When the streets outside are hot, sticky and crowded, it can really put a dampener on your mood and energy levels. So in the summer months it’s extra important that you make your home something of bolthole, where you can unwind and recharge your batteries in peace. Feng Shui practitioner Layla Ezzedeen can help you create a great environment in which to decompress – and potentially even make positive changes to the rest of your life too; because that’s what Feng Shui is all about, desiging spaces to promote harmony.
Can you tell us a bit about the history and background of Feng Shui?
Feng Shui is the Chinese science of designing spaces that dates back some 6000 years. Its fundamental tenet is that positioning a space relative to key environmental conditions, maximizes the potential of its inhabitants. In Pyramid School, we also take a person’s key goals into consideration.
How is the Pyramid School of Feng Shui different from all the other practices?
It is guided by the client’s goals and personal background as opposed to offering one-size-fits-all recommendations. Enhancements and cures for the home are not Chinese unless the client experiences an authentic resonance with such symbols. Also, the Pyramid School taps into scientific research to support its recommendations and explain its principles. The theory behind the practice is progressive and it accommodates the diversity of people.
So, what changes can we expect to see in our day-to-day life if we Feng Shui our apartment?
Feng Shui becomes a lifestyle when we sensitize ourselves to the power that spaces have on our quality of life. Spaces can be designed to discourage laziness, promote harmonious relationships and inspire achievement. Feng Shui practice will also feed into our habits because spaces influence what we routinely do within them.
How effective is Feng Shui?
Effects can be quite dramatic. I consulted for someone who was stuck in a job and wanted to change her life. A little Feng Shui and decluttering went a long way: she shook herself out of an unhelpful relationship and landed a job in New York City. This happened within the course of six months. In my experience, Feng Shui works for those who genuinely desire change; they want a change but do not know how to bring it about. Feng Shui has appeal because its tools are tangible.
Which aspects of our environment can have a negative effect on us?
Obvious ones include electromagnetic radiation and chemical fumes. Less tangible ones include furniture placements that hinder movement in a space, or imagery such as decorative items that are not aligned with the goals of those who live or work in the space. These are just a few examples of the many possibilities.
Layla’s top five Feng Shui tips
1 Take care of all repairs in your home, office and car. Fix dripping pipes, oil squeaky doors, replace or repair anything broken and have your air-conditioner maintained.
2 Declutter your home as Ramadan starts. Get rid of anything you haven’t used in a year or so; clothes, books, knick-knacks, etc. Donate, return or recycle what needs to go and renew your engagement in life.
3 Place a plant next to every major piece of electric equipment, for example televisions and computers. They alleviate the radiation emitted and improve your concentration and enthusiasm.
4 Forgive and forget. This tip also goes well with Ramadan. Make amends, send thank you notes and tie up loose ends with people. Get it done and see how much better you feel.
5 Try placing your sofa, bed and desk diagonally opposite the door ensuring you can also see windows when sitting. This classic Feng Shui guideline will make you feel more secure and confident in general.
For more free tips and to share your Feng Shui experiences, join Layla’s Facebook page, Feng Shui & Wellness. Her free e-book, Decluttering for Well-Being, is available at http://issuu.com/layla_ezzedeen. For more information about the practice, visit www.fengshui-ii.org or call Layla on 050 689 6078.
