Organize with Streamy

Streamy Welcome from Streamy on Vimeo.

I'm sorry I've been off all this week; I took some bereavement time as my husband's grandfather passed on. Meanwhile, in lieu of our usual Feng Shui Friday I thought I'd leave you with this awesome new social networking tool, Streamy.

What's social networking got to do with Feng Shui? Hey, if this helps you clear social clutter, organize, and streamline your online experience, it definitely qualifies. I saw this over on Ask Angela/Market My Novel blog, and I just HAD to share this neat video intro to Streamy with you all.

Feng Shui Friday: Balance

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last week I talked about the last of the feng shui elements, The Fire Element. I've spent several weeks splitting the zones and elements up individually, so now I'd like to talk about a little thing called...

Balance in Feng Shui

graphic courtesy hvaldez1, Stock Xchg
A lot of folks I talk to who are getting involved in feng shui make a common mistake I myself was guilty of in the beginning--focusing all energy in one area. Perhaps they want to beef up romance, and saw some Love Area cures to help. Or who couldn't use some extra cash? Perhaps someone goes all out on their Wealth Area to attract money. But as with all things in life, shifting one area affects others. Rock a boat sideways and you may find yourself seasick and capsized, rather than arriving happily at your destination. So it's important not only to know what elements work best in what areas of the home, but how they must all exist in a careful balance in order to truly flourish.

The Balancing Act of Feng Shui

Life spinning out of control? Have you feng-shui'd your heart out in one or more zones but aren't noticing an appreciable difference? Overall lack of balance in your home may be the culprit.

Take a look at your home as a whole for a moment, eyeballing each of the following elements:

1. Earth (clay/ceramics, natural stone, square shapes, "harvest" earth tones)

2. Metal (Metal furnishings, decor, stair railings, circle/spherical shapes, gray/white colors)

3. Fire (candles/fireplaces, lighting, red colors, triangle/pyramidal shapes, sun-themed decor)

4. Water (fountains, snow globes, fish tanks, water themed decor, ponds, water-filled lamps or furnishings, wavy shapes, blue/black colors)

5. Wood (indoor trees/plants, wood furnishings/decor, wood chimes, rectangular/column shapes, green colors)

Chances are good you will find your home leans toward one or two of these elements. If there is a significant lack of proportion, however, this can create imbalance and "lopsidedness" in your life. The good news is, this can be corrected without bringing in a decorator.

Stacking the Balance

Photo courtesy satty4u, Stock Xchg

There are three main ways to bring obvious discrepancies back into balance.

1.Opposing Elements
Have all wood furniture and too little of other things? No money/desire to ditch the current arrangement? Bring in the opposite element, Metal, to level the playing field. Gray/white toss pillows, carefully positioned metal decor, etc. can help counteract the effects of too much Wood in a space. Same thing with bringing in Water to counteract too much Fire, Earth to dam up too much Water, Fire to soften the effects of too much Metal, and Wood to penetrate the effects of too much Earth.

2. The Thousand Mirror Effect This is what I call the act of reinforcing feng shui zones on multiple levels. Meaning you apply the octagon not only to the house, but to each room and even to a surface in a room (like a desk) to assign feng shui zones to each area of that space. I'll be talking about "micro" feng shui later in the series, but for now let's look at it like this. Say you've got a modern home with metal light fixtures, furnishings, and gray/white/silver color tones throughout. To counteract the barrier effects of all that Metal, make sure the counter element, Fire, is strongly represented in its natural area, the Fame area. Place Fire elements in your home's Fame area, then go to each room of the home and use the octagon to find the Fame wall in that room, and place Fire elements there as well. This reinforces the neutralizing effects of Fire to help minimize the disproportionate amount of Metal.

3. Total Equilibrium
If your life is steeped in Dramaville and you can't seem to get things leveled out, or just really want to amp up the harmony in your existence (boy, that seems like an oxymoron), Make sure all five elements are represented and in balance in all nine feng shui zones. These "echoes of balance" can help reduce those inexplicable hiccups that occur no matter what you do.


Have fun exploring the ways balance can enhance your chi!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings perfect balance and harmony your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Fire

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last week I talked about The Wood Element in feng shui. Continuing on with the rest of the five feng shui elements, this week I'll be covering...

Fire Element in Feng Shui

graphic courtesy Stock Xchg
Fire. Passionate, Dangerous, Rapidly consuming and changing. Fire heats our planet and allows life to grow. In Feng Shui, fire is energy and activity, transformation and enthusiasm.

What Does Fire Do In Feng Shui?

Fire governs the following:

1. Transformation

As fire consumes, it transforms. This cycle can be destructive, yes, but can also be life giving. Fire consuming wood in our homes gives warmth or cooks food. Fire burning down a forest will aid in enriching the soil and bringing later new growth.

2. Expansion

As fire licks out and seeks to expand its borders, so does Feng Shui Fire seek to bring an expansive growth to our lives.

3. Enthusiasm

The motion and activity of flame is energetic, mesmerizing to watch. This activity can represent the energy we wish to put to use in our own lives.


Fire is the natural element of the Fame zone in feng shui.
Image Courtesy of JadeGordon, Stock Xchg

What Items Can Be Used to Represent Fire?

Try any of the following that are practical and appeal to you:

1.Candles
2.Lighting
3.Red colors
4.Sun/solar symbols and decor
5.Triangular/pyramidal shapes
6.Fireplaces

Any of these can be utilized in Feng Shui design to bring the Fire element theme into play. Just use caution and don't go overboard.

Fixing "Fire" Problems

Just as fire is probably the most potentially destructive element in your home, the Feng Shui variety can create a negative impact on chi if used improperly or in excess. Avoid Fire elements in Water's natural location, the Wealth area, or too much in areas governing relationships (Marriage, Children, Family). This can lead to "fiery" communication and arguments. Avoid too much red in any zone of the house, even in the Fame area. This can lead to overblown fiery emotions and heated actions. The bright red can also distract from other necessary aspects of life. Replace burned out light bulbs to avoid dulling your energy and enthusiasm. And of course, exercise proper cautions when using live flame as a Fire element.


