August 2009

Your Office Feng Shui

There are three places in each home that are of special concern and we want to have each of these areas arranged appropriately to receive the best benefit. The first area of concern is the bedroom, the second is the stove and kitchen and the third is your home office. We spend a considerable amount of time in each of these rooms and we receive their energy, be that good or bad. So why not make the most of them. In this article I would like to concentrate on the home office. The basic guidelines for your home office can also be applied to your space at work if you have the flexibility.

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

So where does your office go? Each person has four beneficial locations/directions and four inauspicious locations/directions. Set up your office in one of your beneficial locations if at all possible. Once you have found the best room for your office, place your desk. You do not want to sit directly in front of the door. This position is too strong and will disturb your concentration. You will be distracted by anyone who walks by your room. Do not sit with your back to the door either. This makes you feel uncomfortable because you can be surprised by someone walking in on you. Generally the best place for your desk is in the corner opposite the door. Place your desk so that you have a wall behind your back. That way you can see anyone who approaches without being surprised. Some schools call this the power position. If you have many windows in the room, control the light with curtains. Glare makes it difficult to concentrate and causes eyestrain. Also invest in good task lighting for your desk. It is well worth the money and less expensive than a new pair of glasses or migraine medicine.

Keep your desk neat and clean. Have a good filing system and supplies close at hand. This will minimize the clutter on your desk and make your job easier. Too many files, to- do lists and family photos on your desk keep you from concentrating on the work at hand. Book cases are great for organizing papers, reference material and supplies. It is beneficial to have doors on the bookcase to eliminate visual clutter. Your office should be painted in neutral colors so as not to interfere with your work. Keep it light. Dark colors can be depressing and too strong for an office. Choose a color appropriate for the compass direction of the room. A well organized bulletin board is helpful, but keep it neat. Art work should not be too distracting. In other words, keep your surroundings simple and calm. This will allow you to do your best work.

Choose a good location to receive good energy and the battle is more than half won. Now get to work and finish that novel you started.

July 2009

Color in Feng Shui

 

Everyone loves color. Or do they? Some people use color with abandon in their homes. Each room is a different color and they use many patterns and prints. Other people like to decorate in a monochrome fashion using different shades of the same color. Some folks just can’t decide what to do and paint all the walls white.

You have heard me say before neutral, keep things neutral. But don’t abandon color completely. Because color has an effect on people you should use it wisely. Do keep your walls and large pieces of furniture neutral. That does not mean all white or beige. With a neutral base you can use color in your art work and accent pieces. There are many shades and hues of each color. The intensity and saturation of color can affect you in various ways. Use the trigrams/compass directions to help you decide what color to use in each room.

Let’s take white as an example. When you add the slightest tint to white it can have a completely different look and act differently on you. There is pure white, blue white, pink white, yellow white, green white, beige white. All of them are white, but even these pale tints will give a different mood to a room. In a bedroom for instance you would not want to use a cold pure white. Instead you might choose white with just a touch of warmth, a little pinkish perhaps. But not too much or it could impair your sleep. Or maybe a more creamy white with just a touch of yellow in it.

Blue can have many tones also. There is true blue, lavender blue, aqua blue, greenish blue, purplish blue etc. Blue can be a cold color or it can have a warm feeling. The cooler blues are normally felt to be relaxing but used in the colder areas of your house it can have a chilling effect.

Olive green, grass green, spring green, bluish green, moss green, lime green, the list can go on. Greens go well in the East and Southeast areas of your home.

Too many colors can create confusion and make you irritable. When you can see into several rooms make sure the colors harmonize, use the same color or use a variation of the same color to create unity.

Balance light and dark colors according to the compass location of the room. A lot of dark colors in the North may become gloomy and depressing, especially in the winter in colder climates. On the other hand, painting a room in the North of your house in bright white could make you feel cold all the time. So think about unity, direction, function when you choose colors for your home. Balance is the key.

Newsletter contents © Diane Kern 2009
all rights reserved

 

 

June 2009

Feng Shui Art For Your Home and Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Newsletter contents © Diane Kern 2009
all rights reserved

May 2009

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in Summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.

