Feng Shui The Art of Placement

by Karen Havenor http://www.fqhouse.com By Karen Havenor http://FQHouse.com

 Feng Shui. Is it a buzz-word, or is there something in this ancient body of knowledge that can inform and enhance modern living? A definition of feng shui is a helpful place to begin answering that question. Feng shui originated in China, and is essentially an environmental science that is applied to create a proper flow of energy. The philosophy and practice of feng shui is to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities through the art of placement, for balanced energy flow. All societies possess in some form or another the knowledge that feng shui contains. Whether at home or at work or around out communities, feng shui as practiced in the West today guides us in creating environments that support us and set us at ease. Some feng shui practices simply make sense: natural light, fresh air, and clean environments are good for the well being of both our bodies and spirits. There are other environmental considerations that don't usually occur to us as being so obviously beneficial. And, there are yet others that are harmful, but go unnoticed until we recognize problem areas in our lives and take steps to make improvements. When our surroundings are properly re-arranged, we can connect to the energy in the spaces around us, allowing changes for the better to occur. Some spaces instinctively feel right, whether by intentional design or by someone with a knack for placement and flow. What are some of the feng shui principles at work in places that give the feeling of peaceful welcome? First, there is yin and yang. According to feng shui there are always two forces acting together in order to create energy. The positive and negative forces are called yin and yang. When they are balanced, all is well, but when one achieves dominance, the imbalanced influence can be harmful. Yin and yang are opposing but interdependent. For example, without the idea of softness, we wouldn't be able to really understand hardness. High and low, still and moving, heat and cold are further examples of yin and yang forces. At their extremes these opposites can change into the other: ice can burn, and sunstroke victims shiver. The object is to balance the opposites. Another principle at work in spaces that feel harmonious is the idea of Chi. There is no exact Western translation, but Chi can be understood as life force, the power of weather and sun, the quality of inanimate things, and so forth. "Energy" is the closest word. Acupuncture is Chinese medicine that restores health by unblocking the flow of Chi in our bodies. Feng shui uses placement to unblock Chi in our surroundings. In both cases, proper flow of Chi restores harmony and therefore well-being. At the library or online sources, you can find very specific instructions and suggestions for improving the balance of yin and yang in your environment as well as enhancing the flow of Chi. These two principles are a good place to begin applying feng shui. But without referring to another source at all, the single most powerful thing you can do to improve your surroundings and thereby your quality of life is to clear clutter. It will be immediately beneficial to you. Pick a place to begin that will give you momentum. In other words, start small and complete the job. Organize a drawer, empty a closet, clear a table top. Toss or give away what you deep down know you should, and then neatly put away the rest. Now, notice how you feel around that clear and clean place. If you like the feeling, continue. Over time, de-clutter everywhere. When that's complete, if you like the feeling of uplift and renewal that results, you've reached the point when it's time to get the resources and books. Use them to delve into the fascinating art and science of feng shui.