Body Space Alignment News

What Is The True Essence of Feng Shui
By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC, RYT

Those of us who have studied the ancient art and science of Feng Shui know
its roots are embedded into the laws of nature. The pure principles of ch’i
take hold of the foundation of this extraordinary philosophy. We understand
that by tuning into the dynamics of ch’i movement internally and externally
a moment of "Peak Experience" can occur. Sounds, colors and tactile
sensations become more intense, and for the first time we may understand our
connection to the rest of the Universe. We truly experience the depth and meaning
of objects and events in our lives because we are aligned with the energy of
life itself.

Feng Shui embraces the premise of oneness - an inherent wholeness between
the very essence of our soul and the Universe. Unfortunately, the daily rigors
of life have the tendency to trick us into "disassociating" or giving
us the impression we are separate from others, nature and the world. The solution
is to open the door to our soul through meditations whether with silent or movement
formats like Qigong, Tai Chi or Yoga practice. Alignment of our inner ch’i automatically
prepares us to harmonize the ch’i within our immediate space. When the two are
in balance, a series of interrelated ch’i flow takes hold and strengthens our
soul to remind us we are whole, healthy and constantly connected to everyone
and everything. When our internal (body) and external (environment) are unified,
magic happens. We are more alive, healthy, invigorated and able to address our
life intentions. On the other hand, when the connecting influence of ch’i wavers,
disease, injury, aging and depression take hold. Externally our space becomes
cluttered, stagnant and unappealing.

These concepts delve deep into the core of Chinese culture. It is seen in
works of art and is depicted in symbolism such as the Dragon - the highest guardian
and totem for the Emperor, and a familiar symbol in Feng Shui practice. What
does the Dragon tell us? It whispers the sacred secrets, hidden treasures and
unrealized power we all have into our being. By honoring our true selves, we
can apply these blessings to everyday life.

If we take a closer look at these core principles of Feng Shui, we realize
they have a symbiotic relationship with the laws of attraction. The best selling
book "The Secret" (featured on Larry King Live) states that if we
can understand the untapped power within ourselves, we can have anything we
want in life. The process is broken down into three simple steps:

1. Ask: Ask the Universe what you want in a clear and concise
manner.
2. Believe: Believe it is already yours and speak as if you
have it.
3. Receive: Open yourself to receive what you want, and then
feel what it is like to have it.

You may be thinking: "Well, what is the point of Feng Shui if I can just
follow the three basic Laws of Attraction?" The answer is simple: Feng
Shui acts as a catalyst to the Laws of Attraction. One of the main aspects to
my Feng Shui consultations is to have my clients delve deep and ASK what it
is they want in life. If it is abundance or prosperity, for example, then the
next step is to clearly write down and ask the Universe exactly what they mean
by their "wants." This process catapults a series of thoughts that
are now aligned to the clients "wants." As a professional consultant,
it is my job to locate the ch’i power points in each client’s space, and apply
the appropriate symbolism for his/her desires in those areas. Symbolic representation
supports the client’s thoughts and sends them out to the Universe. The Universe
will then configure HOW to bring abundance/prosperity to the client. The third
step I tell my clients is to believe abundance is theirs. This can be the most
difficult step because the human mind has a tendency to gravitate toward what
"we do not want" in life. Then, the Universe will gladly acquiesce
and bring more of what we do not want. Instead, by focusing on the symbol of
abundance, or whichever symbol we choose, the thought process reprograms for
the things we do want, and the Universe will obey.

Both Feng Shui and the Laws of Attraction are concepts that have been handed
down through the ages and have stood the test of time. You will come to understand
that any desire is attainable once you learn to apply both of these fundamental
principles.

The Chi of Life
By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC, RYT

We seem to come across many definitions of chi ranging from cosmic energy,
the dragons breath, atmosphere, and life force energy. In short, chi is all
of these things and defines the energy that animates all living things. It flows
throughout the Heavens, Earth and nature until it reaches our living and working
spaces. The human body experiences this chi flow by way of our meridians; twelve
to be exact. Chi affects our organs, our emotions, our senses, dreams, and our
ability to make decisions. Therefore it behooves us to live and work in an environment
that supports strong healthy (sheng) chi and to avoid or abate (sha) chi.

In order to establish an environment that will support and nurture us we must
begin our chi assessments from the outdoors. A survey of the land is paramount,
as strong Form school feng shui will provide the solid foundation for sheng
chi to propagate and thus bless the occupants. Begin with assessing the soil.
Is it rich in nutrients to support lush vegetation? If it is then we know it
will sustain life. What is the air quality? Is it fresh and filled with negative
ions or has the chi been transmuted from pollutants of nearby factories, highways
or an airport. How does the land present itself? Are there sinkholes, an over
abundance of pine trees, or vegetation that seems to die off quickly? These
are all indicators of potential underground water and electromagnetic discharges
respectively. Do you notice an abundance of ants, bees, spiders, Oak or Willow
trees on the property? These are all indicators of possible Geopathic Stress
lines running beneath the land. What is the positioning of the property or dwelling
to the roadway? Cul-de-sacs, T-junctions, Y-junctions, blading roads will send
bulleting chi directly to the property and the dwelling as a result. This can
cause undo stress for the occupants resulting in an array of problems from arguments,
divorces, illness, etc. Finally, assess the traditional Form school typography
of the land. Is the dwelling or future dwelling enfolded with the supportive
Tortoise in the rear to provide strength, tenacity and longevity for the occupants?
Is the left side or Dragon position higher than the right or Tiger side? If
it isn’t then the chi will be rather rambunctious and thwart the male energy
of the home. Is there an open view or established Ming Tang in the front to
allow the chi to enter and feed the dwelling and as a result the occupants?
If we choose a property that supports, nurtures and protects us, this translates
into the fundamental basis for our overall success in life.