Have fun exploring the ways this element can enhance your chi!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings a spark of positive fire chi your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Wood

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last time I talked about The Metal Element in feng shui. Continuing on with the rest of the five feng shui elements, this week I'll be covering...

Wood Element in Feng Shui

graphic courtesy Stock Xchg
Wood. Nurturing, growing, wood protects us by way of giving us shelter (under a shade tree in heat, out of the rain, and we use lumber to build our homes.

What Does Wood Do In Feng Shui?

Wood governs a few areas of our life?

1. Growth

Trees area ever growing. Wood element reflects that growth in a variety of ways in our life. Either growth as a person, in growing our families, wealth, or spiritual knowledge, growth is a vital aspect of our existence.

2. Vitality

As trees give forth life giving oxygen into our surroundings, so does the Wood element breathe vitality into our lives.

3. New Beginnings

New branches, leaves, buds, and fruit comes forth from trees each spring, and the Wood element is the place to turn when seeking to bring something new into our lives.


Metal is the natural element of the Family zone in feng shui.


Image Courtesy of Stock Xchg

What Items Can Be Used to Represent Wood?

Try any of the following that are practical and appeal to you:

1.Plants/trees
2.Wood furnishings
3.Wood carvings
4.Wood windchimes
5.Rectangular/columnar shapes
6.Green colors

Any of these can be utilized in Feng Shui design to bring the Wood element theme into play, though live wood is preferable to "dead" wood via furnishings, etc. Still, as it's not always practical to have a lot of living tree wood indoors, decorative wood can be used. Also, fake trees can work, but they should look convincing.

Fixing "Wood" Problems

The most important rule is to avoid fire in the Wood area, and also to ensure that if using living wood (trees), that they be kept maintained and not allowed to sicken and die. Wood is also not as helpful in Earth's natural area. While one would think wood and earth are natural companions, wood penetrates earth and as such contributes to the destructive cycle of earth.


Have fun exploring the ways this element can enhance your chi!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings the strength of positive wood chi your way!

Friday Day Off in Memory

Image courtesy of Stock Xchg

In memory of the artists and entertainment icons who have passed this week, I'm taking a moment of silence on today's Feng Shui Friday to reflect on life, and how we manage to touch others during the brief time we're walking through it. Selah.

Feng Shui Friday: Stolen Car!

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last week I talked about The Metal Element in feng shui, and I was preparing to talk about Wood in this week's discussion. However, my post got delayed due to an unfortunate incident, and I realized that's what I should cover today.

Theft

I absolutely love the apartment complex where we live. It's close to work, the grounds are beautiful, our deck overlooks the pool and spa...it's like living at a resort. Neighbors are friendly, and there are rarely any problems. Except one. Cars of residents here are highly prone to vandalism, break ins, and theft from outsiders. And for the second time in a year and a half, my husband's car was stolen.

What Does Feng Shui Have to Do With This?

Having ones' balance out of whack can pave the way to chaos in other aspects in life. Also, if the Earth and/or Metal elements or safety items are under represented or absent, stability and protection of the household can be compromised.

While I certainly don't lay the blame for every little thing that occurs on whether or not our chi is flowing properly, I do firmly believe it can help or hinder obstacles in our path. After the initial flurry of frustration and required action (notifying police, insurance, etc.), I started to think over my feng shui practices of late and saw where they were lacking.

First, I hadn't been feeling on top of my game recently, and neglected to activate energies in both my Knowledge and Helpful People areas over the past couple of weeks. (I'll be talking about how I routinely activate zone energies later in the series.) What's more, I recently discovered that a small dragon statue displayed outside for protection had been broken. I discarded it immediately, but did not replace the intent, thus leaving a vulnerable spot. Finally, I had not done my usual positive visualization for protection of our home and vehicles and home the night before.

Can Feng Shui Help Now?

Absolutely. Now that the deed is done, and proper "real world" actions have been taken to report the incident, I turned attention to activating feng shui zones that may be of use to us in seeing the car recovered unharmed.

1. Knowledge Area. I activated hanging lanterns in this area for the purpose of "lighting the path" to our missing car, so it will be more easily spotted.

2. Helpful People Area. I activated lighting and incense cures in this area, to encourage individuals to be of assistance in locating and recovering the car.

3. Wealth Area. Because transportation is limited, my husband's livelihood is affected, and there will also be potential added expenses in recovering the vehicle (last time we paid hundreds in impound fees after the found vehicle was towed, and there will be definite steps taken to boost security). By activating indoor and outdoor Wealth areas, especially in conjunction with the Helpful People area, I hope to both minimize the losses and encourage a flow of income in other ways.

4. Marriage Area. Because this is a stressful time, I figured a bit of a positive energy boost in this zone (cleansing and lighting a flameless candle) couldn't hurt.

Did it Work??

As of this writing, the car has not been found. However, within an hour of activating our household chi, a friend called and offered to drive my husband to and from a paid job he'd have had to miss out on tomorrow, and another called with a phone number we needed.

I'll post an update on the car, but meanwhile will be staying on top of keeping positive energy flowing!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings a rolling tide of positive water chi your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Metal

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last week I talked about The Earth Element in feng shui. Continuing on with the rest of the five feng shui elements, this week I'll be covering...

Metal Element in Feng Shui

graphic courtesy Stock Xchg
Metal. Strong, beautiful, conducts energy. Metal is not one of the typical elements found in other schools of thought (air/fire/water/earth), but it was so named by the Chinese in feng shui because of its value and importance to life giving "chi."

What Does Metal Do In Feng Shui?

Metal is responsible vital facets of existence:

1. Intellectual pursuits

Metal acts as a thought "conduit," if you will, channeling and focusing one's brain energy on tasks and such. Have trouble focusing or problem solving? Take a look at the use of Metal in your home.

2. Connects energy

Just like wiring conducting energy to carry sound or electricity, Metal in the home acts as a wiring network that connects all the household energies to the feng shui zones. Keeping this element in balance is important to ensure this process is optimal.

3. Attracts Wealth

Of course, considering many precious metals are fashioned into expensive jewelry and metal is turned into coin money, this is not surprising.

2. Conveys strength and protection

Metal doors, armor, weapons...more than any other element we think of metals as a way to protect our homes and persons.


