Archive for the Feng Shui Articles Category

Best Moving-In Practices: Feng Shui Tips for Your New Home

On October 6, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / 1 Comment

Tags: bedrooms, Front Door, intention, moving, new house

By Carole Hyder

Most people would agree that moving is chaotic. No matter how organized or how long the move has been planned, there typically comes a time when frenzy and confusion rule the day. This is not how you want to introduce yourself to your new place. Feng Shui can help make your move more meaningful.

Before leaving your old residence, make sure you did some kind of closure. In other words, say “good-bye.” Whether you liked the old place or not, it deserves a farewell whatever form that might take. I’ve assisted some people who loved their home, providing a beautiful closing ceremony the morning they were leaving. I also know some who couldn’t stand their space and choked out a “thanks” while closing the door. It’s important to close one door before opening another—–in this case that would be a literal action.

Once at the new place, here are some specific things to do the first day you’re there, and other actions that are more long-lasting…

Get your personal bedrooms set up first. Since the bedrooms provide you a safe place to sleep and rejuvenate, they need to be your first and foremost focus. If you’re planning to repaint the walls, re-carpet or remodel in anyway, try to get this done before you actually move in.
Eat in your home the first night. Bringing in food is just fine, since cooking would probably be difficult. But it’s important that you make this commitment to the space by having a meal there. Granted, you may be eating on the floor or sitting on boxes, but that’s no problem—-the house is grateful for your inclusive gesture.
Ring the doorbell for the first few days, every time you walk into your new home. It establishes your presence and your ownership. Since the doorbell is typically by the front door, you’ll be activating that important entry on a regular basis. Plus, you’ll soon learn whether the doorbell works or not.

Making your move intentional and meaningful using a Feng Shui approach will establish a strong relationship with your new home—whether it’s a house, an apartment, a condo or a single room. Then, this new home can help you come home to yourself.

Feng Shui is for the Dogs…and Cats and Other Animals!

On September 1, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: Bagua, Chi, Energy, Feng Shui, intention, Pets

Then

and Now

By Lisa Janusz

It surprised me to realize just recently that my little princess is turning 10 next month! I am so grateful for all that she has brought into my life. Of course I feel that she is quite a special dog.
(FYI – Carole agrees!)

All animals are very good Feng Shui (you knew that was where this was going, didn’t you?). Anything from the smallest fish to the biggest horse can help activate energy. They represent the Fire Element by bringing a life force to your space. This activity can really support a house, in addition to the people living there.

I know for me Feng Shui had a huge impact on Ella’s arrival. I had placed an oversize postcard in my Children & Creativity area shortly after I purchased my home (based on the bagua – the middle right of your space). I hadn’t thought much about it at the time…

Through unusual circumstances, I ended up adopting a puppy from another state (that essentially someone else had picked out for me). Later one of my friends would ask me if it was Ella in the picture – and that’s when the dots connected.

Although not exact, I could definitely see a resemblance.

Seems my intention of getting a dog after moving into the house gathered some momentum early on.

So this month, instead of several Feng Shui “tips” for you, I have just one: remember that the smallest (and inexpensive) change in your space can support an underlying intention.

If you have something you are hoping for – really take a look at your space. If you know the bagua, pay attention to the area that it represents. Then think about how you might add something – like a photo or an object – to help you represent that dream. This goes for houses and offices.

Then be open to what arrives. In my case, a postcard purchased in Europe years prior ended up bringing me a spark of furry love that I’ve enjoyed for almost a decade.

Using Musical Instruments to Adjust Feng Shui

On August 4, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: adjustments, Balance, Creativity, Decorating, Feng Shui, Feng Shui at Work, intention, Musical Instruments, Office, Work

By Carole Hyder

A musical instrument can be a very effective and inspiring Feng Shui adjustment if used with intention. Certainly if someone is a musician, their instrument will hold a lot of meaning for them and remind them of the joy and creative satisfaction they get from playing. Having a reminder of a skill, talent, and/or fascination with a particular aspect of music can go a long way in supporting creativity.

However, whether you know how to play an instrument or not, it could still be a unique and effective Feng Shui adjustment. Think about what you want to bring into your life and see if any of these metaphors resonate appropriately and then, either hang the actual instrument or a poster or picture of it in a place where you’ll see it.

