Guest Author - Diane Kern

Since you are interested in Feng Shui you have probably visited many other Feng Shui sites in addition to this one here at Bella Online. You might have noticed that almost all include a shop where you can buy various Feng Shui cures, remedies and enhancements. Have you ever wondered if they really work, how do you use them and should I really spend my money on these? You might also say to yourself-I don’t really care for Asian style decorations, is there something else I can use that more suits my aesthetic style?

The use of certain objects is linked to the style of Feng Shui you practice. In Black Sect Feng Shui crystals, flutes and mirrors as well as other objects may be suggested to improve specific situations. In other styles the use of statues such as wealth gods, dragons, ki lun or even an abacus permanently fixed in a specific configuration may be used. Jewelry with certain gems or charms is sometimes offered as helpful. Candles, plants, shapes and colors also play a part in fixing and enhancing.

When you Feng Shui your home or office it should not look “fengshuied”. Objects that look out of place will draw attention to themselves and create a form of imbalance that we want to avoid. The objects you use should mean something to you. If you are not Asian a three legged toad may not mean prosperity to you. Or mandarin ducks may not indicate romantic relationships. You need to understand and accept the meaning of the object in order for it to have an effect. These objects are reminders to you. When you see them the idea they represent is reinforced for you.

So use your best judgment when shopping the Feng Shui stores. Of course having these objects in your house or office can be a bit of fun too. I have collected dragons for years so I have added a Chinese dragon to my collection and placed it on the left side of my front door where tradition says it should be. Following is a short list of common cures.

The 3 legged toad is thought to bring prosperity. He holds a coin in his mouth and should be placed facing inwards, not towards the door.

The ki lun is displayed in pairs and is a displayed on the right side of your front door representing the tiger or female energy. Ki lun are more gentle than the tiger.

Dragons represent the male energy and as I mentioned are placed on the left side of the door.

The pagoda is used for study enhancement and can be placed on the students desk or in the Southeast.

The Wu Luo or calabash is how the ancient doctors carried their medicines. So obviously this represents good health.

Mandarin ducks in pairs are displayed for romance as they mate for life.

If you don’t care for these items find a replacement that represents the same idea. For instance, a pair of love birds or doves represent love in the US.