blog

blog http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/ Trendy Bathroom Designs & Feng Shui http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/trendy-bathroom-designs-feng-shui/ One of the hottest bathroom design trends in luxury homes is the integration of the ensuite with the master bedroom. This means that the bedroom and bathroom are designed together in an open plan layout, often with a luxuriously appointed bath featuring as the main attraction. So, imagine a glass wall between the bathroom and bedroom and the excitement (or not) of being able to watch your partner bathe while you lay in bed. Is this bathroom design trend good or bad for Feng Shui in the home?
Firstly let's consider the main function of bathrooms and bedrooms. A bedroom should be a nurturing space, to support sleep, intimacy and relaxation. Bathrooms are becoming more like a sanctuary or day spa, and while I think this is a wonderful thing, let's not forget the main function of a bathroom - cleansing and elimination! 
So although an integrated bathroom and bedroom may look fabulously trendy, from a Feng Shui perspective the energy of these two functional areas should not be combined. The bathroom and bedroom should be kept as separate rooms.
If you're planning a new bathroom or ensuite for your renovation or building project, here are a few Feng Shui tips to consider when designing your bathroom:
<ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Keep bathrooms tucked away behind solid walls, and avoid having internal glass walls between the bathroom and other rooms inside the home.</li>
<li> Avoid placing your bed in direct alignment with the bathroom door.</li>
<li> Design a bathroom so that the toilet is not the first thing you see when you open the door. If you have a large bathroom space, try to conceal the toilet behind a wall.</li>
<li> Avoid having the toilet pointing directly towards the area where the bed head will be placed.</li>
<li> When considering the placement of mirrors in bathroom design, try to avoid having the mirror reflecting the toilet.</li>
<li> Open a window and install a good quality exhaust fan to allow fresh air to circulate. Good ventilation is important in Feng Shui to prevent energy from becoming stagnant.</li>
<li>The location of bathrooms in a floor plan can indicate a draining effect on wealth, depending on where they're placed. Bathrooms are best located in an area that contains negative 'flying star' energy, and this can be determined by a professional Feng Shui consultant.</li>
</ul>What do you think of the new trend in combining the bathroom with the bedroom? If you have a burning opinion I'd be interested to hear from you!
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney Australia</a>
 
 
 
 Tue, 04 Aug 2015 15:08:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/trendy-bathroom-designs-feng-shui/ Feng Shui for your Office http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-for-your-office/ Need advice to boost your productivity and business performance? Your surroundings will impact your ability to think clearly and focus on your goals. Make your office or study a harmonious place to work with my top Feng Shui tips. 
In a Feng Shui consultation, I always advise clients to design their office in a way that activates their <a title="wealth sector" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/wealth-sector/">wealth sector</a>. Your wealth sector is unique to your building, and a Traditional Feng Shui consultant can tell you where that is. However, if you don't know where the energetic hot spots are in your floor plan, here are some general tips to help you make your office or study as Feng Shui friendly as possible.
<ul><li>Sit in a position where you have a solid wall behind you. This provides an energetic level of support and protection. If this isn't possible, try placing a partition or screen behind you, or using a large solid back chair.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Place your desk in a position where you can see the door to your office. If this isn't possible and you're feeling exposed, place a mirror in a location that reflects the entrance so that you can see who's coming in behind you.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Avoid sitting directly under overhead beams or the lowest part of a sloped ceiling. This produces oppressive energy which can cause headaches and migraines.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Clear your clutter and organise your space. You'll be amazed at how much more productive and focused you can be when your work environment is clutter free and well-organised.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Open windows and blinds to bring in fresh air and sunlight. This will improve concentration and help to renew the energy in your office. Plants also help to recycle indoor air.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Did you know that the colour yellow represents the intellect, and is a great colour for your office to boost concentration? This doesn't mean that you need custard-coloured walls - a very subtle shade of yellow will do just fine!</li>
</ul>Having good Feng Shui boosts opportunities and helps to kick start the process of change. Positive thoughts, planning and action brings those opportunities to fruition. Combine good Feng Shui with a well-executed and sound business plan, and you will be on your way to improving your business performance and prosperity!
<a class="pinkText" title="Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a> Tue, 21 Jul 2015 20:58:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-for-your-office/ Be your own Happiness Guru http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/be-your-own-happiness-guru/ "Reasearch has shown that happiness has less to do with circumstances and more to do with genetics, and, most importantly, the way we think about ourselves and the world." Jessica Martin asks 10 of the happiest experts in biz their top tips to help you live your best life. Read this inspiring article on ways that you can make yourself happy now, and check out our Feng Shui tips for living in a happier home.