We now need to proceed with evaluating the chi of one’s house. Chi can vary
depending upon the chi of the occupants. Feng Shui observes the interaction
between the chi of nature and the chi of mankind. Synergistically these two
components work together to determine the life of the individual. By aligning
oneself to directional energies that are supportive we can mitigate potential
challenges. The 8 directional chi energies are extremely powerful in how one
behaves and operates. By assessing the important points within a home beginning
with the front door and moving onto the kitchen, bedroom and potential home
office, we can determine what the impact these directional points will have
on the occupants. Northern water Chi is rather quiet presenting as the still
of the night or winter season but it also presents with life’s challenges. It
faces the stellar and thus equates to our long-term goals, the seeking of knowledge
and the journey to success. Slow and steady wins the race but many times we
are impatient and find this energy to be over bearing. As the night moves into
early morning and the winter moves into early spring the earth is working overtime
to prepare for birth. The Eastern wood chi energy is very charged and filled
with potential and growth. It activates the individual and the creation of ideas.
This chi is wonderful for young couples and starting anew but lacks the partnering
energy of the Southwest and completion of Western chi. Morning gives way to
noon and spring blossoms into summer with the Southern fire chi being the most
dynamic. The south is imbued with the ecliptic band that houses the Sun, moon
and planetary bodies. Needless to say these are very powerful energies that
paint this directional chi. Summer gives way to autumn and the high point of
the sun descends into the horizon whereby the Earth begins to pull into itself
to prepare for the upcoming winter. The Western metal chi is imbued with energy
to complete what was started. It represents the end of the day and a time to
relax and reap all that was produced. The aforementioned are the cardinal directions
representing the 4 seasons and flux of chi. The inter-cardinal directions depict
the season’s gradual movement and represent a mix chi expression.

Honing in on the architectural shape, materials, fabrics, colors, symbols,
scents, sounds and images will also reflect the type of chi that surrounds us.
A home that is odd shaped will obviously be depleted in chi representing the
missing section of the bagua and be reflected in that particular part of the
occupant’s life. Gaining that chi back through proper Feng Shui remedies and
cures is essential to align the occupant’s life. Natural materials, fabrics
and lighting are imbued with healthy chi therefore choose them over synthetic
products that can transmute chi and pollute it. Color has a certain vibrational
tone that chi picks up and redistributes back out into the environment. This
in turn feeds our auric and chakra system aligning our own energy and as a result
keeping us balanced. The symbols, imagery, sounds and scents within our space
are inhaled by chi as it meanders throughout our environment. If they represent
what we want in our life then we are painted with that type of energy on a daily
basis. Likewise if these images, sounds and scents do not represent what we
are striving for in life that too shall be painted on us daily. You are what
you see so pay attention to what decorates your walls. The arrangement of your
furniture and placement of objects will also have a dynamic impact on the chi
within our space. Command, command, command is key to placing chairs, couches,
beds and desks. As a result the body will relax, relieving stress and you have
the ability to take control of your life. Finally, less is more is a concept
to live by. So get rid of the clutter and over abundance of furniture within
your space. This is not only creates chaotic chi but will stagnate the chi and
our lives as a result.

We are all blessed with auspicious heavenly chi. How we decide to work with
this energy will dictate the type of chi and as a result the kind of life we
live. We have a choice to imbue our space and our bodies with healthy sheng
chi by taking an active role in the design of our space. The choice is yours.

The Art of Well-Being
By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC, RYT

I first wrote this article just prior to leaving for a trip out to California
to visit some friends, and decided to bring the draft with me to review on the
flight out. I remember thinking there was something missing from the article,
as if the words were just that…WORDS. I decided to put the pad down once
the pilot began his descent. My vacation was about to commence and I promised
myself this time "all play" and "no work."

Staying with close friends in Encinitas, California, our days and evenings
were unplanned. I found myself living in the moment and enjoying the present.
While taking long walks on the beach, through the town or simply across the
yard, the elements of nature awoke my senses. For the first time, I really noticed
the texture of the earth beneath my feet, the sounds of wind chimes clamoring
in the summer’s breeze, a wave crashing in the distance, a bird chirping in
the tree, and even a fly buzzing by my ear.

Each morning I woke up slowly, savoring the soft sheets that nestled my body.
Moving slowly out of bed and feeling the cool travertine tile beneath my feet,
I noticed my body awaken a bit more. I made my way out to the veranda with a
hot cup of green tea and allowed myself to become a part of the beautiful scenery:
while a local jogger passes by, the bright pinkish-red flowers of nearby bougainvillea
cascade the pergola, and the palm trees move gently in the morning breeze. I
finished my tea and took my yoga mat and laid it out on the fluffy grass yard.
I began my moving meditation practice, but this time with my eyes closed. I
listened to the sound of my breath reverberate in the back of my throat as I
inhaled deeply through my nose and exhaled releasing my secular attachments.
The repeated sound of my breath quieted my mind, and my senses grew sharper.
With each asana (posture), my energy became closer to that of the surrounding
environment. The sweet smell of the grass danced around my head, and the heat
of the sun washed over me. By the time my yoga practice ended, I found myself
fully surrendering to the moment and connecting to everything in my path. This
was my morning routine six out of the seven-day stay, each day feeling a deeper
level of well-being.

On the morning of my last day, I decided to take a 2-mile walk with my husband
and friend to see the Swami gardens. As we walked up and down the hilly streets
that line the pacific, three crows seemed to follow our path. When we arrived
at the gardens, the view was breath taking: on one-side cliffs overlooked the
pacific, and on the other side a menagerie of garden vignettes graced with sheer
beauty. The magnificent colors and cascading waterfalls that filled fresh ponds
of koi fish looked as though an artist had just finished a masterpiece on raw
canvas.

