Feng Shui Tips Archives - International Feng Shui Guild Blog

Yay, it’s the Holidays?

Yay, it’s the holidays…hip hip hooray…
Yay, it’s the holidays…sigh…

The commercialism of all the holidays this time of year can bring about a sense of child-like wonder. The joy and perfection shared on social media, television, and print gets us thinking.

But it’s not always the happy-happy-joy-joy you see portrayed. Many don’t have the experience, that history; or they want to feel that way but the reality doesn’t hold up to the expectation. Cue the letdown.

Whether you are anticipating the joy or dreading the doom, we have tips and ideas to help you manage your energy, your inner and outer Feng Shui, and make the most of this time of year. Yes, it really is possible. No matter where you are on the excitement spectrum.

We asked our members to share with us, what is your favorite Feng Shui tip for getting through the holiday season – including but not limited to family relationships, self care, decorating, travel, etc. On everything from décor to time to expectations, we got some great advice!

Décor

“To save money and reduce the need for storage, I like to use pines and twigs from my garden. Then when the season is over, I can return them to mother nature. No storage is necessary. I also appreciate useful decorations, so I switch out pillows, throw blankets, placemats. Hint: switch out pillowcases rather than the whole pillow, as it takes up less space when storing.”
Michele Heisler, Riverway Consulting

“The lights are my favorite, hanging on my balcony and inside my home, and candles on my tree, along with the traditional lights. Above all else this fire energy raises the energy of an environment which is the intention.”
Peggy Cross, Transforming by Design

Simplification and Planning

“With everything from gifting to party planning to decorations, a minimalist “less is more” approach can ensure you maintain your sanity and focus on celebrating the season with inner peace and positivity.
Erin Bowers, The Happiest Camper Home

“Planning works well, a little every day.”
Carmel Malone-Quane, Create with Carmel

Intention and Self Care

“Take time for yourself, take time to stop and be still. Even if it’s a five-minute meditation or a full hour of yoga or anything else where you find peace. Find time to rest whether it’s daily or weekly but make sure it’s a dedicated time that’s added to your calendar along with your other tasks and to do lists to help you get through the busy holiday season.”
Marina Umali, Marina V Design Studio

“Simplify and Intention and lots and lots of meditation. Keeping one’s expectations in check is also helpful.”
Charmaine Buskas, Five Elements Feng Shui

“Don’t forget to rest and rejuvenate in this busy holiday season – maintain a meditative space to escape to, and don’t be afraid to say “no” when your body feels taxed, or say your goodbyes (“see you laters”) earlier in the evening than you would have previously. Winters are for hibernating and resting our bodies, take it slow and nourish your health.

“I [also] love the idea to highlight music’s influence during the holidays. I always reconnect with the benefits of music in the winter, and then I seem to forget about it in the summer when I’m out and about more. It’s definitely a time for inward connection.”
Lisa M. Alban, Cloud 9 Feng Shui

“My favorite holiday tip is to rethink the ‘should.’ A lot of stress is created by all of the pressure we put on ourselves. Instead ask is this something that I’d like to do or I could do if I find I have the time.”
Lisa Law, Lisa Law Feng Shui

Gratitude and Love

“Be thankful for what you DO have, and for the people who have supported and loved you through the years.”
Charmaine Buskas, Five Elements Feng Shui

“Practice and share in personal gratitude practices with your friends and family members. Pay attention to friends, family members and neighbors who may be struggling in the winter (depression, lack of heat, difficulty getting out and about). Pay a visit to those who have hidden away – open their blinds, awaken qi, and welcome in nourishing energy.”
Lisa M. Alban, Cloud 9 Feng Shui

6 Bedroom Feng Shui Tips for Sleep and Support

Feng Shui Tips, With all your Heart

Why is the bedroom important?
Your bedroom is where you spend a significant amount of time – 1/3 of your life in fact! It’s the space that rejuvenates you and where you rest. This is also the room that is closest to your body and the most intimate. It is closely connected to your health and also to your Partnerships, no matter where it is located within the home. The bedroom is intended for two things only… Rest and Romance! Anything not related to these two things should be placed elsewhere in your home.