You want to feel lighter and less weighted down, perhaps alleviating some tendencies toward depression. Flutes or recorders can offer a lilting reminder of this intention.
You feel the need to be more grounded and centered. A picture of a bass drum or a tuba or a taiku drum will speak to that core value.
You want to get some forward momentum in your life. Every marching band is inspired by sounds from the brass section—-trumpets, trombones, coronets would all work to create the fast movement you may be searching for.
You want more stability and peace in your life. A stringed instrument can provide the kind of soothing qualities you need, most specifically a harp.

I worked with a doctor who was assigned a new office and wanted to make it a balanced space. In the course of our conversation he mentioned that he used to play trumpet—-he even showed me pictures of himself as a young man playing in a band. He was proud of this time in his life but had happily relegated his trumpet-playing to occasional moments in the privacy of his home. I suggested he find some way to represent that aspect of himself. He found a large abstract oil painting of a trumpet, hung it in his office and was inspired every single day. Plus it offered up some great conversations with patients and staff.

Musical instruments can definitely be used as a Feng Shui adjustment, however, as with any Feng Shui adjustment, the instrument needs to speak to you in a positive, creative and intentional way.

Dine in Feng Shui Style

On July 7, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: Bagua, Dining Room, Entertaining, Feng Shui, Front Door, Health, intention, Wealth

By Lisa Jansusz

We entertain a fair amount. During my single days, I hosted regular “ladies nights” with appetizers (and wine!), but these days are more about sit down meals. We do host informal gatherings, but for the most part, our meals are eaten at the table.

Since the houses I’ve lived in did not have eat-in kitchens, we eat in our dining room. (Yes, 3x a day on the weekends.) Within the Feng Shui realm, this room is related to health and wealth, no matter where it’s located in your bagua. Health because it’s where you receive nutrients from eating, and wealth because if you had food for your family, you were considered wealthy.

So the question becomes; how is your dining room looking? If you think it needs some ramping up, here are some Feng Shui considerations.

Use it if you aren’t already. With eat-in kitchens, the dining room might be gathering dust. That is leaving a lot of unrealized opportunity. Energize the room by eating in it every once in a while – don’t wait for a special occasion.
Enhance it. I have an ever-changing centerpiece on our table that is switched out with the seasons, the holidays and just on a whim. Bring in fresh flowers or something you love (anything will do – statue, bowl, other accessory) that will give it a boost of feel-good energy.
Keep it ready. Dining rooms can become magnets for clutter (mail, boxes, office papers, etc.) if they aren’t used regularly. Even if it’s not a regularly-used room, you still need to keep a handle on what’s happening there.
Distract the eye from it if it’s near the front door. That can be a message about people eating and running or can contribute to weight gain (first message you get is food). Add some other “eye candy” to direct the eye away so it’s the first thing you see versus the dining room.
Change its purpose. Although we do like to see rooms used as they are intended, we also balance that with wanting rooms to be used. I know several people who converted their dining rooms to offices, play areas and libraries because they were used more.

Whether you entertain or not, remember that your dining room is still a reflection of what’s happening in your life. Make sure yours is sending your intended message.

Flushing out the Bathroom: Is Your Feng Shui Going Down the Drain?

On June 2, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: Bathroom, Energy, Feng Shui

By Carole Hyder

Because Feng Shui is a language of metaphor, if someone feels “drained” or describes opportunities as “flushing away,” those words can point to the negative impact of the bathroom. It’s hard to imagine living without an indoor bathroom, yet their convenience is often over-ridden by their Feng Shui challenges. We don’t want to see them when we first enter a space, while we’re eating, or when we’re sleeping in order to avoid our energy being drained.

However, the bathroom has moved from being strictly functional to a room that feels like a spa. Adding the ability to wash up and brush our teeth, bathe and/or shower, and put on make-up in the same space as the toilet has added a whole new consideration to the room we originally considered a necessary evil. People have come to love their bathrooms and often see them as sanctuaries.

Here are some Feng Shui considerations to make your bathroom even more spectacular:

Because the bathroom now encourages a person to linger, don’t be afraid to hang artwork on the walls. This may be artwork that you don’t want others to see due to its intimate nature or it may simply be something you love.
Have the option to change the lighting in order to emphasize its versatility—–bright for getting ready in the morning and dim for relaxing in the tub.
Error on the side of lush when considering the design of your bathroom. This might include thick plush towels, soft rugs and fresh flowers.
Be certain that the wall colors are complimentary to your skin tones. If you don’t look good in blue, you wouldn’t want to fix your hair in a room with blue walls.
To balance all the water that is naturally present in the bathroom, add a plant or flowers (Wood element) and candles or the color red (Fire element).

