The Symbols Behind The Art of Feng Shui
Feng Shui is an art form that has been practiced in the Far East for over five thousand years. Feng means "Wind" and Shui means "Water" and Feng Shui is the "art of living in harmony with the earth". When we live our lives in balance and harmony, we are filled with happiness, contentment, and abundance.
Feng Shui is a Taoist based vision of the natural world; alive and filled with "Chi", or energy. The ancient Chinese believed the land's energy (chi) could be positive or negative (yin or yang).
Yin and Yang are two opposites in the Living Universe. Yin is represented by Black and Yang is White.
Classic examples of yin and yang are; night versus day; short versus tall; and male versus female. While they are opposite, it is also true that one cannot exist without the other. Without night there is no day and without black there would be no white... Thus, yin and yang energies are constantly interacting with each other in our daily lives, practitioners of the yin-yang concept advocate the need of a balance the two forces. This is where The Art of Feng Shui fits in...
Feng Shui is a Taoist based vision of the natural world; alive and filled with "Chi", or energy. The ancient Chinese believed the land's energy (chi) could be positive or negative (yin or yang).
Yin and Yang are two opposites in the Living Universe. Yin is represented by Black and Yang is White.
Classic examples of yin and yang are; night versus day; short versus tall; and male versus female. While they are opposite, it is also true that one cannot exist without the other. Without night there is no day and without black there would be no white... Thus, yin and yang energies are constantly interacting with each other in our daily lives, practitioners of the yin-yang concept advocate the need of a balance the two forces. This is where The Art of Feng Shui fits in...
1. The Chinese Dragon
A Chinese Zodiac Symbol
The Dragon symbolizes power, benevolence, intelligence, goodwill, mystery, yang energy, strength and goodness.
The Legendary Chinese Dragon is a miraculous being with scales of the fish, antlers of the deer, mane of the horse and the claws of the eagle. It represents the very spirit of change, and can transform itself, merge with itself, and become visible or invisible in the blink of an eye.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
As the element of the East is Wood, a Dragon carved out of wood is beneficial. We can also use a Dragon made of ceramic or crystal, but should not keep metal ones, as metal destroys the wood element.
In restaurants, shops, and department stores, it is very good to display pictures of Dragons in the East, wherever a lot of yang energy and movement is desirable.
The Legendary Chinese Dragon is a miraculous being with scales of the fish, antlers of the deer, mane of the horse and the claws of the eagle. It represents the very spirit of change, and can transform itself, merge with itself, and become visible or invisible in the blink of an eye.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
- By placing a Dragon on our desk, we can bring the "Dragon's Luck" to us as well as protect us from harmful energy.
- The Eastern region is traditionally associated with the Dragon. Hence, displaying the Dragon image on a table or in a cabinet on the Eastern side of our office or study represents excellent feng shui.
- The Dragon, however, should not be placed inside the bedroom, it is too yang a creature, to be in what should be maintained as a peaceful, restful place.
As the element of the East is Wood, a Dragon carved out of wood is beneficial. We can also use a Dragon made of ceramic or crystal, but should not keep metal ones, as metal destroys the wood element.
In restaurants, shops, and department stores, it is very good to display pictures of Dragons in the East, wherever a lot of yang energy and movement is desirable.
2. The Bamboo Tree
Growth and Good Luck
Bamboo, Luck
Considered to be very auspicious in Chinese Astrology; Bamboo represents growth in relationships, life, careers or money.
It is believed that the Bamboo Tree helps improve positive chi and removes negativity from any space.
There are some who place a Bamboo Tree, or a painting of one, in their office, to enhance positive energy and bring growth and good luck to their workspace and career.
Bamboo Woodchime
Woodstock Bamboo Feng Shui Windchim
3. The Double Eight Symbol
Eternal Prosperity
This symbol signifies endless or continuous prosperity.
It is closely associated with Chinese beliefs where the sound of 8 is "fatt", which means Prosperity and Abundance.
Also, the figure 8 is known as the symbol of Infinity. Therefore, putting these two together, we have the symbolic meaning of "Endless / Forever Prosperity".