This article is available in Cleo Magazine in Australia.
 
<div class="image left" style="width: 148px;"><a title="Happiness article Cleo July 2011" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Cleo-LifeEdit-Happiness-article.pdf" target="_blank"><img src="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Cleo-Cover.jpg" alt="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer" title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer" width="148" height="195"/></a></div>
Do you have any of your own happiness tips to share? I'd love to hear them!
<a title="Contact Feng Shui consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney &amp; Melbourne" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/contact/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a>
 Mon, 08 Jun 2015 14:46:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/be-your-own-happiness-guru/ Staircases Facing the Front Door http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/staircases-facing-the-front-door/ A common question from clients is about the Feng Shui implications of a staircase facing their front door. From a Feng Shui perspective it's generally unfavourable to have a staircase facing your front door, as this symbolically represents energy (<a title="Qi" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/the-concept-of-qi/">Qi</a>) and wealth rushing down the staircase and out of the home. 
The factors which determine the impact of a staircase facing the front door are:
<ul class="unIndentedList"><li> The distance between the staircase and your front door</li>
<li> The steepness of the staircase leading to the door</li>
</ul>In general, the further the distance between the staircase and your front door, the less impact it will have on your Feng Shui. Also, if there are only a few steps facing your front door it is not likely to be a problem.
If you have a very steep staircase that is close to the door and in direct alignment, this is generally not ideal for your Feng Shui. The energy should ideally meander harmoniously throughout your home, rather than rush up and down staircases. 
All homes and staircases are different, and Feng Shui remedies can take the form of specific colours, elements and accessories. Here are some general Feng Shui tips on what to do if your stairs face your front door:
<ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Have something noticeable from the front entrance that draws the eye when looking into the home. This could be a beautiful pot plant, a chandelier, a vase of flowers or an indoor water feature (only if this supports your <a title="Flying Star School Feng Shui" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/flying-star-school/">Flying Star School</a> analysis). This will help to symbolically draw energy and opportunities into the home.</li>
</ul><ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Consider placing a decorative screen between the stairs and the entrance to divert the energy so that it settles harmoniously, rather than rushes up and down the staircase. This will only be appropriate if you have ample floor space or a foyer.</li>
</ul><ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Mount paintings, photographs or wall art along the wall of the staircase to enable the energy to meander up the stairs. This will also slow the energy on the way down. </li>
</ul><ul class="unIndentedList"><li> If you can see the landing of the stairs from your front door, place something attractive there to draw your eye upwards. Only consider doing this is if you have enough floor space, otherwise hang artwork on the wall.</li>
</ul><ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Some Feng Shui consultants recommend hanging wind chimes at the base of the stairs. Wind chimes are technically useless unless they are outside and moving in the wind. Metal wind chimes can also activate certain 'unseen' energies from a Flying Star School perspective. Seek the advice of an <a title="Jane Langof, Accredited Feng Shui Consultant" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">accredited Feng Shui master</a> if you need more information.</li>
</ul>Finally don't forget that there are many elements to consider when assessing Feng Shui in the home. If your staircase is a Feng Shui problem, don't waste energy worrying about it - my advice is always to focus on changing the things you can!
If you have any questions or comments to add about staircases and your Feng Shui, you're invited to post comments on the blog.
<a class="pinkText" title="Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a> Thu, 28 May 2015 22:42:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/staircases-facing-the-front-door/ Bedroom Feng Shui Tips http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/bedroom-feng-shui-tips/ The Feng Shui of your bedroom is so important as it represents the state of your health and relationships. Choosing a bedroom with good Feng Shui and placing your bed in an favourable position are the most important aspects to consider if you're looking to enhance Feng Shui in your home.
A Traditional Feng Shui consultant can interpret the energetic map of a home, which is somewhat like a horoscope that indicates how the visible and unseen energies in a home may influence the occupants. The interpretation and analysis of this energetic map is a technical process that follows traditional Chinese Feng Shui methods. 
