FENG SHUI AND WATER

FS8M 

FENG SHUI AND WATER

Anyone who has heard anything about Feng Shui will be aware that Water plays an important role.  Indeed it has a vital part to play in creating balance and harmony in an environment.  It is this very role that has given rise to a misuse of the element in many instances.

 Feng Shui translates as Wind-Water.   

"Qi is dispersed by the Wind and gathers at the boundaries of Water"

In Classical Feng Shui it is said that 'Mountains govern People (Health and Wellbeing) and Water governs Wealth'. 

In certain contemporary Feng Shui methodology this is often taken out of context and Water is suggested in inappropriate locations in the name of attracting wealth. Does it work anyway?  Well, if you have tried it you can answer that one.

It is fundamental in Classical Feng Shui practice and vital that it is respected and used appropriately.  Water is generally regarded as Yang yet it does have its Yin and Yang attributes.  Yang Water is constantly flowing and in motion like the rivers and sea; Yin Water is fog, clouds and mist that are moist and almost ethereal in nature.

Most  generic recommendations suggest having a water feature (anything from an internal table top water fountain to an external swimming pool) in the North, the location relating to Water.  It is also suggested placing Water in the East and Southeast.  These Wood locations are then 'fed' by the Water.  While this is not incorrect there will be times when the needs of the residents and the time factor override these generalisations.

When the number 1 White Star whose home location is the North 'visits' another location recommendations sometimes suggest placing a Water feature in this area for the duration of the 'visit'.  Is this always a good idea?

Let us walk through an example from 2015 using the Monthly Flying Stars as an example.   In August 2015 the number 1 White Star will 'fly' to the West and remain there from August 8-September 7.  Would it be a good idea to place a Water feature here for the month?  In 2015 the West is the most inauspicious location of the year having both the 5 Yellow Earth Star and the 3 Killings present.  It is therefore recommended that the area be kept quiet and still for the year to avoid activating these negative combinations.  Placing a moving Water feature here would serve to activate the negative energy and stir up a host of potential hazards for residents. 

Each of the eight primary and secondary locations are not created equal and Water is not suitable for all areas.  At any one period of time there are only four out of the eight locations that are generally appropriate for Water.  And to conclude the  example of the Monthly Flying Stars above, Water is not generally recommended in the West at any time during this Period 8 (2004-2023) and the following Period 9 (2024-2043).

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.fengshui8mansions.com

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FENG SHUI FOR THE NEW YEAR

FENG SHUI  8 MANSIONS

FENG SHUI FOR THE NEW YEAR

Moving from Winter into Spring, from one Chinese year to the next you may be thinking of creating a new look and feel to your home or office.  Painting, decorating or even changing some furniture can bring a new lease of life to your space.  It is part of the natural awakening after the Yin season of Winter into the Yang season of Spring.

Before making any changes it is worth taking a walk outside around your neighbourhood. 

What are your neighbours doing?  Are there new home extensions, external work or even new properties being built in your area and what direction (using your property as the Tai Chi*) is this work being done?

*In this case the Tai Chi is the centre point of your search, it is the base from which to determine directions).

In Classical Feng Shui everything starts from the outside in so if there are changes in your external environment it may be affecting your property without you being aware of it.  Any impact could be positive or negative depending on the location and direction involved.

Armed with the directions of the 5 Yellow, 3 Killings, Grand Duke Jupiter and the Year Breaker of the current year you can see if any of these are being inadvertently activated and if they are, what the likely effect on your property might be.  Remember proximity though; if the work is not in direct line of sight to your building and it is located some distance away, the effect with be minimal at worst.

The closer the works the more impact it is likely to have.

Once you have established what is going on elsewhere you can then move on to your property.  Which rooms do you want to decorate?  Where are they located on your floor plan?  Using your floor plan as a starting point and knowing the locations of the annual afflictions you can easily cross out those areas that are best left undisturbed for the year.  Focus on those areas you can make changes and leave the rest for another time.

If you have essential work that must be carried out Date Selection is an important factor.  An auspicious date to begin chosen specifically for you can help avoid the pitfalls that may appear if the work goes ahead without any forethought.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.fengshui8mansions.com

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FENG SHUI and KITCHEN LOCATION

In Feng Shui your kitchen is one of the three most important areas, together with the main door and bedroom. 

