MARVELLOUS FENG SHUI SOPHIE MERLE Copyright 1998 by Sophie Merle. Reproduction only permitted for personal use.

FORTUNATE BLESSINGS FOR A LASTING HAPPINESS

A vibrant health, a fulfilling relationship, a successful career, financial security, or whatever else you may want in your life, you have the power to make it happen. Your most cherished desires are all possibilities, just waiting behind closed doors, to be manifested and realized. Take the key offered to you, learn how to use it, and you will be opening up to a very fabulous and exciting life. You will be experiencing what everyone calls "Good Luck" - doing the right thing, at the right time, in the right place, with the right people! The "key" to healthy and prosperous living is called FENG SHUI. Feng Shui was born in China several thousand years before the advent of Christ. The name means "Wind and Water" and is pronounced "Fung Schway". The basic principle of this ancient Eastern science is built upon the conviction that our fate is linked to the surroundings we choose to live in, and is tied up to the way we organize our possessions in that particular location. This, consequently, bestows each one of us with a real power of control over our destiny, giving us the opportunity to live the kind of life we are longing for, once we have precisely rearranged our environment according to the teachings of Feng Shui. The energies of people and places interact with each other on a very profound level. The condition of our environment affects our internal state, as much as our state of mind affects our environment. Feng Shui is a process that allows us to understand this connection. It also helps to lift the obstacles that prevent us from enjoying the fulfillment that comes from living in an harmonious environmental setting. Thus, we can take action, using the practice of Feng Shui, instead of being the passive recipients of a fate we do not want! As stated previously, Feng Shui began in China many centuries ago. Banned on the mainland by the Communist Party during the Cultural Revolution, Feng Shui is still extensively practiced in prosperous places, such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, or anywhere Chinese immigrants have settled. Each day, more people from other societies are also using the principles of Feng Shui with great rewards. Early Feng Shui was essentially used to find the most auspicious places to bury the departed loved-ones, for, in Chinese culture, it is believed that the fortune of the future generations largely depends upon the favorable location and good orientation of the ancestors’ burial tombs. Later, government buildings and Imperial palaces, as well as entire cities, were erected according to the theories of Feng Shui. Right up to the present, the science of Feng Shui has been kept a closely guarded secret, handed down from masters to well-deserving disciples, and most frequently offered to benefit the rich and powerful Chinese society. The massive migration of highly educated people that took place when China became communist introduced Feng Shui around the world. Now it has been made available to everyone, thanks to the abundant literature offered by prominent Feng Shui Masters, who are also leading numerous workshops internationally. Even though Feng Shui often goes beyond our rational thought, it is firmly grounded in common sense and is neither difficult to understand nor hard to practice. The principles of this wisdom are based on thousands of years of meticulous observation, experimentation, and orderly recording of the hidden forces of nature. Once stripped of the customs and rituals peculiar to China, Feng Shui can be applied by anyone, regardless of race, religion, or culture.

A WORLD OF ENERGY The essential concept of Feng Shui is that we live in a world of energy called CH’I (pronounced Chee), an energy that is in perpetual movement, flowing everywhere, connecting and giving form and substance to everything. What appears "separated" is permanently connected, what seems "inanimate" is always in motion, and all "emptiness" is constantly filled with this energy. Quantum physics has produced an amazing discovery that corroborates the ancient wisdom of Feng Shui - matter is not a solid entity. Matter and energy are fundamentally one and the same, with everything in our so-called "material world" made up of atoms, themselves endlessly made up of subatomic particles. Western contemporary science has proved that the essence of matter is only a fluctuation of energy, manifesting in infinite ways. In other words, if you would examine any kind of individual object under a high intensity magnifying glass, you would see only particles

ever-moving at amazing speed, without material form. This study would also show you that the energy of this object acts with and reacts to what surrounds it, and that, in fact, it is not separated and does not exist independently. On an energetic level we are permanently connected to our home, just as much when we are out in the world as when we are in it. We live totally immersed in invisible currents of energy, which we certainly cannot see, but which are, nevertheless, perpetually affecting us. When the Ch’i in our home is insufficient or weak, there is not enough of this vital life force available for living a thriving life, as nothing can flourish without Ch’i. Thus, in Feng Shui, the flow and quality of Ch’i that circulates in an environment becomes the primary consideration, closely followed by the use of countless remedies when the positive (Ch’i) energy has turned into negative (Sha) energy, due to destructive occurrences. The Ch’i has a very benevolent nature, and supplies health and good fortune, but this vital energy, which is always in motion, requires a meandering and unobstructed path to circulate in its proper fashion, for when the Ch’i is neutralized, all sorts of disasters are triggered. Whenever Ch’i encounters blockages along its path, it loses motion, becomes stagnant, an dies. Whenever Ch'i is forced into straight lines, it gains speed, compresses, and becomes as sharp as the tip of a knife, thus creating a "poison arrow," which is also referred to as a "secret arrow". In both those cases, the Ch’i has turned into what is called "Sha". Feng Shui is the art of correcting the flow and the quality of Ch’i, which is fundamental to our overall well-being and prosperity. This ancient science offers all the tools necessary to generate Ch’i when a place is devoid of it, to stimulate it when it has become dormant, to redirect it when it has become confused, to anchor it when the need arises to secure a shaky situation in life, or to sweep it away when it has turned into harmful Sha. There are very few environments that cannot be cured of their ailments. Most of the time, simple remedies will correct the flow of energy, leaving the occupants free to move on victoriously.

FENG SHUI CURES AND ENRICHMENTS The enrichments can come into play only when all obstacles have been removed to clear up the path of Ch’i, or when none were present. They ensure that the energy continues to flow smoothly, thus permanently enriching the inhabitants’ lives. Their role when using symbols, is to give strong visual commands to our subconscious mind, while activating the movement of Ch’i in a particular Bagua area. The Bagua is a important Feng Shui tool that is fully explained in a subsequent chapter. In Feng Shui, there are two sorts of cures, "mundane" and "transcendental". Those cures have different purposes, starting from countering the pernicious effects of "poison arrows", to capturing, generating, or anchoring the benevolent Ch’i. Each of these is important and portends powerful remedies for most environmental ailments. Mundane cures are those that seem logical, familiar and based on plain common sense, making them easily understandable for everyone. Transcendental cures, on the other hand, are mysterious, and do not seem to follow any logic. They can appear very incongruous to many people, especially to Westerners, educated to accept only tangible and scientifically proven data. For instance, a typical transcendental cure to remedy the problem of money being flushed away, would be to place a plant near a toilet. The plant would symbolically absorb the water (symbol of money) and grow strong and healthy, instead of letting the precious substance that the water represents disappear away, thus, bringing along financial troubles.

Mirrors: They are used to deflect threatening energy (convex or Bagua mirrors), to facilitate the flow of Ch’i, to expand the space in cramped rooms, to bring light into dark corners, to draw in Ch’i from the outside, to open up a "missing" Bagua section (in this case, the bigger the mirror, the better), to provide security to anyone whose back is to an entrance (a small mirror facing the door will tell who is coming), as well as to transfer energy by sending it upward (in that case a convex mirror, which looks like a dome) when something big and heavy is looming over a house or apartment. Victorian mirrored garden balls, placed in dark corners, are used to lift up and activate the Ch’i. Mirrors should always be made of one uninterrupted piece. Never use a mirror that distorts your image. Cloudy, antique mirrors are best left in museums. Discard any broken mirrors. Do not lean mirrors against walls, but hang them. Mirrors should never cut off a person’s head. Hang them high enough to reflect the entire head of the tallest person around. Mirrors should be framed or beveled. If you brake a mirror, don’t panic! Just wrap the broken pieces into a piece of pretty material and burry them.

Crystals: They have the property to improve, activate and balance the flow of Ch’i, to absorb, purify and disperse negative energy, and to lift up sluggish Ch’i. A crystal will draw energy into a windowless room or storage area, enhance or activate any Bagua sector, and joyously reflect the light when placed in front of a window (but beware that they can be fire-provoking). It is best to choose round-faceted crystals, or crystals that are symmetrically shaped, like octagons, hearts, teardrops, almonds, etc. The rounded man-made prisms, usually from Bohemia (Czech- Slovakia) or Austria, are prevalent in Feng Shui, and are traditionally hung on a 9" red string, or any multiples of nine (18", 27", etc.). The clearer the crystal, the better. A crystal chandelier is often hung in the foyer to disperse any negative energy that may be entering a dwelling. A round-faceted crystal hung above a cash register is said to considerably enhance business profits! Place a crystal in your car to ensure protection (yours, your passengers, as well as that of the engine, and the body of the car). To clean your crystals, you can either smudge them with sage, incense, etc., or soak them in salt water (three tablespoons of salt to one cup of water) in a glass container, then let them dry naturally under sunlight. You can also cleanse your crystals in flowing spring water.

Water: Symbolizes wealth and good fortune and is a key element in Feng Shui for its capacity to creates an abundance of nurturing Ch’i. The movement of water is said to attract wealth like a magnet !

Water should never be seen flowing away from a site or toward the exit of a home (meaning that money is flowing away from you!). Viewing water brings good luck, but fast moving water in straight banks or raging torrents is not considered beneficial. Ideally, water should meander gently and move slowly. Water should never be left to become stagnant, as dirty water brings bad luck. A strategically placed fountain can slow down and divert straight, oncoming negative (Sha) energy. Swimming pools and ponds should be round, octagonal, or bean- shaped, in that case, embracing the house. If there is a waterfall, the flow should be directed toward the house. Aquariums are great Ch’i purveyors, and their presence in homes or businesses attracts good fortune and draws in money. They should contain an odd number of fish, the most auspicious number being nine, when the fish tank is large enough to comfortably accommodate them (traditionally, eight red and one black). The tank must obviously be well-taken care of, and if a fish dies, it is the custom to replace it as soon as possible.

Light: Electrical, oil, gas, natural day light, candles, any kind of light in Feng Shui symbolizes the Sun. Light is used to stimulate stagnant energy, to uplift Ch’i in lifeless and dull areas, and above all, to keep Ch’i alive. It can also symbolically recreate a "missing" area from the Bagua, help lift a sunken room or one that has a low ceiling (floor lamps, bucket lamps, torchier lamps, spots lamps, wall sconces, etc.), which are all lighting features that send the light up to the ceiling. Full spectrum lights are preferred over the fluorescent kind as they give a warm feeling of natural sun light. Burned out light bulbs should be replaced immediately. Light should be bright but not cause glare. Light features placed at different heights in and around a space are strongly recommended over a single ceiling light, glooming down from above. Place a lamp on your desk and have it on at all times when working. A tiny increase in your power bill will be worth the trouble, as you will gain so much more by creating and nurturing an ample supply of Ch’i in your home or business. Trees, plants and flowers: Symbolize both nature and growth, and are used extensively in Feng Shui. They will help you bring in a very auspicious energy, enhance or correct a Bagua sector, enliven your business, dispense a radiant Ch’i flow in your home and business, guide Ch’i from room to room, slow down and disperse fast-moving energy coming your way, activate sluggish Ch’i in recessed corners, shield protruding corners, absorb noise, and provide protection to your home. Evergreens are a symbol of longevity in China and are regarded as being especially auspicious. Trees should not be planted too close to a house, blocking out the natural sun light, and never in direct line with the front door. Avoid creeping plants on walls. Willow trees are excellent arthritis healers, but if you do not suffer from it, avoid planting them on your property, for they are also reminders of pain. Trees and bushes should not be planted in straight rows. Curved or undulating pathways are ideal. Plants with spiky or pointed leaves are not recommended unless placed in recessed areas where they cannot "bite" anyone passing by. Plants with rounded leaves, reminders of coins, therefore money, are considered the most auspicious. A healthy growth of trees, plants, and flowers, means there is good energy flowing through and around a dwelling. Dead or dying trees, plants, and flowers must be removed at once, or else they will drain the Ch’i and produce negative (Sha) energy. Silk plants and flowers can be successful substitutes as long as they look "fresh and alive". Dried or plastic flowers are not recommended. Plants as protectors: When leaving a house that will stay uninhabited for a longer period of time than usual, position a large cactus plant on each side of the front door and on window sills. These are said to be powerful protectors from burglars. This remedy must be removed as soon as the house is occupied again, by moving the cactus back to their recessed habitat. And remember to plant several trees for posterity!