Metal is the natural element of the Children/Creativity zone in feng shui.

What Kind of Metal?

Any natural metals are useful--wrought iron, copper, and steel are common in household use. Of course silver, gold, and precious metals as well.

Image Courtesy of Stock Xchg

What Items Can Be Used to Represent Metal?

Try any of the following that are practical and appeal to you:

1.Coins
2.Metal windchimes
3.Metal based candlesticks
4.Metal sculptures
5.Circle or spherical shapes
6.Colors like Gray and White

Any of these can be utilized in Feng Shui design to bring the Metal element theme into play, especially useful in the Creativity area.

Fixing "Metal" Problems

1. Don't Overdo. Too much metal is cold in a space, and can produce too much "sharp" energy. Think of lightning into a large metal conductor. If you have a lot of metal furnishings, lamp poles, etc., balance this by including a strong showing of other feng shui elements.
2. Avoid Sharp Edges.
Not only is this a safety issue, it subconsciously creates a feeling of ill ease in the home, "tiptoeing" to avoid disaster.
3. Avoid Metal in the Family Area. This can cause detriment, "sharp" and "cold" relations, even break family ties (metal cuts wood). Also, avoid placing Fire elements in Metal's natural area in the home. Fire melts Metal, nullifying its effects.
3. Beware of Candleholders as Metal Ambassadors. Again, Fire melts Metal, so either display metal candlesticks without a candle in them (lit or not), or don't use them in your decorating. An exception would be a grouping that contains all five elements, creating a harmonious balance.

Do I Have Too Much Metal?

If you decorate in modern style, possibly. Look for metal frames, table legs, furnishings, candleholders, decor, etc. If it's overdone, no need to hire a decorator and redo the whole house. Simply seek to create a harmonious balance between all the elements, removing metal decor where possible, or softening with colors/shapes/representations of other elements, etc.

Have fun exploring the ways this element can enhance your chi!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings positive metal chi your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Earth

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last week I talked about The Water Element in feng shui. Continuing on with the rest of the five feng shui elements, this week I'll be covering...

Earth Element in Feng Shui

graphic courtesy Stock Xchg
Earth. Solid, the foundation for our homes, our footing, and the birth place from which food we consume springs.

What Does Earth Do In Feng Shui?

Earth is responsible for these essential facets of existence:

1. Grounding and Centering

Finding your "center" is an often tossed around concept. Earth elements give weight to your thoughts, grounding them to this plane when you need clear focus.

2. Stability

Earth energy in feng shui helps grant us metaphysical legs to stand on, stable emotions and an unmoving, rock-like solid foundation.

2. Health

Earth is the natural element of the Health zone in feng shui, as it is the nurturing, nourishment-producing element from which we are fed and cared for.

So I Need A Bunch of Dirt In My House?

Certainly not! As we've learned, misplaced dirt and clutter causes negative energy. While we tend to think of the word "earth" as either clumps of dirt or the planetary body as a whole, in feng shui the term has more to do with the above depictions of the earth as a nourishing, stabilizing force. Items used to represent the Earth element in your home are created from refined earth.


Image Courtesy of Stock Xchg

What Items Can Be Used to Represent Earth?

Try any of the following that are practical and appeal to you:

1.Terra Cotta decor
2.Clay statues, jars, pots, bowls, etc.
3.Ceramics
4.Natural stones (jade statues, amethyst rocks, a grouping of smooth stones, etc.)
5.Square/Rectangular shapes
6."Harvest" Colors like Yellows and Browns

Any of these can be utilized in Feng Shui design to bring the Earth element theme into play, especially useful in the Health area.

Fixing "Earth" Problems

1. Center Earth When Possible. When you place an Earth object to stabilize an area, it's doubly helpful to "mirror" the intent by setting the item in the center of the space--the natural "Health" location of the feng shui octagon. For instance, if setting a small statue on top of a table in the Health area, try to place it in the center of the table. This is the most stable position, so reinforces Earth's natural intent.
2. Avoid Non-Earth-Loving Areas.
Minimize Earth elements in your home's natural Wood (Wood penetrates Earth) and Water (Earth absorbs/blocks Water) areas. (As per prior discussions, we learned that Wood is the natural element of the Family area, and Earth is the natural element of the Career area.
3. Repair/Eliminate "Broken" Earth. Cracked/chipped vases, statues, etc. interfere with your stable foundation and should be removed from use.
6. Don't Go Overboard. Some Earth is good. Too much can block your path--like a mountain in the road to progress.

Do I Have Too Much Earth?

There is a necessary balance for all elements to coexist harmoniously. If you have a whole lot of Earth-based jars, statues, or other decor, thin the ranks. Choose your favorites and retire others. Rotate them from time to time if you can't bring yourself to part with them. Less is more in feng shui. Use the above locations as a guide to where to centralize--and avoid--your Earthen items.

Have fun exploring the ways this element can enhance your chi!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings the grounding force of positive earth chi your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Water

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last week I talked about Color Theory in feng shui. This week I want to begin covering each of the five elements of feng shui, starting with...

Water Element in Feng Shui

Water graphic courtesy Smicko on Stock Xchg
Water is one of the primary life-giving forces on our planet. Without it, we not only cannot live a harmonious, balanced existence, we cannot LIVE.

What Does Water Do In Feng Shui?

Water is responsible for a couple of very different--but equally important--facets of existence.

1. Water is the household "Money" spout.

Yep, think of wealth "flowing" into your home. Water chi is responsible for helping--or hindering that flow.

2. Water rules household "Emotion."

Emotions are as important as money? You bet! Our relative perception of harmony and happiness depends to a large degree on our emotions and how well we balance them. Chaotic emotions can be the ruin of even the wealthiest individual.

So I Need A Bunch of Fountains And Ponds?

Not necessarily! Granted, fountains are an extremely potent feng shui cure, because the constantly running water releases positive ions in the atmosphere and encourages a constant flow of money energy in the home. However, water features in the wrong zone (as discussed in prior posts) can have a negative effect, and after a point adding more of one element will not add more positive effect in any case.