As Feng Shui consultants, we still analyze the placement of the bathroom in relation to the rest of the house. However, a beautifully appointed bathroom is not as apt to drain your energy as one that is purely functional.

Desk-ology: Feng Shui for Your Desk

On May 5, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: Career, Clutter, decluttering, desks, Feng Shui, Feng Shui at Work, Home Office, Office

By Lisa Janusz

One of the most important pieces of furniture in your office – work or home – is your desk. This single piece of furniture has more impact beyond just being a surface for computers and paper. It can help you reflect your message about your career and your future to clients, bosses and coworkers.

You might be limited in a corporate environment, but the Feng Shui considerations are the same.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when thinking about where you sit to get work done.

Have the right size. Think Goldilocks: not too big, not too small – but just right! It should fit your frame and what you need to do. For example, enough room for a computer, as well as space to place a folder or pad of paper.
Make sure it aligns with your goals. Your desk is a message about your career. It should be solid, sturdy and supportive. Skip the card table. Pick something that reflects you.
Keep it as clear as possible. This is a metaphor about vision and being able to see what’s next. Arriving to a clear desk – full of potential – can give you room to breathe. It can help you feel more inspired and less overwhelmed. Think about putting items in a box at the end of the day so that you can start fresh.
Position it well. The most powerful place for your desk is in the command position – which is the farthest corner of the room, while facing the door. This enables you to “see what’s coming” and welcome opportunities.
Complement it with the right chair. Choosing a high back chair will offer you support, stability and comfort.

As you take a fresh look at your desk; what is the message you are sending? Does it say CEO? And/or does it reflect your aspirations?

Even if a new purchase it not possible right now, do what you can with what you have. Paint it, cover it, style it. You are your own CEO. Now get to work.

P.S. You can read more about your office here.

Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Heating Up the Refrigerator with a Feng Shui Approach

On April 7, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: Cleaning, Clutter, decluttering, Feng Shui, Kitchen, Refrigerator

By Carole Hyder

The refrigerator is a formidable kitchen appliance, not only because it is necessary for food storage but also because it typically has a large presence in the kitchen. When Feng Shui was first applied to homes, there were no refrigerators. Addressing the impact of this new, convenient appliance on the Feng Shui of the space had to be factored in as people modernized—-much like the situation of bathrooms which were originally not inside the home.

Refrigerators not only keep food fresh but also impact the health of those who live there. When the refrigerator is filled with stale, outdated and unused food, it isn’t a strong message about well-being. Cleaning it out from time-to-time is necessary, which includes throwing out old food as well as keeping the shelves and drawers immaculate.

Here are some other ideas for integrating the refrigerator with good Feng Shui principles:

Keep the refrigerator clear of extraneous items on the front and sides. The refrigerator is not a bulletin board, photo album, nor a game surface. All of this creates Feng Shui “noise” which disrupts the intention of creating healthy and wholesome food.
Don’t burden the refrigerator with unnecessary clutter on top. Unless the items on the top are decorative eye-candy, that surface should not become a storage area. Keep it clear and clean.
Avoid placing the refrigerator next to the stove. This arrangement is a recipe for arguments—-between family members, friends, neighbors and/or co-workers. This is because the stove, which is a fire appliance, and the refrigerator, which is a water appliance, clash—thereby reflecting that conflict to the occupants. Place a plant on the top of that clean and cleared-off refrigerator (see #2!) to resolve the issue (even a silk one).

We certainly don’t want to be without refrigeration so this appliance is definitely here to stay. Giving it some consideration as it relates to the kitchen will assure that your refrigerator complies to good Feng Shui. In fact, done right, it will be very cool.

Cooking Up Abundance: Feng Shui for Your Stove

On March 3, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: abundance, Feng Shui, Kitchen, Money, prosperity, stove

By Lisa Janusz

Happy New Year! We’re officially in it now – both the Chinese Solar and Lunar New Year’s have passed and a new energy has arrived. I’ve been basking in this slower energy of the Sheep. The days have been less hectic and I’m finding myself more relaxed doing the things I enjoy – like cooking.

In terms of Feng Shui, the stove is a very significant feature in a home. It embodies the fire element (gas or electric – think heat!) because it cooks food. It also has a connection to wealth. By traditional standards, if you had enough good food to cook, then you were considered wealthy. This connection has not been lost with modern times.

If you want to capture that intention of wealth, here are a few things you can do to make sure your stove is in good Feng Shui order.