Colors: Colors deeply influence the energy flowing in and around an environment. The color chosen for a cure or an enrichment has a major impact on its effectiveness. Light colors soften Ch’i, while intense colors draw and raise the level of Ch’i. Surrounding ourselves with a variety of colors will bring joy and boost our own energy, whereas a lack of colors, or the use of one unique color throughout a place will scatter and drain Ch’i. Red: Most favorable color to attract wealth and good fortune. Brings vitality to a business. Intense and physical, red is the color of power, fame, and sexuality. It will give a strong boost of energy to any environment. Best avoided in bedrooms when one suffers from insomnia. Red represents the Fire Element. Orange: More quiet than red, it is still full of vitality. Attraction. Purple/Violet: These are the colors of wealth and fame, and they are associated with royalty, higher thought, and objectivity. Pinks: Love and happiness. Especially auspicious for bedrooms of people searching for love (repaint the walls another color when you have found it!). Pink curbs violence and relieves depression. Blue: Cooling. It brings peacefulness and emotional stability, but be aware that too much blue can easily become very depressing. Green: Soothing. It assists new growth and induces healing when a disease does not involve a malignant tumor. Green represents the Wood Element. Yellow: Color of nobility and great honor in Chinese tradition. This is a warm color that inspires cheerfulness, and also being the color of the mind, it facilitates clarity of thoughts. Recommended for a study, a youth or senior room (stimulates mental skills), or living rooms and dining rooms (enhances intellectual exchanges). In Feng Shui, yellow is a color recommended for bedrooms of couples hoping to give birth. Yellow painted walls should never lose their luster (symbol of the sun). Represents the Earth Element.

Brown: Slows down the energy, and affects our moods, generally downward! Brownish colors are not appropriate for joyful living quarters, especially not for rooms often-used. Earth Colors: Very grounding and suitable for kitchens and bathrooms. Cream Colors: Egg shell, off-white, light beige, magnolia, and the like, are suitable for almost any room, providing the same hue is not used throughout the entire house (except when colorful art punctuates the walls). Black: Even thought it represents the absence of all color, it remains a very powerful hue, only suitable as an accent for other colors, or as a career enhancer when activating this Gua. Black represents the Water Element. White: Painting walls pure white is not recommended, as Ch’i cannot absorb it and will bounce from wall to wall, soon leaving the space. Even though white contains all colors within it, an all white room reflects a lack of color and can reduce ambition. Symbol of purity in the Western world, white is the color of mourning in Asia, and therefore is avoided as a decorative hue. Represents the Metal Element.

Bright Objects: Anything that shines and reflects the light can be used to lift and activate Ch’i. When strategically placed, a bright object can also send harmful energy back to its source. Besides crystals, lights, and mirrors, which are all considered bright objects, a myriads of other things fall into this same category, such as an engraved shiny plaque, door knobs, or house numbers, varnished or high-glossed wooden doors, fabric with woven sequins or metallic threads, objects made of aluminum, tin foil, etc., as well as any item or piece of furniture that shines with a rich glow, a picture frame, or the picture itself when printed on glossy paper.

Moving objects: Moving objects are used to call in, stimulate, or slow down Ch’i, and, when strategically placed, to sweep away oncoming negative energy. They can also be used to "fill up the sky" of an unbalanced space with a very high ceiling. Moving objects can be wind-propelled or electrically powered. Those are: flags, banners, wind mills, weather vanes, mobiles, whirligigs, prayer mills, fans, wind chimes, running fountains, merry-go-rounds, etc,. Heavy Objects: Heavy objects are essentially used to anchor Ch’i in a particular section of the Bagua in order to stabilize a shaky situation in life. Bringing the energy downward, they have a grounding effect and are not suitable when change is desired. Placed on either side of an entrance, heavy statues can also serve as powerful protectors of the space. Often times, heavy objects may be positioned to diffuse fast, oncoming energy, or to deflect harmful Sha altogether. Those are: any heavy, hard-to-move items, rocks, stones, statuary, fountain, massive pieces of furniture, large stereo equipment, big bowl full of fruit, candies, stones, or coins, etc.

Musical Objects: Musical objects are great purveyors of Ch’i. They do not need to be played constantly, as their cherished visual presence will suffice to generate Ch’!. When large and heavy, they will anchor Ch’i wherever they reside, and when strategically placed, they can also be used to disperse harmful energy. Television and stereo systems stimulate their surroundings and are best placed in corners where the energy could otherwise become sluggish. Wind chimes, bells, gongs: Make sure that the sound they make resonates harmoniously to your ears (and those of your neighbors also!). Decide on your purchase based on the sound first, then the beauty! Flutes: They can of course be played, but are most often used as protective devices (traditionally bamboo flutes) when hung on a low overhead beam. Two flutes, tied together in the shape of a partial Bagua (an octagon), with red ribbons or tassels, mouthpiece downward, will pump the Ch’i upward through their hollow air conducts. This creates a sense of security as the condensed energy is sent back toward the ceiling, dispersing the oppressing effect.

Animals: Cats, dogs, birds, fish, rabbits, and the like, are all wonderful Ch’i enrichments, providing they are well-taken care of. Pets that are left neglected become very unhappy animals and will drain Ch’i wherever they reside. This will, in turn, create a negative energy that is very harmful to humans that share the same roof. Wildlife should be left alone to frolic as they please. It is not always appropriate to feed wild animals and one must pay attention to the consequences that could arise. For instance, feeding birds in an environment full of predators (cats). Hunting trophies, such as stuffed dead animals are not considered good Feng Shui at all.

Artwork: A piece of art can be either a powerful source of nourishing Ch’i or be bluntly harmful to anyone who is routinely exposed to its vision. Any decorative item is an accurate indicator of what is going on in the lives of the people who have chosen to live with it. Abstract art, that can have as many interpretations as there are viewers, can be very unsettling to anyone who has not yet perceived a reason for that particular piece of art. A sculpture with pointing sides must be carefully placed, so that sharp angles cannot harm anyone, be it physically or through the negative energy they project. Remember that each piece of art punctuating your environment has a profound influence on you, primarily because at the time of the purchase, or acceptance in your place, it was in tune with what was going on in your life. Ask yourself if it still serves you well, and if not, sell, trade, or give it away. For instance, one of my clients, a woman, even though not single, was perpetually feeling a tremendous void in her life, especially where her marital relationship was concerned. As we walked around her home, I was amazed at the number of pieces of artwork representing lonely women. They were everywhere, even outside, with a large statue greeting newcomers! Her

home was filled with images depicting her profound loneliness.

Shapes: The shape of an object plays a key role in Feng Shui cures and Bagua enrichments. This important matter is thoroughly explained in both the Bagua and the Five Elements chapters of this book. Fragrance: Incense, oils, flowers, orange peels, etc., clear and purify energy, and promote peace and harmony on all levels, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual, depending on the scent being diffused. A place from which bad smells emanate is devoid of Ch’i, and thus, is considered very inauspicious.

Numbers: In China, the character of a number is based on the way it sounds and its similarity to other words. For instance, the number "four" is considered very unlucky as it sounds just like the Chinese word for "death". It only becomes more acceptable when combined with one or more numbers considered beneficial. Also a group of numbers adding up to four is not seen favorably. For instance in Hong Kong, in order to create an auspicious site, an unusable chimney was added to a factory to harmoniously complement the four usable ones. Zero: Represents nothingness, completion, God, the Alpha and the Omega. It has no beginning and no end, but is infinite. Zero is symbolized by a circle. One: In Chinese tradition one portends honor and is a very lucky number. In western numerology, one is leadership, willpower, courage and strength, all qualities needed for great achievement. Astrologically, it takes on the power of the Sun, and is geometrically related to (.) the point. Two: Stands for "doubling up". Two, being made up of 1 and 1, is the number of cooperation, the balance between two opposite poles, Yin and Yang, man and woman. A very popular Chinese saying affirms that "Happiness comes in Two". To display a pair of things in any Love and Relationships sector of the Bagua is a powerful Feng Shui enrichment. Three: In Cantonese, three sounds like the Chinese word for "growth" and "alive", and is considered very lucky. In Western numerology, three signifies growth, self-expression, and fun along the way. Three allows all things to be possible. It is the number of luck and success. Three, as the trinity, is considered a spiritual number. A steady tripod symbolizes this lucky number. Four: As stated earlier, four stands for "death" in Chinese culture, and any arrangement involving four items is avoided as much as possible. In Western numerology, four does not have such a strong negative connotation, even though it portends its share of limitation and boundaries. This happens because four is the number of material order and steady construction. Thus, work, endurance and discipline are required to solidly build for the future and establish security. Displaying four objects in the shape of a square (geometrical shape of number four representing the physical world) can give a very powerful and grounding effect to any cure or Feng Shui enrichment. Five: Is a very popular number in Chinese culture since it occupies the central position (one through nine) and also reflects their Five Elements philosophy. In Western numerology, five is the number of change brought forth by many new opportunities and chances. Geometrically, it is the pentagram or pentagon, which looks like a person with legs spread, arms outstretched, and head at the topmost point. If you desire change in any particular area of your life, you can display five items in the related Bagua section of your home, following the shape of a pentagram, but make certain that the head points upward and never downward. Six: Sounds similar to the word "wealth" in Chinese, and therefore is considered a very auspicious number. In Western numerology, six is the number of harmony and balance. Six settles down and creates a better standard of living. The geometric aspect of six is the six-pointed star, two triangles perfectly balanced. Seven: Sounds like "sure" in the Chinese language, and is considered very fortunate. In Western numerology, it is viewed as the number of perfection, as well as being mystical and sacred. Without apparent effort, goals that have long been sought are suddenly magically attained. Unexpected help comes for no apparent reason, bringing surprising changes. The number seven has fascinated humankind since the beginning of time. Geometrically, the symbol for seven is a triangle within a square (the spiritual three and the material four). Eight: Sounds like "multiply" in Chinese, and is considered a fertile number, thus very auspicious. In Western numerology, eight represents worldly success, power and control, recognition and financial achievement, and a rise to the top, but only where efforts have been made! "Sow much, reap much, sow little, reap little". Geometrically, it is the octagon, two interlaced squares or the eight pointed Bagua, a very auspicious shape often used in Feng Shui for protection. Nine: Is the greatest of all primary numbers because it contains the qualities of all the others. It is complete in itself and needs no other number to complement it. Nine stands for the final state of completion, the ultimate fulfillment. Considered one of the luckiest of all numbers, Chinese people are very fond of this number, which, for them, symbolizes longevity and success on every level. All numbers adding up to nine are considered lucky, for instance 36, 621, 3231, 687519, etc. The nine geometrical shape is composed of three triangles, or is symbolized by the shape of a nine, a circle (completion) alongside a straight line (man). An arrangement of nine items, either laid on a flat surface or placed in a container and displayed in any Bagua area, is said to bring good luck to the related area of life. Most powerful amulets contain 9 stones.

Symbols, Lucky and Protective Objects : In the practice of Feng Shui, symbols are used extensively, and an image works as well as the real thing it represents!