Our walk back to the house was quiet and gratifying. The next thing I knew
I was packing my remaining belongings and we were off to the airport. The ride
was peaceful, not another car in sight. It was as if the energy we were emitting
into the Universe told the highway we were all on a spiritual high. As I sat
in my seat and prepared my pre-take off meditation, a wave of peace washed over
my body, from which a message came: "rewrite your article and draw upon
your vacation experience." I re-wrote my initial draft, including a few
points that defined my experience while on vacation. What I mean by this is
the "Art of Well-Being" concerns both the mind and body - not as separate
entities, but rather connected parts of a single whole. "Wholism"
is the ability to balance the physical with the mental and spiritual realm.
When we do this, we experience greater vitality, and the clarity to access inner
peace.

Breaking these components down on a physical level requires a form of movement.
Qigong, Tai chi or their sister practice, yoga, naturally awaken our inner qi.
My vitality skyrocketed because I began every morning by moving my inner qi
[through yoga] throughout my body. My physical environment enveloped by natural
materials - wood, marble, stone, natural linens, plants, water fountains and
lush vegetation - propelled my physical and spiritual awakening to the next
level.

Spending time in nature and meditating before and after my yoga practice eased
my normally overactive mind. Where my mind was once filled with idol chatter,
it now remained open to experiencing the present moment. I felt mentally renewed
and physically refreshed. As I was sitting on the plane returning home, I realized
that I had brought my article to life while on vacation.

We are all capable of reaching our highest self if we take the time to live
authentically. This is something the intuit self already knows how to do. Tuning
into nature and bringing it into our surroundings, living in the here and now,
and moving the body simultaneously with the Universe are the components to the
"Art of Well-Being." If you take the time to nourish this natural
state of mind, body and spirit, it is well worth the effort.

Our Aging Population
By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC,RYT

We are aging-not just as individuals or communities but as a world. In 2006, almost 500 million people worldwide were 65 and older. By 2030, that total is projected to increase to 1 billion. That number translates to 1 in every 8 of the earth’s habitants. While global aging denotes medical advances, it also presents challenges to some of our most basic systems including finances, family structure and models of social support.

As people live longer, the young-old balance is shifting. This is exacerbated by the fact that couples are having fewer children. The combination of these trends has important implications regarding adult care issues. By and large, people will have less familial care and support as they age. The impact is building more long-term facilities and consuming natural resources in the process.

Assessing the aging population challenges from a feng shui perspective is two-fold. First, we must examine the situation on a local level. What is going on in your own backyard? Perhaps you personally have become a “caregiver;” a role that we are never prepared for. Mixed emotions are likely to be experienced from feelings of nervousness to completely being overwhelmed. You may find yourself having to perform new and unfamiliar tasks that may include dispensing medicine, providing assistance with meals or assisting with other bodily functions. Being a “caregiver” for an aging family member can translate to physical, emotional and financial strain.

The role of the feng shui consultant begins with assessing the dynamics of the space. Most certainly, the caregiver is multi-tasking resulting in a major shift towards the yang polarity. Balancing this extreme shift is paramount and can be done through interior space alignment, diet and yin activities such as meditation, breath control (pranayama), yoga or qigong practices. Encouraging your client to engage in these activities will prove to be beneficial.

Balancing Suggestions External & Internal:

*Assess the structure for anything in disrepair on all levels and in all directions. Any infractions can further impact the health and well-being of the occupants.

*Assess the materials in the structure and décor. Emphasize the importance of eco-friendly fabrics, furnishings and products.

*Balance lighting sources with natural sunlight and low wattage incandescent bulbs.

*Recommend soothing sounds and scents to adjust the vibration of the space.

*Assess the flying star combinations that may predispose or exacerbate health challenges for the occupants. Every star is associated with an organ system (i.e.: #1 star governs the urinary system, #2 governs the abdomen, star #3 governs the liver, spleen and legs, etc.). If a star is positioned poorly, it needs to be addressed accordingly.

*Make sure the center of the structure is stable. A bathroom, laundry room or staircase will disrupt the balance resulting in potential emotional and health issues.

*Evaluate the percentage of the 5 core elements in both the caregiver and patient’s 4 Pillars natal chart. Overly weak or strong elements need correction by incorporating the proper element(s) in the décor, their diet or activities they may engage in.

*Support the Southeast and Northwest corresponding polarities representing wealth and near wealth respectively on the ba-gua, as finances may be a contributory stress factor.

*Support the Eastern sector of the home with water and wood elements along with family symbolism to strengthen the bond that can be fragile during the transitional phase.

*Assess the bedrooms – utilize good form school layout designs, agreeable directions, yin colors and lighting, natural elements, pleasant images and minimal electrical components.

*Create a sacred space (preferably in the Northeast sector) that all family members can utilize. Incorporate yin lighting, music, comfortable seating, natural elements, objects from nature, spiritual items and favorite possessions.

The second phase of the aging population trend challenges the environment and impacts the end user or elderly disabled person. From an environmental standpoint, the building of additional facilities will impact natural resources. From a human perspective, building design and the material components will impact behavior and physical well-being. Incorporating green design, feng shui and sacred geometric concepts will effectively address both concerns.

Green Design – Feng Shui- Sacred Geometric Designs:

Suggest facilities to be built on redeveloped existing sites.

Incorporate flexible designs to enhance building longevity.

Limit destruction of natural vegetated areas.

Develop passive solar lighting strategies.

Promote occupant health and well-being with effective ventilation systems, natural materials and lighting sources.

Use native plant sources to minimize irrigation.

Incorporate recycled materials.

Include curving designs and regular shapes in floor plans.

Incorporate proper elements and colors in aligned directions for sheng qi to propagate.

Include circular and spiral designs.

Enrich the space with nature’s elements – rocks, plants, shells and water features.

Incorporate the Golden Mean Ratio in room configurations.

Include beautiful art depicting scenes from nature.

Imbue the facility with pleasant sounds and smells.