The kitchen represents the health and wellbeing of the entire family yet it is best placed in an inauspicious sector based on Eight Mansions for the Home.  This also benefits the residents if it represents one of their inauspicious sectors based on Personal Eight Mansions.  Calculate your personal Gua number.

Why an inauspicious sector, shouldn't it be an auspicious sector when it is so important?

Because of its nature and use having the kitchen in an inauspicious sector will help suppress the negative energies created by an inauspicious sector.  If you have the choice and are able, positioning it in the Jue Ming (Total Loss) location will cushion you from the effects of this negative area.

It is also important to ensure that there is not too much Yang energy outside your kitchen.  Health and wellbeing for residents is supported by the mountain (sitting) star in Flying Stars Feng Shui and it is Yin (like a still unmoving mountain is Yin) and so if you have activity outside your kitchen window or Yang elements it will neutralise the benefit of a positive location inside.  These can be, but are certainly not limited to, a busy road, a well-used playground or school, an electricity pylon or a river.

Then moving on to the stove, or cooker.  Should this also be in an inauspicious sector within the kitchen?

The stove should be in an auspicious part of the kitchen, because it is this that provides the food for the family and ultimately affects their health.  In addition, the 'fire mouth' or point at which the heat is activated (in the picture right this is signified by the knobs) they should face a good direction.  It is beneficial if this represents the Sheng Qi (Good Fortune) direction of the breadwinner of the home.  When there are two of equal status then you can make the decision which direction you want to use.  This is especially important when two people belong to opposing groups - West or East Group.

When you have calculated your Gua number you can find your group based on your Gua number, together with your good and bad directions.

We have looked at two different Feng Shui methods here, Eight Mansions (Home and Personal) and Flying Stars.  A consultant will likely use these, as well as other Feng Shui methods when conducting an audit.  The Four Pillars Chart for each resident (also known as BaZi) will highlight many aspects of your life including health and wellbeing.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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FENG SHUI - ZHEN and XUN

Moving on to Zhen and Xun; the eldest son and eldest daughter of the family.

ZHEN (☳)

Zhen signifies the eldest son who is known as the Dragon of the family.  Its Gua (trigram) is represented by a solid (Yang) line at the bottom and two broken (Yin) lines above.  Zhen is thunder bursting forth, it is rumbling below the surface of the Earth that eventually explodes above, rather like the solid Yang line bursting through the two Yin lines above.  It is the season of Spring and its element is Yang Wood.  This is the sturdy wood of trees growing straight and tall and reluctant to bend in the wind.

In the Early Heaven Arrangement Zhen Gua is placed in the Northeast.

When it was moved in the Later Heaven Arrangement it took its place in the East.  The direction of the rising sun;  the location of the Dragon.  The East represents morning and the beginning of a new season.

The Gua number of the East is 3 and the colour is jade or dark green. 

The voice, hair, foot and liver are all related to Zhen Gua.  Some or all of these may affect the eldest son of the home negatively if there is a missing corner in the East of the home.  In certain years and months the Flying Stars may also have a detrimental effect on the health and wellbeing of the eldest son.  A negative external feature in the East can also determine the health and fortune of the Zhen Gua.

XUN (☴)

Xun is the eldest daughter.  The Xun Gua is a single broken Yin line at the bottom with two Yang lines above.  Xun is the wind, growth and Yin Wood.  This is the softer and more pliant wood of grass and leaves; they lack the rigidity of Yang Wood but can survive by going with the flow.  Stand on grass and it will bounce back.  Yin Wood has a way of surviving that in some ways is more efficient than that of its Yang counterpart.

In the Early Heaven Arrangement Xun Gua is located in the Southwest directly opposite Zhen Gua.  Wind and Thunder react together to balance each other out.

The Later Heaven Arrangement has Xun Gua in the Southeast; the location of late spring and early summer.  Xun is mid morning, the time between the morning sun and the heat of the midday sun.  As in the Goldilocks story, not too cold and not too hot; just right.

The Gua number of Xun is 4; representing learning and education and its colour is green.  This is the brighter, more vibrant green of new growth.