The results of a Traditional Feng Shui analysis are unique to each home, so there is never a one-size-fits-all solution, however there are some general Feng Shui principles that you can follow to improve the energy in your bedroom. Here are my top bedroom Feng Shui tips to get you started:
<ul><li>Keep your bedroom free of clutter, and avoid storing things in cupboards and drawers that you don't need or use. Clutter prevents energy from flowing freely, and this can have an unfavourable influence on your Feng Shui.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Avoid storing things under the bed aside from clean pressed linen, as you're influenced by the energy of the objects around you while you sleep. Decorate with the things you love and avoid displaying unwanted items in your bedroom.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Bedroom mirrors are considered taboo because they symbolically reflect unresolved issues between a couple. Mirrors in the bedroom also bring yang energy to a space that should otherwise be yin. If you must have mirrors, cover them when you sleep, or ensure they don't reflect the bed. Mirrors on the ceiling are a bad idea ;)</li>
</ul><ul><li>Electrical equipment such as televisions, stereos and clock radios emit electro-magnetic fields which can affect health and quality of sleep. Unplug clock radios and use battery power instead, or place them as far away from your bed head as possible. Electric blankets produce very high electro-magnetic fields, so use them only to heat the bed, and switch them off at the powerpoint before sleeping.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Stale air is stagnant energy, which is unfavourable for your Feng Shui and potentially harmful to your health. Open curtains and windows daily to bring fresh air and natural light into your bedroom.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Avoid having active objects in your bedroom. This includes exercise equipment, water features, electrical equipment, moving clocks and fish tanks. Moving objects activate energy in a space that should otherwise be restful and peaceful. Plants are also considered to bring yang (active) energy to a space and are best placed in living areas rather than bedrooms.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Sleep with your bedhead against a solid wall to provide you with support and protection. It's best to opt for a solid bedhead, such as an upholstered bedhead or solid timber headboard.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Bedrooms that are located at the back of a house are generally better than those located at the front, other things being equal. However the best bedroom in your home (and positioning of your bed) is largely dependent on the flying star Feng Shui analysis of the home.</li>
</ul><ul><li>In general it's best to avoid sleeping close to a window as this can drain energy away from you. If you must sleep near a window, use thick curtains and solid protective furnishings.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Low overhead beams and low sloped ceilings produce oppressive energy. This is not great for bedroom Feng Shui, and it can lead to headaches and migraines. Place your bed in a position to avoid sleeping under low beams and the lowest part of a sloped ceiling. Another option is to make low overhead beams visually 'disappear' by painting them in the same colour as the ceiling - a light colour such as a shade of white is preferable to provide a feeling of spaciousness.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Avoid positioning the foot of your bed in line with the door. This is known as the 'coffin position', and while this sounds very scary it doesn't mean that you're going to die from sleeping in this arrangement! This position is not favourable because of the flow of energy coming towards the bed from the doorway.</li>
</ul>Have you noticed any changes to your health and relationships since sleeping in a particular bedroom, or since moving the position of your bed? Feel free to post a comment if you have any feedback or questions.

Visit my related Feng Shui blog posts:

<a title="Electromagnetic radiation and bedroom feng shui" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/having-trouble-sleeping-electro-magnetic-fields-could-be-the-problem/" target="_blank">Having trouble sleeping? Electro-magnetic Fields could be the problem</a> <a title="Mirrors and bedroom feng shui" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/mirrors-on-the-bedroom-ceiling-/" target="_blank">Mirrors on the Bedroom Ceiling?</a> <a title="Article to spice up your bedroom feng shui" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/saucy-bedroom-feng-shui/" target="_blank">Saucy Bedroom Feng Shui</a>
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a>
 Thu, 23 Apr 2015 00:16:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/bedroom-feng-shui-tips/ Morning Show Interview : Home Feng Shui Tips http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/morning-show-interview-home-feng-shui-tips/ "Celebrities are turning to Feng Shui in spades as the Beckhams are getting ready to welcome baby number four. Victoria has reportedly redecorated her "posh" interiors with the help of a Feng Shui advisor". To share some tips with TV viewers, I was invited to talk on the <a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant interview with channel 7 morning show" href="http://www.youtube.com/user/JaneLangof?feature=mhum" target="_blank">Channel 7 Morning Show</a> with Kylie Gillies and Larry Emdur. 
To say that I had "butterflies" in anticipation of the event is an understatement! Getting interviewed on live TV is certainly an incredible experience, and Kylie was lovely and welcoming, while Larry made me laugh with his mischievous comments about mirrors in bedrooms! Click on the image to play the video.