Tip #1 Make your bed daily
You would not come into a luxury hotel and appreciate or expect to see an unmade bed. Making your bed signals a fresh start to the day and welcomes you at the end of the day with a sense of peacefulness.

Tip #2 Ensure you have a solid headboard and foot board
Solid headboards provide support and backing for you in your life, within your business and with your health. They also help couples feel supported by one another.

If you have a headboard that is slatted, remedy this by weaving scarves or material through the headboard slats or placing material behind it. One of my clients hung a cherished quilt over her slatted headboard and immediately felt more supported and slept better!

If you do not have a headboard/foot board, purchase one or for a temporary fix, you can paint a headboard on the wall or paint the wall behind the bed a different color than the rest of the room. Another quick fix I used in a temporary living space was to hang a sari or scarf behind the bed to act as a headboard.

Tip # 3 Clean out under your bed
Make sure there is nothing under your bed as things and clutter under the bed relate to emotional baggage or communication breakdown. The items under your bed can also cause sleep issues. I had one couple storing some things under their bed. She was sleeping fine and he was not. Under his side of the bed, they were storing a relative’s relic gun! If you must store other things under the bed, make sure they are soft things like blankets or clothing.

Tip #4 Revamp your vision wall
You vision wall is at the foot of your bed. This is the last thing you see before you go to sleep at night and the first thing you see in the morning. One of my clients had her work task list posted on that wall! Can you imagine the stress you would feel if this is the first and last thing you saw before you went to sleep? Instead, place a painting or artwork on that wall that inspires you (and your partner). Ideally this would be a restful piece of artwork to bring you to a place of peace at night and in the morning.

Tip # 5 Remove bookshelves
Bookshelves or piles of books in your bedroom is not only very heavy energy, it’s a lot to think about – consider all of the words in those books swirling around in your head while you sleep! Having a book or two on your nightstand is fine. However, move the rest of your books out of the bedroom. One great idea is to place a bookshelf in your closet. That way, you have quick access to your books from the bedroom and their energy is contained.

Tip #6 Remove TVs and electronics
TVs and other electronics and electrical wires present several energetic issues. TVs are a “black hole” that suck energy; and TVs, electrical wires and other electronics also generate electromagnetic smog, which can be harmful to your health.

I recommend either removing the TV from the bedroom (preferred) or covering it while you sleep (a beautiful fabric throw can be used for this purpose.) Electronics (such as electrical wires, cell phones or Ipads) should be kept at least 18” from the bed.

Create an oasis in your bedroom and this will soon become your favorite room. You’ll feel more relaxed, calmer and more rested every day which positively impacts every other area of your life!

Article contributed by Kim Julen, IFSG Membership Director

Kim Julen, founder of Finding Your Fiji, is a dynamic thought leader, writer, entrepreneur, speaker and shift master. She provides unique tools, guidance and courses to bring harmony to your head, heart and home. Read more about Kim.

www.FindingYourFiji.com

Shift the Chi in 27 Simple Steps

Feng Shui Tips

In Feng Shui, regardless of which path you are follow, there’s a common theme… Change the Chi, change your life. It works like a magnet… express a radiant new energy to the world and the universe responds by bringing new opportunities, people and all kinds of goodness your way. Just think of the awesome possibilities that might be just around the corner, if you give it a whirl. To help you get started, here are 27 simple ways to Shift the Chi, from Wendy Yawching.