Make sure all burners work. If one or more aren’t working properly, then you aren’t getting the full potential of wealth available to you.
Use all of the burners. This is a tough one even for me. But the reasoning behind this is that each is getting an opportunity to work for you. If one is stagnant, again, you aren’t utilizing its full potential.
Keep the stove clean. Remember it’s a symbol of wealth. Think about this direct link to your prosperity and treat it as such.
Use it for its intended purpose. That would be cooking. Don’t use it as storage. Even if you eat out all the time, it still needs to be kept in a condition that it could be used if the occasion strikes.
Don’t stand with your back to the door. This is a challenge for many kitchens. The theory is that if a cook is startled that feeling gets “cooked” in the food. You don’t want to serve that to your family or friends! Place a mirror or mirrored object to reflect behind you to correct for it.

I hope this new year is cookin’ along well for you! Now, go forth, make good meals and prosper.

Herding the Sheep: What Does 2015 Have in Store for You?

On February 3, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: Chinese New Year, Year of the Sheep

By Carole Hyder

The Chinese calendar is comprised of a 12-year cycle with each year assigned an animal. There are a few stories of how these exact animals were selected. One of the legends says that Buddha summoned all of the animals of the earth to come visit him before he died. In appreciation for those who showed up, the Buddha named a year after each of them, given out in the order they arrived. The Horse was the 7th animal to show up which corresponds to last year (2014); the Sheep arrived right after the Horse so is the 8th in the 12-cycle line-up. The Monkey came in 9th so will be the animal representing 2016.

A lot of people are happy to cut the reins on the Year of the Horse—-it was a challenging year for many. Some people had plenty of good things happen during the course of the year but it became almost unmanageable; others ran into difficulties like a string of pearls—–one after the other. The difficulties were not specific to one area of life but across the board—-health, financial, relationships, job.

However, we’re moving toward a softer year as 2015 approaches. Just from an outward perspective, Sheep are gentle animals—–they move slow, their coat is soft, they’re rather small—–they are by far less intimidating than Horses. The Year of the Sheep can also be called the Year of the Goat or the Ram which does bring some feistiness and spunk with it as opposed to the ever-docile Sheep. That said, this will be all-round a less frenzied year.

The Year of the Sheep begins on Tuesday, February 3rd at 5:20 PM (Central time). Although this is not the big New Year’s celebration that the Chinese celebrate (their New Year festival will take place on February 18th at 4:47 PM Central), this is the date that Feng Shui adjustments are made.

So in anticipation of a year that will more than likely exude a slower tempo, don’t let yourself get stuck or mired down, which can be the downside to the Year of the Sheep. It will be important to keep some of that Horse energy from 2014 so you can still scale those mountains, but at a slower pace.

Being Resolute

On January 6, 2015 / Feng Shui Articles / Leave a comment

Tags: intention, New Year, New Years Resolutions

By Lisa Janusz

Yes, it’s that time of year – when we have to remember to change the last number from “4” to “5” for the year. That one number change encompasses a lot in terms of timing.

It’s about what’s happened over the last 365 days. Most of us are taking (or have taken) time to reflect on what we accomplished…and what we did not accomplish. With the Western New Year already behind us, some of us may have written down, yet again, resolutions for the next 365 days. Did you?

The two of the primary definitions of resolutions include: 1) a firm decision to do or not to do something or 2) the action of solving a problem.

They are each about moving forward and committing to do something different. They are about making a plan and putting some intention around it.

Here are three ways to help you with your current resolutions, or to help you as you think about creating some, for the year ahead:

Limit yourself to three or less resolutions. You start to lose motivation the longer your list. One is enough, two or three are doable. Keep the number small to keep your focus.
Resolve it in writing. Don’t just write the overall resolution – think about and commit to your plan around it. This will help you clarify what your goal is and take accountability. There is a huge difference between:
- “Lose weight” and “Lose weight by cutting out soda, no snacking, eating 6 servings of fruits and veggies each day…etc.”
- “Get out of debt” and “Get out of debt by making a budget, paying only in cash, saving at least 10% of income each week…etc.”
Hold yourself accountable. Do a monthly or quarterly check-in with yourself. Schedule it on your calendar. That is a powerful statement about its importance. Be honest with how you are doing and if you need to revise or change course – do so. It’s not a time to berate yourself; it’s a time to motivate yourself.

There is a lot of opportunity in the year ahead. Be kind to yourself; commit to a change and let your intention help you through.

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