Health in Xun Gua is related to wind (Feng), the upper arms and the thighs.  These will negatively affect the eldest daughter of the home if there is either a missing corner in the Southeast or an external negative structure.  The location of Flying Stars in different years and months will also have an influence both good and bad when they fly into the area.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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FENG SHUI INSIDE

"An Englishman's home is his castle"

HENRY VIII and SIR EDWARD COKE

While we may not all live in castles with a moat and drawbridge the one thing we desire when we close our door is to feel safe, comfortable and 'at home.'

The main door, the Qi mouth of our home, will beckon in either Sheng Qi (prosperous Qi) or Sha Qi (killing Qi) when it is opened.  What is outside your main door?  What is the quality of Qi coming into your home?

A positive flow of Qi is essential for harmony in the home.  Is your hall, kitchen, bedroom and home office or study benefitting from Sheng Qi?

After the main door these are the most important areas to focus on.  Does the layout of your home allow a meandering flow of energy to make its way into these vital locations?

They all benefit from being in a good location to suit the occupants.  They all benefit from having natural light*. 

The hall is the first port of call for any Qi entering your home.  If it has a space to gather before it begins its journey through the rest of your property it becomes slow and meandering rather than fast moving.  Harmonious flow both downstairs and upstairs brings peace and comfort. 

As important as the kitchen is, it is better in a negative area based on the natal chart of your home rather than a positive area.  However it should also have no harmful features pointing at it from the outside.  One of its main purposes is to care for the wellbeing of the residents.  Place the cooker in an auspicious direction and location within the room and at the same time see whether it is well supported from the outside.  The kitchen is a Yin area with essential Yang elements to benefit the health of the family.  Having a negative feature pointing directly into the kitchen, such as a single tall tree or a lamppost will potentially have an adverse effect on the health of the residents.

 *The bedroom, a Yin location, should be light but not too bright otherwise it becomes Yang and not conducive to restful sleep.  This is another area concerned with health and wellbeing.  It is also a sanctuary where the body is rejuvenated through the night.  What is outside your bedroom window?  Like the kitchen it should not have any negative features.

More and more people are working for themselves, or working from home for a company or corporation.  So having a home office in a good location based on the natal chart of the home and the individual using the room is essential.  Unlike the kitchen and bedroom this is a Yang area concerned with opportunities in career and the flow of wealth.   

Positive Qi flow when directed in the right way can ensure your home really is your castle.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui and the 24 Mountains

What are the 24 Mountains and how do they relate to Feng Shui?

When undertaking a Classical Feng Shui audit use of the Luo Pan compass is an important part of the process.  The 24 Mountains appear as one of many rings on a Luo Pan and it represents 24 directions employed by consultants when analysing a property and the fortunes of its residents using formulas like Flying Stars and Eight Mansions Feng Shui as well as studying the BaZi charts of the occupants.

How are the 24 Mountains calculated?

A standard compass is separated into 360⁰ with the primary directions of North, East, South and West and the four secondary directions of Northeast, Southeast, Southwest and Northwest each covering 45⁰.  The 24 Mountains of the Luo Pan is no different, however the 45⁰ are then further sub-divided and it is this sub-division that sets the 24 Mountains ring apart.

Each of the 8 sectors are sub-divided into three; eg N1, N2 and N3; totalling 24 (each 15⁰.) 

What do they represent?

The sub-sectors are all either Yin or Yang; they represent one of the four elements* of water, wood, fire and metal or one of the 12 Chinese Astrology animals.  Finally, each of the four corners is denoted by four of the eight trigrams (four members of the family unit.)  Northwest (NW2) is the position of Qian (male), Northeast (NE2) houses Gen (youngest son), Southeast (SE2) is the home of Xun (eldest daughter) and Southwest (SW2) is the location of Kun (female.)

The primary directions are the location of the four celestial guardians in Feng Shui, the Green Dragon (East), the Red Phoenix (South), the White Tiger (West) and the Black Turtle (North.)  They also represent the Rat (N2), Rabbit (E2), Horse (S2) and Rooster (W2.)  As well as being one of the cardinal directions these animals are also known as the Peach Blossom Stars.  Peach Blossom represents relationships in all its many forms and each year there is a 'reigning' Peach Blossom Star.  As an example, during the year of the Horse the Peach Blossom animal is the Rabbit (E2.)