– Joyce Kilmer

Every year we celebrate Arbor Day. During this annual event, many people and communities take the opportunity to plant trees. We all know that trees are beautiful. We know they help in the balancing of our atmosphere. And we know they are useful in many ways: landscaping, building, supplying warmth, making paper, the list could go on and on. As house plants can help us indoors, trees can be useful feng shui tools outside.

Perhaps you have heard of the four celestial animals. One of them, the black turtle, provides support for the back of our property. This support traditionally comes in the form of a mountain. Not all of us are lucky enough to have a natural black turtle behind our house. In the city or suburbs a building can provide the support a mountain normally provides. But in rural areas and sometimes in cities you may not have that support. Here is where trees become feng shui tools. Plant a row of trees along the back border of your property. Evergreen trees are most beneficial as they have branches from bottom to top and they don’t loose their leaves in the winter. They provide a good solid backing for you. A row of thick evergreen shrubs can serve the same purpose.

We need to be concerned about sha or negative energy. Trees can also help in this circumstance. Out of sight can be out of mind. If you have something ugly near you hide it with a tree. If the neighbor’s house is not in the best condition hide it with a tree. If the corner of a building is acting as a poison arrow, hide it with a tree. If the curve of a road in front of your house is too sharp, soften it with a tree. If you see a cemetery, hospital or church from your window, screen the view with our helpful friends.

Since trees can block energy as I just suggested, do not plant a tree in front of your door. If you look around your neighborhood, you will see many examples of this feng shui no-no. Keep the area in front of your door and to each side of the door clear of obstacles. Remember the area to the front of your house is the red phoenix and she needs room to fly.

Don’t plant trees, or shrubs for that matter, too close to your house. They should never touch your house or hang over the roof. The roots can damage your foundation. Branches can fall on your roof during a storm leaving a big repair bill. And planting too close to the house can diminish the circulation of air and qi, leaving you open to moisture and mold damage. Keep trees properly pruned and trimmed. Take good care of your trees and they will take care of you. But if your tree becomes sickly or dies make sure to remove it right away.

So go out and hug a tree and thank it for all the useful things it does for you and your family.

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 © Diane Kern 2009

April 2009

CRYSTALS, TOADS AND DRAGONS

If you are interested in Feng Shui you have probably visited Feng Shui sites on the web. You might have noticed that almost all include a shop where you can buy various Feng Shui cures, remedies and enhancements. Have you ever wondered if they really work, how do you use them and should I really spend my money on these? You might also say to yourself-I don’t really care for Asian style decorations, is there something else I can use that more suits my aesthetic style?

The use of certain objects is linked to the style of Feng Shui you practice. Traditional Feng Shui seldom makes use of these culturally related items but prefers to work with the manipulation of energy and elements. In Black Sect Feng Shui crystals, flutes and mirrors as well as other objects may be suggested to improve specific situations. In other styles the use of statues such as wealth gods, dragons, ki lun or even an abacus permanently fixed in a specific configuration may be used. Jewelry with certain gems or charms is sometimes offered as helpful. Candles, plants, shapes and colors also play a part in fixing and enhancing.

When you Feng Shui your home or office it should not look “fengshuied”. Objects that look out of place will draw attention to themselves and create a form of imbalance that we want to avoid. The objects you use should mean something to you. If you are not Asian a three legged toad may not mean prosperity to you. Or mandarin ducks may not indicate romantic relationships. You need to understand and accept the meaning of the object in order for it to have an effect. These objects are reminders to you. When you see them, the idea they represent is reinforced for you.

 So use your best judgment when shopping the Feng Shui stores. Of course having these objects in your house or office can be a bit of fun too. I have collected dragons for years so I have added a Chinese dragon to my collection and placed it on the left side of my front door where tradition says it should be. Following is a short list of common cures.

 The 3 legged toad is thought to bring prosperity. He holds a coin in his mouth and should be placed facing inwards, not towards the door.

The ki lun is displayed in pairs and is a displayed on the right side of your front door representing the tiger or female energy. Ki lun are gentler than the tiger.