Acorn: Powerful symbol of luck and good fortune. A decorative arrangement of acorns will maintain wealth in the household as long as they still look good. Agate: Gives strength and induces physical harmony. Stimulates precision. Amber: Awakens intellect faculties, which helps in manifesting what is desired. Amethyst: To hold or wear an amethyst while doing something we fear will give us strength and courage and make things run smoothly. Angel: Symbol of protection. An angel will ensure that we do not turn aside from our most successful path. Award: Display your own, or any other kind of achievement symbol, to attract fame and success. Bagua: The shape of the Bagua (octagonal) is considered very auspicious. Any object, piece of furniture, or space that is formed into an octagon will have a protective effect. Bagua mirror: Can be found in most oriental markets. Essentially used on the outside, a Bagua mirror should be placed on the front door (or above it), to deflect any oncoming unwanted energies, thus strongly protecting a house. Bats: Rather spurned in the Western world, bats are considered extremely lucky for the Chinese people, mainly because the word sounds like happiness in their language. If this animal inspires fear in you, do not use it as a lucky symbol! Bees: Will bring good fortune to anything related to work and business. Bird (melodic and colorful): Brings joy and happiness. Blue: Liberates from worries. Wear something blue to get outside help whenever you need it. Box: Make a wish and write it down on a piece of paper. Place it in a box exclusively devoted to this purpose, and watch the magic happen! Book of prayers: Ensures peace of mind and contentment. Candies: Sweet happiness in the household. Candies bring good luck as a return of generosity Candles: Light a candle and make a wish. Your desire will be granted while the candle is still burning, or shortly thereafter, if it is for the highest good of all concerned. Do not blow a candle out, instead use a candle snuffer. Cat’s eye: Serenity and happiness. Amplifies one’s luck, because of an acute awareness of "chances to seize". Chalk: To sleep with nine pieces of chalk placed under the bed is said to cure a painful backache. Champagne: Champagne is the symbol of achievement and celebration. If an overflow occurs when pouring Champagne in a glass, put a few drops behind your ear (and others’ as well) to ensure continued good luck. Keep the cork as a lucky talisman! Always display an unopened bottle of Champagne if used as a symbol for achievement. An empty bottle can be filled with sand. China: To display a collection of china will bring abundance in the household and ensure a happy domestic life. Circle/globe: Symbol of completeness. Helps bring success beyond the highest hopes! Clock: Symbol of affairs running smoothly. Never allow a clock to run slowly, too fast, or to stop. Cloves: To dissipate negativity between you and another person, burn the "head" of a clove (hold it with tweezers!) while you pronounce aloud the name of the person in question. The more the clove sparkles and the longer it burns, will tell you how much "heavy stuff’ has been removed between the two of you. Coins: Symbol of prosperity. A coin will be especially lucky if it has a hole in it, is bent, minted in a leap year, or stamped on the year of your birth. Comet: When you see one, make a wish. Your desire will be fulfilled if you had time to state it before the comet disappeared in the sky! Containers: Any kind of container, be it a decorative basket, a bowl, or a pitcher should not be left empty. Throw three, or nine coins, in each one of them!

Coral: Intensifies self-esteem, which naturally induces a sensation of deep well-being. Cornucopia: Symbol of abundance. A horn of plenty attracts wealth and prosperity in the household, and helps a food business thrive. Cricket: Family joy, stroke of good luck, and protection. Never kill a cricket that has come into your dwelling. Daffodils: Fortunate when left outside in the field. Daisies: Bring happiness. Diamond: Powerful talisman and symbol of the sun. A diamond enhances the best aspects of self. Door: A south-facing exterior door painted red, will bring good fortune to an office or household. Dragon: Chinese emblem for the achievement of great riches. A dragon ensures good luck in any material endeavors. Duck: Ensures a tranquil family life, which is a big key to happiness (best have them in pairs). Eagle: Brings great achievement and good fortune. Elephant: Symbol of strength and wisdom. Either a single one, or a full collection of elephants, will attract good luck in the form of help and assistance. Always display them in an honorable location in your home or office, making sure the trunks are in an upright position. When placing an elephant figure outside your doorway, know that it should always face the entrance to bring good luck into the house. Emerald: Helps bring harmony in all areas of one’s life. It is said that sooner or later, an emerald will bring great riches to its wearer! Evergreens: Symbol of longevity and steady growth. Greenery brings joy and happiness. Feathers: Bring an increase in social popularity and personal power, but only to those who do not fear them! Fern: Brings material abundance and business success. Excellent gift to offer to someone starting a new venture. Figs and dates: Symbols of sweet prosperity. Fish: Attracts wealth, while enhancing personal power. A great gift to offer to anyone starting a new business. For early Christians, a fish was the symbol of courage and fidelity to their new faith. Floor: Never sweep your floor on the first of January. This would be like sweeping the whole year’s luck away! The Chinese people hold the firm belief that a pregnant woman should never sweep the floor under her bed until the baby is born, and for that matter, should not change the location of her bed either. Fountain (indoor or outdoor): A fountain with running water ensures good luck in a business and happy, fulfilled lives for all inhabitants of a household. A one-sided fountain should always have the flow of water directed toward the inside of the house, be it placed outside or inside. Four-leaf clover: One leaf for health, one for love, one for wealth, and one for fame! To be lucky, a four-leaf clover should always be received as a gift, or found by chance. If you find one, give it to someone, and the luck will come back to you tenfold. Fruits: A basket or a bowl full of mixed fresh fruits, will attract abundance and material wealth. Gardenia: Encourages passionate love. Garnet: Induces deep thoughts. Helps to remain calm and centered. Enhances trust in oneself, especially in times of deep changes. Protective influence. Brings order to chaos. Generosity: Multiple luck. Any kind of generous gesture will bring a tenfold return in the most unexpected way. Glass ball: Will bring new interests in life. Glassware: The display of a collection of glassware brings good luck, a rise in status, and/or an increase in income. Make sure it is kept clean and shiny at all times.

Gold: Alleviates tension and stress. Attracts wealth and recognition. Hand: Around the Mediterranean Sea and Brazil, the hand is a powerful symbol of good luck. Hay: A bouquet of hay freshly harvested ensures good luck and material wealth all year round. Honey: Symbol of happy social gatherings and sweet contentment in the household. Horseshoes: Note that this ancient symbolic luck magnet should always be hung with its points upward in order to hold the luck. Hyacinth: Attracts happy events. Incense: To burn an incense will lift a burden. Jade: Releases limitations. Inspires ambition, which leads to great accomplishment. To wear jade ensures protection, and attracts wealth and prosperity. Brings wisdom during the assessment of problems. Oriental people often hold a jade amulet when making important decisions. Jasmine: Attracts the best things in life. Keys: Lucky in the sense that they symbolize solutions to problems, or mark a position of authority. Three keys tied together with a red ribbon symbolize the unlocking of the doors that lead to health, wealth and love. Ladybug: Brings good luck. If a ladybug lands on you, make a wish, and your desire will be granted shortly after she flies away! Lapis Lazuli: Sacred stone of ancient Egypt, the Lapis Lazuli was exclusively reserved for the Pharaoh and members of his family. This stone stimulates the intellect, enhances wisdom, regulates the heartbeat, and infuses peaceful bliss. Protects from physical dangers. Lavender: Brings pleasant romantic affairs. Lemons and limes: For the fact that they are too sour, are best kept out of sight. Malachite: Powerful protector. Stimulates the powers of the mind, but should not be worn all the time. To attract wealth, place a piece of malachite in the cash register, or in each corner of your business! Meteorite: Sacred stone from the Heavens. A meteorite can have a stabilizing effect. Brings strength and endurance. Mirror: It is unwise to offer a mirror as a gift to someone, as sooner or later, it is said to break the friendship between the giver and the receiver. Mistletoe: Ensures a smooth run of affairs all year round. During Christmas time, hang up mistletoe in a place under which you pass frequently. Discard it when it has lost its freshness. Moon: Standing outside, under a full Moon, open your purse and declare aloud three times, "Fill me with plenty of money". Then close your bag. Repeat this three times. Give thanks to the Moon for granting your wish! On the new moon, write a list of at least ten things you want to manifest in your life (and need a boost for their accomplishment). On the next full moon, see what happened. Repeat the action for what has not yet been actualized. Oak: A symbol of strength. Helps one climb the ladder of success. Plant a oak tree in your garden! Oleander: Helps achieve marital bliss when planted in the garden, but do not make bouquets out of it. Onyx: Clears and absorbs negativity. Banishes grief. Helps to master one’s future. Encourages happiness and good fortune. Opal: Watch out for this stone, as it cannot be worn by everyone. To some of us, it can bring the worst kind of luck! Amplifies one’s characteristics. Brings changes. Oranges: A bowl or basket full of sweet oranges ensures good luck to a household. Bring this as a gift to any housewarming celebration. Orchid: Induces passion and attracts the luck necessary to achieve great financial success! Ox: Success in current undertaking. Paris: A picture of Paris, "The City of Light," will attract gaiety and an increase of social activities.

Peach: Chinese symbol of immortality. Insures the blessing of good health and longevity. Pearl: Stimulates feminine qualities. Pear: Will allow an expansion of profits. Pineapple: Brings good luck into the household. Pine cone: Insures a lot of luck will bless a new endeavor. Pine trees are symbols of longevity. Plant at least one in your back yard! Pink: Attracts love and romance. Plum: Attracts auspicious new opportunities. Primrose: Are said to attract stormy love affairs! Red: In parts of the East and in China, red is considered the luckiest of all colors. Induces love, passion, energy, and enthusiasm for life. Red geranium: Attracts wealth and recognition. Religious items: Bring fortitude in times of adversity. Ruby: Helps in times of change. Excellent protector. Shields against dangers. Stimulates wealth, stabilizes finances, enhances wisdom. Sapphire: Helps pass frustrations. Brings health and wealth. Encourages one to follow intuitions up to the fulfillment of desires. Serpent: Luck symbol to those who do not fear them! Shell: Powerful symbol of good luck in the Far East. Enhances clarity and promotes cooperation. Encourages wisdom in decision making. Silver: Promotes popularity, due to an ease of eloquence. Provides patience and perseverance. Statues: Two large statues representing a human figure or an animal, placed on each side of an entrance, are said to ensure the protection of the place. Usually lions or dogs. Sun: Symbol of radiance and achievement, the Sun brings fame, money, and success in any endeavor. Surround yourself with a symbol of the Sun and feel its luck shine over you! Tiger’s eye: Allows one to choose clearly. Protects against negativity. Helps to become more grounded. Releases undue fears. Stimulates wealth and stabilizes finances. Topaz: Was called the stone of strength by the ancient Greeks. Represented RA, the Sun-God in ancient Egypt. Topaz can be used as a powerful protector against exterior stress. Encourages success in business and money matters. When offered as a token of friendship, it ensures a lasting and harmonious relationship. Brings confidence in trusting one’s decision in times of turmoil. Tourmaline: Attracts success by releasing the feeling of being victimized by bad circumstances. Encourages self-confidence. Turquoise: To this day, the Native Americans perceive the Turquoise as being a bridge between the spirit of Heaven and the Spirit of Earth. Brings good luck in magical ways. Provides protection. Induces wisdom in matters of love. Stimulates independence of action. Turtle: Symbol of longevity. Insures a long and healthy life. Violets: Magnetize wealth, fame, and good fortune. Willow tree: Symbol of tears and sorrow, avoid planting a weeping willow tree on your property. Wine: Good wine insures good health, happiness and prosperity. Always display unopened bottles, if used as symbolic items. Yellow: Enhances fertility. Insures interesting intellectual encounters. Zircon: Great protective talisman. Promotes continuity in all endeavors. Creates unions, reunions.

