Feng Shui

As we approach new times ahead, we are reminded "Out with the Old, in with the New". Time to unclutter and leave space for new energies. Look through your belongings and consider each item. Does this remind me of a good time or feeling? Does it give thoughts of wealth or spiritual development? When was the last time I used this, last year or ten years ago? Some possessions hold precious memories and comfort and support. Some take our energy and we have to support them.

Take a good look at your possessions and find out which ones are supporting you and which you are supporting.

Although for different cultures the New Year starts at different times, it is nonetheless as good a time as any to consider the Chi flow in your home and your workplace. How do you really feel in your home or office? Here are some general rules of Thumb:

* Sitting with your back to a door can give a feeling of vulnerability; this should be avoided as much as possible.

* Doorways should always be kept clear, as should windows and walkways.

* Plants pruned away from windows and paths.

* It is inadvisable to sit or sleep under beams, fan, lights, mobiles or anything hanging from a ceiling.

* Pathways are best made with a curve and not running straight to the road.

* A tree planted directly in front of the main entrance will block good chi.

* Dried flower arrangements and pot pourri are, although presently fashionable, considered bad feng shui.

* Dead branches on trees or shrubs in the garden should be removed as soon as possible.

* Anything that causes minor annoyances such as squeaky doors, blown light bulbs and cracked windows should be dealt with.

* Although the best position for a bed can be calculated, in most existing houses, it is impractical to move the bed any great distance due to the design of the room. However there are some factors that can help flow in a bedroom.

* Keep the head of the bed to a wall preferably without windows. Do not have the bed facing either a mirror or a door - mirrors enliven chi so should be kept out of bedrooms as a general rule. If mirrors are found necessary in a bedroom they should be kept to a minimum number and size.

* Work things or desks should not be placed in bedrooms as this can cause sleeplessness.

* Nothing should be kept under the bed and the bed itself should not be more than three foot from the floor.

* The walls should be light colours and the bedroom must not open directly to a toilet or kitchen.

* It is well to keep all electrical appliances away from the bed and especially the head.

* If possible do not sleep over garages, toilets or storerooms.

* Keep the bedroom as clear as possible of furniture, ornaments and general clutter.

* A house shoud have a light and airy feel with a good yin/yang balance. For example too much heavy oppressive furniture in a small room or a heavy wardrobe close to the foot of a bed would be overly yang. Whereas a white painted room with large windows and light furniture could have an excess of yin energy. It is worth giving thought not only to the house but also the garden where large trees close to the house can be oppressive and large open spaces make one feel vulnerable.

In many cases Chi flow can be adjusted by the proper use of crystals.

Since ancient time crystals have been used for purposes of healing or energy transference.
Cultures as old as the Aborigines and the early Celts understood their properties, as did the Vikings.

Used in early crystal radio sets and now in modern computers, crystals have entered the world of technology. Crystal healing is rapidly becoming commonplace as is their use in natural farming.

In the field of Synergic Geomancy or Feng Shui, crystals have an important place. Used to stimulate chi or life energy, crystals, if carefully placed, can have wonderful effects.

A faceted crystal ball may often be recommended to increase chi. Nowadays, as these are usually made of glass, they are only effective when reflecting light.

Natural quartz, on the other hand, has its own energy field and can be used whether it is in a position to reflect light or not. Clear quartz crystals are suitable for most applications. They do not have to be of high quality but it is important that they are over five centimetres in length. Select crystals that feel good to you at the time and remember you are going to clear and then re-energise them at a later date.

They can be cleared by burying them in fertile soil for about three days. They can also be immersed in sea water or clear spring water for the same amount of time.

They can then be recharged by leaving in full sunlight for three days or in the moonlights during its growth cycle.

Once crystals have been cleared, only the intent of their usage should be kept in mind whenever they are being handled or observed. Do not handle when feeling low but wait until suitable mood comes over you. (This applies to any Feng Shui remedy).

The clearing process can be undertaken every few months or if it is felt they have been affected by a disruptive influence.

Crystals with single points have energy flow from the cut end to the point, so bear this in mind when placing them in position. The timing of a building undertaking or commencement is another important influence on the happiness and success of its occupants. There are auspicious times to commence building, to start a business or to make a commitment, however this varies from individual to individual. It is therefore prudent to consult your astrologer or in many cases your Feng Shui consultant for advice on the timing of a new venture. By careful consideration of one's place and time in the universes, it is possible to replenish and realign your energies for the start of the New Year.