Double Happiness can also symbolize a happy relationship. It can attract romance or enhance an existing relationship. According to Feng Shui principles, if you hang this charm in the Bedroom it will bring romance and love into your life.
The Chinese also believe that the number eight is sacred and powerful, as it is associated with:
· The legendary eight immortals;
· The eight triangles of the I-Ching or "Book of Changes",
· Ancient Chinese System of Divination.
· Eighty- Eight also resembles the Chinese pictograph for "Double Happiness."
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
The 88 symbol is used universally to help create a flow of energy and unblock stagnant chi.
It activates prosperity and abundance when placed at your "Sheng-Qi" , or Success Direction and at the Wealth Area (South East) corner of your office or shop.
The figure 8 is also a Remedial Symbol, to help balance occupants, when negative symbols or a bad Feng Shui house, affects them. The use of Two Eights just doubles the effectiveness of the cure.
It is closely associated with Chinese beliefs where the sound of 8 is "fatt", which means Prosperity and Abundance.
Also, the figure 8 is known as the symbol of Infinity. Therefore, putting these two together, we have the symbolic meaning of "Endless / Forever Prosperity".
Double Happiness can also symbolize a happy relationship. It can attract romance or enhance an existing relationship. According to Feng Shui principles, if you hang this charm in the Bedroom it will bring romance and love into your life.
The Chinese also believe that the number eight is sacred and powerful, as it is associated with:
· The legendary eight immortals;
· The eight triangles of the I-Ching or "Book of Changes",
· Ancient Chinese System of Divination.
· Eighty- Eight also resembles the Chinese pictograph for "Double Happiness."
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
The 88 symbol is used universally to help create a flow of energy and unblock stagnant chi.
It activates prosperity and abundance when placed at your "Sheng-Qi" , or Success Direction and at the Wealth Area (South East) corner of your office or shop.
The figure 8 is also a Remedial Symbol, to help balance occupants, when negative symbols or a bad Feng Shui house, affects them. The use of Two Eights just doubles the effectiveness of the cure.
4. The Laughing Buddha
Buddhist Symbol of Prosperity
Laughing Buddha, Tanzhe Temple, Beiji...
The Buddha Has A Protective Supernatural Power. Born 2600 Years Ago; The Buddha Is the God Of Luck, Happiness, Laughter, and Contentment.
The Laughing Buddha is regarded as one of the gods of wealth, as it brings prosperity, success and financial gains to the occupants in the house, shop or restaurant.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
The placement of the Laughing Buddha is very important. It has to sit at a height of approximately 30 inches, and should be facing directly at the main door. Hence, a visitors "energy" entering from the main door is greeted by the Laughing Buddha and the energy is activated to become more auspicious.
Alternatively, the next best place to keep the Laughing Buddha is on a side table, or a corner table, which is diagonally opposite to front door and facing the door.
Experts believe that when you buy an image of the Laughing Buddha, three criteria should come into your selection -
1. his smile,
2. his big tummy and
3. the bag he carries; if you like these three symbols, you should not hesitate to buy it.
5. Ancient Chinese Coins
Brings Wealth and Good Luck
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
The Coins should be hung on the inside of the doors, so as to be deemed already inside a house.
Always use three, six, seven or eight coins coins, rather than four or five, as these numbers are considered very auspicious and lucky.
In business, three coins tied with ribbon or string, are use to activate, or bring in, the flow of money or luck. They should be placed in a red envelope and taped under the computer at work, or taped onto the cash register or stuck on the front cover of your account ledger. The coins can also be placed in the cash box.
When placing these coins on account book covers or on the inside of doors, always stick them with the yang side up; the side which has the 4 Chinese characters written on it, should be above and visible and the other side, with the two characters, should be below.
When we use coins personally, it is to symbolize a never ending source of income, we can place the three coins, tied with a ribbon or string in our handbag, wallet or purse.
Hanging coins on the main door handle is an excellent way to bring money luck into our home to benefit all the members of the household. The coins should be hung on the inside of the door and not outside.