VISUAL AND WRITTEN AFFIRMATIONS At the time of positioning a Feng Shui enrichment in a chosen Bagua area, two important aspects for success are formulating your intention and clearly seeing the results that you want. This is not because Feng Shui would not "work" otherwise, but rather because visual affirmations, which are the placement of symbolic objects throughout your space, should work as a constant reminder of what you want (besides programming your subconscious mind). If you forget the purpose of a cure, or the reason for enriching an area, you either won’t be able to acknowledge the fulfillment of your wishes, or won’t give credit to your Feng Shui process, which will inevitably hinder your desire to follow through on the same path. Consequently, it is important to affirm your purpose when you are activating a Bagua area. In one way or another, everyone wishes to enhance his or her life, be it to feel healthier, more prosperous, or better loved. But for most of us, what seems confusing is to describe in detail what we genuinely want, or to maintain a clear picture of a desired outcome. This usually happens because we don’t know how to get what we want. Therefore we often set limitations as to what is possible for us to have. When you specifically want to create something special in your life, it is crucial that you leave aside any preconceived idea about what is most likely to happen. Discard the past. What occurred before won’t repeat itself once you set in motion the energies of what you truly want. Vaguely wishing and hoping for the best to happen, generally does not do anyone any good. Instead, use written and visual affirmations as strong statements that will unleash your hidden powers. Co-creator of your aspiration, the whole universe will then be at your command, and you will be provided with all the things that you will need to make your special hopes become your reality. You will be attracting into your life the right people, find new solutions to old problems, and get the perfect answer to your requests. With patience and persistence, what you want, you will make it happen. Too many of us have been raised with the strong notion that the good of others should come before the fulfillment of our own needs, or worse, that material opulence equals evil. There is nothing wrong or selfish about wanting the very best life has to offer. Otherwise, how could we possibly share? It is a mathematical fact, we cannot give away what we haven’t yet received! Even love cannot be given unless it has been experienced first. In every area of life, we must first open ourselves to the flow of abundance, and sense it profoundly, with no fear that it might suddenly be drained away, before we can successfully start to share our blessings with others. Otherwise, there will only be frustration, on the part of the giver as well as the so-called receiver. These two old French sayings resonate very appropriately in this matter, "First help yourself, then Heaven will help you" and "Charity well-organized starts at home". Picturing a desired outcome does not mean charting the way it should come into realization. Just visualize the total fulfillment of your desire and do not be concerned with how it is to come along. The reason is that we have a tendency to not think big enough. We don’t envision all the possibilities. We have to know where we want to land, but the way to get there is not our responsibility. The outcome is our final destination. In fact, we only need to state exactly where we want to go. In other words, we ignite the engine, set the energy in motion, and let the Universe take the lead! Make a list of all the things that you want in your life. Write down everything that you can think of. For instance, describe the kind of home you wish to live in, the style of clothes you would like to wear, the type of people you want to associate with, the places you want to visit, etc. This step will clarify your thinking and allow you to clearly see where you want to go and what you want your destination to look like. Choose what you really want, and not what you think you should want (namely, to please others). Don’t compromise, as nothing less than what you sincerely want can make you truly happy. Do not make choices about what you do not want. Instead, focus on the desired outcome. For instance, choose the statement "I reach my ideal weight easily", instead of "I quit eating so much ice cream", and the quitting will come naturally! Include all the qualities you want in your ideal outcome, but do not include names or the way people should behave. An affirmation is always positive, stated in the present tense, and usually personal, even though it can sometimes be related to our loved-ones (for instance our children, ensuring that they remain fully protected). Use words that are clear and definite. The simpler the command, the more impact it will have. Always compose your affirmation describing how it would be if your request had already been granted. Say little or nothing at all to anyone about your wishes and desires, a strong protection against negative feed back, which could make you loose your faith in the process. Always conclude your affirmation with this open statement: "This or something even better is now manifesting in my life for my highest good, and the highest good of all concerned".

Keep your mind off fears and doubts. Wait with confidence, knowing that everything is now moving toward the realization of your dream, even amidst apparent chaos, which only comes to bring about the necessary changes in your affairs. When your desire has been fulfilled, remember to give some heartfelt thanks to the Universe. Giving credit for what you just received will bring about even more good in your life, making this saying ring very true: "All good things come in threes".

Treasure Map: One of the most powerful sources of Ch’i can be activated by your own collages when they reflect what you want. These powerful visual affirmations can hardly be surpassed by anything else. A treasure map is a fantastic "order form" that will allow you to get what you want in life. It is created with a specific sample of pictures and words cut from diverse publications, and put together on a card board. They should be actual pictures of things or conditions that you want to manifest in your life. Clarity is the first and most important step to the fulfillment of your desires. This technique is very powerful because it enables your conscious mind to decide on what you truly want, which, subsequently, gives focus to your subconscious mind. Instead of having scattered hopes for the future, the collage becomes a constant visual command, as you look at it daily, programming your subconscious minds with exactly what you want in every area of your life. Results will come through new people appearing in your life, phenomenal coincidences, unexpected help, things that seem to appear from nowhere, or just a new view on how to solve an old problem. Images are very powerful forces that attract what they show in our reality, and we should always choose very carefully the kind of illustrations we want to display in our home or office. The more you contemplate the symbolic images of your ideal life as assembled on your treasure map, the less time it will take to manifest. A treasure map can be any size that is convenient, and does not need to be a great work of art. You can choose to create a treasure map following the nine different life areas of the Bagua, or focus your attention on only one single aspect. When you use lots of red, you charge the process with a greater dynamic power. If you desire a more calming effect, use assorted shades of blue. You can also play with lots of different colors. Show images of your longings as being already materialized. Pictures and words can portray either ideal situations, like a perfect family gathering, a wonderful journey, or material, like a piece of furniture, a car, etc. Display a photograph of yourself in a prominent place on your collage. Somewhere in your collage include the following sentence: "This or something better for my highest good and the highest good of all concerned". This ultimate request allows for the most perfect manifestation to take place, not just for yourself, but for the benefit of all other people involved in the situation. This step also helps release a guilt feeling when we think that something we want might hurt someone else. We know then, that everything will unfold perfectly for everyone concerned, and it will. Be confident and wait serenely for the results to appear. The energies of your desires will build up at their own pace, until one day when they will fully materialize. You can change the images on your collage whenever you feel like it, but be cautious not to change them when your wishes are on the brink of becoming a reality (which could be called self-sabotage!) If for any reason at all, a collage in full view is not appropriate, use a note book to display your pictures and words, and look at them privately. Keep a journal of all your materialized desires. This will greatly build up your confidence in the process. It is also good to acknowledge in writing any step that you feel is bringing you closer to the fulfillment of your desires. CLUTTER Whether we are aware of it or not, surrounding objects have a deep influence on us, even when hidden. By holding onto things that no longer

serve any purpose in our life, we are holding onto a past that is gone, which prevents us from fully engaging in the present time. The problem with keeping old stuff is that it blocks the flow of energy in the Bagua area where it resides. New energy (therefore new material stuff) does not flow easily into cluttered situations. When our living spaces are a mess, with clutter everywhere, when we don’t know what we have, or why we even keep it, it’s time to undertake a major cleaning/clearing ! This is necessary even before proceeding to any Bagua enhancement. Lets say, for instance, that a cure is calling for a mirror. What would happen, if that mirror could only reflect piles of junk and clutter of all sorts? It’s easy to understand how such circumstances could only worsen the problem at hand, instead of bringing the expected relief! Ideally, everything should be kept in good repair. It is also recommended to be clearly aware of what we are storing, especially when associated with painful memories. Their release often brings peace of mind. When we take the time to liquidate what has no more reason to exist, and begin removing from our life what we do not want, we make room for a greater good to fill that empty space!

How to use the Bagua The Bagua (bah-gwa) is a square map divided into nine equal sections, called the Guas. A fundamental aspect of life is attributed to each Gua. The nine divisions of the Bagua are nine unique energy fields that can be activated to create good Ch’i flowing all around a space, which will greatly enrich the lives of its inhabitants. Traditionally, the Bagua is octagonally shaped, but we always treat it as if it were square or rectangular, as we place it over the structure to be mapped. The Bagua map can be symbolically superimposed on any structure, or stretched to any designed layout plan, to accurately determine which part of a space belongs to which aspect of life. The first step is to determine the exact structural shape of the space to be mapped. This can be done either mentally or by sketching a floor plan, exactly as it would appear when looking straight down from an overhead view. The main entrance, seen as the principal source of Ch’i, determines the positioning of the Bagua map for the entire space. For a building or a house, the main entrance designed by the architect is the one to take into consideration, even though a secondary entrance might be commonly used. When a room has several entryways, it is either the largest door, or the one used most often, that serves as the vantage point to apply the Bagua. The main gate to a plot of land, the front door to a building, or the main door to a room should always be lined up with the bottom of the Bagua. t If the main door opens to the center of a space, the entrance falls in the Life Journey (Career) section of the Bagua. If the main door opens to the right-hand side of a space, the entrance falls in the Helpful People and Travel section of the Bagua. If the main door opens to the left-hand side of a space, the entrance falls in the Knowledge and Wisdom section of the Bagua. When the positioning of the Bagua map has shown in which one of the three bottom sectors lies the main entrance, the whole grid is then stretched over the structure, like wall to wall carpeting. When a space has been mapped, it is then possible to see how each of the nine divisions corresponds to a specific area of the Bagua, therefore, to an activity of life. Whether assessing a space while physically present, or working on a blueprint, the formula remains the same. Some people find it easier to draw up a floor plan, which they then divide into nine Bagua sections. Either way is good, even though the floor plan may allow for more accuracy. It is beneficial to memorize where the nine sectors sit on the Bagua map. This will make it much easier to follow. Initially, you can also stick some memos around the space to label the sections. After a short while, you won't even need to do that. As stated earlier, anything can be mapped with the Bagua, which means that several different sectors can often overlap one another. For instance, the Bagua section of a whole structure (itself located on a particular Bagua area of a piece of land) may be attributed to a certain Bagua section, while the room that occupies that specific sector can also be divided into nine other different areas. This is perfectly normal, and becomes a great asset when activating the Guas. In case of a house with several stories, the Bagua sections found on the ground floor, will give their own attribution to the ones that are situated directly above them, or in the basement underneath.

This is how it works when dealing with regular structures:

Buildings with irregular shapes Feng Shui offers a new approach to living and can positively change our lives in ways that we simply cannot even imagine when we initiate the process. Countless opportunities will present themselves, always easy to grasp, and perfectly fit to help fulfill our needs and desires. Nevertheless, before we can successfully reap the rewards of Feng Shui, we have to accomplish our part of the job, that is, preparing the canvas for a marvelous creation ! Note: Getting familiar with the working of the Bagua map will ease the comprehension of the following.

"Missing Corners"

Whether positive or negative, the quality of the energy flowing in a dwelling largely depends on its architecture. Not all shapes are perfectly square, rectangular, round, or oval. When a structure is irregularly-shaped, either a single room, a house, a building, a plot of land, etc., it will inevitably create one or several "missing corners", which causes great imbalance to the energetic structure, usually reflecting strongly the same imbalance in the lives of the people that occupy this specific space. In other words, it is devoid of the luck symbolized by the specific Bagua area that is missing. "Missing corners" are easy to find when the Bagua map is superimposed on a space, as part of the grid is dangling outside the structural layout. The lines of the Bagua contour must be extended until a square or a rectangle has been formed, as shown in the following three examples.

Example # 1: Clearly shows how the Bagua map cannot entirely fit inside the whole structure, leaving Love and Relationships and a fraction of Children and Creativity "dangling" on the outside. People who live in this kind of space may find it hard to enjoy a true loving relationship, happiness in their marriage, close friendship, or peaceful partnerships and associations. They may also be experiencing hardships concerning pregnancies, recurring problems with their children, or have great difficulty expressing themselves and enjoying life, due to the Children and Creativity area being partly missing too.

Example # 2 : In this second case study, you can observe how the structural indentation has left the space lacking Wealth and Prosperity, plus a good portion of Health and family. People who live or work in such a structure may find it most difficult to accumulate material possessions, and will often see their resources get blown away due to unexpected expenses and financial setbacks. With some portion of Health and Family missing as well, they might also experience bad relationships with close friends, co-workers, or elderly members of their family. The conjunction of these two missing sectors could prevent the occupants from getting their due share of an inheritance, or a sudden illness or accident may impede their income. It is also very unlikely that they will receive much help from friends and family.

Example # 3 : In this third case, notice the overlay of the Bagua map: the bottom part of the grid has been aligned along the bottom part of

the structure, even though the entrance is positioned farther back. This point will be explained in more detail later on. Here, Knowledge and Wisdom and part of Life Journey (Career) are missing. People who live or work in a space where Knowledge and Wisdom is missing may find it either difficult to acquire new knowledge, or won't even bother. With part of Career missing as well, they may end up doing a job they dislike because of a lack of skills. Their children may also find it difficult to study, and could well drop out of school.

Bagua layout with recessed entryways Buildings with "missing corners" up front often have a recessed entryway, which can make it challenging to figure out how to apply the Bagua map correctly. An image being worth a thousand words, the diagrams that follow will fully explain the process:

"Missing corners" can be found anywhere in a space, even in its center, when dealing with odd structures such as U and L shapes, or central patios. It is what sits under the same roof (garage included), or what is firmly attached to the house (harbors, decks, etc.) that gives the shape to a structure. In other words, it can be anything that is contained within certain limits. When we find a "missing corner" in our living quarters, and become aware of what our space is lacking, we usually feel a strong urge to get it back ! Instead of starting a war with our neighbors, breaking down walls, and so forth, we can implement other very powerful Feng Shui remedies. The trick is simple: We bring the irregular shape back into a whole shape again, either physically, or by using "mystic" Feng Shui remedies. Both work wonders. It is very important to locate any missing corners, as they need to be treated and brought back into the space. This process will create an harmonious energetic flow, making an environment perfectly fit to be enhanced with all the Bagua enrichments.