The upward spiraling trend of our aging population impacts us personally and globally. The challenge for the future is to ensure that people everywhere will be enabled to age with security and dignity. The feng shui community has a responsibility to assist in this process by enhancing the external and internal spaces where this population group resides impacting the quality of their lives.

Healthy Living Through Feng Shui
By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC, RYT

At the core of all feng shui lies the subtle beauty of nature; all of its essence exudes a level of harmony and balance unparalleled. The age-old principles of feng shui are based on these laws and acknowledge the ever-changing interaction and connection between human beings and their environment. This powerful connection is the key to experiencing good health and prosperous living.

A comprehensive feng shui analysis can ascertain how healthy a space is for its occupants. A close evaluation of the land topography including the integrity of its soil, surrounding man-made electromagnetics, escalated earth frequencies caused by leys, underground water streams and specific types of grids, are essential measurements during a feng shui health analysis. Assessing the architecture and design materials can determine the energy flow pattern and synthetic out gassing that occurs within a structure. The fine-tuning of color, sounds, scents and nature’s elements are the defining details that impact our emotions. Our senses process these subtleties within our space and synthesize it in the hypothalamus and limbic system of our brain.

Directionology is another powerful indicator within our structures that correspond to body systems and the human life journey. Evaluating the directional points of the home for any infractions can pinpoint life challenges or health issues. For example, architecture in disrepair in the North sector of the home can show up as challenges in our career or potential urinary or bladder problems.

Our environment is a direct reflection of who we are. It represents a snapshot of our inner self or “landscape.” If we are not in total alignment to begin with, we will resonate to an environment that is unbalanced keeping us in this perpetual state. If we shift our level of consciousness to include more of our subconscious intuitive mind, our innate intelligence takes over and we chose healthier spaces. We begin to work with nature’s essence in our building and design materials. We look to incorporate sacred geometric shapes found in nature like the nautilus shell, spiral designs or plants that follow the Golden Mean Ratio and the Union of Opposites explained in the famous Fibinocci sequence. These natural laws imbue our space with divine harmony creating a vital new energy. As a result, this energy begins to permeate every aspect of our life. We begin to thrive, prosper and achieve our desires in life. This in turn leads to the basic human need of acquiring true health and happiness.

Once you begin the process of aligning your outer landscape through the laws of feng shui, you will naturally increase the vibrational level of the structure externally and internally. In turn, your personal vibrational level will heighten. You will naturally be drawn to healthier eating habits, physical habits and spiritual habits. The cultivation of your inner qi will begin to flow freely and abundantly. A union or “yoking” of the mind, body and spirit will occur. This is the natural segue to finding true happiness, health and abundance.

The simple fact remains when we work with nature in our building designs and internal décor, we are working with the natural flow of all things. Engaging in this type of design practice allows us to connect to our space as “one.” This is a powerful concept pertaining to the first Taoist principle: There is not “just us,” or ‘just nature,” but both. Understanding this Universal philosophy should change the way we look at our space and how we interact with it. Pay attention to your environment as you would care for your own body and you will acquire a state of total well-being.

Have You Been Shuied?
By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC, RYT
Certified Feng Shui Consultant
Member of the International Feng Shui Guild

If you have trouble finding your life, then it is time to redesign your space with Feng Shui. This ancient Chinese art and science seeks to establish harmony and balance in our lives through our environment by harnessing the beauty and peace of nature. Therefore, when we design our spaces with nature’s essence it creates a vital new energy for ourselves. As a result, this energy begins to permeate every aspect of our life and we begin to thrive, prosper, and achieve whatever we desire.

Since Feng Shui acknowledges the ever-changing interaction and connection between human beings and their environments, then it behooves us to create an environment that is nurturing and feels safe so we can let go of the day’s challenges and come back to our source of power. Then we can start each new day refreshed and rejuvenated.

Feng Shui design allows us to live more consciously, as there is always a purpose and intention for every change made. This is a powerful concept that enables us to support ourselves in a positive and strong manner. When we understand that every part of the human life experience is encapsulated within our home through architectural design, images, symbols, textures, smells, and sounds, we can then assess whether these shapes and objects are bringing energy to us or taking it away.

In Feng Shui it is important that your space reflects who you are and what your goals and intentions are in life. This translates into furnishing all rooms with objects, images, and colors that make you feel good. All rooms should be utilized within your space otherwise you can effectively shut down areas of your personal and social life. The key is to use what you love and to incorporate natural elements such as plants, flowers, water, earth elements, a breeze, and shapes that are found in nature. And don’t forget to tantalize your senses with nature’s sounds and smells.

Implementing the core principles of Feng Shui into your life will improve the energy that flows around and throughout buildings, dwellings, and gardens so that harmony, power, romance, health, and prosperity will result. Transform your home into a harmonious and positive environment with Feng Shui. When we work with nature, life is easy.

Consecrating Your Space
By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC

“You must give to nature more than you take. Obey it and the earth will provide you in glorious abundance.”
Alan Chadwick

Historically, civilizations in China, India, the Celtic tribes of England and Europe, Native American Indians, Aborginal tribes in Australia, and many others were intimately connected with nature. There was an innate wisdom and sacredness regarded for Mother Earth. These cultures recognized the importance of living in harmony with the environment and expressed it through rituals and ceremonies intended to bring about balanced energies within their dwellings. Shamans, Priests, or the holy men of the community were called upon to bless the home and remove any negative energy. In some instances these ceremonies represented humanity’s age-old attempt to have a relationship with the unseen realms of life. These ceremonies conformed to the cultural traditions and particular time period in history. Even though these rituals differed from culture to culture, the underlying purpose and intention was always the same. It was all about maintaining a balanced and harmonious relationship with nature and to co-create with Mother Earth instead of having dominion over Her.