Dragons represent the male energy and as I mentioned are placed on the left side of the door.

The pagoda is used for study enhancement and can be placed on the student’s desk or in the Southeast.

The Wu Luo or calabash is how the ancient doctors carried their medicines. So obviously this represents good health.

Mandarin ducks in pairs are displayed for romance as they mate for life. If you don’t care for these items find a replacement that represents the same idea. For instance, a pair of love birds or doves represents love in the US.

ARE YOU AN OX

2009 is the year of the Ox. Some famous people born in an Ox year are Richard Burton, Princess Diana, Margaret Mead and Napoleon. The Ox is considered dependable, patient, modest and hard working. On the negative side the Ox can be stubborn, rigid and narrow minded. Each animal has both positive and negative characteristics.

The Chinese New Year does not start on January first. Instead it usually starts around the fourth or fifth of February, changing slightly each year. Each year is represented by one of the animals of the Chinese zodiac. So when you look at the placements in a Chinese restaurant to find out your animal sign remember when the year begins. If you were born before the fourth or fifth on February you must take the animal of the previous year. If you were born on the day of the New Year you must know the hour of your birth to determine which animal is yours. Most people don’t know this but you do now.

Ox gets along well with the Snake and Rooster. These are the people an Ox person feels the most affinity for and they will support him well. The enemy of the Ox is Sheep. When these two get together there can be misunderstandings and arguments. If opposites attract then a romantic relationship between and Ox and Sheep can be very exciting but it takes a great deal of care and understanding to maintain.

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© Diane Kern 2009

March 2009

 

Five Elements and Energy-Part II

Feng shui is all about balance, harmony and energy. How do we achieve balance in feng shui? One of the ways is through the use of five element theory. In the second part of this article I offer a short description of earth, metal and water.

The elements represent the different qualities of energy present in our environment. The elements are not necessarily the actual article but a form of energy and have additional aspects to those described here.  Each element has its own characteristics and relates to the other elements in particular ways. The elements can enhance each other or they can work against each other in two different ways-controlling or reducing.

These elements are among the things used to remedy any qi imbalance that may be present in your home or business and are also used to enhance positive energy aspects. When something is missing in an environment we can add the appropriate element. When something is weak we can strengthen it. When there is too much of something we can reduce its effects.

 EARTH

Earth is the center. It acts as the anchor and pivot for the seasons. It bridges high summer to early fall, also transforming winter to spring. Fire produces earth.

Outdoors we often use earth in the form of a brick wall, landscaping with boulders, or earth berm construction. Inside, beautiful clay pots, ceramic decorations or tile will serve as an earth remedy.

Yellow, tan, beige, brown and terra cotta are the colors of earth. Earth residing in the Center (5) and Southwest (Kun trigram 2) can have negative influences. While earth residing in the Northeast (Gen trigram 8 ) can have a very positive effect.
METAL

Metal is derived from earth and follows next in line of the productive series. It is the most used remedy in five element theory. Late fall and early winter are represented by metal. Gold, silver, bronze and copper are some of the metals used in remedies. You can be very creative in your use of metal, from beautiful statues, wall sculptures, bed frames, to key wound clocks and weights.

Use the colors white and gold to represent metal. Soft metal resides in the West (Dui trigram 7) and hard metal in the Northwest (Qian trigram 6).
WATER

Water is the most yin or inactive element. It is the deep of winter when all things rest and wait for the return of spring.

Water remedies are sometimes used outside in the big environment and sometimes indoors. An aquarium, with or without fish, a table top fountain or even a swimming pool can serve as a water remedy. Caution should be used when using water remedies.

Blue and black are the colors of water. Water resides in the North (Kan trigram 1)

This is a basic introduction to the 5 elements you will often hear about in feng shui. There are many other aspects to the elements and their use including but not limited to their shape.

FENG SHUI GREEN

In the northern hemisphere we are coming closer to spring. And for this editor it will not be soon enough. We have had months of snow and ice and rain, followed by more snow and ice and rain. The bleak winter is bound to end sooner or later and we will welcome the new sprouts and colors of spring. Green of various shades represent the growing season. First the pale greens or chartreuse greens of budding leaves, early spring flowers and the slim blades of new grass. These are followed by the darker robust greens of late spring and summer.