Exterior cures for "missing corners" Exterior cures are implemented when we can have access to the exterior of the space. We must first determine exactly where the structure would extend, if it were a whole shape. Then we just "fill up" the empty space, or create a physical or symbolic contour. Several remedies can be used for this situation: The most expensive cure would be, of course, the building of an extra room. If at all possible, this drastic remedy would not only allow the occupants to enjoy a lot more habitable space, but would also bring a very steady supply of nurturing energy into the structure, which is the source of all prosperity and well-being. When a complete addition is not possible, which is often the case, the planting of a tree is one Feng Shui cure most commonly used. You must first determine precisely where the outside corner of the structure would be (if it were regular), and plant a tree at that exact spot. When the planting of a tree is not convenient, the demarcation can be done with anything else, requiring only that it be large and tall enough in relation to the structure. Resurfacing the missing area with tiles or concrete is another excellent choice, especially if a tall border of some kind closes the space. A covered patio is another option that also works very well. Flooding the missing space with light is another Feng Shui remedy, providing the light is kept on at all times. Landscaping a missing area with evergreens and flowers can also bring the shape back into balance. A tall pole with a large banner that blows in the wind is another good alternative, providing the pole does not face the front door, nor is positioned too close to a window.

Interior cures for "missing corners" When we have no access to the exterior, and cannot physically "square off" a space, we can still work from the inside, using cures that are more "transcendental" in nature. In such instances, the two remedies most frequently used are mirrors and round-faceted crystals. If the recessing structure is made up of a plain wall, a mirror can be placed on both sides of the corner. If possible, the bigger the better. Otherwise, a small mirror can be hidden behind a piece of furniture or a painting (reflective surface facing inside the room). In other words, mirrors as cures for "missing corners" should always be placed on the walls that, if possible, would be "pushed back" to create a regular shape.

When there is a window instead of a wall, a round- faceted crystal can be hung in front, traditionally on a 9" red string (or multiples of 9). It is also possible to display several crystals in various shapes and sizes, creating a rainbow window that will fill up the space with joy and colors whenever the sun shines through.

Irregular structures "squared off" from the outside:

Irregular structures "squared off" from the inside:

Protruding corners, as they jut into rooms are potentially dangerous for obvious reasons. In Feng Shui, however, the reason is hidden to our naked eye, even though it plays a major role in the way we feel in our environment. Right at their angle, "protruding corners" are sending a very destructive energy, as harmful as if an arrow would be shot in our direction, or as cutting as the tip of a knife. Even though the harmful effect may take more time to be felt, it will eventually take its toll on anyone who is regularly stabbed by what is interchangeably called a "secret arrow" or a "poison arrow," and what is most likely to bring them illness and misfortune. For your protection, you can choose any one of the following cures, remembering that it is important to use remedies that appeal to your sense of beauty and harmony. Hang a wind chime from the ceiling (or anything else you like) but large enough to "break" the corner. Place one or several large plants in front of the corner. Hang a round-faceted crystal from the ceiling right at the angle of the corner. Place a screen and wrap it around both sides of the corner. Round the corner with molding, plaster, or a vine. Place anything you like, as long as the protruding corner is shielded, and you leave convenient walking space!

Last preparation Going through the ritual of locating "missing" and "protruding" corners may seem like a strenuous and useless operation. In fact, it is just the opposite. It is of vital importance. By taking the time to correct these small matters, you can tremendously improve your overall well-being and good fortune. Therefore, do not skip this important step, which is similar to preparing the ground prior to planting new seeds, or to cleaning walls before putting on a fresh coat of paint. Any preparation is often boring when it involves following strict guidelines, but the rewards are worthwhile. The serious application of Feng Shui will allow you to fully enjoy your living space, and to feel protected and nurtured like never before. In addition, Good Luck will always be on your side, and you will feel on top of your world!

Now, there is still one last check to perform before the enrichment process can begin. You must make sure that the ground is perfectly ready for the planting !

F Go to your front door and have a good look on the outside: Can you see any sharp line or pointing object that would be directly targeted at your front entrance? Roof-angles from neighboring buildings, sharp edges from pillars, large branches, etc. Make sure to look around for anything that could be pointing at your main entrance or windows. Protection from these dangerous "poison arrows" can be achieved by placing a Bagua mirror (found in most Oriental markets), or a round convex mirror, or a very shiny plaque on the outside facing the target. This remedy will neutralize the "arrow " by deflecting its destructive power.

F Can you see a road coming directly onto your front door? Is your house situated at the end of a T or Y junction? Is it situated close to a heavily traveled road, or can you hear excessive noise from people? Protect your space (and yourself) by creating a barricade with a fence, a fountain with running water, or a grouping of trees or shrubs and plants. Shield your house from any nuisance directed toward it.

F Is there a straight walkway leading to your front door? Soften it by placing pots of greenery along the way (or anything else that will leave convenient walking space) so as to make it visually curving. F If you live in a complex or apartment-building: Is your personal space located at the end of a long corridor? Does the entrance face the elevators or a stairway? Protect your space by placing a round convex mirror or a Bagua mirror on top of your main entry, or by adding some reflective device onto your door (copper door knob, apartment numbers, etc.,) providing it is routinely polished and kept shiny.

F Is there a single tree, a lamp post, a tall and narrow pole directly facing your front door? Protection can be achieved through two methods: The first is the placement of a mirror on top of the door, which will reflect the destructive energy back to its origin. The second involves wrapping a section of the tree trunk or pole with tin foil, or placing a small mirror at eye level. This will create a symbolic hole, through which the energy will be allowed to pass. By any means, try to deflect all "poison arrows" targeted at your front door!

Energizing an environment using the Bagua In Feng Shui, the auspicious placement of symbolic objects into our environment is believed to allow for their tangible manifestation into our lives. Representing our goals, aspirations and wishes, they are considered powerful environmental affirmations as they punctuate our living quarters according to the nine energy fields of the Bagua. Each sector of the Bagua corresponds to some life aspirations, and can be strongly activated using various means within its own range of shapes, colors, elements and symbolic items. With Feng Shui, you can virtually enhance any aspect of your life: Recover from illness. Enjoy radiant health and reach your fitness goal. Increase your overall luck and prosperity. Get full acknowledgment for your deeds and accomplishments. Activate your social life or widen your circle of friends. Restore good relationships with spouse, children, partners. Attract romance, marriage possibilities. Enhance your creativity in all domains, including fertility. Assist your children in beneficial ways.

Extend your travel opportunities. Attract helpful people. Seize new career chances. Successfully close business deals. Increase your knowledge. Refine your teaching skills. Deepen your ability to meditate, to remain peaceful and centered. Tighten the bond with your higher power, and the invisible realms.

As a reminder of the good use of the Bagua F Always locate the different sections from the vantage point of the entry. You already know that you can enter a space only through the three bottom sectors of the Bagua: Knowledge and Wisdom, Career, or Helpful People and Travel. F If your front door is well inside the space, for instance at the end of a walkway, you must place the bottom of the Bagua at the same level as the bottom of the structure, as explained earlier. F Depending on its size, a room can sometimes hold several Bagua sections or just a small portion of a Gua. F Once you have assessed the various positions of the Guas as they fit in your specific environment, you can then work on enhancing these areas through various arrangements that will activate their particular energy, and soon reflect favorable changes occurring in the same aspect of your life. F Inserting an object in a Gua in accordance with its specific shape, color, or element, creates a particular vibrational pattern that will raise the level of Ch’i that is connected to this Gua. F As you will be punctuating your environment with symbolic items, choose objects that feel right or that have a very special meaning to you. Bagua accessories can be likened to lucky charms that will help you attract what you seek - good health, wealth, love, etc. Give it some thought and choose carefully. Take your lifestyle and preferences into consideration and follow only what feels right for you. Make sure your symbols are well representing your goals, aspirations and wishes - yours alone, and not someone else’s! F Remember that when you put something old or new in your home, you are bringing that energy into your life. F Artifacts used as enrichments can be anything, ranging from valuable sculptures, paintings, or tapestry, to photographs, posters, collages, even your three year old’s creations, as long as you really like what you are placing. F It is not necessary to overdo an enhancement as one item is often enough. Elaborate decoration is not required, but comfort, security and protection are. You will know when Ch’i is flowing harmoniously, because the atmosphere of your home will be pleasant, giving you a profound sense of well-being. F You can create special Bagua arrangements on any surface, including inside drawers, sections of a bookshelf, or even an entire bookcase (treating the Bagua map vertically in this instance). F Notice that the Bagua section of a building holds more structural energy than the Bagua section of a room, and, for that matter, of a piece of furniture. Also, that the nine Bagua energies are mutually interdependent, always flowing from one Gua to another. F Work first with the areas that are linked to some aspect of your life that you would like to improve. For maximum success, define clearly what your objectives are, and what results you want to achieve when activating an area, but make sure that all other sectors are clean and well organized. F As any space can be mapped with the Bagua, from the smallest to the largest, you can enhance all the areas of your home or workplace related to the same Bagua section. This process is especially recommended when a space has a missing corner. For instance, when the Wealth and Prosperity area is missing, activate as many far left corners as possible (located when standing at the entrance) of any and all rooms in the house. In case of one single room, activate the Wealth and Prosperity corner on top of a chest of drawers, a console, a chimney mantel, a table, etc.

F When the purchase of a brand new item is financially convenient, its placement as an enrichment will add freshness to the setting and heighten its significance. If nothing new can be incorporated, the nicest object around can play a powerful role as well. The only requirement is that it should belong to the appropriate list of enrichments, depending upon the Bagua section where it is to be placed. The key factors are colors, shapes, elements, and the symbolic representation that must convey the feeling of the ideal life situation that you want to reflect.

HEALTH AND FAMILY Traditional direction : East. Colors: Green and blue. Number: 3. Shape: Tall and narrow. Element: Wood (nourished by water, destroyed by Metal). This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates essentially on ensuring good health and a harmonious bond between members of a same unit: family, inner circle of friends, co-workers, church or community members, support group, religious congregation, etc. This Gua stores anything related to the past, such as souvenirs, family secrets, childhood issues, and deals specifically with elderly members of the family. Therefore, you are encouraged to activate this sector when you want to resolve any matter concerning your physical well-being or your appearance, or you wish to elucidate some deep-rooted childhood issues, or want to grow strong roots in order to enhance your sense of security.

Enrichments for Health and Family Healthy plants: Never choose this section of your environment as a nursing spot for plants on the decline. In fact, make sure to throw away all sick or dead plants, regardless of their location in your house. Fresh flowers: Any colors will do. Items: Made out of wood (rattan, fibers, etc.), columnar- shaped (column, pedestal, cookie jar, vase, etc.), any kind of floral print or stripes (bedspreads, curtains, pillows, rugs, tablecloth, etc.) Any form of art representing: Ancestors, relatives, or beloved friends, people whose appearance seems ideal, beautiful gardens, plants, flowers, trees, etc. Heirlooms: Any piece of heritage from a beloved ancestor.

WEALTH AND PROSPERITY Traditional direction : South-east. Colors : Red, purple, or blue. Number : 4 This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates essentially on generating material abundance, prosperity on all levels, and protection from accident and bad luck. You are encouraged to activate this sector when you wish to be financially secure, to increase the flow of money in your household or business, to acquire a steady income, want to enhance your luck in sweepstakes, gambling, etc., and last but not least, when you wish to realize full consciousness of your current prosperity.