Space clearing is a sacred branch of feng shui practice that transforms our living and working spaces into sacred places. In order to understand the purpose of space clearing, it is important to know how energy is processed and how we in turn process it. Essentially, there are seven levels of energy that are contained within the atmosphere. The composition of the environment, externally and internally, determines the level of energy we are exposed to. These levels range from very low to very high. We have all experienced the impact of these levels in the way our physical, emotional, and spiritual bodies feel. For example, when we feel ill, depressed, unmotivated, or just stuck in life, it is a reflection of the energy level within our environment that we are exposed to. On the other hand, high energy levels leave us with feelings of vitality, flashes of instant knowledge, wisdom, and being more spiritually connected.
We are all capable of inhaling this higher energy level at anytime; unfortunately, most of us go through life in a lower level range. Space clearing is a simple way to elevate the existing energy level in your space, and in doing so, increases our own personal energy level and the ability to move through life in an awakened state. I know many of my clients report a change in how their environment feels and how they feel after a space clearing session. It is one of the easiest ways to bring about change in your life and is a wonderful accoutrement to your feng shui applications.

Building Energetics

Buildings, homes, and rooms absorb energy from any activity, disturbance, jubilation, or tragedy that occurred in them. The pattern of energy associated with the activity becomes embedded into the very fabric of the home and, as a result, these vibrations of energy become embedded within us contributing to our state of health and well-being. If we examine the energetic component of a building, there is an aura bubble that acts as a protective layer. This bubble extends around the building in two layers. The inner layer has a thickness of approximately two feet and spans outward from the building at approximately four feet in distance. The second layer is approximately three feet in depth and spans out twelve feet from the building. Any energetic vibration from the builders, building materials, and any occupants within the structure all are stored in these two layers. Therefore, it is important to include the house aura during a space clearing ceremony.

Our personal possessions will also lock onto energetic vibrations. Therefore, it is important to assess the objects within our space and decide if they bring energy to us or pull it away. An easy way to determine if an object is draining your energy is to walk through your home room- by-room and observe the items in the space. Notice how they make you feel. Do you smile and feel uplifted, or does it make you feel angry, disgusted, or indifferent? One way to increase the surrounding energy level is to decorate with colors, fabrics, furniture, and objects you love. Every time you see those items, you will feel good, relaxed, and vibrant. This is such an important point in feng shui because our environment is an extension of ourselves, our inner self to be exact. Therefore, during my consultations, I always point out the significance of decorating with objects that have deep meaning for my client. If there is any object they feel uncomfortable with, I recommend they remove it from the space because in essence they are telling the universe there is something they do not like about themselves.

Why Space Clearing Can Maintain Healthy Living

Karen Kingston is a world-renowned energy worker who specializes in the branch of feng shui known as space clearing. Much of her knowledge and experience is based on the Balinese people, priest, and shaman. One of the most profound concepts followed by the Balinese people is called Sekala (the seen world) and Niskala (the unseen world). The Balinese understand that everything in the physical world is the result of its counterpart in the unseen world. This is the same concept that Dr. Wayne Dyer discusses in his book “Manifest Your Destiny.” It’s about transforming energy into your own reality, and in order to transform energy, it needs a catalyst to do so.

The primary catalyst for the Balinese people is their ability to integrate their material world with their spiritual one. Here in the west, we tend to separate the two and, as a result, life can be more difficult and joyless. Like the Balinese people, Dr. Wayne Dyer suggests the same concept of integrating both worlds in order to manifest all things in your life. The connection between the spirit and the material world should be one and not separate. The common denominator in these concepts is living in tune with nature, or God’s world. Living close to the land puts us in sync with the universe allowing all else to naturally fall into place. When we disconnect ourselves from the earth, it causes a domino effect separating ourselves from our surroundings and each other. Feng shui provides that direct connection to nature and the ability to feel the energy within our surroundings.

There are a number of space clearing techniques that can be utilized to consecrate your space. Whether you choose to waft natural herbs, burn incenses, sound bells, clap, or spray essential oils, is your choice. The key is to be comfortable with the ceremonial procedure and have a clear intention before, during, and after the process.

Space clearing and consecration ceremonies are a wonderful catalyst to begin the transformation process in your life. It is a simple way to elevate the existing energy level in your space, and in doing so, increases your own personal energy level. This process of transmuting energy can assist us during difficult times like illness, divorce, separation, death, arguments, financial hardships, or any reoccurring problem. At the very least, clearing the energy within our environment helps us move through life in an awakened state.
Creating A Sacred Room

From a feng shui perspective, the home is an extension of our body, our well-being, and our livelihood. Throughout my book, “The Feng Shui Connection To A Healthy Life” due out June 2007, the emphasis always comes down to our immediate surroundings. With that in mind, it is important to go a step further and create a space within your environment that you can go to on a daily basis to renew your soul and spirit. A room in the northeastern sector of your home works very well, as the energy resonates to self-cultivation and spirituality. Decorate this space with seven key components to nurture the mind, body, and soul.

1. Sacred Objects: These objects can be religious icons, spiritual books or CD’s, any thing that represents spirituality to you, or the dreams you are manifesting for this world. You can actually create a small alter in this space that should include the four natural Greek elements (earth, wind or air, fire and water). Examples of the earth element are a crystal, healthy plant, or fresh flowers since they actually come from the earth. The fragrance of incense, essential oils, or a feather represents the wind or air energy. Candles illuminating a light source represent the fire energy. And finally, a fresh bowl of water acts as a purifier for the soul and obviously will represent the water energy.
2. Incense and Candles: The scent generated from incense represents a spiritual offering. In many religions, incense is an integral part of the ceremony and elevates the energy level within the space. The candles represent the light or the soul’s illumination.
3. Natural Elements: Incorporating nature’s elements into this space will bring us closer to connecting with the awesome energy of the universe. Plants, rocks, and crystals are just a few examples of natural elements that will augment this connection.
4. Water: Water is a source of nurturing, healing, and spiritual purification. Incorporating a water source in this room in the form of a fountain can be very spiritual and uplifting. The sounds created by the water can be very powerful and should mimic the sounds of a babbling brook, or stream in nature.

