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Aspects of Feng Shui

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The view that we benefit from living in harmony with our surroundings is basic common sense. But other aspects of feng shui, like the idea that the flow of the unseen cosmic energy known as ch’i influences our health and prosperity, are a bit more esoteric.

Books for the curious include “The Fengshui Kit” by Man-Ho Kwok and “Interior Design With Feng Shui” by Sarah Rossbach. They offer do-it-yourself instructions on how to keep the energy flowing at home and at work.

Here are a few suggestions:

Aquariums. Those with an odd number of fish increase energy and bubbles created by a water filter help circulate the energy flow. Fish are thought to denote money, since the Mandarin Chinese word for “fish” sounds like the word for “surplus.”

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Desks. The best position for a desk is in a corner opposite the door so a person’s back faces the wall. The energy flow can also be improved by placing plants or lights behind the desk. The wall creates a feeling of stability and is likened to a mountain offering support and protection.

Driveways. If a house or apartment is at or near the top of a hill, good fortune, and particularly money, can roll out of the house too quickly. Ideally, the driveway should curve around to the side of the house.

Mirrors. Outside a building they deflect negative energy or malign spirits. Inside they can reflect good views of water or gardens which will attract positive energy.

Stoves. Associated with prosperity, the more burners one has the better. But keep them clean. Clogged burners are said to obstruct business activities. A mirror next to a stove symbolically doubles one’s wealth.

Wind chimes. Hung above or near a door they can calm the energy flow and are said to frighten away unlucky spirits.

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