By now, you have probably heard of the latest fascination in the world of
interior design, Feng Shui. Simply defined, Feng Shui (“fung schway”) is the art
of spacial flow and object placement, dating back to 4th century China. But
much more than a fleeting design trend, Feng Shui is a tried and true way of
creating a happier and healthier life through a balanced and harmonious
environment – home, office or any space that you occupy. Using Feng Shui,
you can enhance many areas of your life, including health, wealth,
relationships, career and more.

Did you know that Donald Trump employs a full-time Feng Shui consultant?
The famous Trump Tower in New York City is perfectly Feng Shui. Here at home,
some large corporations (Royal Bank of Canada and CIBC Wood Gundy as
examples) design many of their offices according to Feng Shui principles.

The Prevalence of Ch’i

It’s no surprise that Feng Shui has become popular here because much of the
world (except North America) has been practising Feng Shui or some derivation
of it for centuries. The heart of Feng Shui, “Ch’i” (energy), is widely accepted in
many religions and cultures, including: Hindus (prana); Catholics (Spiritus);
Japanese (Ki); and Egyptians (Ka). The belief is that everyone and everything
possesses its own unique Ch’i. Your personal blueprint is created from the
combination of your own Ch’i in relation to the Ch’i of your environment. If
you have imbalances or blockages of energy, this can translate to slower,
more difficult areas for you. With Feng Shui cures, however, you can
improve and strengthen these areas by shifting and increasing the
energy in your environment.

Feng Shui Cures

Essentially, Feng Shui cures are used to alter, moderate or raise energy. While
cures number in the thousands because every situation is unique, there are
some cures that are applicable to all:

Go green and natural. Plants represent growth and absorb negativity. In
Feng Shui terms, it is believed that if your plants are thriving so is your health.
Conversely, if your plants are withering away, you are probably not taking
sufficient care of yourself - physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Most places in your home will benefit from plants; and generally, the taller
they are, the better.

Let there be light. All living things are naturally drawn towards light because
all types of light provide energy. The sun is the ultimate life enhancer, and the
more of it we are exposed to, the better we feel inside and out. You also
benefit from indoor/artificial lights - lamps, candles, fireplaces, etc.

Mirrors are very powerful and effective cures, and must be used with caution.
They are used to "double a cure" by reflecting the area to the energized; or
they can repel negative/harmful energy.

Because you and your environment are dynamic, your challenge is to
maintain a good balance - one that's right for you. So, keep in mind that
Feng Shui is a way of life. Just as a pet may become ill if it is neglected, your
life goals may be difficult to achieve if you do not pay adequate attention
to yourself and your surroundings. Simple, no nonsense cures can make a
world of difference in creating a more enriching and nourishing life.