5. Life Force: Life force energy reminds us of the never-ending energy source in the universe. Energy cannot die; it simply changes its form. Therefore, by incorporating life forces in this space it can connect us to the infinite energy within our soul. Life force can be anything from fish, fresh flowers, to a healthy plant.
6. Color: Color is one of the most powerful elements within a space that can elevate the energy level and heal the mind, body and soul. It is thought that our soul emits a bright white light that is integrated throughout our physical body in our chakra system creating other color vibrations. Adding touches of purple to this sacred space will resonate to the seventh chakra, our highest energy level, or spiritual realm. In traditional Buddhist monasteries, the colors red, yellow, blue, green, white and black are also used to support and sustain the spirituality of your life.
7. Sacred Shapes of Geometry: Geometric shapes represent the stages of “Becoming.” It allows a direct access to the spiritual and material forces of creation. The ancients believed that by incorporating symbols of sacred geometry into the architecture would allow the soul to grow. These ancient earth designers constructed sacred patterns into their temples, monuments, and other structures in honor of their spiritual essence.

In order to fully understand the dynamics behind sacred geometry, one must realize the world is a natural phenomenon that is comprised of geometric forms. For example, this can be seen in our bodies as the double helix of DNA, in the structure of the cornea in the eye, and every other part of the body that follows this same predictable pattern. In the environment, it can be seen in the reoccurring shapes and fractals of leaves, flowers, seeds, the pattern of honeybees and other insects that live structured lives, the crystalline form of gems and stones, the swirl of a nautilus shell, the movement of the tides, the solar system, and the cycles of the moon. Sacred geometry is replicated in the vibrations of music (notes), the grid patterns seen on earth (ley lines), and in religious symbols, especially in Judaism, Christianity, and Hinduism.

These geometric forms have been a constant source of inspiration to scientists, philosophers, artists, musicians, and architects around the world. The perfect harmony displayed in these geometric forms always equals a measurement of (1.6180339887) and therefore was given the term of “The Golden Mean” or “Golden Ratio.” This led Sir James Jeans, a British scientist during the mid 1800’s, to pose the famous question: “Is God a mathematician?”

The ancient Greeks were also very interested in the Golden Ratio; as a result, it is seen in many works of art and architecture including the famous pyramids. The famous Fibonacci sequence (1,1,2,3,5,8,13,21,34,55,…), where the generation of numbers occurs by adding the previous two numbers in the list together to form the next number, produces the Golden Ratio if you divide any number in the sequence by the one before it (55/34) = 1.61803. This configuration represents the search for absolute truth, love, or God.

When these symbolic number principles are incorporated within building and room designs, it can have a profound effect on us. Since our dwellings are seen as an extension of ourselves, by creating spaces that support our dynamic being it can sharpen our senses, improve our physical body, and reconnect us to our divine nature. When we choose to build and design our spaces with more synthetic materials rather than natural materials, we are disregarding nature in the process. Therefore, we shut down our true nature and, as a result, this can lead to disharmony, imbalance, and disease. There is an old Chinese proverb that says, “When there is order in the house, there is order in the nation, where there is order in the nation, there is peace in the world.” Below are some ideas of how to incorporate sacred symbols and the Golden Mean Ratio into your space.

o Labyrinths: A labyrinth is simply a system of paths that can be easy to get lost in. The design of a labyrinth eases the mind into a meditative state. You can create a small labyrinth in your yard or garden by simply creating pathways with hedges, shrubs, stones, or mosaic tiles. You can also purchase a geometric pattern of a labyrinth and hang it on the wall of your sacred room, or area where you meditate. This geometric form activates the subconscious mind and symbolizes a winding path to the divine source.
o Nautilus Shell: Keep a nautilus shell or ammonite fossil displayed in your home. The spiral shape conforms to the Golden Mean Ratio and exudes divine harmony.
o Mandala: Mandala is Sanskrit for circle and symbolizes transformation, healing and unity with the creator. A mandala can be placed on a coffee table or shelf. You can purchase a sand tray mandala with a swinging pendulum. When the pendulum moves it will create a sacred design formation in the sand.
o Plants: Living plants represent the geometric aspect in nature known as fractals. The way leaves grow around the stem and the veining of the leaf is a sacred principle that will keep you connected to nature.
o Spiral Designs: Any spiral designs creating a swirling movement rotating downward to a center point, then upward, are extremely powerful sacred shapes. Many times Native American pottery depicts these designs.
o Sacred Shapes: Incorporate seashells, crystals, ferns, leaves, circles, triangles, pyramids, cubes, and hexagons in your space.
o Artwork: Incorporate art with landscape scenes, flowers, or spiral designs.
o Kaleidoscope: Get a Kaleidoscope and add it to your room décor. Use it frequently and experience the sacred shapes created by the movement. The best ones to use are those that have the small color chips.
o Golden Mean Ratio: You can incorporate the Golden Mean ratio in any room that is odd shaped. Simply measure the width of the room and then multiply it by the Golden Mean Ratio (1.618) to find the perfect length. For example, a room with a width of 14 feet multiplied by 1.618 equals 22.652 or 23 feet. This is the perfect length for a room that is 14 feet wide. Simply design the furniture around these dimensions and create a separate area for any additional odd space. This works especially well when a room is long and narrow. You may also use this same concept in an odd shape yard. You can delineate the divine proportion area from another area by planting a natural barrier with hedges or shrubbery.

The human body resonates to nature on a cellular and conscious level. By designing our spaces with nature’s symbols and geometric forms found in those symbols, we then can create a space that nurtures us instead of one that drains us. This type of architecture and interior design supports the principles of universal harmony and nurtures our own senses and creativity in life.