* You may have noticed there are only four elements around the 24 Mountains and that Yin and Yang Earth are 'missing.'  Yin and Yang Earth, being the transitional element between seasons, sits at the centre of the 24 Mountains.

The four elements represent Heavenly Stems; the animals represent Earthly Branches, both used in the BaZi chart.  They each have many meanings from the existing energy; years, months, days and hours; Yin and Yang to name a few.

You can begin to see that each sector has multiple meanings. Understanding and analysing this deeper knowledge makes the 24 Mountains such an important ring in the Luo Pan compass.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui and Chinese New Year

After the excitement of the Christmas and New Year holidays January brings with it a time of quiet, stillness and dark in the Northern Hemisphere.  This is the time of 'Lesser Cold' January 6-January 20 and the time of 'Greater Cold'  from January 21-February 3.  These are the final two seasons of the Solar Calendar Year before the Earth starts to awaken from its winter sleep.

Rather than bemoan the weather, whatever it may be, enjoy each moment and remember that as well as celebration at the start of January there is another celebration at the end of the month; Chinese New Year.  Worldwide more and more major cities are embracing the Chinese culture of welcoming in a new year.  While most do not carry the celebrations through the 15 days of Chinese cultural tradition, which this year runs from January 30 to February 14, they certainly enjoy and participate in parades, Dragon dances, fireworks and firecracker displays arranged in and around the vicinity of Chinatowns in cities across the world.

Chinese New Year begins on January 31 four days before the 'Start of Spring' in the Solar Calendar and most of the celebrations are due to take place on February 2.  The date of Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival as it is also sometimes known, varies each year and is based around the Lunar Calendar.  The Lunar New Year in 2014 begins on January 30, which is New Year's Eve, with a new moon and the start of the first lunar cycle of the year.  The New Year is decided by the start date of the second lunar cycle after the Winter Solstice (December 22-January 5.)

Feng Shui is all about Qi; the energy that is our very existence.   A new year in Feng Shui is identified by one of the 12 Chinese Astrological Animals and one of the Five Elements with either Yin or Yang aspect.  In 2014 this will be the Year of the Yang Wood Horse.  Once the Year of the Horse begins so does a change in the Qi in our environment; both external and internal.  A location that has good and auspicious Qi in the current year of the Yin Water Snake can become bad and inauspicious depending on the quality of the Qi moving in. 

Using the numerology of Flying Stars and an interpretation of their movement it is possible to determine what is good and what is not.  Knowing your personal Kua number and your good and bad locations  as well as your Chinese animal sign at birth will help you determine how your fortunes will fair in a year that will be heavily dominated by Yang Fire.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui and the Winter Season

Winter is a time of maximum Yin energy.  Yin dominates and Yang is greatly lacking in the natural world.  Plants and animals in nature adapt to this change in their living environment by going into a state of suspended animation.  Their movement and growth slows to give them the best chance of surviving in what has become a hostile setting for them.

In the west of the Northern hemisphere the Winter Equinox on December 21 represents the first day of winter; the shortest period of daylight in the year.  In the 24 seasons of the Chinese Solar Calendar the time of 'Frost' begins as early as October 24* with the 'Coming of Winter' period starting on November 7* and Winter Solstice beginning on December 22*.

*These dates may change by a + or -variation of one day.  To be accurate it is advised to check the 10,000 Year Calendar.

As well as representing hours, days, months and years, combinations of the 12 Chinese Astrological Animals also signify one of the four seasons of the Solar year.  The Winter season begins in November, the month of the Boar (Pig), continues in December, the month of the Rat and concludes in January, the month of the Ox.  The Boar represents early winter, the Rat represents midwinter and the Ox represents late winter.

The period from November to the end of January represents a time of Yin energy; the Earth is at rest with little or no growth in the natural world. 

Snow and frost on a sunny winter day brings a sparkle and a hint of Yang to the landscape but the chill in the atmosphere still has an overriding air of Yin energy.   Yang energy in the natural world is depleted.

How fortunate that this coincides with a season of celebration; with colour, light, noise and excitement created by manmade Yang energy.  From the latter part of November; Thanksgiving Day in USA and Canada; followed by the Christmas and New Year period in December and the beginning of January, there is an air of anticipation and excitement.  Sparkling lights, decorations, music, parties and family gatherings all combine to make up for lack of Yang energy in the natural world.