In addition, water features may not be practical if there are:

1. Small pets in the home that may disturb a fountain (i.e., curious cats)
2. Small children in the home, same reason
3. Time issues or lack of willingness to properly maintain a fountain
4. Personal reasons for not wanting to use electricity to run a fountain (note:solar powered fountains are available for outdoor use)


Image Courtesy of Stock Xchg

What Else Can I Do Besides Fountains?

Plenty! One of the great things about Feng Shui is, there's no one MUST DO cure. If you can't utilize one suggestion, there's always a substitute. For example, any of the following (when placed with intention) can be used to represent Water:

1.Water Globes (with or without glitter "snow!")
2.Fish bowl/tank (with the same caveats regarding cats, children, and maintenance)
3.Photos or artwork depicting water or aquatic themes
4.Wavy shapes
5.Blue or Black colors

Any of these can be utilized in Feng Shui design to bring the Water element theme into play. Just remember to keep Water elements away from your home's natural Earth (which blocks Water) and Fire (Water destroys Fire) areas. (As per prior discussions, we learned that Fire is the natural element of the Fame area, and Earth is the natural element of the Family area.

Fixing "Water" Problems

Even if you don't add a single bird bath or water photo to your home, you can maintain proper Water balance by keeping chi-robbing factors at bay.

1. Keep Toilet Lids Down. Before you flush, shut it. Open toilets are believed to "suck away" energy, and on a health note, spray up a lot of microscopic germs to boot.
2. Keep Bathroom Doors Closed. The primary "Water" feature in any home is your bathroom, so keep energies from flowing out by shutting your door. (It's also a psychological boost to not have to glance over and see a toilet.)
3. Keep Drains Closed. When possible, plug drains when not in use.
4. Repair Drips And Leaks Immediately. These represent money draining from your home (and a constant drain on emotions)both figuratively and literally, considering drips add to your water bill.
5. Position Fountains For Maximum Effect. When placed outdoors (preferably not in your Fame or Family area if possible), position in such a way so that the flow of water points toward, not away from, your house. This draws positive energy in, not away. Indoors, try not to place fountains where the flow points at your front door, which similarly represents money flying out the door.
6. Don't Go Overboard. Some Water is good. Too much...yes, it can happen.

Okay! Too Much Of A Good Thing?

Absolutely. As with all elements, there is a necessary balance to Water. Too much overloads or floods us. Too little dries us out. The same is true when applying Water cures to your home.

Just because water enhances the flow of wealth doesn't mean going overboard with a water themed house. (Though I've seen it done by feng shui designers and it's very cool!) Make sure to balance Water with representations of the other feng shui elements, in order to establish and maintain overall harmony. A Man Does Not Live By Water Alone, and all that. Have fun exploring the ways this element can enhance your chi!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings a rolling tide of positive water chi your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Color Wheel

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

Last week I talked about theories of positioning in feng shui. This week I'll cover something I've touched on during our exploration of the nine zones--color theory.

Feng Shui Color Theory

Here's the ba gua I displayed in last week's post, showing the colors associated with each of the feng shui life zones. Red for Fame, pink for Romance, blue for Career, and so on. This chart is not exhaustive or exact, nor does it mean your Fame area has to be painted bright red. Still, color is a powerful feng shui cure that you will not want to overlook, one that draws specific energies that can be beneficial--or not--to the goals of a given area of your life.

But How Does Color WORK in Feng Shui?

Actually, I believe there are a couple of reasons why color matters when applying feng shui principles to a given space.

1. The "power of positive thinking" angle.
Consider wealth for a minute. What color(s) automatically come to mind when you think of money or riches? GREEN, many of us would say. Aha! Yes, green is a prime color for the Wealth area. Why? We associate it with money, and when we look at that area of our house, we subconsciously SEE money. Others may as well. Which means positive brain waves--energy--are frequently flicked toward bringing in wealth.

2. The scientific theory of color itself.
Colors are light, or electromagnetic energy. (By the way, electromagnetic energy is also used to determine traditional positioning in feng shui.) Different waves of light/energy bouncing off an object produces the different colors we see. Considering there are slightly different energies involved in each color, it's not hard to imagine that perhaps energies that tend to attract, say, wealth are similar to those that produce the color green.

So Green in My Wealth Area Assures I'll be Rich?

Nope! It's not that simple or we'd all be rolling in the dough!

Ah, cheer up. Using certain colors in specific zones of our home produces something of a mirror effect. You see green in the location where relative or magnetic energies are most susceptible to wealth, and you think wealth. That energy adds itself to the zone's own energy. The color green itself is made up of energy that also draws wealth. Add other money-drawing cures that we will continue to explore in this series, and you have reinforcement upon reinforcement of wealth-drawing energy in your home.

Of course, there's then the wealth-drawing energy you apply directly by way of earning it, but you will find money comes to you more readily and at times you least expect it when you've optimized your Wealth area.

But A Different Color In Each Zone? My House Will Look Like a Circus Tent!

I hear that complaint from time to time, especially from people with open floor plans. However, there are two pieces of good news here.

1. You don't have to use large splashes of a color for it to be effective. In fact, with some colors this is not recommended. Too much red, for instance, can become too fiery and cause dissension. Large amounts of blue (water) in a relationship or family area can cause excessive emotion. Small touches can be used as "accent" colors that will make your cure "pop" without looking out of place.

2. Every zone has more than one color that will work. How, considering all that talk about specific energies, etc.? Well, think about it. Health, Romance, Career, etc. can all be impacted by a number of different factors. So there's not necessarily just one singular color that can have a positive effect. If a zone recommends a color you hate, don't use it! Pick an alternate that suits you or your decor. In short, you have to live with it, and if you have an unpleasant association every time you look at a cure you don't care for, that casts negative energy toward the very thing you are trying to improve.

Okay! So What ARE All The Color Options For Each Area?