Enrichments for Wealth and Prosperity Items: Anything that sways in the breeze (flags, wind socks, banners, etc.), anything valuable (antiques, coin collection, jewelry box, etc.), in the wealth colors (red, purple, or blue or a mixture of these colors, and also green, the color of the U.S. currency), anything that is rich-looking (brocades, antique cashmere shawls, gold-framed mirrors, paintings, etc.), made out of glass or crystal, domestic or foreign currency, a bowl full of change, a box filled with bank-notes, or a bank deposit slip (write an ideal amount), along with an affirmation pertaining to Wealth. Healthy plants: Always with round foliage (like coins). Usually the larger the better (in relation to the space available) and blooming in the wealth colors (red, purple, blue). To further enhance your prosperity, you could also place three or nine coins under each planter ! A splendid bouquet of flowers: Silk or fresh. No dried flowers, unless they look "fresh and alive". Real water features: Aquariums, or any device with bubbling waters. Remember that a one-sided fountain should always have the water running toward the inside of the house (meaning money flowing in your direction), and never away. Any form of art representing: Wealth and abundance, desired possessions, currency, something

wind-propelled (wind mills, etc.) or that swings in the wind (kites, colorful clothes drying in the wind, etc.), flowing waters (from springs, waterfalls, fountains, etc.) Note: Some people like to put a bowl underneath it, to symbolically "catch" the flow of money that the water represents ! FAME AND REPUTATION Traditional direction: South. Color: Red. Number: 9. Shape: Angular. Element: Fire (nourished by Wood, destroyed by Water). This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates on developing and preserving skills, talents, popularity, and fame. Therefore, you are encouraged to activate this sector when you want to be well-known and honored for a particular skill or talent (be it physical or intellectual), when you are launching a new product on the market, or are called for a job interview, or to performed in front of an audience, or when you are passing exams. Also when you want to increase your social activities or get newly acquainted with people that seem out of reach (notorious people). The enrichment of this Gua will also help you get your fair share of respect from your peers, family members, neighbors and colleagues, and give you the courage to stand for yourself.

Enrichments for Fame and Reputation Items: Any symbol of accomplishment (awards, diplomas, etc.), personally linked to fame or good reputation, red (ranging from dark purple to bright reds), that has a triangular or pointed shape (triangles, cones, pyramids, etc), anything made from an animal (wool, feathers, leather, bone, silk, etc., except trophies of dead animals), anything that generates light or heat (electrical devices, candles, oil lamps, incense, aromatic scents, etc.) Note: If that section of your space happens to be dark, leave a light on at all times. Any form of art representing: Humans or animals, famous people, the sun, a fire, a lamp, candles, a special kind of lighting, etc., or an illustration featuring the landscape of a hot burning desert. LOVE AND RELATIONSHIPS Traditional direction: South-West. Number: 2 Colors: Red, pink, white. This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates on attracting, enhancing, and preserving loving and harmonious relationships. Those can be linked either to romance and marriage or to intimate friendship and close partnership. You are encouraged to activate this sector when you are on a quest for "Love and Romance", or when to want to restore a good relationship with a marriage or business partner, a lover, or a very close friend, or wish to stabilize a newly-established relationship, as well as when you are organizing a wedding, a honeymoon, a party with friends, co-workers, family members, or when you are creating a new partnership. This Gua is the most Yin of all, and its proper enrichment will allow you to also be much more receptive , which will make you an expert at accepting all the good things that life has to offer you.

Enrichments for Love and Relationships Note: The bedroom is a very powerful area to intensify, even when it is located in a different Bagua sector. Items: Things in pairs (two hearts, candles, flowers, etc.), or complementary, any mementos happily associated with love and close friendship (weddings pictures, gifts from friends, spouse, lover, partners, romantic objects, tokens of affection, etc.), anything in the love colors (red, pink, peach, any skin tones, white, or in combination). Affirmation or collage: Pertaining to ideal love, or perfect relationships.

CHILDREN AND CREATIVITY Traditional direction: West. Number: 7. Colors: White, cream, or pastels. Shapes: Circular, oval, or arched. Element: Metal (nourished by Earth, destroyed by Fire). This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates on the future, and what is still to be created. This Gua is related to anything concerning creativity in every aspect. You are encouraged to activate this sector when you wish to give birth or to adopt a child, when you want to stimulate your creative abilities, get fresh ideas, complete a project, or restore/enhance your relationship with children. This is also the sector to enrich and take good care of when we want to have more fun in life and enjoy extra freedom.

Enrichments for Children and Creativity Items: Any tools of your trade, such as items that you are using (or wish to be using) in your creative process, also, toys, dolls, or stuffed animals, anything whimsical and/or colorful, white, cream, or light pastel, round, oval, or arched-shaped, made out of stone (including precious or semi-precious gems) or metal (including gold, silver, copper, etc.), coins and medals. Any form of art: That will stimulate your own creativity, created by children, or made with metal, stones, gems, etc., or that includes the shape of the Metal Element.

HELPFUL PEOPLE AND TRAVEL Traditional direction: North-West. Colors: Black, white or grey. Number: 6. This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates on the outside world and is deeply connected with the invisible realms. From here, it brings our requests for help to the spiritual world, magnetizes new opportunities, creates synchronicity (being at the right place, at the right time, meeting the right people), and takes care of anything related to traveling. Therefore, you are encouraged to activate this sector when you are looking for the perfect new home to buy or rent, or are seeking a trustworthy buyer or renter for your property, or have a move coming up, as well as when you want to attract new customers to enhance your business; Also when you are planning a trip or are ready to go, or you are organizing something involving faraway people, or you wish to deepen your connection with the unseen realms. Stimulate this sector will help you find good spiritual guidance. This is the most Yang of all Gua.

Enrichments for Helpful People and Travel Items: A globe or a map of the World, a prayer or religious book, anything associated with your best customer (his/her picture, etc.), something evoking the kind of exterior help you wish to attract(for instance, a picture of an eminent mentor, or a miniature car if you need a lift to go to work!), or a special request box to place all demands for help, or anything else you may want, invoking the spiritual realms to bring assistance for the fulfillment of your wishes and dreams. You can also place anything white, grey, and/or black. Any form of art representing: Faraway places, or places where you want to go, or have already been (travel posters, souvenirs), religious sceneries or figures, spiritual guides, angels.

LIFE JOURNEY (CAREER) Traditional direction: North. Colors: Black, or very dark tones. Number: 1 Shape: Wavy, undulating. Element: Water (nourished by Metal, destroyed by earth) This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates on helping to proceed to profound changes and in facing the unknown, as well as to anything related to work, business and career. Therefore, you are encouraged to activate this sector when you are faced or challenged by an important issue or event, performing a major career shift, looking for a new job, as well as when you wish to ease the closing of a business deal, or accelerate a promotion at work.

Enrichments for Life Journey (Career) Real water features: Fountains, aquariums, birdbaths, waterfalls, etc. Note: On the outside, remember to always direct the flow of water toward the building, and inside, make sure it is not directed toward any exit! Meaningful work and career symbols: Prototypes, letters of gratitude for work performed, etc. Items made out of reflective surfaces: Paperweights, crystal vases or ashtrays, etc., mirrors, glass.

Free-flowing shape: Wavy items, undulating prints, etc. Any black or dark-colored item for: Furniture, rugs, material, picture frames, etc. Any form of art representing the water or nautical domain: Water views, harbors, boats, fish, seashells, etc. Note: Refrain from choosing art depicting ghastly sea-storms, boats in distress, and the like, unless it clearly shows salvation as well !

KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM Traditional direction: North-East. Colors: Black, blue, and green. Number: 8 This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i concentrates on educational pursuits and wise expression, inspiration and contemplation. You are encouraged to activate this sector when you want to cultivate a more tranquil lifestyle, or are undertaking any kind of study (to easily assimilate new knowledge), or when you teach or share personal education. The proper enrichment of this Gua will also help you to discern things more accurately, so that you will take better decisions and won’t bypass any desirable opportunity to grow and prosper. This is the Gua to enrich when you want to learn the truth in a confused situation.

Enrichments for Knowledge and Wisdom Items: Study material containing the knowledge currently studied, or knowledge that you wish to acquire, bookshelves filled with books you wish to read or keep, anything black, blue or green, or engraved with an inspirational quote or saying. Any form of art representing: Serene places, mountains (with no water), peaceful gardens, erudite, enlightened, wise people posing in a contemplative manner, admired teachers. CENTER/SELF Colors: Yellow, or earth tones. Number: 5. Shape: Square (as well as flat and rectangular) Element: Earth (nourished by Fire, destroyed by Wood) This Gua is the energy field where Ch’i mixes with all the other energies and concentrates on connecting all eight Bagua sections. It is also where it carries the greatest power. The traditional Bagua (an octagon) has the Yin and Yang symbol represented in its center. Being a very powerful source of benevolent energy, the center of a house should remain clutter-free, well-lit, and is especially suitable for the set-up of a quiet room for meditation, or an altar. You are encouraged to activate this sector when you want to be more grounded and centered, an eminent part of what is happening around you, or to put the accent on resolving an issue already in "treatment" on another Gua, or to "tie" every enhanced Gua together, giving the feeling that everything is flowing around a solid base.

Enrichments for Center/Self Items: A scale perfectly balanced, or a merry-go-round (toy or real scale!) is a good reminder that one can stay centered, even though everything else around is moving fast. Anything made out of clay, soil, (earthenware, pottery, porcelain, china, etc.), a round-faceted crystal, anything square, or flat and rectangular, anything in the earth colors (ranging from warm tones of yellow, including gold, to rich earth tones. Any form of art representing: Earthy landscapes, an ox or an elephant, farms, barns, farmers, a cornucopia filled with the fruits of the Earth, a house that looks solidly built (preferably a square one), anything that looks nourishing and grounding. Treasure Map: Create a treasure map following the different areas of the Bagua map, and showing how you would like all those aspects of your life to be brought into balance and harmony. Place it in any Center area, where you can contemplate it as often as possible.

AFFIRMATIONS, QUOTES AND SAYINGS You can either display an affirmation, quote, or saying in full view, or hide it in a drawer, under an item, or in a special box. You can use calligraphy to pen an affirmation, quote, or saying, or print it, paint it, stitch it, or simply write it down on a piece of paper! The following list can serve either as inspirational material to create your own, or be used as is, if appropriate for you. They can be placed either in their proper section of the Bagua, in any Center area, or displayed in a special request box placed in any Helpful People and Travel area of your home or office.

Health and Family Our relationships with my parents are fun, loving, nurturing, and very enriching for us all ! As we reunite with family and friends this Thanksgiving, it will be the best reunion ever! My body is full of vitality, and I am perfectly healthy from head to toe, inside out ! I joyously and effortlessly follow my exercise routine and healthy diet. "Everyday, in every way, I am getting better and better". (Emile Coue). "For every evil under the sun, There is a remedy, or there is none; If there is one, find it and try it, If there is none, never mind it." (W.C. Hazlitt)

Wealth and Prosperity All financial issues in my life are now resolved, and I feel perfectly secure materially. My income is now in excess of my living expenses by 30% or more. I focus solely on the lavish abundance of the Universe, which is its true nature. I am now in the flow, and enjoy the same lavish abundance in my life. I count my blessings and recognize all the good that is already present in my life. "Fortune favors the bold." (Virgil)

Fame and Reputation I enjoy an excellent reputation at work and in my community, just by being myself and doing things my own way. I am well-respected by all members of my family/my circle of friends/partners. All my accomplishments speak for themselves.

Love and Relationships I have found the ideal mate with whom to share my life. I love him/her the way he/she is, and he/she loves me the way I am. Love feels great! I do not judge or condemn anyone, for "There isn’t anyone I couldn’t love once I’ve heard their story." When I feel well and happy, I have the power to bring joy and fun to those around me. Therefore, I joyfully accept anything that can make me happy. My inner circle of friends is expanding. I now let in some new and wonderful people. "Brotherhood is not just a Bible word. Out of comradeship can and will come the happy life for all." (Heywood Broun)

Children and Creativity I am now able to fully express my creativity, as I am in possession of all the tools of my trade, including my own personal creative area. I joyfully express my creativity. A baby is on its way! My children are safe and are expressing their joy of life and their full creativity in the best way possible. I accept all changes with faith, knowing that sooner or later, they always work for the best. "After the rain, always comes the sunshine." (French proverb)

Helpful People and Travel I attract all kinds of wonderful new opportunities in my life and can always develop them in the best possible way. I am always at the right place, at the right time, meeting the right people for my highest good as well as theirs. I feel totally safe and protected wherever I am, and with whomever I am. Wonderful new circumstances are now allowing me to travel wherever I please. Events and circumstances are constantly taking place to enable me to acquire whatever I want in my life. "I walk with faith, not by sight."(New testament: I Corinthians, V. 7) "Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find, knock, and it shall be opened unto you." (New testament, Matthew VII, 7)

Life Journey (Career) My work fulfills all my dreams. I love doing what I do for a living. It is financially rewarding, enjoyable, and very helpful to the world. I turned my hobby into a very lucrative career. I am now creating my own enterprise with total faith in its long- term success. "The will makes it all possible." (French proverb) " The only thing we have to fear is fear itself. " (Franklin D. Roosevelt) "The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." (Lao-Tse)

Knowledge and Wisdom I always have the time and the means to cultivate my self-knowledge. I am now able to keep some quiet time to myself. I enjoy being alone, knowing that I can rejoin the excitement of the outside world whenever I please. I know how to share my knowledge in interesting ways, which provides others with uplifting and useful information. I can choose what I want to hear and what I want to know. Therefore, I accept only that information which is most nourishing to me. "Silence is the element in which great things fashion themselves." (Carlyle) "When the student is ready, the teacher appears." "Knowledge is power." (Thomas Hobbes 1588-1679).