In the bagua look for the color green represented by the Zhen trigram in the East and the Xun trigram in the Southeast.

These are areas of your home or office where the color green is at home. Zhen represents early spring so use the lighter shades of green here and save the darker shade for Xun sections of your home.

Green calls to mind growing things and good health. It can be a cheery color that brightens our mood. It lifts us up just as a growing plants rises towards the sun. So if you have been feeling down and are prone to SAD (seasonal affective disorder) why not add a new plant to your windowsill. You might choose a flowering plant such as a daffodil which is always associated with spring. Or try a hyacinth with a lovely scent. Or perhaps a leafy green plant such as a pothos more suits your style. They have the added benefit of cleaning the air in addition to looking great. 

Start thinking about changing your decor to bring on the spring. I am not talking about major changes, as in feng shui neutral backdrops are most appropriate. Think accents. Pillows, throws, favorite photos of spring flowers or scenes, a change of art work can all change your mood. How about a nice big bowl of Granny Smith apples on the dining room table? The perfect color for early spring.

Get active. Spring is a growing and moving time. Get out more into the increasing sunshine and build up your stores of vitamin D. Start your spring cleaning early and if you have a reasonably warm day throw open the windows and let in some fresh air. Start an exercise program or get back on the one you resolved to start at the new year. Get together with friends you haven’t seen all winter. But I digress.

Add some green to other sections of your home. If you need more fire element someplace then add some green to feed the fire. If you have too much water energy in another area add some green to soak up the water energy. Green, Zhen and Xun are related to wood energy. Keep this in mind when using green in your home and business.

 

Knowledge

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

 

Confidentiality

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

 

 

 

 

Newsletter contents

 © Diane Kern 2009

 

 

February 2009

Five Elements and Energy-Part I

 

Feng shui is all about balance, harmony and energy. How do we achieve balance in feng shui? One of the ways is through the use of five element theory. In this two part article I will offer a short description of each element; wood, fire, earth, metal and water.

 

The elements represent the different qualities of energy present in our environment. The elements are not necessarily the actual article but a form of energy and have additional aspects to those described here.  Each element has its own characteristics and relates to the other elements in particular ways. The elements can enhance each other or they can work against each other in two different ways-controlling or reducing.

 

These elements are used to remedy any qi imbalance that may be present in your home and are also used to enhance positive energy aspects. When something is missing in an environment we can add the appropriate element. When something is weak we can strengthen it. When there is too much of something we can reduce its effects.

 

WOOD

Wood is the originating point of the five element theory. It represents spring and the beginnings of new life. Living plants are used as wood remedies and not the dead wood of furniture. A dead or dying plant holds no Qi and is actually a negative influence, but a bushy shrub or healthy growing plant is a fine example of wood element Qi. Plants enhance our surroundings with their beauty and filter the air, creating a more healthful environment.

Wood is represented by the color green. Color is a less effective remedy and when possible living wood should be used. The element of hard wood resides in the East (the Zhen trigram 3) and soft wood in the Southeast (the Xun trigram 4).

FIRE

 

Fire is next in the productive cycle. It is the most active or yang element. The heat of high summer illustrates fire accurately. Because it is so active this is the one place where color is effective. Actual fire can be dangerous to use, so red objects such as a lamp with a red shade or red night light are suggested. The heat from the lamp enhances the effect. Electricity is also considered fire in the form of computers, television and other appliances.

 

Use red, orange, purple and their shades for fire. The colors of red are actually very strong, use them with caution. Fire resides in the South (the Li trigram 9)

 

Feng Shui and Romance

 

Feng Shui has many ways to help you improve your opportunities for romance. It can also help create better relationships with your family and business associates.

 

Would like to know more about how Feng Shui can help you? Call to arrange your consultation today.

Bedroom Basics

 

February is the month of romance so let’s consider the bedroom.