Wendy Yawching, 27 Shifts to Change the Chi

PERSONAL
1. Yes, you have your own style; it speaks to the world and the world speaks back. So why not change the message and see what the response will be! Try changing your look ( hairstyle, dress style, accessories) in as many ways as you can dream up. Have fun! See what happens…
2. Get out in nature. Recharge ! Nothing rebalances the Chi like time spent connected to Nature.
3. Spend time in places that make you feel peaceful and happy, that make your heart sing.
4. Be still. Find a quiet space and practice just “Being”. Yoga and meditation are great for this.
5. And then, Move! Exercise, dance, and sing. Engage your body… it’s a walking talking miracle! Express yourself and your amazing existence through movement and music.
6. Our choice of companions can have a huge effect on our chi, whether positive or negative. So Surround yourself with people who make you feel uplifted and nourished.
7. Get lots of restful sleep…
8. Eat for Health! And drink lots of good water.
9. Gratitude jar : it’s amazing how much we have to be grateful for, no matter our situation. Acknowledging that will bring you back to centre whenever you feel a little low.
10. Pay it forward … do at least one good deed everyday, just because!

YOUR HOME
Firstly, Prepare the Space…
11. Clear the clutter. Get rid of anything that represents stuck or broken chi and create space for the new energy coming your way.
12. Clean it up. Make things shine! Sweep, dust, cobweb, repaint. Clean those windows, bring the sunshine in. It’s amazing how much brighter the place (and you) will feel…
13. Check that front door. It’s the mouth of the Chi for your home. Whats the message? Dead plants, garbage cans, old newspapers? Spruce up and beautify your front door, and the area around it. Make it irresistible !
14. Move things around a bit. Experiment with a new orientation for your bed, sofa or desk. Try to create a different flow or perspective in the room.
15. Make sure you’re in the command position. (Not sure how to do that? Ask your favorite Feng Shui consultant.)

And now, Decorate! Maybe you can’t change all the furniture, but it’s easy to create a different look ( and feel)…
16. Color affects our moods, so this is a very effective way to change the Chi. It can be as simple as changing the cushion covers!
17. Add your favorite artwork
18. Flowers and healthy plants bring in life energy, color and fragrance.
19. Candles provide gentle light, a sense of warmth and peace.
20. Water features can energize or create tranquillity, depending in your choice.
21. Use lighting to create a desired mood, uplift dark corners, or bring a warm glow.
22. Music is a great chi changer, and it’s so flexible!
23. Add some Room Aroma-therapy: think essential oils, incense, scented candles, flowers…
24. Animals add their own special energy ( and love ) to any home.

AT WORK
Many people work in situations where the chi-changing options are limited. Still, here are a few ideas…
25. Change your work position so you are in command, not blocked, have a clear line of sight
26. Add tasteful personal touches ( pictures, flowers, plants) to your workspace
27. Make it feel welcoming, both for yourself and your team-members. A jar of jellybeans can work wonders!

Have fun! Be playful with these suggestions. Enjoy the results!

Want more shifts? Like how it makes you feel? Change 27 more.

Based in the Caribbean, Wendy Yawching’s clients and interests are international. As a Feng Shui consultant and mentor, her strength is in creating Healing Spaces… for people and animals, at work, rest or play. Whether a home or business-place, children’s playground, animal shelter or horse stable, her unique approach enables her to enhance the energetics in support of all living creatures. Read more about Wendy.

Photo Source: Wendy Yawching, Healing Spaces Caribbean

Create Harmony This Season with Feng Shui

Feng Shui Tips

AH, THE HOLIDAYS…FULL of joy, sparkling wonderment, blessings, gratitude, delicious food, gatherings and celebrations with family and friends and—a potential for disharmony and stress. Consider the following feng shui tips to help create a season of love, harmony, and special memories from Diana DiCristina.

Source: Pinterest – blogg.skonahem.com

Proclaim peace and harmony this holiday season. Open your eyes to new ways to celebrate the season and honor this sacred time sacred time by taking time to slow down. Nourish and pamper yourself. Give yourself the gift of getting together with a friend and have some tea, laughter, and heart-felt good cheer.

Embellish the front door of your home. And, use your front door. Ring the doorbell! The front door is the mouth of chi, where all opportunities and abundant blessings come through. Assure that the pathway to your front door is clear and welcoming with beauty. With intention, hang a beautiful wreath on your front door to attract new opportunities. Adding lights will attract even more good luck and a ribbon in a color you love will increase good fortune.