 
<div class="image left" style="width: 457px;"><a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant interview with channel 7 morning show" href="http://www.youtube.com/user/JaneLangof?feature=mhum" target="_blank"><img src="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Morning-Show-Interview-Jane-Langof-stills.jpg" alt="Channel 7 Morning show with Kylie and Larry Feng Shui interview" title="Channel 7 Morning show with Kylie and Larry Feng Shui interview" width="457" height="342"/></a></div>
 
<a title="Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer from Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui Master based in Sydney Australia</a> Sun, 08 Feb 2015 14:49:00 +1100 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/morning-show-interview-home-feng-shui-tips/ Celebrate World Feng Shui Day with me! http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/celebrate-world-feng-shui-day-with-me/ Happy New Year! If you've already broken your new year's resolutions, don't fret! Chinese New Year is coming up in February and you will have a second chance to make good. To celebrate Chinese New Year, IFSA Australia is hosting celebrations for World Feng Shui day in Sydney and Melbourne on 5th February and I will be speaking at the Sydney event.
Each year the energy of the presiding yearly animal sign (eg. Tiger, Rabbit, Horse) changes the nature of the energy affecting a home, building and the people living inside. This means that every year we need to make Feng Shui adjustments, and be aware of certain areas in the home that need attention from a Feng Shui perspective.
My presentation on Feng Shui will cover specific dos and don'ts for the year, and feng shui remedies for the home to enhance romance, wealth, health, and what to do to reduce obstacles and bad luck.
There will be other great speakers and Feng Shui masters at the World Feng Shui day event presenting on topics such as BaZi (Chinese Astrology), while audiences enjoy a wonderful banquet lunch. Our Feng Shui industry and association will be grateful for your support, so please come along and bring loads of friends! Seats are limited and tickets must be purchased in advance, so for more information, visit <a title="IFSA Australia" href="http://www.intfsa.org.au" target="_blank">IFSA Australia</a>.
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer from Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master from Sydney, Australia </a>
 Sat, 17 Jan 2015 15:07:00 +1100 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/celebrate-world-feng-shui-day-with-me/ Chinese Astrology and Feng Shui http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/chinese-astrology-and-feng-shui/ As a Traditional Feng Shui consultant, I believe that Chinese Astrology is very important to ensure that your favourable elements, directions and colours are reflected in your home, office and surroundings. Your birth data is considered to be a cosmic code that represents a configuration of energy at the time you were born. <a title="Jerry King, White Dragon Consulting - Feng Shui consultant &amp; Chinese Astrologer" href="http://whitedragonhome.com" target="_blank">Jerry King</a> of White Dragon Consulting has written a great article explaining the relationship between Chinese Astrology and Feng Shui.
<a title="How Chinese Astrology Relates to Feng Shui" href="http://whitedragonhome.com/ChineseAstrologyArticle.pdf" target="_blank">How Chinese Astrology Relates to Feng Shui - by Jerry King</a>
Our Feng Shui consultations involve the analysis of birth data for each occupant of the home (in residential consultations), and key managers in business consultations. Chinese Astrology indicates various things in a person's life such as life themes, luck cycles and personality traits. Chinese Astrology is extremely insightful to help people negotiate difficult periods in life and make the most of their favourable luck.
If you have any questions or feedback about the article or Chinese Astrology feel free to leave a comment.
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney Australia</a>
 Tue, 09 Dec 2014 16:28:00 +1100 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/chinese-astrology-and-feng-shui/ Feng Shui and your Productivity http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-and-your-productivity/ Alex from <a title="Get Your Biz Savvy" href="http://getyourbizsavvy.com" target="_blank">Get Your Biz Savvy</a> interviews Feng Shui consultants for his article about whether Feng Shui can really influence your productivity. My answer is a resounding yes! Check out the article here.
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer, Sydney Australia comments on productivity and Feng Shui" href="http://getyourbizsavvy.com/?p=965" target="_blank">Productivity, does it have to do with Feng Shui?</a>
While Feng Shui can help improve productivity and efficiency in your career or studies, there are other factors that will have an influence. Your destiny profile, the influence of time and the elements will also impact every aspect of your life - this can be mapped out in a Four Pillars of Destiny (Chinese Astrology) consultation. Of course your dedication, attitude and hard work will have a role to play. Feng Shui is one element in the mix and getting it right can help you move along in the right direction! Look around and feel the energy in your surroundings - are they working for you?