 

Everyone is influenced by the energies in their home. And any area in which you spend a great deal of time will have the greatest influence upon you. Whether sleeping, relaxing, studying or working we spend many hours in one particular room of our house. It is no wonder then that feng shui in the bedroom is a main concern.

 

Placement of your bed is foremost. Without a proper nights sleep we can not thrive. Here is something to consider. Each person has four supportive directions and four less supportive directions. Placing your bed in a supportive direction is one of the keys to comfort and health.

 

The bedroom should be a place of rest and retreat. You do not want to see mirrors while you are in bed. If you wake in the night you can be startled by reflections. If you must have a mirror that is seen from your bed, cover it at night.

 

Remove your computer and all work related items. Find yourself another spot for working and reserve your bedroom for rest and romance. Electronic items such as computers and even clocks and radios create disturbing vibrations. A fan over your bed can cause medical problems.

 

Clear out unused items for a calm environment. Use neutral colors and avoid busy patterns and fabrics. No flowers or fountains in the bedroom please. They are too yang.

 

I hope these hints help you create a restful and romantic hideaway.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 2009

 When Should I Use Feng Shui?

Now! If employed from the onset, Feng Shui can avert costly mistakes. Choosing the correct location for your new enterprise is fundamental, whether it is new construction or an existing building. Renovations also provide an opportunity for you to improve your Feng Shui. On a personal note, relocating employees or family members to beneficial locations will improve their situation and productivity. If you want to create an environment that increases prosperity, lifts your mood, and boosts your energy, now is the time.

Why Should I Use Feng Shui?

Feng Shui has been utilized for over 5,000 years to maximize business prospects, cultivate personal and business relationships, enhance health, nurture academic achievement and grow wealth. By implementing moder Feng Shui solutions you can attain your objectives sooner and with less effort.

Intro To The 5 Elements

Feng shui is all about balance, harmony and energy. How do we achieve balance in feng shui? One of the ways is through the use of five element theory.

The elements represent the different qualities of energy present in our environment. The elements are not necessarily the actual article but a form of energy. Each element has its own characteristics and relates to the other elements in particular ways. These elements are used to remedy any qi imbalance that may be present in your home or business and are also used to enhance positive energy aspects. More on the 5 elements in the next newsletter.

A Feng Shui consultation is your opportunity to transform your environment and shape a better business and life.

 

Did You Know?

If you were born before the 4^th or 5^th of February your Chinese Zodiac animal is the same as the previous year. If you were born on the 4^th or 5^th you need to know when the Chinese New Year started to determine which Chinese Zodiac sign belongs to you, this year’s or last year’s.

 The Chinese New Year is based on the lunar calendar and the date shifts from year to year, in the same manner that Easter does.  2009 will be the year of the Ox.

Luck In The  New Year

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

December 2008

Is That Feng Shui?

 

Are crystals, flutes, toads and other objects a part of feng shui? Is Feng Shui a religion? What do you think of space clearing? These are some of the questions most often asked by interested people. There are many objects and practices that have become associated with feng shui that have little to do with the traditional teachings. Some may have roots in Chinese culture.  Some have been adopted by westernized feng shui practices. Some are misconceptions. And others are just good sense habits.

 

The most troublesome question has to do with a perceived conflict between feng shui and religion. Feng Shui is not a religion and therefore does not conflict with your religious beliefs. It is a science and philosophy based on repeatable mathematical formulas, observations of natural and man made land forms and analysis and interpretation of the same.

Feng Shui, developed by the Chinese, is based on thousands of years of collected wisdom and experience.

 

While having a neat, clean and ordered space is always good, space clearing is not a part of feng shui. When you are surrounded by clutter, unwholesome situations arise. The flow of air and light is restricted and this can lead to allergies, development of mold and odors, mental confusion and an inability to move forward. If you are living or working in such conditions you should take steps to correct the situation immediately. If you have arranged for a feng shui consultation your practitioner will request you clean up your act before beginning the consultation.

 

Crystals, chanting, incense, lucky toads, hanging flutes and the like are also not a part of traditional feng shui. They are sometimes used by other schools of feng shui. If you like the idea of such objects, go ahead and include them in your décor. They can serve as reminders of goals and reinforce positive aspirations.