Instead of decorating every nook and cranny, decorate for harmony. Place your holiday decorations with love and intention. Remember balance, consider each decoration carefully and keep decorations to a minimum. Give yourself permission to abandon tradition and decorate with things that have wonderful memories and make your heart sing with joy, donate the rest. Less is more. Be mindful to not put too many holiday decorations out because they can block the positive energy from flowing freely through your home with your life resulting in stagnation. Every single item in your home has an affect on your personal energy; your space reflects your life. This holiday season allow your treasures, filled with loving memories, to enhance the energy of you and your home.

Source: Pinterest – eclecticallyvintage.com

Create a lasting memory with a timeless scent. Stud oranges with cloves and display this on a plate for a nice fragrant centerpiece. After the holidays you can place the studded oranges in drawers for a delightful aromatic treat every time you open the drawer.

Color makes a difference and has tremendous power. Use the energies of colors in your home in a positive manner. Too much color can be exhausting. And too many bright colors such as reds, greens, silvers and golds can create over stimulating energy, increasing chaos, stress, and disharmony. To create a more relaxing and comfortable space, consider balancing bright colors by adding calm muted colors such as creams, blues, soft purples and muted colors to help create a sense and feeling of calm, tranquility and inner peace, which will ripple out and affect all around you. Use the color purple, with intention, to increase the flow of abundance in your life.

Get some air! Let fresh energy in and air out your home. Open windows, let out the old energy and refresh the ambiance. To help the air transfer to occur effectively, open three or more windows for 15–30 minutes letting out old polluted indoor air and allow fresh outdoor air in. This is such a refreshing gift that you will soon find yourself doing this regularly, not just for the holidays.

Deliberately slow down, have quiet places where you can retreat and relax. Turn off the television and play relaxing music that you love. Fill your home with soothing music that touches your heart and Soul. Piano music is especially nice as it has a watery feeling and will help you to go with the flow and feel relaxed. Add some candles to bring in a sense of glowing warm energy especially on those chilly winter evenings.

Did you know that when guests wash their hands in your bathroom it brings the energy of money into your home? Liven up your guest bath with scented soaps and colorful holiday towels making the bathroom as inviting as possible.

Source: Pinterest – thechicsite.com

And the holiday tree: A holiday tree connects us to nature and invites spiritual growth and renewal. Elements of a well–balanced holiday tree are: lights which symbolize sparking energy; the tree shape represents growth; its fresh scent renews the air and lifts your spirits; and gifts represent love. Place your holiday tree near a window so people passing by may also enjoy the beauty of your sparkling holiday tree. Don’t want to kill a tree? As a blessing for years to come, consider decorating a live tree planted in dirt that can be incorporated in your garden. Or decorate an existing tree in your garden that can be appreciated and admired from a window view.

Diana DiCristina CSD, CPFS, and founder of Wind Water Harmony. As certified feng shui and color consultant, certified interior alignment practitioner, intuitive, and Sacred Circle of Light designer, she offers a kaleidoscope of professional practices and methods. Read more about Diana.

Article Source: Create Harmony this Season with Feng Shui

Feng Shui for the Holidays

Feng Shui Tips

Although the holidays are a time for celebration and rest, sometimes they can be quite the opposite. This time of year can become stressful and exhausting. Since feng shui concepts can give us tools to help create harmony and positivity in our living spaces, I’d like to share some feng shui tips to support us during the holiday season, from Anjie Cho.

Family

I don’t think it hurts to have more harmony in the home. Did you know there’s a section of the feng shui map that relates to family? This area also relates to new beginnings.

Locate the family/new beginnings area of your home or bedroom on the feng shui map. If you divide your home or bedroom into a 3×3 grid, it’s the center left area. You can use this feng shui map to help you locate the area. For more harmony within your family, try adding a live green plant to represent growth and support for the family during the holidays. If there is not enough natural light for a plant, try a low light plant or a very high quality, realistic looking silk plant.