Thought you'd never ask! We covered this when discussing each of the zones, but I thought it would be helpful to consolidate this into one list

Career: Blue, Black, White
Knowlege: Black, Green, Blue
Family: Green and Blue
Wealth: Green, Purple, Red, Blue
Fame: Red, Purple
Marriage: Pink, Red, White
Creativity/Children: White, Pastels
Helpful People: Gray, Silver, Black
Health: Yellow, Green

You might note that several of these colors overlap or complement each other nicely. So your house need not look like the color wheel above in order to have harmonious feng shui!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a feng shui tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings colorful chi your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Positioning

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

We've just completed an introduction to the nine zones of a house as defined by Feng Shui. Before we go on, I feel I should mention that there are different methods to defining these zones, and the way used in this series is a simplified, modern version of traditional feng shui practice. For those interested in the standard approach, I wanted to talk about it a bit today.

Feng Shui Compass Positioning Method

The bagua octagon shown at the top of every Feng Shui Friday post is used to find the locations of each feng shui zone in your home. But the traditional way is to use an actual compass, or Lo-Pan, on an individual lot in order to identify precise geographic direction. Thus, the Fame area may not fall along the rear wall of every home in this method.

There are those who believe feng shui cannot be practiced properly without the use of a compass--which is true IF you are using the traditional direction method. You might think your front door faces true south, but it may actually be south east or even west. Checking with a compass may surprise you.

To make things even more confusing, you'll note the compass looks pretty complicated. That's because a traditional feng shui compass also utilizes astrological calculations in determining specific orientation and positioning. Many feel this is not necessary, but that any compass--provided it is accurate--can be used along with the ba gua shown below in order to identify a lot's feng shui zones.

Relative or Doorway Positioning Method

Many practitioners are turning to a simpler method of determining zones without the use of the compass. This is done by considering the "mouth of chi"--the front door to a home or space--as the commanding position of any space. Thus, the ba gua can simply be oriented with the career zone (north) along the front door, and the rest falls into place. This is the method I use in my series.

Okay, So Which One WORKS?

Oddly enough, both! It would seem that if guesswork to determine north doesn't work, and a compass like the one above was vital to finding zones, the Doorway approach would be wholly ineffective. Yet, it is a proven valid method. How?

Let's think about it for a minute. The front door represents the commanding position of a home, just as north functions as the commanding position on a compass. By simply aligning these two planes physically and mentally, we can achieve similar results without the need for specific calculations. The doorway method makes feng shui practical and simple for anyone without a compass--and allows for the practice of what I call micro or mirrored feng shui--boosting your results by layering cures room by room, or even to a desktop or single surface in a room. We'll be talking about micro-feng shui later in the series.

So if you're interested in the more traditional, old school method of feng shui, grab a compass, print out the color wheel above and take a look. Whichever method you choose--but especially with the Relative Positioning method--be sure to involve your intention for these cures to work in your life. In the end, the magic of our own will is a great antenna for power boosting positive results!


~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a feng shui tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings good chi your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Health

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

This week we'll cover the last zone of a house as defined by Feng Shui...

This week: The Health Area (center)

Flip the above octagon so the Career line lies against the wall where your front door sits. Continuing clockwise around the octagon from last week's Helpful People area discussion, you will see that we've come full circle (or octagonal) back around to the Career zone we started with. We're out of "sides!" But there's one more place in the home where energies abound--the very center. Energies here directly involve the health of those living in the home, so this is a vitally important area.

Find yourself under the weather a bit? Tired, with a lack of vitality? Catch every germ that comes down the pike? Feng shuit is NOT a replacement for proper health care, of course, but changes to this zone may help give your home a health boost.

As with each of the eight sides of the octagon, the same types of issues block helpful chi (chi=natural, life giving energy):
*Clutter
*Poor/no lighting
*Dirt
*Lack of vital purposing (dead or incorrectly apportioned space)

Health Area Fixer-Uppers:

1. Clean it up. Clutter blocks healthy energy from reaching you, and dirt here can represent blights on your health. (And of course, there's the obvious correlation between having a dirty, dusty home and increased rate of illness, fatigue, or allergy). So a solid clean 'n clear here is key!

2. Light it up. Burned out light bulbs here can have a symbolic effect on energy and health. Replace them immediately. If you lack energy, light the path with bright and cheerful lighting.

3. Dress it up. Colors here favor yellows and earth tones. Earth is the natural element of the Health area, so plants are especially useful here. Living plants give a scientific health boost as well, by taking up C02 and releasing oxygen, but a good silk plant can give the area a "lift" as well. Good shapes to represent Earth are cubes, squares, and rectangles. (I'll bet you were thinking spheres! But Earth here means solid stability.) Pottery objects work well in this area.

4. Fix it up. The least desirable element in this area is Wood, so if you have wood here either relocate or "cure" it by adding more Earth elements or include all five elements for harmony. If you are using plants in this area, try to avoid plants with spiky/sharp leaves. Sharp points represent daggers piercing/attacking good health.


My Health area falls largely along a main traffic path, not particularly ideal. I've set up this "zone" near the smack middle of the home to emphasize health.

I do tend to use silk plants in numerous areas of the house, but here I use a live plant basket. Small natural stones represent the Earth element as well. A photo of my spouse and I sit here to reap health benefits that will extend onto the rest of the family. These items rest on a large rectangular shelf unit.

I've lived in three different homes since beginning the practice of feng shui, and my Health area has been a work in progress in all of them. Aside from this zone being located in a heavy traffic pattern, our Health area suffers from another problem--the rectangular shelf the pictured items are resting upon is made of wood. Wood is not the ideal choice for this zone, and while the rectangular shape represents Earth, this piece of furniture is the single largest item in the zone and throws things off balance. As we are unable to move or replace it right now, I enacted some cures. First, the use of the live plant rather than silk. Also, I ultimately included all five elements for balance. (Fire--the candles. Metal--the brass candleholder. Water--there are round black items positioned above and below this area, just out of frame.) Finally, I hung a leaded crystal sphere from the ceiling in the exact center of our house, to attract positive, healthy chi.

The results have not improved things as much as I'd like, and I feel we could still use more of a health boost. I'm planning on adding more yellow to this space (there's a small yellow decor sitting in the plant basket). I'm likely considering a yellow fabric cloth to drape over the top of the shelf to subdue the Wood element. If all else fails, I will have to relocate the shelf.

Anything you do to enhance the Health area should be done with focus and intent! Picture yourself (and your family) healthy and strong; envision your body shrugging off illness with ease. There's a lot of power inherent in our own will to succeed--in any task. Don't underestimate it!

