Feng Shui Cures

 

Easy Effective Ways to Tackle Bad Energy

© Mary Jane Kasliner

Feng Shui is all about creating a space that sings with harmony. Knowing the right cures can do just that.

 

Most type of problematic energy can be remedied in feng shui practice. Incorporating basic cures such as visual images, 5 element theory or yin and yang theory can dissolve a great deal of sha (bad) energy, thereby making periods of bad luck more manageable. Bare in mind however that the environment changes over time so one's feng shui luck can also change.

Effective Ways to Overcome Bad Energy:

There are many simple adjustments one can make to the environment to change the dynamics of energy flow. Below is a basic list of simple yet powerful countermeasures.

 

1. Lights to Lift Energy: Lighting is one of the easiest ways to deflect problematic energy. Rooms with overhead beams, dark alcoves, sharp angles or even a staircase opening to the front door can be adjusted by casting light. The yang (active) energy of the light source will balance overly yin (inactive) spaces and soften any projections.
2. Sounds to Create Activity: For the most part homes are stagnant during the day. Children are at school and parents are working. To balance the overly yin energy leave a stereo on with music, have fish, other pets, or simply hang some chimes outdoors to generate movement and sound. It is also a good idea to ring bells or singing bowls monthly to purify the energy in the space.
3. Landscape Deflecting Methods: One of the most important principles of feng shui is to protect the home from any powerful sha (bad) energy. If something offensive is aimed toward the dwelling then blocking or deflecting cures are essential. For example, landscaping features like bushes, hedging or trees will go a long way to deflect and block problematic energy points. Installing an arbor, trellis or fence with climbing floral vines will also bode well to block unwanted energy.
4. Mirrors to Enhance or Deflect: Mirrors are probably one of the most common cures used in feng shui practice. They can be used to enhance good energy or deflect problematic conditions. For example, placing a mirror on a wall opposite a garden view can effectively raise the qi (energy) within a space while projecting that image into the room. Mirrors can also be used to push energy back to the unwanted source. Mirrors are a very powerful tool, so it is important to use them with care.
5. Objects to Circulate Energy: Revolving objects are a nice way to create circulation of qi (energy) in an otherwise stagnant room. A ceiling fan can do wonders to move energy. Placing mobiles next to an air register is another way to generate movement in areas that are stagnant.
6. Crystals & Stones to Ground Energy: Stones fall into the category of earth elements when it comes to 5 element theory. The earth element is the most grounding element out of the 5 elements used in feng shui practice (wood, fire, earth, metal & water). In areas where the energy is unstable such as a bathroom or laundry room, the element of earth is perfect. Simply place a ceramic dish or bowl filled with stones and position next to the toilet or water input pipe to neutralize the otherwise draining source.
7. Symbols of Protection: Symbolic protection is an ancient feng shui custom. Many homes, palaces, temples and businesses in China have symbolic protective images at the front gate. The most common protective symbol is the fu dog. The power is behind the interpretation of the animal. Therefore, whatever animal image portrays protection to a business or homeowner becomes beneficial. Some examples include but are not limited to: a lion, horse, tiger or dog.

Feng shui is all about creating a space and environment that sings with harmony. Re-creating the feel of nature within a space is one of the key dynamics behind this age-old practice. There is no doubt one will be challenged by some sort of problematic energy in or around the dwelling or building. Knowing some simple corrective measures will go a long way to abate energy that is disturbing and enhance the energy that feels good. Take time to feel the energy around a space and then use some common sense to rectify it. Generally, if it feels good it is good.

 

 

 

10 Feng Shui Tips for Small Spaces

©Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, ACFSI, CP, E-RYT200

The first reaction to a small space generally sends us into the “triple D’s,” or what I would like to call the Downward, Despair, and Doldrums.  The simple truth is small spaces allow us to be closer to energy, and from a feng shui perspective, that’s golden. Just because the space is small doesn’t mean we can’t balance it. Square footage has no bearing on creating a harmonious and healthy living environment. So if you are short on square footage, have some fun delving into these ten simple feng shui tips.

1.      If you live in an apartment, determine what directional location your place falls within the larger building. This will help you with the overall elemental theme. For example, if your apartment sits in the southeast portent of the entire building, then favor wood and water elements in your designs.

2.      Incorporate floor plants, decorative screens, and curtains for faux walls.  It will look fabulous and give you much needed definable living areas.

3.      Choose a focal point towards which the energy will gravitate.  This can be done with interesting artwork, sculptures, or an exotic pillow.

4.      Keep windows clean and open for natural sunlight and fresh air. Compliment with flowing window treatment and full spectrum track lighting aimed at walls to free up floor space and create an expansive feeling.

5.      Consider removing closet doors and replacing them with curtains.  This will soften the energy while giving the illusion of more space.

6.      Think less is more when it comes to furnishings and incorporate curved designs. Qi (energy) only moves in a sine wave pattern and therefore will be unimpeded.

7.      Note the directions within the space from the center point. Then address each direction with the corresponding natural element and symbolic image to catapult the energetic ba-gua – feng shui template.  For example, placing a romantic stone statue in the southwest or a metal musical instrument in the west will effectively catapult feelings of romance while infusing the environment with delightful sounds.