Connecting With Our True Nature: The Integration of our Inner and Outer Environment and its Association with Mind/Body/Spirit

By: Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC , RYT

Since the dawn of recorded time, humans have sought to go beyond the self and to reach a higher state of being. In order to achieve such a state of complete harmony or “oneness,” discipline of the mind and body is an essential starting point. Once the mind and the body are aligned, the spirit naturally engages and all the parts of the self are unified. This concept is at the very core of basic human desire; every human being wants to find happiness, a state that is completely reached only when we are “whole.” This very quest is something that exists within each of us. Our goal then becomes accessing what dwells within.
As a professional Feng Shui consultant and yogi, it became apparent to me that one of the keys to achieving “oneness” is to give equal attention to our inner and outer landscapes. All too often, the significance of the outer landscape is not fully understood and is addressed only in terms of design considerations; even by those versed in feng shui. Feng shui is based on natural, metaphysical and cosmological factors. Feng shui makes it possible to better understand the impact that daily cosmological cycles have on our planet as well as the impact of directional orientation, magnetic fields, landforms, water veins and sinews, leylines, grids, etc. These are key dynamics in determining the best position of buildings and homes so that they may have the most beneficial influence on us. These natural forces are in a constant state of flux, and as a result, our personal energy fields are also constantly affected. Noting these changes is essential for aligning our mental, physical and spiritual selves.
The way that we determine the configuration of our spaces can be directly associated with the emotional states of our psyches. The rooms become a reflection of our inner landscape at the time that we are making many of the design decisions. According to legendary Swiss Psychiatrist Carl Jung, “oneness” can result out of the integration of the inner and outer parts of our being. This he refers to as “individuation.” Accomplishing this type of “individuation” is one of the best uses of feng shui. This can be effectively accomplished through the use of feng shui principles that collaborate with nature’s essence and sacred designs. The resulting spaces are imbued with a divine harmony that in turn makes fresh and vital energy available to us. This energy begins to permeate into every aspect of our lives and we thrive, prosper and are more likely to achieve our desires in life. This of course leads to greater overall happiness.
Once you begin the process of aligning your outer landscape (feng shui), you will naturally raise the vibrational level of the structure externally and internally. In turn, your personal vibrational level will also be elevated. You will naturally be drawn to healthier eating habits, physical habits and spiritual habits. You will be more likely to resonate with harmonizing practices such as yoga, qigong or meditation. The cultivation of your inner qi will begin to flow more freely and abundantly. A union or “yoking” of the mind, body and spirit will occur. This is the natural segue to finding true happiness.
Your inner and outer landscape are interrelated and equally impact each other. If you are personally aligned with your inner qi you will naturally adjust your environment to match that vibrational level. Conversely, if you adjust your space with good feng shui it will vibrate at a higher level and your inner qi will automatically rise to match your space. The simple fact remains that as we work with nature and understand the first Taoist principle of “oneness”- “There is no separation between us and nature.” Life becomes easier. We truly connect with our true selves and a certain sense of familiarity takes hold.

BETTER HEALTH THROUGH FENG SHUI
By:Mary Jane Kasliner, AAS, BS, CFSC, RYT

All things are made up of yin and yang, two interdependent yet complimentary polarities within nature and the cosmos. This is the fundamental principle that underlies feng shui and the human body. To build on this principle further, it is believed that we are simply a microcosm of the Universe and thus are directly affected by any changes within the environment and the cosmos.

From this principle, the concept of five-element theory arises. Everything as we know it is comprised of these five elements: water, wood, fire, earth, and metal. In turn, these elements correspond to an organ within the human body. For example, the wood element is associated with the liver, fire element with the heart, metal the lungs, earth the spleen, and water the kidneys. If we link these elements to our living space, we can see how a balanced environment means a balanced body.

Just as the elements play a role in our overall person, the planetary bodies overhead does much the same. In this respect, the impact is on our behavior and personality. The correlation between our personality urges and Astrology stems from an imprinting of electromagnetic rays dispersed from the planets within our solar system. These rays are part of the electromagnetic spectrum and as a result drop down into the earth’s atmosphere. The moment of our birth, our brain kicks into high gear generating electrical impulses directed through our nervous system to allow for bodily functions. The compilation of these planetary electromagnetic charges (energies) imprint with our own electromagnetic component (nervous system) and, as a result, the specific energy associated with each planet becomes the urges or desires we experience in life. By configuring a natal chart with a location chart, one can determine the directions these planets were at the time of birth. This becomes a tool used within a building, home, or room to determine where that planetary energy will fall for that person. For example, one might have a sun line running right across the center of their home giving that individual a sense of confidence, self-assurance and overall warm feeling.

Qi is another component to the equation of health from a holistic approach. The Chinese refer to qi as the cosmic breath of life. This energy flows throughout the Heavens, Earth and nature until it reaches our living and working spaces. The human body experiences this qi flow by way of our meridians impacting our organs, emotions, our senses, dreams, and our ability to make decisions. Therefore, it behooves us to live and work in an environment that supports strong healthy (sheng) qi and to avoid or abate unhealthy (sha) qi. We can achieve this by choosing an environment that is balanced. Choosing a site with lush vegetation, clean air, and vibrant animal life makes more sense than a location with poor air quality from an overhead airport or five-lane highway. The climate where we choose to reside also plays a vital role when it comes to our health. Overly windy, damp, cold, or hot climates directly relate to illnesses of the lungs, joints, and cardiovascular system respectively.

The foods we ingest and the atmosphere we ingest it in can impact the effectiveness of how the body absorbs nutrients. Unfortunately, the majority of people consume a diet high in acid producing foods such as meats, eggs, dairy, white flour and refined sugars. These foods create an acid level within the body making us prone to illness. Disease loves an acid environment where it can flourish as oppose to an alkaline environment. Choosing a diet rich in alkaline foods such as whole grains, vegetables, nuts, and alkaline water makes more sense and is in alignment with the natural PH levels of the human body. Obviously, the freshness quality of our foods plays a vital link to health. Foods loaded with pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics cause a cumulative chemical build-up within the body with potential rebounding health issues. The key here is to buy organic foods and buy what you will consume. Unfortunately, the American mentality is all about stock piling stuff. The concept of buying in bulk is not necessarily a good one. Remember, in order for that food to last there is something called preservatives. Not to healthy sounding, is it?