Center/Self

My house provides me with a wonderful sense of security, while I am in it, as well as when I am out in the world. "This house brings comfort and healing, abundance and prosperity for all who live here." "Little by little, the bird builds its nest." (French proverb) "A place for everything and everything in its place." (Samuel Smiles) "All is for the best in the best of possible worlds." (Voltaire) DESKTOP ARRANGEMENT WITH THE BAGUA

Love & Wealth & Prosperity Relationships

Fame & Reputation

Health & Family

Children & Creativity Center/Self

Helpful People &

Wisdom & Knowledge

Career

Travel

∆

Seat Desk divided into the nine Bagua sectors

Bagua arrangement suggested Career: space located just in front of you, where you sit. You can place: A black (or dark tone) blotting-pad, which delineates the space, while enhancing it.

Wealth and Prosperity: space located on the top left corner. You can place: An item of value, a bowl full of change, a table fountain (water running toward you), an item depicting a fish, an aquarium (with an odd number of fish), anything red, blue or purple, a bright lamp.

Fame and Reputation: space located at the top middle section. You can place: A trophy or an award, an item depicting people or animals, an item made from part of an animal, a lamp, a candle, etc., anything red.

Love and Relationships: space located on the top right corner. You can place: Pictures of loved ones, a vase filled with two flowers (in the love colors), anything in pairs or two things that complement each other, or an item of sentimental value.

Center: The center of your desk should remain free and uncluttered. Children and Creativity: space located at the middle right section. You can place: A container filled with pens, colorful markers, scissors, etc., an item made out of metal, pictures of children, a child's artistic creation.

Helpful People and Travel: Space located at the bottom right corner. You can place: The phone, fax machine, address book, or anything else related to the outside world, as well as a black, white, or grey item.

Knowledge and Wisdom: space located on the bottom left corner. You can place: Everything that is currently under study, or needs to be done shortly, like mail that needs to be answered, instruction manuals, open files, and so forth, any black, blue, or green item.

Health and Family: space located at the middle left section. You can place: A healthy plant, a fresh bouquet of flowers (any colors), an item made out of wood, tall and narrow (columnar) in shape, an item in the shades of blue and/or green, or an heirloom.

Anywhere on your desk: You can place a lamp. Switch it on every time you are working, even when the day is bright and sunny. Important Note: Always position your desk so that you can see the door from your seat, without being in direct line with the door. If this is not possible, place a small mirror in front of you, in such manner as to reflect the door, allowing you to clearly see what is going on behind your back (do this even when alone).

LOCATION OF BATHROOMS In the practice of Feng Shui, the location of any bathroom is an important issue, and should always receive full attention. Because water is so closely associated with money, financial troubles are very often linked to a bathroom that is situated in a Wealth and Prosperity area. Check the Bagua of your space, and find out where the bathrooms are located on the map. If a location corresponds to an aspect of your life that you would like to improve, there are some steps that can be taken to correct the energetic balance of the area.

Cures for a bathroom in Wealth and Prosperity Always keep the door closed. Install a full size mirror on the exterior panel of the door. Always keep the drains closed, as well as the toilet seat, when not in use. Flush the toilet when the seat is already down. Have a plant near the toilet so that it can symbolically absorb the water. Place a mirror on all four walls (they need not be large or fully cover all walls). Make the bathroom look rich and opulent with the use of perfumed candles, potpourris, golden accessories, faucets, art frames, etc., as well as by installing a luxurious shower curtain (for instance, one made out of rich looking dark red brocade). Try your best to make this place as inviting and beautiful as it can be !

Cures for a bathroom located else where

Most of the suggestions given for a bathroom located in a Wealth and Prosperity corner apply for any other location. What greatly differs are the colors, shapes and elements to be used. Refer to the Bagua chart to find out what can be applied, depending on the Bagua section where the bathroom is situated. For instance at the center: Choose colors associated with that Center Gua, which are yellows, browns, or any other choice from the spectrum of Earth tones. Colors can be used for the walls, flooring, shower curtain, toilet seat cover, throw rugs, accessories, etc., add the use of terra cotta tiles, planters, etc., of anything related to the Earth Element, as well as to the shape of this section, which is square or rectangular, as well as items from its nourishing partner on the elemental cycle (Fire in this instance) to further enhance the power of Earth.

YIN AND YANG Yin and Yang are the two fundamental forces of the Universe. Utterly opposed, but yet complementary, they cannot exist without one another. Good Fortune emanates from an environment only when harmony is achieved between these two extreme forces. It then becomes essential to consider their interaction, and to correct any occasional discordance. What is conceived by Yang, is received and completed by Yin. Yang is life, Yin is death. Yang is activity, Yin is rest. Yang is stimulating, Yin is soothing.

Yang is Heaven, Yin is Earth. Yang is above, Yin is below. Yang is light, Yin is darkness. Yang is white, Yin is black. Yang is fire, Yin is water. Yang is warm, Yin is cold. Yang is vertical, Yin is horizontal. Yang is straight, Yin is curved. Yang is plain, Yin is ornate. Yang is filled, Yin is empty. And the list goes on and on.

The Ch’i is always moving between these two opposite forces, consistently seeking to achieve balance between the impact of the Yang force which is spinning the energy away, while Yin holds it tightly. A pleasing atmosphere (the Feng Shui of a place) is created when the Yin and Yang forces are working harmoniously together. These two factors are always assessed in relation to one another: When a situation is too quiet and lifeless (too Yin), life and movement must be added (Yang). When exhausted from a hectic schedule (Yang), rest and peacefulness (Yin) become crucial. When a space is too bright or too hot (gleaming lights, sun, blazing colors,) all of which are too Yang, the opposite must be supported by shadow (Yin). This may be done, by planting trees in a yard, or by the exchange of one single ceiling lamp for several lights spread around at different heights, or by adding touches of a darker color in an all-white room. When a space is overcrowded with people or possessions (too Yang) emptiness (Yin) is created by eliminating the excess overcrowding. When a ceiling is too high (too Yang), it is visually lowered (therefore bringing in the Yin factor) by hanging a series of pictures from the same heights all around the room, which will outline the demarcation between Heaven (Yang) and Earth (Yin). Everything moves in a cycle of constant change. Because harmony is what creates good fortune, it is very important that the interplay of the Yin and Yang components of an environment be assessed and harmonized, remembering that Yin and Yang are closely related, and must always be compared with one another. When something is too much one way, the opposite should be introduced: light/shadow, straight lines/ curved lines, activity/peacefulness, clutter/orderliness, coldness/warmth, and so on.

THE FIVE ELEMENTS (WOOD - FIRE - EARTH - METAL - WATER )

While Yin and Yang are, respectively, the negative and positive phases in the cycle of Ch’i, this energy has also five different types of manifestation, also called the five stages of change. Because harmony is what creates health and good fortune, the balance of Yin and Yang must also be supported by the balance of the Five Elements. Each element has its own function in a fixed pattern in the cycle of Creation, Destruction, and Control. THE CYCLE OF CREATION: Also called the cycle of nourishment, where one Element continuously feeds the element next to it:

Wood creates Fire> creates Earth> creates Metal> creates Water> creates Wood THE CYCLE OF DESTRUCTION: While one element nourishes the one next to it, it destroys the opposite Element on the cycle:

Wood destroys Earth > destroys Water > destroys Fire > destroys Metal> destroys Wood THE CYCLE OF CONTROL: In this cycle, one Element controls the conflict between the element standing on each side of it:

Wood controls the conflict between Water and Fire Fire controls the conflict between Wood and Earth Earth controls the conflict between Fire and Metal Metal controls the conflict between Earth and Water Water controls the conflict between Metal and Wood

Roles played by each Element The memorization of the roles played by each Element will considerably ease the process of balancing your environment. Wood is produced by Water, feeding its roots. Wood produces Fire, giving it nourishing substance. Wood destroys Earth, by exhausting the soil. Wood is destroyed by Metal, which chops it down. Fire is produced by Wood, giving it nourishing substance. Fire produces Earth, by replenishing the soil. Fire destroys Metal, by melting it. Fire is destroyed by Water, which extinguishes its flames. Earth is produced by Fire, by replenishing the soil. Earth produces Metal, by compression. Earth destroys Water, soils it or dams it. Earth is destroyed by Wood, which feeds on its nutrients. Metal is produced by Earth, by compression. Metal produces Water, by giving minerals (nourishing water). Metal destroys Wood, by chopping it down. Metal is destroyed by Fire, which melts its form down. Water is produced by Metal, giving it minerals. Water produces Wood, by feeding its roots to thrive. Water destroys Fire, by extinguishing its flames. Water is destroyed by Earth, which soils it or dams it.

Attributes of each Element WOOD: Stage of change: Upward movement of energy. Element: Trees, plants, flowers (real or silk), plant-based textile. Shape: Tall and narrow, up-right, like the trunk of a tree. Colors: Green and blue spectrum. Things: Anything made out of wood. Look: Floral print, vertical stripes. Art: Depicting luxurious landscapes, forest, jungles, gardens, plants, flowers, or art made out of wood, or columnar shaped. FIRE: State of change: Outward direction of energy. Element: Fire, light, heat. Shapes: Triangles, pyramids, cones. Color: Full red spectrum. Things: Anything that generates fire, lighting, or heat, or is made out of animal products. Art: Depicting people, animals, sunshine, light, fire. EARTH: Stage of change: Pivotal Element: Soil Shape: Square, or long flat surfaces. Color: Rich yellows, full earth-tone spectrum. Things: Anything made out of soil. Art: Depicting landscapes of deserts or fields. Pottery, etc. METAL: Stage of change: Condensing, inward movement of energy. Element: Gold, silver, aluminum, brass, stones, gems, marble, etc. Shape: Round, oval, arched. Color: White, cream, silver, and light pastels. Things: Anything made out of metal, rocks, gems or stone. Art: Made from metal, stone, precious or semi-precious gems, or representing them, or that includes the shape of Metal (mentioned above). WATER:

Stage of change: Fluid, flowing energy. Element: Liquid Shape: Wavy, undulating, curved, asymmetrical. Color: Black, or very dark tones. Things: Any kind of reflecting surface. Features: Fountains, waterfalls, pools, springs, rivers, lakes, etc. Art: Representing the water and nautical domains.

In nature, any harmonious configuration always includes all Five Elements. A forest for instance, has a large amount of the Wood Element, which is nourished by numerous springs (Water Element), and, sustained by the soil (Earth Element). The ever- presence of large boulders exemplifies the Metal Element. The Fire Element is manifested by all the animals dwelling in the core of the forest. Plus, the Fire Element will also be strongly felt every time a fire strikes, spontaneously regenerating the Earth Element exhausted by the Wood Element. In a room, each Element should be physically or symbolically represented and combined harmoniously in order to achieve balance, thus creating a nurturing environment. Elemental arrangements on top of furniture (coffee tables, chimney mantels, shelves, etc.) can act as pools of benevolent energy. The Ch’i that is moving smoothly through your dwelling will appreciate gathering nourishment and strength by those elemental "stop and go" stations. A natural balance will then be achieved, which always produces peace and harmony, combined with a profound sense of well-being. You can keep an equal amount of each element (though often one or two elements can be dominating) to form decorative arrangements through the various combination of furniture, objects, shapes, and colors. For instance, on top of a wooden coffee table (Wood), you could place a candle (Fire) on a cast-iron candle holder (Metal). Then add a crystal ashtray (Water), while presenting nuts or candies in a ceramic dish (Earth). Similarly, you could put a plant (Wood) in a black (Water) planter made out of pottery (Earth) on which an animal (Fire) is represented. Then place three or nine coins (Metal) in the soil, or under the dish, to accomplish the whole elemental arrangement. Posters, paintings, pottery, tablecloths, bed spreads, curtains, rugs, etc., that display all the elemental colors (green, red, yellow, white, and black) are very beneficial for the Ch’i that gets rejuvenated when flowing by this elemental mixture. Notice that a single object can be a composite of more than just one Element. For instance: A decorative item representing a bird (Fire) can be made out of "papier maché" (Wood) with its feet made out of iron (Metal), and showing yellow (Earth) and black (Water) feathers.