8.      Arrange major pieces of furniture in command to door entry for a sense of comfort and eye appeal.

9.      Splurge on tableware and linens. Small luxuries, such as table-top water fountains, go a long way.

10.  Have fun and invite some friends over.  People actually prefer to socialize in small spaces.

It’s simple to create great style in small spaces. Allow your inner flame to rise during the process, be resourceful, and follow simple feng shui guidelines. You’ll be amazed at how you can transform your small space into an energetic, vibrant, and functional Shangri – La. For more information on how to follow simple feng shui designs see my Feng Shui Designs in a Flash CD.

About the Author:

Mary Jane Kasliner is President of Body Space Alignment & Director of Teaching Tortoise School of Feng Shui. She is the author of several feng shui books, CD’s, and best-selling author of the Happiness Chronicles: Short Stories and Recipes for a Happy Life. Mary Jane is also a nationally certified yoga teacher. She can be contacted via her websites www.fengshuiyoganj.com or www.njfengshuitraining.com.

Read her Blogs: Feng Shui Healthy Designs and Secrets of a Simple Life.

 

Summer Here We Come!

Summer Here We Come!

 

 

 

The Energy for June 2014

June is the month of the 4 wood green star - a star that is untimely in this current 20 year cycle (2004-2024). The loshu number 4 (trigram xun) represents wood energy - subtle but strong in its presence. Think of this wood as an aspen tree with branches that move freely with flow of any weather pattern - showing strength in flexibility. In life this translates as the ability to see both sides of the coin without becoming emotionally attached to either side.

The energy of 4 (Xun) is a creative one. It awakens the artistic side of self. Even is you are not in a creative field, this star can awaken your ability to think outside the box. The alternative side to this star can arouse feelings of distrust when it comes to relationships. Practicing flexibility before pointing the finger of blame will go a long way when it comes to peace in your relationship.

Family: The East Portent: The 2 star resides in this direction for the month of June. This black star can elicit problems when it comes to family and health. Abdominal discomfort and/or miscarriage is associated with this star. The eldest male can be the underlying antagonist when it comes to family tension this month. Feet, neck, ligaments and tendons of the legs are also vulnerable with this star. Place the elements of metal and virtual water in the eastern portent this month and remove by July 7th.

Fortunate Blessings: The Southeast Portent: The 3 Zhen wood star resides in this portent for the month of June. This is a very active energy that will have you spinning new ideas-creations that result in improved income. This is especially strong for both male and female. When pondering new beginnings when it comes to finances think about what you define as a fortunate blessings and catapult your ideas from there. Add a touch of fire element to the southeast to keep this energy organized. Remove cure by July 7th.

Are You Moving Towards Your Goals: The South Portent: 8 Earth Gen star rises to the south this month. This is a great month for real estate transactions. If you are in the market to buy or sell, this is the month to realize gains for the future. This is a very bright energy that is being fueled by the fire portent. It is very important to keep your goals clear this month and follow through on any leads that can further your success and vision for the future. Add additional fire element to this portent and remove by July 7th.

Relationships: Southwest Portent:  The one white star enters the portent of relationships this month. Travel could be in the picture this month for you and your significant other. Make sure you take the time for planning and research to avoid any mishaps. This energy also bodes well for female when it comes to career advancement. As this star is stifled by the earth portent - urinary system is challenged. Add metal element to restore flow. Remove cure by July 7th.

Creativity - Pleasure: Western Portent: Another beautiful white star enters the house of joy. This is a great time to kick back and feel the joyful bliss of being a child once again. Make room in your schedule for "playtime." Male energy can also be more playful and creative this month. Add some strong earth element to the west this month and enjoy yourself! Remove this cure by July 7th.

Networking - Helpful People - Travel: The 5 sha yellow star enters the house of helpful people, mentors and travel. This star can spell chaos in every sense of the word. Therefore, should travel be in the mix this month take extra time to organize and plan. Communications can go awry when it comes to networking and new contacts so spell things out clearly. Headaches and upper respiratory challenges can occur this month especially for the patriarch.

Checking in with Career - North Portent: The bright 9 fire star enters the portent of career for this month. Career enhancement is likely as long as you focus on your visions and goals. Go with any new avenues, as they will prove to be successful. Watch for blood pressure fluctuations and or eye irritations this month as the water portent does apply strain to these systems. Place a healthy plant here for the month. You may remove by July 7th.

Inner Wisdome - The Northeast Portent: Don' t let female energy stand in your way when it comes to your intuition. Check in periodically with self through your meditation practice. Watch shoulders and hands this month as they are susceptible to injury. Place virtual water cure and remove by July 7th.

Tai Chi - The Center of Your Life: As mentioned in the beginning of this analysis, the 4 wood green star - a star that is untimely in this current 20 year cycle (2004-2024). The loshu number 4 (trigram xun) represents wood energy - subtle but strong in its presence. Think of this wood as an aspen tree with branches that move freely with flow of any weather pattern - showing strength in flexibility. In life this translates as the ability to see both sides of the coin without becoming emotionally attached to either side.

The energy of 4 (Xun) is a creative one. It awakens the artistic side of self. Even is you are not in a creative field, this star can awaken your ability to think outside the box. The alternative side to this star can arouse feelings of distrust when it comes to relationships. Practicing flexibility before pointing the finger of blame will go a long way when it comes to peace in your relationship. Place fire element here to tame this energy for the month. You may remove this cure by July 7th.

Enjoy June!

Mary Jane Kasliner - Feng Shui Master & Yogi
www.fengshuiyoganj.com