~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a creativity tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings good health and cheer!

Feng Shui Friday: Creativity

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

This week we'll continue our introduction to the nine main zones of a house as defined by Feng Shui...

This week: The Children/Creativity Area (left hand wall)

Flip the above octagon so the Career line lies against the wall where your front door sits. Continuing clockwise around the octagon from last week's Relationship area discussion, if you're facing the front door, the Children's area falls along the left wall of the house (or room). Energies here influence children...AND creativity! (Makes sense when you think of it...many things we create, be it a story, piece of clothing or art, etc. are thought of as our "babies!")

If you have bouts of writer's block, projects that go awry, or get creativity "burnout," this is an area of your home or room that you'll want to scrutinize for potential problems.

If you've been following the series thus far, you can guess what things negatively impact relationship chi-blocking (chi=natural, life giving energy):
*Clutter
*Poor/no lighting
*Dirt
*Lack of vital purposing (dead or incorrectly apportioned space)

Children's Area Fixer-Uppers:

1. Clean it up. If this area is cluttered or dusty, you can experience barriers to creativity or issues with children's behavior. So keep this spot top shape.Dust, get rid of clutter, etc.

2. Light it up. Bright lighting is especially vital here to illuminate the path to spark creative purpose--and to spark a child's intellect, interest, and own creativity. Replace burned out light bulbs immediately.

3. Dress it up. The children's area favors the purity of white, and Metal is the natural element of this area. Plants are nice here, along with displays of your creativity or your children's art. Kid's photos work nicely here as well.

4. Fix it up. Keep things in good working order here to both aid your children's behavior as well as your own creativity. Fire is an undesirable element in this zone, as it can result in increased bickering or contrariness in children or keep projects from running smoothly. Relocate candles, and if you have a fireplace or kitchen (stove) in this area balance the fire element with either green plants or water. Avoid a lot of red here as well.


This is my children "zone," and is a definite work in progress. This niche used to be a catchall for mail, my purse, and junk, but was cleared to become purposed as the children's space since most of this wall consists of closets (Not shown). You'll note the green ivy vine hung here in lieu of a live plant, and a fragrance diffuser in the wide bowl. The scent cure going at all times here is a flirty, fun tropical fragrance to enhance creative flow. My daughter's library books are kept on a table with metal legs, sitting just below frame. A "yu" bowl sits there as well, an item I'll probably talk about later. Due to limited space here I'm still deciding how to incorporate artwork, photos, or my creative items. Meanwhile, since this wall contains a closet I do my best to keep it as clutter free as possible (always a challenge, isn't it?).

Of course, anything you do or keep as is to enhance this area should be done with intent! Picture happy, well adjusted children, and free flowing creativity.

~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a creativity tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that sparks creativity and brings joy to your children!

Feng Shui Friday: Love

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
Every week I take a break from romance/erotic fiction writing and explore simple tricks to bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life!

This week we'll continue our introduction to the nine main zones of a house as defined by Feng Shui...

This week: The Marriage/Relationship Area (left rear corner)

Flip the above octagon so the Career line lies against the wall where your front door sits. Continuing clockwise around the octagon from last week's Fame area discussion, if you're standing inside the octagon facing the front door, the Relationship area falls along the rearmost wall of the house (or room). Energies here influence LOVE, relationships, and passion. Oo-la-la!

If you've been following the series thus far, you can guess what things negatively impact relationship chi-blocking (chi=natural, life giving energy):
*Clutter
*Poor/no lighting
*Dirt
*Lack of vital purposing (dead or incorrectly apportioned space)

Relationship Area Fixer-Uppers:

1. Clean it up. Keep this area spic and span to remove barriers to romance and a healthy relationship! Dust, get rid of clutter, etc.

2. Light it up. Bright lighting is especially vital here. Candles can be used in moderation (more on that in a minute).

3. Dress it up. The colors of love are pink and red. Red is more of a passion color, pink for long lasting love, devotion, and fidelity. Both are important enough to include in your design decor, though if you're married it's unlikely your husband will want you do the entire area in pink! Incidentally, red bed sheets are a good way to sizzle up romance, as are judicious use of candles.

4. Fix it up. Fix or remove anything that is broken in this area immediately--burned out light bulbs, broken/cracked items, leaky faucets, etc. Clutter or an overcrowded space can block romance from entering your life if you're single, or foster communication issues in a current relationship. Fireplaces and water features in this area may or may not be helpful. Fire can stoke passion, but too much can flare into increased arguments and strife. If your dating life is stalled, a fountain can encourage love to flow your way, but if emotions are already running high in a relationship, a water feature in this area may push this overboard.

If your master bedroom happens to lie within this space, this is very fortunate. If a bathroom, kitchen, or children's room resides here, you may have issues with a flat/blocked love life or tension in the relationship. Keeping these rooms clutter free will help, as well using the octagon on your bedroom and applying feng shui cures to the relationship area there.

Here's a space along my relationship wall that I've purposed for our marriage. Wedding photos were a natural choice, and all five feng shui elements exist here for balance/harmony. I used paired male and female symbols on the shelf. Rose quartz is my husband's native stone and represents him (and lets me bring in the pink element without complaints about "girly" colors in the decor!) Girls take note: a stone denotes a rock-solid, unwavering relationship--and pink is said to prevent a wandering eye. The pewter fairy box was a gift from my husband; this represents me. In addition, the reed bottle and oil warmer cup are a male/female symbolic pair.

I keep a vanilla scent cure going here at all times, and light the candle weekly. One goal we had was to reduce marital conflict, so I decided against red so close to our wedding portraits. It seemed too much like symbolizing us literally "seeing red." (We do have red bedding, though.) I also toned down the "fire" element here by using a subtle battery-operated tealight. I couldn't be more pleased with the results.

As always, when making changes to the Relationship area do so with intention! See love coming your way; envision passionate encounters, a harmonious, loving relationship, and ongoing devotion. After an argument, put the negative emotions behind you symbolically by cleaning the space. (Maybe this is why we feel like cleaning when we're mad?)

~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a Relationship area tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings sizzle to your romance!