The growth colour of green, the colour of the Wood element, feeds and enhances the Yang colour of red.  The colour of the Fire element is one of the most popular at this time of the year.  It brings warmth, brightness and a sense of excitement, in contrast to the darkness of the short days.

These traditional celebratory colours give a helping hand during the season of celebration to help Yin and Yang balance.

Rather than viewing the Winter season as a depressing and dismal period, look on it as a time of transition and a necessary stage in the annual cycle.  Appreciate its unique beauty and embrace it rather than wish for it to be over.   Just as we will not thrive and survive without rest, the natural world also benefits from a period of rest to ensure it is replenished and ready to begin a new cycle of growth.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui-Yin and Yang-Metal

In Feng Shui Flying Stars formula, the numbers (or stars) around the Lo-Shu Grid 'fly' from sector to sector over varying time periods.  Each of the nine numbers in the Grid also represent one of the Five Elements with either a Yin or a Yang polarity.  These elements influence each other in a productive, exhaustive or a controlling cycles.

So how does Metal, with its Yin and Yang polarities, fit into the picture of Feng Shui?

Unlike the elements of Water, Wood, Fire and Earth, Metal has no life of its own.  Earth nurtures and protects Metal hence 'Earth produces Metal' is part of the productive cycle of the Five Elements. 

Metal is a hard and unyielding element and its Qi is sharp and inwardly piercing.  This piercing energy is what makes Metal the controlling element of Wood.  Wood Qi is an expanding and growing energy that can be destroyed when it is negatively affected by the Metal element.  This is not the physical element of Wood or Metal, it is a type of Qi.  When Metal Qi 'flies' into a Wood sector - the East or the Southeast - it can inflict its negative forces on the energy of these areas.

To control Metal Qi Fire energy is necessary.  No Metal can change its natural form until it has been super-heated to a liquid state, at which time it becomes malleable and able to be transformed into its many recognisable forms.

What do you think of when you visualise Yang Metal?  Yang Metal is the iron and steel that is sculpted into anything from hand-held tools to machinery, bridges, aircraft, cars and the internal structure of buildings.  All the things that makes much of our modern world function.  This is the Yang side of Metal.

For those born in a Yang Metal year it indicates an upright, forthright individual who is able to withstand difficulty and suffering.  Someone who will not crumble at the first sign of stress.  Their weakness is a lack of flexibility; they can be rigid and unbending just like Yang Metal. 

In contrast, Yin Metal such as silver, gold and platinum is a rarer, valuable and valued commodity which is fashioned into solid bars, coins and fine jewellery.  As well as being used as a means of exchange for goods and services, it is also a symbol of prosperity and desire.  Alone, or combined with the gemstones of the Earth element, fine jewellery is a luxury widely sought by people the world over.  Going back thousands of years and still in our modern era, jewellery is regarded a symbol of wealth, status and power; remember the jewellery associated with Tutankhamun; the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom monarchy.

Those born in a Yin Metal year tend to have a showy nature and they love to be the centre of attraction.  They like to be seen and will react badly if they think they are being ignored.  A Yin Metal person may appear superficial and attention seeking however they are also sentimental and value their friends.  What you see is what you get with Yin Metal people, there is little hidden depth to their nature.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui-Yin and Yang-Wood and Earth

Wood is the only living element in the Five Elements of Feng Shui.  Its energy (Qi) radiates growth and expansion and brings new life.  What is it that nurtures that life?  Earth.  It is the sustaining element of life.  Its Qi expands outward to embrace all living things. 

Earth is one of the trinity of Heaven, Earth and Mankind each of which influences one-third of our life on this planet we call home.  Within Earth is the practice of Feng Shui; it is where we live in the world; how we use what is available in the natural environment to allow us to live in harmony.  Earth is a storehouse of riches; it hides crystals, minerals and metals until man finds a way to harvest and use them to improve life in a multitude of ways.

In the Controlling Cycle of the Five Elements Wood is said to control Earth.  How does the Wood element 'control' the Earth element?  How do the Yin and Yang characteristics determine the effectiveness of this control?