Assessing a room elementally The easiest way to elementally assess a room, is to take a sheet of paper and divide it into five columns, one for each element. Then, one room at a time, in the proper column, write down the description of all the major pieces of furniture and decorative items. Remember also, that one item can be a composite of several Elements. When this is done, it becomes easy to see which Element is dominating, missing, or not sufficiently represented, which will allow you to balance the room with the right elemental combination. This step will inevitably bring physical harmony into the environment, while creating good fortune for you.

Balancing a room elementally Some rooms can easily be overwhelmed by one single Element when the decorative scheme involves a combination of objects, colors, shapes, etc. that belong to the same Element. In this case, it becomes very important to introduce all the balancing Elements in their proper proportion. Example involving the wood Element: In magazines, we often see houses that have been decorated with the use of a large amount of the Wood Element. A room is often arranged in this manner: emerald green paint on the walls, floral upholstery for chairs and sofa, wooden furniture and floors, with plants and flower arrangements as a final touch! As beautiful as it may look, this kind of decorative scheme will seldom give a sense of peacefulness and well-being to the occupants of the room, often leaving them restless. Too much of the Wood Element, can also induce illness. To quicky reduce the overwhelming power of the Wood Element, Metal (which cuts Wood) should be introduced in a fair amount, as well as the Fire Element, (which burns Wood). The Earth Element should also be added to further strengthen the power of the

Metal Element. The presence of the Water Element (Water nourishing Wood) should be very subdued.

THE EXTENDED IMPACT OF OUR ENVIRONMENT Our environment has an immense impact on everything that happens to us, as well as to our close relatives, even when an ocean separates immediate members of the same family. A friend of mine, strongly wishing to meet her "soul mate", called on the help of Feng Shui, and arranged her home according to its guidelines. One week later, her mother, who had been widowed for over two decades, called from overseas to announce a sudden engagement to someone she had known essentially as a friend. For my friend, her career as an interior designer just took off like a rocket. This was due to the simple removal of a bench that was partially blocking her main entrance, preventing the front door from opening fully, and thereby holding back many career opportunities that she can now grasp easily and develop with great rewards.

MOST COMMONLY-FOUND CH’I BLOCKAGES Below is a list of the most common Ch’i blockages found in homes and places of work. Remove them, should they appear in your environment, and any previously obstructed paths will be cleared. This will allow for a new flow of benevolent and nourishing energy to meander gently through your space, bringing well-being and good fortune for you. Make the entrance to your home inviting. Remove all clutter (inside and out) and keep it well lit. The land directly in front of your main entrance should be clear and open to let the Ch’i in freely. Put your house number close to the door or in a prominent place and keep it well lit. Entrance doors should open to the widest area of a foyer or room. If, upon entering, you see a blank wall, hang a picture over it, preferably with a long-range view. If your front door is slanted, hang a round-faceted crystal (or chandelier) from the ceiling close to the inside of the door. Many times, immediately upon entering the front door, we can see a back door or a window. In that case, and to keep the Ch’i from exiting too fast, you should arrange something in between the entry and the other opening. This could be done with any kind of screening device, depending on the space available, ranging from a simple wind chime, a set of curtains, or a tall plant to a real wall partition. If a door opens onto a wall rather than opening directly into the larger part of a room (common in Victorian houses to keep privacy), install a mirror on the wall, or rehang the door the other way around to open the space and let maximum Ch’i in. Remove anything standing behind doors that is preventing them from opening fully: pieces of furniture, boxes, clutter, hooks holding a bunch of clothes, etc. Be very vigilant, especially with the front door, which is the main access of Ch’i. Nothing should impede its path, as the energy of the entrance influences the energy of the entire house. Do not allow two doorknobs to bang into each other. Change the way one of the doors opens, or wrap the two doorknobs with red material. If there is a set of stairs directly facing your front entrance, hang a crystal chandelier in between the two, or a multi-faceted crystal on top of the last step (going downward). Or, if there is a wall next to the front door, place a mirror facing the stairs, thus "pushing back" the energy into the space. Stairs that have spaces instead of risers do not allow the Ch’i to easily flow upstairs. Fill up the space underneath with potted plants, or create a closet. Close the bathroom door, especially if it is the first thing you see upon entering your dwelling. In that case, close the door and add a full size mirror on the exterior door panel. If there is no window in the inside, hang a crystal from the ceiling, which will help the energy to circulate. Hide the cat litter box, but remember to remove all the "residual stuff" to keep your cat and yourself healthy. A litter box that has a cover is one of the best choices. When not using the toilet, always keep the seat down. Flush it when the cover is already closed. Keep drains covered also. Repair all leaking faucets.

To keep our environment clean and well-organized is a Feng Shui priority! Perform a major spring cleaning. Clean all the windows, mirrors, doors (front and back). Wash the walls and, if necessary, have them repainted. Go through all your belongings, from attic to basement, including closets, cupboards, drawers, etc., and get rid of what has become useless, especially painful memorabilia. Do not keep anything that you do not truly like, even if it was a gift. Make sure that you feel really good about any "antiques" that you bring home, as the energy of the prior owner will pass down to you. Change any light bulb, as soon as it burns out. Remove any dead or dying plants. Do not keep dried flowers. If older than one month, they should be thrown out. Throw away all the junk mail, old magazines, etc. Discard expired medicine, spices, etc. Clear the kitchen counters and hide exposed knives. The stove should be in perfect working condition. No clogged burners. Rotate the use of burners regularly. When cooking, if you have your back to the door of the kitchen, place a mirror on the wall behind the stove. This will allow you to see what goes on behind you. The reflective glass door of a microwave unit that is fixed on the wall above the stove, can also serve the purpose. Place beds, sofas , desk, favorite chair, etc., so that you can have a good view of the main door to the room, without being in a direct line with that door. If for any reason you cannot change the placement of your desk, install a small mirror (or any other reflective surface) so that you can easily see what is going on behind your back. In Feng Shui, it is not recommended to place a mirror opposite your bed. Instead, try your best to change its position. Indulge in a new set of bed linens and a new bedspread. Remember that you can choose a color in accordance with the section of the Bagua where your bedroom is located. If you want to change the wall color of your bedroom, any "skin" tone would be a perfect choice for that specific room (colors ranging from the lightest peach to the darkest purple). Remove all the "stuff" hidden under the beds. To improve your love life, place two pillows on top of your bed (red, pink, or white) touching one another ! If there is a bathroom next to your bedroom, with no closing door in between, it is suggested that you create a separation. This can be done with a set of curtains, a screen, or the addition of a full door. If this is really not possible, at least hang a roundfaceted crystal between the bed and the bathroom door. Check for any sharp angles that may be pointing at you while you rest in bed or on your favorite chair or sofa. Put anything convenient between the offending "poison arrow" and those places where you sit or stand for extended periods of time. If there is a low beam over your head where you rest, dine, or work, hang two bamboo flutes, wrapped with red ribbon, mouthpiece downward and angled in the form of a partial Bagua (an octagon), or hang a fringe along the beam to soften its massiveness. Keep doors to the dining room open. Table tops are best square, round, oval, or octagonal. A rectangular table should not be too long. If there is a slanted wall in your dwelling, install a mirror along the slant, or a round-faceted crystal in front of a slanted window. When not in use, close the fireplace. You can put a plant in front of the opening, or create any other kind of arrangement that you like inside the hearth to prevent the Ch’i from leaving through the air conduct. Install a mirror, or anything else related to the water element on top of or near the fireplace, unless the room already has plenty of this Element. When convenient, install a fountain by the entrance of the house (inside or outside), making sure that the water (symbolizing money) is flowing toward the belly of the place (in case of a one-sided fountain). In your garden, routinely remove all fallen leaves and dead branches. If your house is shadowed by too many trees, or if bushes

are growing tall in front of your windows, invite the sun in by having them trimmed. In Feng Shui it is not recommended to place rocks or have a rock garden at the entrance of a dwelling. In that case, soften the arrangement by planting shrubs that will grow nicely around the rocks, shielding their pointed corners. Evergreens from the pine family do very well. At your place of business, display a fish tank, with an odd number of fish, near your cash register. Remember to keep it wellmaintained at all times. To hang a round-faceted crystal above the cash register is said to protect it from robbery and to attract cash! A table fountain, with the water running toward the cash register, is another good Wealth and Prosperity enrichment. Make sure that there are no corners of display counters that form an arrow facing the front entrance of your business. In that case, shield the corner, or turn it slightly. At home or at work, keep the Wealth and Prosperity section (top left area when standing at the main door of a space) always welllit and clutter-free. Wherever you go, always sit in the position of command (facing the front door) and avoid having a window behind you as well. Before signing a lease, investigate to find out why the previous tenants left the place. If the reason is pleasant, go for it. Otherwise, think twice, as the history of a house does repeat itself when Feng Shui has not been introduced! Once you have implemented the principles of Feng Shui in your home and work place, remember to keep track of all the good things that will inevitably flow your way!

HOW LONG FOR A CURE TO BRING RESULTS The shift of energy in our environment always triggers changes in our lives, usually with the sudden manifestation of what is most urgently needed. The use of Feng Shui is definitely the key that opens the door to many new opportunities perfectly fit to fulfill all of our wishes and expectations. Sometimes, it is quite amazing to see radical changes appear immediately, while doing little to perform a cure, or activate a Bagua section. The phone rings, someone shows up at the door or an important letter comes in the mail, bringing the perfect answer to our questions or the results we were hoping for. Is it mere coincidence? At other times, such clear manifestations can take longer to appear, and it may seem like it never will! In this stage of doubt, we should remember that we set our own pace on an unconscious level, often because we are not ready to be swirled up by drastic changes, even though we might think we are. However be certain that fascinating changes will take place over time, with a true transformation of your life that you will most likely acknowledged in retrospect. This is when you will realize fully how much has happened, and how well the events have unfolded.

A Final Word... Feng Shui works! It works as naturally as pushing a button to turn on the electricity, whether we understand the process behind it or not. Like electricity, when all the conditions are present, Feng Shui works automatically. The only requirement is that we be willing to introduce this amazing phenomenon (like electricity) into our homes and offices. Start now, this very moment! Rearrange your dwellings according to the guidelines revealed in this book. They are easy to follow. All it takes is a good look at what needs to be changed. Because we are so accustomed to what stands around us, we often need to use the help of friends to point out certain things that we simply would not see otherwise. For instance, a friend of mine moved into a new house after an extremely traumatic experience in her life. Once settled, she invited me to her new home, and I flew all the way down to Florida. My friend has the most delightful taste, and I remembered how much she liked to elegantly decorate her various homes . Imagine my surprise when I walked in and saw how bare the place looked! She had "stuck" everything in corners, obviously for maximum protection after the terrifying event that had made her life collapse. Our first task was to pull everything away from corners and to punctuate the walls with colorful art. My friend was then ready to let go of her fear, and suddenly her environment was reflecting her renewed joy for life. Now she is genuinely happy. Things are flowing nicely, as she has rebuilt her life magnificently in every aspect. You, too, will be enjoying a very happy life indeed, once your home is rearranged according to Feng Shui. You will be bringing all that is needed to make your life really wonderful. Obstacles will be dissolved as you discover new abilities to accomplish things with less effort. A series of external events will take place around you in fabulous ways. What you have been working so hard to achieve will come to fruition, as people and circumstances will suddenly support your most cherished desires, and allow for their most perfect outcome. You will feel in control of your life, and see yourself going from success to greater success. You will be led to perfect health, happiness and infinite golden abundance!

I wish you a very joyful Feng Shui Journey with many fulfilling changes in your life!