Feng Shui Friday: Fame

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
What does a romance/erotic author know about Feng Shui? Early on in my writing career I discovered this ancient Chinese art as a means to organize my desk space. The impressive results prompted me to employ this art well beyond my novel writing, and a dozen years later I've applied Feng Shui to every area of my home. Every Friday I'll share tips to help bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life. I'll begin by introducing the nine main zones of a house as defined by Feng Shui.

This week: The Fame Area (rear wall)

Flip the above octagon so the Career line lies against the wall where your front door sits. Continuing clockwise around the octagon from last week's Wealth area discussion, if you're standing inside the octagon facing the front door, the Fame area falls along the rearmost wall of the house (or room). Energies here influence fame.

Why is this important for the average Joe? What if you're not a football star or movie celebrity? Fame is still vitally important. This area controls not only the literal concept of being "famous," but also recognition in your field and interests, as well as your personal reputation. So keeping this area spit-spot can help people see you in a positive light.

As always, the Fame area is affected by the same chi-blocking factors (chi=natural, life giving energy) as discussed previously. These include:
*Clutter
*Poor/no lighting
*Dirt
*Lack of vital purposing (dead or incorrectly apportioned space)

Fame Area Fixer-Uppers:

1. Clean it up. Yep, literally once again. Dust, remove clutter, etc.

2. Light it up. Bright lighting is especially vital here, and candles are extremely helpful.

3. Dress it up. RED is an excellent color here--it denotes not only personal power, but is dramatic enough to attract major notice. The Fame area is a great place to display personal power items like awards and visual representations of your "power" goals and interests--but don't go overboard. You don't want clutter blocking your path to recognition!

4. Fix it up. Avoid water features in the Fame area if possible, as well as broken light fixtures and stubs of burned candles. If your Fame wall includes a bathroom, balance the water here with candles in groups of three (nine total is great if your bathroom is large enough to position without cluttering the space), or by bringing in all five feng shui elements in the decor for harmony--Water, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Wood. Red accents can also help.

Here's my Fame wall. While you can't see it in camera, my desk sits in front of this wall. I use a round mirror as a cure on this wall. Mirrors reflect "chi" and can be a potent energy activating light cure in feng shui. My mirror includes an image of the sun, a powerful "fire" symbol. Fire is the natural element of the Fire element, so on the shelf just beneath the mirror I have a red candle. Alongside this display I have a chime consisting of brass bells to activate energy and red tassels--the color of Fame.


As always, when making changes to the Fame area do so with intention! See yourself gaining that "spark" of recognition when you light your candles, and sweep negatives away from your reputation as you clean.

~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a Fame area tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings fame your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Wealth

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
What does a romance/erotic author know about Feng Shui? Early on in my writing career I discovered this ancient Chinese art as a means to organize my desk space. The impressive results prompted me to employ this art well beyond my novel writing, and a dozen years later I've applied Feng Shui to every area of my home. Every Friday I'll share tips to help bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life. I'll begin by introducing the nine main zones of a house as defined by Feng Shui.

This week: The Wealth Area (right rear corner)

Flip the above octagon so the Career line lies against the wall where your front door sits. Continuing clockwise around the octagon from last week's Family area discussion, if you're standing inside the octagon facing the front door, the Wealth area is nestled into the rear right corner of the house (or room). Energies here influence money! And who couldn't use more of that, right? So let's take a look at how to maximize the potential of this space.

As always, the Wealth area is affected by the same chi-blocking factors (chi=natural, life giving energy) as discussed previously. These include:
*Clutter
*Poor/no lighting
*Dirt
*Lack of vital purposing (dead or incorrectly apportioned space)

Wealth Area Fixer-Uppers:

1. Clean it up. By now, you know the drill here. Dust, remove clutter, etc.

2. Light it up. Bright lighting is always helpful in feng shui, but if you'll be utilizing water elements, avoid using lit candles as the source.

3. Dress it up. Royal purples, greens, blues, reds, and golds work well for the Wealth area. Coins are helpful. We have a Chinese coin windchime in our master bedroom Wealth area, for instance. Jade is also a potent cure, and you'll often see jade Buddhas or other statues in a Chinese restaurant near the cash register or Wealth area. Wealth is one of four areas that does not have a natural associating element--five feng shui elements, nine zones. However, water is often associated with wealth--money "flowing" into our pocket, etc., so water features are well placed here.

4. Fix it up. If your Wealth area happens to be a bathroom, keep drains and toilet lids closed and leaks repaired. (Here and everywhere in the home, for that matter.) Clutter in this area blocks money coming into the home. Imagine boxes full of promotional items, prizes, jewelry, computer doodads, etc. stacked on top of the cabinet shown in the photo below. That's what our Wealth area looked like for three years. I finally gave the space an overhaul, and we saw an immediate difference in the flow of our finances. Speaking of "flow," if you use fountains to stimulate wealth here, keep them filled and in good repair with fresh water. Same with fish tanks or any other cure--keep them in fresh repair or the effect is nullified.

Here's some of my Wealth area. I've spread a rich green and gold cloth over the cabinet, and a metal gong and windchime (hanging out of frame) to stir potent chi as well. Metals represent coins and wealth, so gold, silver, etc. work well here. I use strong, pleasing candles--on a warmer, not lit--to effect a constant scent cure that is noticeable throughout the room. My first book cover is framed on the wall for writing income. Though not visible in the shot, we have a small fish tank here. I'm an avid believer in properly placed fountains, and we've used them in this zone with great success. Now we have a little one who finds fountains too great a temptation to stay out of, so for now ours is kept outdoors, pointed so wealth will flow into our home.

Because this area lacks a "don't use THIS element!" factor, I've tried to include all the elements here. I added a natural branch with all the elements of feng shui strung onto it, and embedded natural stones in all the chakra colors. I'll be going a bit more in depth on touches like these later in our series.

As always, regardless of what changes you make to the Wealth area, do it with intention! See money in your hands, know that your energies focused here are working to increase wealth.

~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a Wealth area tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that brings fortune your way!