Yang Wood are the trees that grow straight and tall; they seek the warmth and light of the sun.  This would not be possible without a base that allows it to send roots deep down and outward.   Do these trees grow on Yang Earth?  Yang Wood sends its roots deep to give it the strength and stability to grow strong and true.  Can it do this in Yang Earth? 

Yang Earth represents mountains and large rocks; it is unyielding, unmoving and protective.  It is not without reason that the Earth is also known as Mother Earth, Gaia, who nurtures and sustains us.  In the Eight Mansions formula of Feng Shui the Southwest is an Earth element location and it is also the location of Kun, the ultimate Yin, the nurturing mother figure of the family.

Like Kun, Yin Earth is the soft and yielding soil and the sand beneath our feet.  It is the Yin Earth that gives life to our trees.  Yang Wood relies on Yin Earth to give it life.  By providing this life Yin Earth becomes weakened when the roots of the trees push their way down and out; it makes the Earth prone to sinking and movement.  Even in an urban setting the roots of trees will find a way to expand and grow.

Yin Wood is flowers, vines and plants grown to feed us.  They are flexible and will bend with the wind; they 'go with the flow.'  Like Yang Wood, does Yin Wood rely on Yin Earth?  Mostly it does, but seeds carried by the wind and by birds and animals are often dropped into the crevices between Yang Earth rocks and boulders and somehow they find the means to root and grow, bringing life and colour to a harsh environment.  This also feeds birds and animals who choose to live in such inaccessible places.  Succulents, both large and small, find a way to thrive in the heat and dryness of the Yin Earth of a desert.  Plants will always find a way of living in apparently harsh and inaccessible situations, whether it is Yang or Yin Earth.

Earth is both a support and a provider.  Without it life as we know it would not exist.  Its Qi spreads sideways  allowing the growing and expanding Qi of the Wood element to thrive, whatever the circumstances.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui-Yin and Yang-Fire and Water

In the practice of Feng Shui when looking at the Five Elements, Yin and Yang and the Controlling Cycle, we are not necessarily talking about the physical aspects of these elements.  It is their essence, the interpretation of their energetic meaning that we are considering.

So exactly how does the Controlling Cycle (sometimes also called the Destructive Cycle) work in the concept of the Five Elements?  How does it work when Yin and Yang are taken into account?

It has to be remembered that Yin is not the 'poor relation' in the Yin/Yang partnership.  It is not weaker or less effective than its Yang counterpart, it only has different characteristics needed to help understand the duality of all things.

Yang and Yin are both necessary to make sense of this place we call home.  It is the duality of forces required to create balance and allow Qi to grow - they foster life - foster growth - foster balance.

Let us take a look at the opposites of Water and Fire.  They both have Yin and Yang features. 

Yang Water is the sea and the rivers; it is large bodies of moving water.  Yin Water is raindrops, snowflakes and condensation; it is mist and fog all of which has an impermanent and restless nature.  All Water is part of our natural world.  In Feng Shui Water signifies flow; the flow of Qi that influences and shapes our environment, the flow of intellect within each one of us.

Yang Fire is the bright ball of sunshine in the sky.  It is a Fire that warms, sustains and makes us feel good; it is a roaring fire.  Yin Fire is a candle flame and the embers of a fire; it is torchlight and the headlights on our vehicles.  It can also be represented by vivid and colourful fireworks, bright when lit but short-lived.   The Yang Fire of the sun is a natural gift from the Universe.  With the exception of the sun, our constant companion, Fire is an element that has to be created.  In Feng Shui Fire signifies expansion; it signifies being seen and being in the spotlight.  In a corporate or entertainment environment it can bring fame and recognition to the individual, helping them ascend  in their chosen field.   

In the Controlling Cycle of the Five Elements Water controls Fire.  It is Water that is used to extinguish a flame and manage Fire.  But which Water?  Is it Yin or Yang Water?

Imagine the sun.  Yang Water can not influence the power of the sun however looking at Yin Water its effect is more profound.  Rain or snow clouds, mist or fog masks the sun hiding it from view.  Yin Water will extinguish the flame of a candle yet the Yin Fire of a torch or car headlights will penetrate the mist to light the way and provide reassurance in the darkness.

While opposing each other around the compass, with Water being the element of the North and Fire being the element of the South, there are certain circumstances when they can work together in harmony.

