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By IFSG Blog Team, on May 9th, 2012 I’ll admit it-I’m a cat-aholic. I love cats. Some of my friends would say I’m obsessed. Some would even say I’m over the edge with my cats. I don’t care. I love cats.
Cats are natural Feng Shui practitioners. Really.
I first noticed their involvement in my practice years ago when I realized that 95% of my clients had a cat, or two, or three. It became a matter of course to look for the kitty when I got there. Some of the cats would have a look of recognition when I walked in, like they’d been waiting for me.
What most people don’t realize is that cats practice a highly evolved form of Feng Shui. They have a natural affinity for the flow of ch’i. They can usually find where it is the strongest in a space and then they go sit in it–like in the middle of a group of people, or on top of the book you’re trying to read, or in the middle of a hallway. I am fascinated that they can pick up where the energy is most focused and intense. Since Feng Shui is based on the flow of ch’i, it is necessary to know where it’s most concentrated. Our cat friends determine that more easily.
Cats’ natural affinity to Feng Shui is also evident in the way they get the ch’i moving around them. In their wisdom, they realize that if they stare at something long enough, a corresponding something will happen. If they stare at a door, eventually it will open. If they stare at their bowl, it will inevitably get filled. If they stare at me sitting in a chair, I will eventually move because I’m in their chair. What superb use of ch’i! What mastery of Feng Shui principles!
You may wonder how I know if I’m learning anything at all from cats. I can attest to the fact that I am seldom inspired unless there’s a cat in my lap. My first book was written under the wise and steady supervision of the aforementioned Muffin. Once she was confident that I could finish it on my own, she decided to spend time in Kitty Heaven. My Feng Shui bag is regularly, and quite ceremoniously I might add, inspected each time I bring it home from an appointment. The cat delegated inspector for the day makes sure I have not brought any evil ch’i or dog energy into our house. They bless every blueprint I spread on the floor by lying in the middle and assessing the site from their vantage point. Sometimes a little paw will point to an area which I surely would have missed-a missing corner or an angled door. Their wisdom and patience knows no limits.
For those of you who have cats, I’m sure you will begin to look upon them with a new and profound respect. For those of you who don’t have one, let me tell you, you can vastly improve your Feng Shui by welcoming a cat into your space. For those of you who have a dog, I’ve noticed that a cat’s evolved sense of universal intention will extend to their canine counterparts at times. So, occasionally I am guided into dog domain to do my work.
It is my hope and dream that there will be a day, not too far off into the future, when a Feng Shui practitioner will show up on an appointment, feline in tow, ready to serve. I know that my true role is to be of service to ones wiser than I, being continually guided by the higher power of Feng Shui Felines.
by Carole Hyder, Red Ribbon Professional of the International Feng Shui Guild
Article Source: Feline Feng Shui: The Wave of the Future
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 30th, 2012 Human beings are always seeking an ideal environment, and the ideal landscaping is different from one culture to another. But the essence is the same: everyone looks for balance, for the sensation of peace and happiness, for the feeling of no worries…
The first men and women had an incredible empiric instinct and naturally discovered how to survive, and how to deal with the nature surrounding them.
And we inherited their knowledge about the importance of the sun, the moon, the stars, the four seasons, the climate, the light, the shadow, the best time to plant and to harvest plants and herbs, the power of the water, the rain and the rivers, the wind, and the animals. They taught us how to survive, and we discovered in our own ways how to make a living with those natural wonders.
Depending on the pattern of the landscaping we see, we may feel better, vitalized and energetic, or we can feel down, stressed, emotionally and physically disturbed. So, certain spaces and places can either nourish our health, or can slowly degrade our sense of well-being.
Spring is the season that represents the power of life. It is the moment of the germination of the seeds, representing the effort, the raising, the expansion – the Wood element! The Wood element is related to the liver – that is LIFE!
Spring is the season for us to reconnect with nature, to feel alive, to breathe better. During the winter, we lose this connection because we get stuck in our homes, stay indoors, and we shrink!
Now it is time to E-X-P-A-N-D!
Li Po, a Chinese Poet from the Tang Dynasty, said, “When I am in front of flowers, a stream runs along the poplars. The men can´t understand the happiness that overflows from my heart and they say I am happy with no reason like a child. It is true!”
The Spring landscaping provides a vibrant Chi that buds, appears and expands.
According to a Chinese proverb, “Neither the sky nor the heaven are complete, but they leave the finishing of everything to the men.” So, let´s provide the best we can to complete the picture!
In China, they tend to follow the natural and existent patterns of the nature, recreating them, hiding and showing, suggesting and surprising, creating a garden as if it were a painting, a big scenario, an alive painting that “speaks” thorough the flowers, the vegetation, the colors, the butterflies, the birds, the water, the sky… all bringing the vibrant Chi!