The setting where we are typically ingesting our foods also plays a role in the digestive processes. Having our meals in a quiet environment such as our kitchen that follows the principles of feng shui rather than “on the fly,” makes all the difference in a healthy digestive process. The kitchen is such an important room when it comes to our health in the world of feng shui. Therefore, it is worth noting a few key points for this space.

Your kitchen should be organized with well-maintained appliances.
Display healthy images.
The cookery should be positioned in full command to the door so when meals are prepared the fight or flight mechanism doesn’t kick into high gear.
Qi should circulate freely –less is more is a rule to live by.
Avoid placing water features (refrigerator, sink) along side the stove; These two elements (water & fire) clash.
Avoid heavy overhead racks – too suppressive.
Eliminate unused items, anything in disrepair, outdated foods, etc.
Utilize efficient storage systems.
Paint this room a brighter color and work with directional portent keeping the sheng cycle in mind.
Incorporate natural building and décor elements.
Use natural and incandescent light systems.
Choose round or oval tables for effective communication during meals.
Keep the television out of this room.
Use traditional ovens as oppose to microwaves.
Avoid bathrooms that are inside or abut this room.

While we are on the topic of rooms that affect our health, the bedroom is the other area that has a tremendous impact on how we feel. First, it is important to note whether or not we are actually sleeping, let alone if it is a healthy sleep. The following guidelines are key factors when it comes to a healthy sleep.

1. Make sure your bed is in a commanding position to the door entry. In other words, you should be able to see the door from the bed in order to keep the body in a relaxed state. Otherwise, the fight-or-flight mechanism will take hold and physiologically hormones are released into the blood stream automatically increasing vital organ activity. This response system is built into our genetic make-up when our body senses danger, such as having our back to the doorway. Obviously, this is not a physiological system we want to activate when we are trying to sleep.
2. Avoid TV’s, clock radios, computers or any type of equipment that throws an electromagnetic frequency (EMF) in this room. Any appliance plugged in runs off an A/C current or alternating current. Once that appliance is turned on, it emits an electrical current and a magnetic frequency as well. Depending upon the type of appliance will determine the magnetic field length. So, what’s the problem? Well, the human body operates much like the Earth and that means our electrical field runs on a D/C current, one way in a smooth motion. A/C currents alternate direction 60 times per second. That’s a lot of movement and friction to the human cell. It’s like standing around lightening or subatomic particles all night long. Not a very good idea. Not only will this disrupt your sleep, but also over time it will wear down the immune system and mutate the very core of the cell.
3. Avoid placing your bed opposite a wall that houses a toilet. Bathrooms in feng shui are considered a draining source of energy. If you sleep with your head against this type of energy, or with the bathroom door open to your bedroom, the result is feeling fatigued when you awake. In addition, you may notice frequenting the bathroom more times than usual during your sleep.
4. Install adequate window coverage to block night-light pollution from the street. The pineal gland is responsible for setting the cascade of hormones in the human body. In order for this to occur properly it is important the room is fully dark when sleeping.
5. Avoid positioning large pieces of furniture especially with right angles near the bed, sleeping beneath beams, or placing heavy objects above your head. Sleeping around any of the aforementioned produces a suppressive qi against your body. The result is poor sleep with potential body aches at the site of the infraction. The key is to avoid the positioning the bed with these components surrounding it.
6. Stay away from decorating the bedroom with water fountains and plants. This is the only room I suggest you lay off on these feng shui favorites. The fountain will have you running to the bathroom all night long, while the plants will have fun consuming your oxygen at night. Remember, plants only emit oxygen during the day when there is sunlight to complete the photosynthesis process.
7. Avoid positioning your bed cata-cornered in the room.
When your head is not securely grounded on a supportive (Tortoise) wall, qi spirals behind the head of the bed causing a chaotic movement of energy. The result is poor quality sleep that in time will impact the occupant’s health.
8. Incorporate natural materials. Cotton sheets, wood furniture and hardwood floors compliment the human body. Synthetic materials outgas leaving us with allergies, headaches an array of other annoying ailments.

We are all have the potential to infuse our lives with healthy energy. How we decide to utilize this energy determines the kind of life we experience. We have a choice to imbue our space and our bodies with healthy sheng qi by taking an active role in the design of our space, the food choices we make, and the nourishment of our mind and spirit through additional Eastern practices such as Tai Chi, Qigong or the sister practice of Yoga from India. Taking the time to make these changes in your life is well worth the effort. The choice is yours.

About the Author:
Mary Jane Kasliner, a former health care provider, has trained at elite feng shui schools world-wide. Her studies include Classical and Natural Feng Shui, Geomancy, Western Astrology, 4 Pillars Astrology, 9 Star Ki, Dowsing, Earth Alignment, Space Clearing, Qigong and Yoga. She is the founder and director of the Teaching Tortoise School of Feng Shui and president of 5 Element Designs Feng Shui and Body Space Alignment located in Ocean, New Jersey.
Mary Jane has received word-wide media coverage by the Associated Press for her work and is the feng shui expert for Lasting Lifestyles cable television talk show. She is the author of “The Feng Shui Connection To a Healthy Life” and “Love, Happiness And Feng Shui.”

Mary Jane Kasliner, director of the Jersey Shore chapter of the International
Feng Shui Guild and members hosted an art fund raiser event at Laura Brunetti’s
art studio in Colts Neck , New Jersey. The feng shui group took on the Madonna
House as their community project providing feng shui services fro the Madonna
House and other charity events in the hopes of raising money for this non-profit
organization.