Fire and Water can combine for mutual benefit.  In equal proportions they produce steam, a powerful element that is used to power machinery, engines, generators, turbines and smaller items such as household irons.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

Feng Shui Mythical Creatures - Fu Dogs

Fu Dogs

Fu Dogs, as they are commonly called in the West, are  among other things referred to as Guardian Lions and Stone Temple Dogs.  Their original purpose was to protect the homes of the Chinese Emperors, their ancestors and high-ranking officials of the Imperial Court as well as the wealthy of the country.  Their image resembles that of a stylised male lion rather than a dog and was often seen embroidered onto Chinese official garments.

In Buddhism Fu Dogs are said to be sacred and they are displayed as guardians at Buddhist temples.  

Today they are utilised extensively as protectors and are frequently seen gracing the entrances of Chinatowns worldwide, Chinese Stores, Restaurants and Hotels.  They are also displayed outside many of the historical buildings in the Far East such as the Forbidden City in Beijing and the National Palace Museum in Taipei.

So what is their significance as a symbolic enhancer in Feng Shui?

They are probably one of the most recognisable and popular enhancers in symbolic Feng Shui.

When displayed in pairs they suggest Yang and Yin, Male and Female, Heaven and Earth.  They represent the Dragon (male Fu Dog) and the Tiger (female Fu Dog.)  The male sits on the left of an entrance (looking from the inside out) with a ball or sometimes the image of a globe, beneath his right foot.  The ball is said to represent global networking and supremacy in the business world.  The female sits on the right of an entrance with a cub beneath her left foot representing nurturing and family.  They are rarely displayed alone, signifying balance and harmony as well as protection.

As protectors their image is best placed at ground level on either side of the outer door of your home or office.  Alternatively elevate them on a wall at the entrance to your property.  Their size should be in harmony with the area they are protecting.  Too big and they will overwhelm the space, too small and they become ineffective.  As well as protecting the home they can dissipate or slow down negative energy and turn it from Sha Chi into Sheng Chi before it enters the front door.

Smaller images of the Fu Dog are often placed inside the home or office.  They can sit in a window (facing out) to serve the same purpose as those displayed outside the home.  If you live in an apartment they can be displayed in a window or at the entrance to your apartment.  This can be particularly effective if your apartment door faces a window, a staircase or a lift.  This will neutralise any negative energy before it enters your domain.  If your apartment building has long corridors displaying Fu Dogs outside will slow down Sha Chi around the entrance to your private sanctuary turning it positive and harmonious.

 To the fulfillment of your dreams        

    

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui: Yin-Yang and Control

Two of the fundamental principles of Feng Shui are the Five Elements and Yin and Yang.

The Controlling Cycle of the Five Elements is sometimes called the Destructive Cycle such that ‘Metal destroys Wood.’  The Five Elements however have both Yin and Yang polarities; each with their own unique attributes.   Therefore the Five Elements become ten.

Yang and Yin Water – Yang and Yin Wood – Yang and Yin Fire – Yang and Yin Earth – 

Yang and Yin Metal

There are significant differences between the Yin and Yang polarities.  Let’s look at some examples of how Yin and Yang influence and affect the Five Elements.

Looking at Yang Water first.  It is directly opposite Yang Fire and is said to be the controlling force for Yang Fire however….the ultimate Yang Fire is the sun and Yang Water cannot control the sun.  The only way Yang Water can control Yang Fire is when Yang Fire is ignited on earth.  Forest fires are one example. 

Then there is Yin Water.  One description of Yin Water is the clouds in the sky which hold the potential for rain; they can also mask the sun from us, so Yin Water has more control over the Yang Fire of the sun than Yang Water.

Yang and Yin growing Wood have roots relying on Earth for their existence.  Wood is said to control Earth, burrowing deep underground loosening the earth around it in the process, to provide stability and support allowing it to grow.  It also extracts nutrients from the earth to feed itself.  Yang Earth is described as large rocks, boulders and mountains and while it is possible to occasionally find plants growing in apparently inaccessible and unfriendly environments, it is the exception.  So the two polarities of Wood use Yin Earth to thrive.  They rely on embedding their roots into the soft and damp soft earth to enable them to grow.

