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Feng
Shui is the ancient Chinese art of placement that teaches us how to live in harmony
with nature. All cultures have some form or understanding of Feng Shui, but the
Chinese created a system of Feng Shui that allowed their homes and spaces to "speak"
to them. This system is
based on a map (called the Bagua) that represents important areas of life and
that is overlaid on their land, homes, rooms and more. With this map and an understanding
of chi, or vital energy, the space becomes a metaphor for what is happening to
those who live there. Like Jung's psychological interpretation of dream symbols,
Feng Shui shows us how to interpret the symbols in our environment. Feng
Shui has become popular in the West at a time when our modern and fast-paced lifestyles
leave us feeling disconnected from nature. Why? Because Feng Shui principles,
which are based on the cycles and rhythms of nature (the Tao) and the wisdom of
the ages, can bring us back to the understandings we need to survive in our modern
age. To begin we need
to become aware of our surroundings, aware of nature and especially aware of chi
and how it affects us. What
is chi? Chi is energy
and it is everywhere - in nature, in humans and in our homes. When chi can flow
and circulate, collect and nurture everyone in that environment, all is well.
When chi is blocked, it is like a river jammed with debris. When chi is rushing,
it is like a flooding river in springtime after heavy winter snows. How
is the chi in your home, your office and your body? Other
principles There are many
other nature-based Feng Shui principles. One of them is the Command Position -
that placement in a room, home or space that puts us in "command" and
allows us to take advantage of positive chi and avoid negative chi. Being in the
Command Position is important for health, well-being and success. It also helps
to minimize stress, feel safe and supported and more. When
should you bring in a Feng Shui practitioner? Since
Feng Shui reveals our unconscious choices, effective Feng Shui is difficult to
perform for ourselves. So, when should you bring in a Feng Shui practitioner?
o At the start of an important
project
o When life is working against you rather than flowing for you
o
Before or after moving into a new home or office
o To clear a space of unwanted
energies of prior residents or other negative chi
o When your relationships
are no longer satisfying or to enhance a good relationship
o When your children
have problems sleeping, studying or need some additional support
o When your
career has stagnated or money is being depleted
Rosalie Prinzivalli is
the Board Chair of the International Feng Shui Guild Board of Directors and resides
in New York City.
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