chinese. This feng shui element symbolizes stability, patience and honesty. It is a methodic element that can also become demanding, and is ideal for everything that is related with real estate and inheritances. Earth is symbolized by color yellow and is representative of the early youth years.

Metal or Jin in Chinese is another main feng shui element. It represents success in businesses and harvesting. It can also represent a knife or cutting metal and be destructive through it. White and gold are the colors that symbolize it, and its direction is west. This feng shui element symbolizes the adult years of human life.

One last element is water, called Shui in Chinese. It has a very important role among feng shui elements, and actually the name feng shui contains its name in it, meaning water and wind. Water mainly represents communications and traveling. But it also represents learning, arts and media. Water is elemental for living, not only for humans but also animals and plants. It can be quiet or violent. This element is represented by the color black and direction north, and symbolizes the old human years.

About The Author

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.fengshuicrazy.com. Please visit his website and learn all the feng shui tips you'll ever need!"

Hope it helps,

Sam, Feng Shui Tips

Improve Your Love Luck with Feng Shui!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 8 Sep 2005 02:22:00 -0400

Improve Your Love Luck with Feng Shui!:
by Stephanie Roberts

"Are you tired of looking for love without success? If so, the layout, furnishings, and energy of your home and bedroom could be part of the problem. When the areas of your home affecting your love life are cluttered, missing from your floor plan, or suffering from sha chi (harmful energy) it can be difficult to find and maintain a good relationship.

A key principle of feng shui is that everything is connected energetically. This means that your thoughts, feelings, and behavior are influenced by your surroundings. A dark, untidy bedroom contributes to an atmosphere of fatigue and depression, which in turn makes it harder for you to find the energy to clean the place up. In feng shui terms, it also undermines your ability to attract and maintain a joyful and fulfilling romantic attachment. Feng shui problems can even affect your reputation, make it harder to meet new people, and lead to increased arguments and miscommunication -- all of which contribute to difficulties in your love life.

Improving your love luck with feng shui starts with understanding that attracting a partner is only part of the solution. For example, if a serious relationship has recently ended, you may need a period of healing and self-reflection before starting to date again, no matter how eager you are to connect with your next partner. Maybe you have no trouble finding dates, but can't seem to meet the right kind of person. Or perhaps you're seeing someone exclusively, but seem to be stuck just short of commitment.

Here are some quick ways you can apply basic feng shui principles to increase your chances of success in various stages of the relationship cycle:

When you need to recover from a break-up before moving on, your key task is to let go of the old relationship and reconnect with who you are as an individual. In feng shui terms, relics from past relationships - such as photographs, clothes, and mementos - hold you in the past. The stronger that old energy is, the harder it will be to move on to someone new. Remove anything that reminds you of a past failed relationship from your bedroom. This includes things that are out of sight in your closet, a dresser drawer, or under the bed. Pillows, mattresses, and bedding absorb your energy over time, so when a marriage or live-in relationship ends, it's a good idea to buy new sheets and pillows and even a new mattress if you can afford it, to help you make a fresh start. New bedding is also a good idea if you have been single and lonely for a long time. Pamper yourself during this stage, and try to do at least one thing every day just because it makes you happy.

When you are actively looking for a partner, your key task is to create space for a new romance. If your closets, dresser drawers, and bathroom shelves are filled up with your own stuff, there is no room on an energetic level for someone new to come in. That's why the best way to attract a new romance is to literally make space for it. Empty out at least one dresser drawer for your next partner's clothes. Make space in the closet, in the bathroom cabinet, and on bookcase shelves. Start with your bedroom, then move on to the rest of the house. Is there room for another person's DVDs and music in your CD rack? Where will your new sweetheart put his or her health supplements, exercise gear, notebook computer? Is there room for another car in your garage, or have you filled that space up with stuff? Make a list of all the areas of your home where your new partner might need some space, and try to free up at least 25 percent of it. If you can't clear 25 percent of the relevant spaces, just do the best you can; your strong intention to create room for a new relationship is the most important factor. When you do connect with your new love, you can look for a more spacious residence together!

When you have met a "likely prospect" and want to nurture that new relationship, your key task is to ensure that your bedroom supports romance. This is a good time to get rid of any clutter blocking the path from the front door of your home to the door of your bedroom. This will help keep the energy in your bedroom fresh and strong. In feng shui, the symbolism of what we see is very important, so make sure your bedroom says "romance" in some way. Focus on these areas: 1) what you first see when you enter the bedroom; 2) the wall across from the foot of the bed; 3) the relationship area of the room (the right-hand corner on the side of the room opposite the door, and/or the SW sector). Just about anything that means romance to you can be appropriate feng shui imagery for your bedroom. Traditional romantic symbols such as hearts, cupids, and pictures of happy couples always work well, as does a faceted feng shui crystal hung in the relationship area or over your bed. Look for opportunities to group objects in pairs, such as placing two pink or red candles or a bud vase with two red silk roses on your bedside table. Pale green is also a good color for new romance.

Although these simple steps are just a few of the many ways you can use feng shui to improve your love luck, they will do a lot to shift the energy of your home. As your environment becomes more welcoming to romance, your own energy will shift as a result. When you are clear in your heart about the kind of love you want, and take action to welcome it into your home, your dream of lasting happiness with a wonderful partner really can come true.

About The Author

Stephanie Roberts is the author of "Fast Feng Shui for Singles: 108 Ways to Heal Your Home and Attract Romance", now available in ebook format at http://www.fengshuiebooks.com and in paperback at Amazon.com or your local bookseller. For more feng shui tips and information, please visit Stephanie's feng shui website at http://www.fastfengshui.com.

stephanie@fastfengshui.com"

Another great article by Stephanie! If you're looking to improve your love life situation definately take a look at her web site!

Sam, Feng Shui Tips