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer, Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney Australia</a> Wed, 19 Nov 2014 11:17:00 +1100 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-and-your-productivity/ IFSA Australia Conference http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/ifsa-australia-conference/ IFSA Australia had their inaugural Feng Shui Masters Convention in Melbourne and it was a resounding success. The conference was held at the Brighton Savoy hotel overlooking the beautiful Brighton beach in Melbourne. We had great food and enjoyed mixing with old and new friends from the Feng Shui industry. There was a fabulous line up of Feng Shui masters and educators, including Jerry King from Vancouver Canada, who presented in Australia for the first time and held a post-convention workshop on Advance Four Pillars of Destiny (BaZi).
Here are some happy snaps from the event:
 
<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;"><img src="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/resizedimage300225-IFSA-Australia-ribbon-cutting-ceremony.jpg" alt="IFSA Australia conference ribbon cutting ceremony" title="IFSA Australia conference ribbon cutting ceremony" width="300" height="225"/></div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;">Ribbon cutting ceremony by Grand Master Raymond Lo and the IFSA Australia committee members</div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;"><img src="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/resizedimage300225-IFSA-conference-2010-Jerry-King.jpg" alt="IFSA Australia conference Jerry King with IFSA Australia committee" title="IFSA Australia conference Jerry King with IFSA Australia committee" width="300" height="225"/></div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;">Presenter Jerry King with IFSA committee members Jane Langof and Anjela Wong (right)</div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;"><img src="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/resizedimage300225-IFSA-conference-Jerry-King-presentation.jpg" alt="IFSA conference Jerry King presenting on four pillars bazi &amp; eight mansions" title="IFSA conference Jerry King presenting on four pillars bazi &amp; eight mansions" width="300" height="225"/></div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;">Jerry King presenting on Eight Mansions and Four Pillars of Destiny and the Cosmic Flow</div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;"><img src="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/resizedimage300225-IFSA-conference-committee-dinner.jpg" alt="IFSA Australia Feng Shui masters convention dinner" title="IFSA Australia Feng Shui masters convention dinner" width="300" height="225"/></div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 300px;">Doing what I do best - having dinner! Joined by Grand Master Raymond Lo and IFSA Australia President Janene Laird.</div>
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<div class="image left" style="width: 600px;"><a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer from Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is Feng Shui consultant and designer from Sydney Australia</a></div> Tue, 21 Oct 2014 21:08:00 +1100 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/ifsa-australia-conference/ Feng Shui Tips for Choosing a New Home http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-tips-for-choosing-a-new-home/ Savvy property investors and home buyers ask for advice from a Feng Shui consultant when choosing a new home to make sure that the energy supports good health, relationships and prosperity. A Feng Shui assessment is as important as a building inspection to help you make an informed decision. Here are some general Feng Shui tips to help you choose a new home.
Feng Shui Tips for choosing a new home:
<ul><li>The front of the home should have potential to be appealing and easily noticeable, to attract favourable attention from passers-by.</li>
<li>The rear boundary of the home should be supported with trees, other buildings or upwards-sloping land. Having protective structures behind a property will provide support and security to the occupants, which is why a home located on the higher side of the street is favourable.</li>
<li>Homes that are located at the end of a T junction are generally not ideal from a Feng Shui perspective. This is because an intense flow of energy is directed towards the home, which can be unfavourable to the occupants. However there can be exceptions to this rule, especially for commercial buildings.</li>
<li>In general, choose homes on quieter roads with slower moving traffic. The objective in Feng Shui is to enable Chi or energy to find you easily, and this is difficult if the energy is moving too quickly past your home. </li>
<li>Find out the history of the land and former occupants before choosing your home. Land and buildings absorb energy which can impact subsequent residents. It's best to avoid living in homes where serious crimes and tragedies have occurred. Also observe what's located in the surrounding area - for example it's best to avoid living next to a cemetary, rubbish dumps and high voltage power lines. </li>
<li>Rooms containing pointy angles, low sloped ceilings, low ceilings with exposed beams and rooms with irregular shapes may feel uncomfortable. Long narrow buildings are generally not ideal as their shape doesn't support an even distribution of energy. </li>
<li>If you're considering buying property in a suburb where potential buyers are mostly Chinese, take care if there is a number four (4) in the address. Chinese people tend to avoid buying houses containing number 4 in the address if they are superstitious, as the number four sounds like the word for death in Chinese. On the other hand, houses with the number eight (8) in the address tend to be more appealing as 8 is considered to be a lucky number.</li>
<li>Feng Shui is about achieving harmony between yin and yang, so look for an ideal combination of light and shade, nature and buildings, and a balance of openness and enclosure. </li>
<li>Most importantly, spend some quiet time walking around and feeling the energy in the property. If you sense that the home doesn't feel right, trust your intuition.</li>
</ul>Achieving perfect Feng Shui is almost impossible, so if you find a home with unfavourable aspects, these may be reduced with Feng Shui remedies or offset by favourable elements that can be identified in a Traditional Feng Shui consultation. 