Space Clearing

Holidays are often a time to gather with friends and family. Some of us have visitors staying with us in addition to parties and get-togethers. When there are many gatherings in the home, it may be helpful to do a light space clearing on a regular basis to clear the air and energy in your home. Each time you clear the space, dedicate your home to creating a loving happy space for your family and friends. For frequent space clearing, I like smudging (burning) palo santo or diffusing sweet orange essential oil. Palo santo has a light, clean, minty smell that is delicious. The sweet orange scent is life affirming, happy and bright. Use the one you like best, or alternate!

If you’re traveling you can use this to clear the space you are staying in whether it’s a hotel or as a guest in someone’s home. Probably better to use the orange essential oil rather than burn something.

Gratitude and Thanks

Finally, the holiday season reminds us to be grateful and thankful for the love and support we’ve received in our lives. I recently received some Buddhist teachings on patronage. I find that supporting others as a patron is a truly rewarding way to offer thanks. I’m so thankful for my abundance and success and am happy to share that with the world.

Take some time to thank the ones you love who bring you support in your life. Bring some feng shui into this practice of honoring those helpful people by offering to be a benefactor for them as well! The benefactors’ area of your bedroom would be the corner front right if you’re standing in your room looking in. Make a list of those caring and generous people, and then place the list in the benefactors area of your bedroom with the intention that you’re grateful for their help and you wish to offer them even more in return.

Holidays have always been dedicated to family, friends and remembering how fortunate we are to have life. Over time though, the holiday season has, unfortunately, become associated with high stress levels and weariness as well. Through feng shui practices and awareness, we can use well-established methods to lower stress and focus on what’s really important during this time: our loved ones.

Anjie Cho is a registered New York State Architect and Feng Shui Interior Designer. She has created beautiful and nourishing environments throughout New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and beyond. She is also co-founder of the Mindful Design Feng Shui School. Read more about Anjie.

Article/Photo Source: Feng Shui for the Holidays

The Significance of Clocks in Feng Shui

Feng Shui Tips

Are you always out of time? Does life feel like it’s at a standstill? Got money problems? Does time fly? Can’t seem to ever get anywhere on time? Losing friends because they won’t put up with your flakiness? Find out more about the significance of clocks in Feng Shui by expert, author and teacher, Karen Rauch Carter.

The Significance of Clocks in Feng Shui by Karen Rauch Carter

According to feng shui principles, what’s going on in your living and work environments is going on in your life –and oftentimes, it is quite literal. Take clocks and your issues with time for example. Whether it’s a grandfather, kitchen, mantle or coo-coo clock, you might find a literal connection between your issue with time and those clocks. (Don’t forget watches – they are small but also “timepieces.”)

Take an inventory of all clocks and watches. (I swear I often ask my clients if they have a broken clock or watch in a particular location and they say no, only to find it sitting right there when we get to that location.) Are any unplugged, deliberately set to a different time than reality, forgotten about and off by one hour due to time changes, or just downright broken? Whatever “issue” you find might just exactly describe some situation in YOUR life.

Has time run out or you can’t get a handle on some deadline ? Maybe it’s that weird little clock where the hands fell off and you swore years ago that someday you’d fix it. Is time up? Maybe all the clocks hung on walls are positioned where you have to significantly look up to see them. Connect the dots and make a change with the problem timepiece and you just may have given yourself the time to succeed where before it was unavailable to you.

Also, to be even more specific, if you notice the area of the Bagua that your clocks are in, you may get additional clues as to why your life is troubled in an area of life. If “time is money” and the clock in the back left-hand part of your house is “stuck” or “broke,” you are probably experiencing a money/income problem.

If you never have time to travel, you may have a clock issue in the front right-hand part of your home because that area governs travel.

The time is now. Check out all clocks where you hang out and see if a more supporting adjustment can be made. You just might laugh at the exact literalness as you connect the state of your clocks and what’s happening in your life.

Karen Rauch Carter is the author of the national bestselling feng shui book, “Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life” (Simon & Schuster, 2000). She is a feng shui consultant and healthy lifestyle designer, international speaker, feng shui educator, mentor, and coach. Read more about Karen.