Coins as Auspicious Gifts:
Ancient Chinese Coins tied with a ribbon or string are very auspicious gifts, since the act of giving, in itself is most auspicious, we double our own luck each time we give some away.
Add the Coins to the presents and gifts that we give to celebrate weddings and birthdays of our loved family members and good friends.
6. The Mystic Knot
The Endless Knot, The Eternity Knot
For the Indians, the mystic knot is the favorite emblem of the Goddess Shri, who is also known as Goddess Lakshmi, the Indian Goddess of Wealth, the consort of the God Vishnu. It adorns the breast of Vishnu, and is usually depicted as an eight-looped knot.
From the spiritual Buddhist ideology, as the Mystic Knot, it symbolizes the Buddhism ideology that existence is an endless cycle of birth and rebirth. It has no beginning and no end, and like the snake, is said to swallow its own tail.
On a more earthly level, it is regarded as the perfect symbol of never ending love and unity amongst family members. This knot is supposed to bring happiness and attainment. The Mystic Knot is also known as the Endless Knot, the Eternity Knot and the Love Knot, it is therefore a lucky symbol. It represents a long life, uninterrupted by heartbreaks, separations, sufferings or setbacks.
The Mystic Knot is also the infinity symbol shown three times. The infinity symbol also corresponds to the symbol of 8.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
The Mystic Knot is red in color and it can be placed in the southwest corner of your bedroom to enhance your relationship.
To improve the relationship between family members, the Mystic Knot should be displayed in the southwest corner of the living room.
If placed in the southwest corner of an office, it ensures harmony between the staff members and the boss. It also symbolizes loyal and considerate employees.
7. The Phoenix
Ancient Chinese Symbol
Phoenix
The Phoenix is one of four ancient Chinese sacred animals (among The Turtle, The Dragon, and The Unicorn)
A universal symbol of the sun, rebirth, resurrection and immortality, this legendary red "fire bird" was believed to die in its own flames, periodically (each hundred years, according to some sources) then rise again out of its own ashes. It symbolizes the luck of wish fulfillment and brings opportunities, fame and recognition.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
The luck in the Southern corner of our home or office, can be activated by placing the Phoenix there.
The image of the Phoenix at a distance, also symbolizes farsightedness, which is essential for any intelligent businessman.
8. Pair of Love Birds
Ancient Love Symbol
LoveBirds form a strong attachment to their partners and are said to die when separated from one another, hence, they also represent fidelity.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
The Lovebirds, made of ceramic or crystal, should be displayed in the Southern corner, either on a table or inside a cabinet to enhance your reputation. Over the years, you are also able to achieve recognition and attain great success in your chosen profession. If the Lovebirds are the crimson Phoenix, this is even more auspicious.
9. The Fu (Foo) Dogs
Chinese Mythology
Foo dogs or "Shi" in Chinese, are mythic guardian creatures; part lion and part dragon.
Traditionally in China, Fu Dogs are protective symbols.Their job is to sense the intentions of those who approach them and allow only those with good will and kind thoughts to be able to function within their territory.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
By positioning a pair of these dogs outside our office or home they stand guard to protect us. They protect from negative energies and ward off evil or people with bad intentions from entering.The Fu Dogs are placed outside the main door and at a high position.
10. The Education Tower
Buddhist Symbol for Knowledge
The Education Tower or the Pagoda Tower is said to possess certain powers which helps to transform unruly minds into well-disciplined minds.
The Chinese education tower has evolved form the Buddhist Stupa, which is considered as a sacred object. It is good symbol for those who wish to achieve academic success. It is supposed to convert negative energy into positive energy. Hence, it is a good item to be placed on the desk of students.
Chinese feng-shui beliefs:
We can place a pagoda in a child's room to increase his/her concentration in studies and also to reduce his/her boisterous behaviors. The education tower is a said to have the power to keep away anything that could distract the mind.
The best place to keep the education tower is the NorthEast corner of the child's bedroom. The education tower is considered to have yin energy and to be effective, it should be balanced by yang energy in the room, i.e. by having red color present in the room. The yang effect of the red color helps to awaken the chi of the education tower.
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