Feng Shui Friday: Family

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
What does a romance/erotic author know about Feng Shui? Early on in my writing career I discovered this ancient Chinese art as a means to organize my desk space. The impressive results prompted me to employ this art well beyond my novel writing, and a dozen years later I've applied Feng Shui to every area of my home. Every Friday I'll share tips to help bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life. I'll begin by introducing the nine main zones of a house as defined by Feng Shui.

This week: The Family Area (right hand wall)

Moving clockwise around the octagon from last week's Knowledge area discussion, flip the above octagon so the Career line lies against the wall where your front door sits. If you're standing inside this octagon facing the door, the Family area glides along the far right wall of the house (or room). Energies here influence family relationships.

Family nagging that you're spending too much time with "your writing stuff?" Squabbles or lack of communication at the dinner table? This is the area in your house to point your feng-shui goggles at.

The Family area is just as affected by chi-blocking factors (chi=natural, life giving energy) as areas discussed previously. These include:
*Clutter
*Poor/no lighting
*Dirt
*Lack of vital purposing (dead or incorrectly apportioned space)

Family Area Fixer-Uppers:

1. Clean it up. Clear the cobwebs, say sayonara to the dust bunny parade. Windows in this space? Give 'em a wash if you can.

2. Light it up. Bright lighting can bring cheer and understanding to the family, but avoid candles.

3. Dress it up. Calm greens and blues are wonderful color choices for the Family area. Healthy live plants work well. Wood is the natural element of this zone as well as columnar shapes, so wooden furniture, bowls, etc. are helpful.

4. Fix it up. Clutter in this area complicates family relations and blocks the way to harmony. Natural metals are considered a poor choice here, as metal (think axe/knife blade) cuts wood. So things like wrought iron furnishings, silver candlesticks, etc. can interfere with family bonds. Similarly, avoid candles in the Family area, and cure fireplaces. Fire energy consumes wood, and in a relationship area can evoke high emotions and anger. Lots of family strife/arguments? Check this area for any "fire" items and relocate them.

Here's a little space I've dedicated in my Family area to, well, FAMILY! Family photos are a natural here, and stand on a columnar wood cabinet. I also store our family albums in a drawer underneath. Bamboo is a potent feng shui cure, promoting healthy, strong, steady growth. I use green color accents and have added a few natural stones like amethyst and hematite for grounding and calm. Earth elements may or may not work well in this space; play around and see what results you get.

A few of you might be wondering about the pewter frame in this area. Metal? Yep, you caught me! Matter of fact, if I stood back and shot a photo of my ENTIRE Family area, you'd spot quite a few family feng shui faux paus. (Say THAT three times fast!) I've done a few cures to this area including the dedicated space shown, and did see an immediate boost in family communication. However, I'd like to see this zone even stronger, so later in this blog series I'll be posting a Family area makeover.

Just like the other areas mentioned, whether you shift a candlestick or renovate the entire Family space, remember to make your changes with intention. See nurturing, peaceful calm among family members as you paint the wall green, or picture positive communications and smiles as you place family photos here. Sweep old family business away with the dust bunnies.

~~~~~
Romance writer duties call!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a Family area tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that inspires your family!

Feng Shui Friday: Knowledge

Octagon graphic, Bartett Designs
What does a romance/erotic author know about Feng Shui? Early on in my writing career I discovered this ancient Chinese art as a means to organize my desk space. The impressive results prompted me to employ this art well beyond my novel writing, and a dozen years later I've applied Feng Shui to every area of my home. Every Friday I'll share tips to help bring positive energy to YOUR writing...and life. I'll begin by introducing the nine main zones of a house as defined by Feng Shui.

This week: The Knowledge Area (front right corner)

Moving clockwise around the octagon from last week's Career area discussion, with the octagon flipped so the Career line sits against the wall where your front door sits, you'll see the Knowledge area resides in the far right corner. Energies here are responsive to aiding or hindering attainment of knowledge.

Why is this important to writers or anyone besides students? Writers often research their books, new markets, or tips on successful promotion. In everyday living, we constantly seek answers. When our Knowledge area is out of order, these answers may prove difficult to come by when we need them.

The Knowledge area is affected by many of the same factors that block chi (natural occurring, life-giving energy) discussed previously, such as:
*Clutter
*Poor/no lighting
*Dirt (front entry ways tend to track in a lot)
*Lack of vital purposing (dead or incorrectly apportioned space)

Knowledge Area Fixer-Uppers:

1. Clean it up. Clear the cobwebs, bid dust bunnies farewell. Corner spaces are notorious dust and clutter hogs.

2. Light it up. Lighting here is especially important to illuminate the path to knowledge.

3. Dress it up. As light is important, the Knowledge area is a good location for candles and/or lamps. A fireplace here is a fortuitous location. Water is less useful. I've also found scent cures are helpful here, particularly those that stimulate mental acuity: citrus, vanilla, sage, and mint for starters. Blue, green, and black are all good color choices in this area. What's more, this is thee recommended location in the home for a television and/or bookcases. Windchimes or a lead crystal sphere hung over this zone can be useful as well.

4. Fix it up. Avoid energy blocking clutter that keeps knowledge hidden. If you have bookcases or a TV here, make sure to keep them dusted and that books, DVD's, etc. are displayed neatly and not stacked haphazardly. Water can drown flames that light the path, so try not to use much in this zone, or add plenty of light to negate the effect. If light bulbs burn out in this area, replace them immediately.

Okay, here's my own Knowledge area. Note that the family TV is situated here, and the prominent use of black. (The TV is set here to a soundscapes music channel I use sometimes to aid focus.) At lower left is a set of Asian hanging lanterns, and above this a spotlight against the back wall. I have a daughter in college and another being homeschooled; their photos are displayed in this area. Sitting atop the TV you'll notice an aromatherapy diffuser; it's filled with vanilla as a constant scent cure.

Remember, whether you decide to relocate the family library or just add a small candle or scent cure, the most important technique is to make the change with intention. See knowledge coming to you effortlessly when you need it; visualize barriers being removed as you clean the space.

~~~~~
My latest romance novel beckons!! I hope you've enjoyed Feng Shui Friday. Have a Knowledge area tip or dilemma to share? Please post in the comments! Until next time, may you find the magic within that satisfies your thirst for knowledge!