They create the landscaping offering the possibilities of rest, pause, silence, contemplation, sense of smell, and other sensations…
From a Feng Shui perspective we can make use of the properties of the Five Elements – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water – and the Creation or Domination Cycle, The Yin and Yang, and The Five Animals, to improve the energy of the landscaping in any place.
We always have to be alert to use all these methods considering the use of that space: a zen spa needs a different landscaping from a shopping sall. So, we need to consider if it is going to be a calm, introspective, yin landscaping or a dynamic, active, yang one.
We can also use different colors to enhance the landscaping. Spring is a glorious time of the year with flowers in bloom everywhere we look! Use flowers that give life, that can start a new life, that bring happiness, the Power of life.
Let´s go for it then!
by Fátima Valente, Red Ribbon Professional member of the International Feng Shui Guild
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 27th, 2012
Sheng chi, also called Sheng qi
The prime location in places that have auspicious features such as clean water, fair breezes, and good light and sun exposure. An upward moving flow of positive qi. This is the qi we strive to create in our structures and our bodies. The prosperity and most auspicious location in Eight House Feng Shui.
Source: International Feng Shui Guild ©
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 25th, 2012
 At the Academy of Exquisite Living, founder Karen Rauch Carter, best-selling author of “Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life,” personally trains and guides each student in this highly personalized and professional program.
Dedicated to supporting individuals wishing to create an exquisite life for themselves and others, we offer the “Inspired Feng Shui Practitioner Certification Course,” live and online versions, teaching individuals how to become confident, well-qualified, certified feng shui practitioners; as well as the “Mindful Mastery” course teaching several neurological re-patterning techniques.
Click here to learn more about the program.
The International Feng Shui Guild School Spotlight highlights our Gold Level Member Schools. The IFSG Gold Member Schools are Feng Shui training programs that have embraced our Universal Topics and whose curriculum meets or exceeds our recommended training requirements.
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 20th, 2012 
Photo Source: Paula Hills Starr, Earth Place, Reconciliation Labyrinth
“Labyrinthine paths and the principles of feng shui, the art of positioning objects in a spiritually satisfying manner, intersect neatly on this philosophical point. Feng shui is subtle and can be hard to spot amid the lush plantings, but you can assuredly feel it.
Walks and paths impart movement to gardens. Chi flows smoothly along them, but they also direct your feet, your eyes and your thoughts, just as the paths in a labyrinth carry you along. Whether it is on a garden path or on a walking trail in a park, your feet are guided, like they’re in a groove, and you can give your attention to your surroundings and your thoughts.”
~~Marty Ross, Syndicated Columnist
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 18th, 2012
 Before: Overgrown Side Yard
Side yards are another commonly overlooked space. With a little planning, you can make something out of the narrowest of spaces.
 After: Create a Hidden Patio
The new patio is a perfect private getaway filled with personal style. The long, narrow space made it tough to create one seating area, so the homeowner created two “mini rooms” — with seating options at the front and the back of the space. Screens such as tall container gardens can help separate spaces feel even more like distinct rooms.
Photo Source: Before and After Garden Makeovers, Better Homes and Gardens
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 16th, 2012 Creating an Outdoor Oasis of Beauty and Balance
As spring invites us to get outdoors again and spruce up our yards, why not consider going beyond the usual habits of gardening, and instead work with your landscape in alignment with the wisdom of Feng Shui?
With the summer months our yards can become an extension of our living space, and the garden allows us to feel connected to nature. Since the effective application of Feng Shui techniques do wonders for shifting the energy of interior spaces, it makes sense that the same principals apply to your yard and garden. A well designed Feng Shui garden landscape appeals to all the senses, delights visitors, and provides a calm and restorative environment to fully enjoy the summer season.
Landscaping that is energized with the flow of chi will bring life to your home, and attract an abundance of birds, butterflies and a feeling of well being. By incorporating representations of the elements, you can make your garden a retreat oasis in alignment with the wisdom of Feng Shui.
*Remove clutter, weeds, dead plants, objects to trip on such as tools and hoses, and other strewn debris in order to clear the space and let the energy (chi) flow.
*Don’t overwhelm the environment with every dazzling color in the book, but choose a selection of uplifting colors such as orange and yellow, and calming colors like blue, purple and white.
*Steer clear of items with sharp and pointed angles; rather choose smooth rounded corners to all objects, decorative pieces, flower pots and furniture.
*Avoid placing a fence or large object in the middle of your yard or garden, as it will block the flow of energy and disrupt the positive chi.