Yang Earth; the rocks, boulders and mountains; control the Yang Water of the sea, fast flowing rivers and waterfalls.  In contrast Yin Earth can easily be overwhelmed by Yang Water yet be nurtured and fed with Yin Water.  The annual flooding of the Nile River, the longest river in the world, is a perfect example of Yang Water controlling and engulfing the flat Yin Earth surrounding it.  Without this annual flood people living close to the banks of the Nile would not be able to grow their crops and sustain their families.

Yin Metal is that forged by Yang Fire into jewellery and precious objects made of gold, silver and platinum. Yin Metal is also designed as a Swiss army knife.  The jewellery will have no impact on Yang or Yin Wood.  The Swiss army knife may be able to cut the Yin Wood of leaves and ivy however it would have no effect on Yang Wood.  Yang Metal is that formed into large cutting tools and machinery both of which will have the size, strength and power to control and destroy Yang Wood.  Yang Metal may bend and flatten Yin Wood but it is unlikely to destroy it.  Over time the Yin Wood will bounce back and continue its growth cycle.

Yin and Yang create ultimate balance and harmony; they are constantly in motion influencing everything in our world.  In Feng Shui we use the Five Elements with their Yin and Yang polarities to help transform our living and working environment into a harmonious blend of positive flowing Chi.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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Feng Shui: How to Use Yin/Yang and the Five Elements

Two of the fundamental principles of Feng Shui are the Five Elements and Yin and Yang.

Each of the Five Elements has a Yin and a Yang aspect, how do you use this knowledge to harmonise the energy in your home and workplace?

Yang Water is the sea; it is dark, deep and mysterious.  In Feng Shui water is a powerful force and should always be used with care.  Scale is all important.   Outside, water features are better in front rather than at the back.  Water at the back creates a feeling of instability; at the front it is an attractor.  Water signifies wealth, and a flow of water signifies a flow of wealth.  The flow should be coming towards the front door of your home or your workplace.  Having it flowing away, or flowing past signifies lost wealth and missed opportunities.  Indoors, water features or aquariums are best placed in the North, East or Southeast and they should never overwhelm the available space.

 

Yin Water is the morning mist.  In your home or workplace it is a spray of moisture on your plants.  It is the nourishment that keeps your plants alive; it is subtle and vital.

Yang Wood are trees.  Planting trees in the East of your garden will support your health.  Pine trees and bamboo are a symbol of longevity.  If you have no room in your garden a picture or painting of a lush forest in the East of your living or work space is auspicious.

Yin Wood is leaves on the trees; grass; ivy and flowers.  Displaying flowers in your home and workplace brings in the beauty of the natural world.  The East and the Southeast are the location of wood however displaying flowers anywhere in your living and working area will bring the beauty of nature along with them.  Choose colours that match the area.

  

Yang Fire is what keeps us alive.  Indoors you still benefit from the awesome power of the sun however during the winter time when the sun is lower in the sky enhance your living and working spaces with lights.  To keep warm in the home there is nothing like the roar of a real Yang Fire. 

Yin Fire is the dying embers of a log fire; it is the light from a candle.  To bring a touch of romance and intimacy into your home the gentle flickering of candles is hard to beat.  Scented candles bring both light and aroma which, when chosen carefully, create a unique setting.

Yang Earth is the solid earth of large rocks and boulders.  You benefit from the support of mountains.  Placing large rocks and boulders behind your home will simulate this support.  Indoors the painting of a mountain, without water, placed behind you at home or at work gives support and protection.

Yin Earth is sand; it is the pliable fertile soil in which crops are planted and grown.  If you have the space, create a small Zen area in the Southwest, Northeast, West or Northwest of your garden using sand and small pebbles.

Yang Metal is the solid raw metal, the ore from which large machinery is formed.  In our modern world we all rely on Yang Metal to get us around.  Whether it is your car, a train, bus or plane, without the strength and reliability of Yang Metal your life would be very different.

Yin Metal is fine and delicate.  Jewellery is Yin Metal.  From the eternal circle of the Wedding ring when you say ‘I Do’ to watches, earrings, cuff links, necklaces, male and female alike adorn themselves with Yin Metal.

Next time we will look at how Yin and Yang and the Five Element Controlling Cycle work.

To the fulfillment of your dreams

LynC

www.abundance-chi.com

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