 

Many have had the experience of entering a building or even standing outside and thinking I don’t like this. Something is not quite right. You are most likely sensing a problem with the feng shui. You may not recognize the problem but you are feeling its effect. A home or business that has been “feng shui-ed” will appear natural and comfortable to the occupants and visitors. The landscaping will be healthy and harmonious, the interior traffic flow will be smooth.  Colors and fabrics will be neutral and appropriate, furniture placement balanced, the surroundings beneficial. You may not know why, but you will feel more comfortable, healthier and rested, more productive, and more joyful.

 

 

 

Is Your Business Card

Feng Shui Compliant?

 

Everyone needs a good business card. When you meet someone for the first time you offer him or her a card. When you write to someone you enclose your card. You might post them on bulletin boards or leave them at the library or shops. You can even use them in your email as a signature.  Business cards are a form of introduction and they are also a reminder of who you are and what services you offer.  A good looking and effective card is essential. And yes, your business card can be compliant with Feng Shui principles.

 

You can use the ancient Chinese Feng Shui art of placement to harness the best energies for your business cards. If you want an edge in business, you should consider doing this. There are some different ways to apply Feng Shui to your business cards.

 

You can use colors to enhance your own energy or design your card based on trigrams (the eight general sections of the compass).  You can also use the annual flying star energy or the period energy. Use a combination of these for the best effect

 

How does one choose the best colors to enhance their energy? One way is to choose colors that are best suited to the owner.  These colors would either be the same as your birth element, or enhance your birth element. For example, if you are a water person, you should consider blue or silver/gold for your cards. Select variations of brightness and tones most pleasing to the eye.

 

What about the trigrams? To do this you divide a compass into eight sections. Each section represents one of the 8 trigrams and is 45 degrees wide and is spaced equally around the compass. Place your information according to these 8 areas related to business: Management, Technical Communication, Workload, Finances, Staff, Recognition, Service, and Verbal Communication.

 

 

Now the annual flying stars. If you choose to design your business cards relating to the annual flying stars (energy) you would modify your cards yearly, changing the placement or location of your name, business, and other pertinent

information to the best locations.  Consider the fact that energy changes all the time, like spring into summer, and fall into winter. Of course the energy changes annually as well.

 

Or you can simply use the period energy colors. Periods change every 20 years or so. We are in what is known as “Period 8”. This period is earth energy.   To coordinate with the colors for this period you would select red and / or beige colors for your business cards.

 

If you want the Feng Shui advantage for your business and business card you should consider using the principles outlined in this article. Diane is available to help you design your business card to give you an edge.

 

 

 Happy Holidays

 

Speaking of joy…this is the season to celebrate. It has been a challenging year for many of us. So why not get the New Year off to a good start with a Feng Shui consultation for your business or home. This is your opportunity to change your environment and improve your life. Wishing you the best in this festive season.

 

 

 

 

 

November 2008

Wind and Water

Feng Shui provides you with the opportunity to transform your environment and shape a better life and business. Like wind and water, the elemental forces for which it is named, Feng Shui can shape our existence. Traditional Feng Shui observes the relationship between people, their surroundings-both natural and built, and the aspect of time. An analysis includes attention to the effects of roadways, waterways, land forms and nearby structures on and around your property, be that a business, residence or development. Building orientation and layout, interior design, placement of departments, goods and people are important considerations. The manner in which these elements relate to each other express whether they team up to work for you or against you.

 

Open Sesame

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the South, the Li trigram, we have moved on to high summer. This is the hottest season and the material is fire. The color associated with the South is red.

A word of caution-red must be used very carefully.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Knowledge

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

 

Confidentiality

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

 

Coming Soon

 

Do you have a topic you would like me to discuss in future newsletters? Let me know what you are thinking.

 

Next time in Feng Shui Consulting Newsletter-

Is your business card Feng Shui compliant? The design of your business card can determine whether or not someone holds on to your card and looks it up when they need your services.

 

Invite

Diane recently spoke about her favorite subject, Feng Shui, at the Acadia Women’s Club. She would be happy to speak at your next business or club meeting.