Elements of Feng Shui in your landscaping:
*Earth – Keep the soil fertile and the flowers, trees and grass well maintained, as this enhances the earth element. Place round stones as a border around spaces, or as appealing and calming decoration to enhance the grounding balance of the earth element.
*Wood – Choose wooden planting boxes, or adorn your landscaping with decorative wooden pieces such as a carving, bench or bamboo pieces. As a lucky Feng Shui cure, bamboo is used to attract health, abundance and happiness.
*Metal – Place something metal in your landscaping to encourage the properties of that important element, such as wind chimes or planters.
*Water – Include still or slow flowing water such as a fountain, bird bath, pond or pooled water from a stream. It’s not encouraged to have a fast moving stream or river through your property, as this carries the positive energy away from your home, akin to “peace or abundance flying out the door”. Instead, have pooled or slower flowing water which can collect beneficial chi to stay in your yard.
*Fire – For the final touches of balancing the elements, fire can be represented in various ways such as candles or lanterns, or a fire pit.
Just a few extra touches and working with the surrounding landscape brings restorative benefits and balance to the energy flow around and through your home. You’ll feel the difference and savour your time in the yard even more.
by Yvonne Phillips
Article Source: Feng Shui for your Landscaping
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 14th, 2012
The essence of Feng Shui embraces balance and harmony, a connection and alignment with the earth and nature around us. Gardens provide us with the opportunity to connect to the natural world around us and be one with nature. Incorporating Feng Shui into your garden will create a sense of balance, welcome and embrace.
“More than anything else, a garden is a portal, a passage into another world, one of your own thoughts and your own making; it is whatever you want it to be and you are what you want to be.” – William Longgood
Gardens are truly magical places. They can soothe and calm you and they can delight your senses with color, shape, textures and scent.
by Laurie Bornstein, Red Ribbon Professional Member of the International Feng Shui Guild
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on April 12th, 2012 With Feng Shui it is all about placement however some elements are so powerful they will help improve the energy almost anywhere you use them. Plants are a force that expresses vitality and pure life essence in your space, not to mention that they purify the air that you breathe.
Everywhere there are plants there are people who have interpreted their meaning in the human life. From China we get these special plants that can help enrich our lives in particular ways.
1. One of the first plants that most people think in Feng Shui gardens is Bamboo. It represents fidelity, wisdom, flexibility, cooperation and wisdom. It can be used anywhere these qualities are desired or anywhere the there is a special need to lift the ch’i as the way the bamboo grows is particularly good for that.
2. Another ubiquitous symbol of Chinese gardens is the Pine Tree. It represents resilience, longevity, integrity, and dignity. It can be placed wherever you need to remember the big picture. It is always welcome near the front door where it will remind you daily of the stellar attributes that you can acquire.
3. Few flowers are more beloved than the Lotus. Beside its beautiful shape and fragrance, it has spiritual significance as the Buddhists view it as a symbol of enlightenment, that which we all can achieve with our good works and pure hearts. It also symbolizes perfection, purity and integrity.
4. Peonies are the national flower of China. They represent luck, aristocracy, honor, and wealth so they are particularly favored for wealth and career placements.
5. Plum Trees represent brotherliness, charm, friendship and particularly the return of spring. These trees signal the end of darkness and the announcement of new beginnings.
6. Pomegranate Trees, because of their many seeds, represent fertility. One client who was considered infertile attributes her two children to the garden plan that included these trees.
7. Orange trees, indeed most citrus, have a deep connection to wealth, abundance, and good luck.
8. Orchids represent nobility, culture, and graciousness, which are the qualities of a gentleman. They support all these wonderful qualities in a partnership.
9. The Daylily is a symbol of maternal love and fertility. In China, it is a symbol of filial devotion so it can be used anywhere the love of mother or that type of support is desired.
Plants have so much to teach us and using ones that have special significance reminds us every day of the particular potential for expanding in love, joy, health, and abundance.
by Shelley Sparks, Professional Member of the International Feng Shui Guild
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
By IFSG Blog Team, on March 29th, 2012 
Simple changes make a huge difference from the before to the after photo of this entry way. A bold door with attractive and striking trim guides your eye directly to the walkway where residents and guests enter creating a strong mouth of chi. Removing the fence panels on either side of the walkway, clearing weeds, and creating an attractive patio with grass and stone open the visual flow to the door and house numbers are now visible from the street as well. With an eye to safety, the hose is coiled and removed from the sidewalk. A good cleaning and sprucing makes this new entryway pop and shine.
Photo Source: Crestview Doors
The International Feng Shui Guild does not represent or endorse the views or beliefs of its individual members as expressed herein, nor does it represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the recommendations, advertisements, quality of any products, information, or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained as a result of any information in this publication. The IFSG serves as a reference and source for our members and the public.
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