Feel free to post a comment if you have any questions or feedback!
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui consultant Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a> Sun, 28 Sep 2014 12:12:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-tips-for-choosing-a-new-home/ Talking to the Higher Self http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/talking-to-the-higher-self/ If you're having troubles communicating with people in your life, here is some information that can help you! <a title="Kerrie Jean Erwin, Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant, Medium, Sydney" href="http://www.pureview.com.au" target="_blank">Kerrie Erwin</a> shares her latest magazine article that describes a powerful healing technique using meditation and talking to the Higher Self. Read on to view the article.
<a title="Article by Kerrie Jean Erwin" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Talking-to-the-Higher-Self.pdf" target="_blank">Talking to the Higher Self by Kerrie Jean Erwin - Insight Magazine</a>
Kerrie Erwin is a gifted clairvoyant, medium and spiritual healer. As well as doing personal readings, Kerrie is currently performing in the Rainbow Show in venues around Sydney, where she connects people with Spirit. I've been to her shows and I think they are entertaining, enlightening and a must see! Best of all, proceeds are donated to the Sydney Children's Hospital.
Are you interested in trying Kerrie's healing technique? We would love to hear your comments!
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney Australia</a>
 Fri, 08 Aug 2014 16:42:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/talking-to-the-higher-self/ Kitchen Feng Shui Tips http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/kitchen-feng-shui-tips/ The kitchen is very important in Feng Shui as it has a strong influence on the health and livelihood of the family. The kitchen helps to nourish and sustain life, which affects one's health and vitality and the ability to work effectively and earn a good income. If you are thinking of updating or renovating your kitchen, read on for some kitchen Feng Shui design tips.
• The energy in a kitchen is ideally bright and fresh, and therefore good lighting, ventilation and cleanliness are important.
• Stagnant energy is caused by clutter, grime, poor ventilation and dark corners. A dirty cluttered kitchen interferes with one's ability to prepare healthy and nourishing food.
• The kitchen is best located in a protected position away from the front entrance. In particular, the stove should not be in direct view of the front door as it absorbs the energy entering the home. A simple remedy is to use a screen or door curtain to obscure the view to the stove.
• Avoid building the kitchen in the centre of the home. From a Feng Shui perspective it is thought to burn the heart of the home, and can indicate digestive illnesses.
• When designing a home, it's best to avoid building a bedroom directly above the kitchen as this can adversely affect the person sleeping in the bedroom above.
• The kitchen is best located away from toilets, and the stove should not face the toilet door. A simple remedy for this is to keep the toilet door closed when it is not in use.
• Avoid placing the stove directly under a window, as energy cannot be contained, and chi and good fortune can escape quickly from the kitchen. Overly large windows and window style splashbacks can cause energy leakage, which is unfavourable in Feng Shui.
• The kitchen is an area that naturally contains a lot of fire energy. Therefore avoid using the colour red to a large scale (such as in splashbacks and cabinetry) as it can make the fire element overly strong which can cause the cook to become hot tempered. Having a kitchen located in the South sector of a home can also intensify fire energy. Good fire safety equipment and procedures are especially important when the kitchen is located in the South.
• When designing the kitchen it's best for the cook not to have their back towards the entrance of the kitchen. The cook should work in a commanding position where they can see who is entering the kitchen while they are cooking. If this is not possible, use a reflective surface or object to enable the cook to sense movement from behind.
• The stove should not be positioned next to the sink or dishwasher as this creates conflict between the elements of water and fire. A remedy for this is to place a plant near the sink to create an elemental bridge between water and fire.
• Knives are best to be stored in drawers or away from view, rather than displayed in the kitchen. The sharp surfaces of knives send out unfavourable energy.
• Ensure that all elements of the stove, oven and other fixed appliances are working properly. A stove that is not in good working order can indicate problems with finances.
• Aim to have a healthy kitchen by avoiding things that negatively affect the human body. Chemicals, cleaning agents and artificial food substances all diminish our health and wellbeing and are best avoided.
• Introduce pleasant smells into the kitchen through the use of fresh flowers, citrus fruits or herbs. Avoid artificial air fresheners and sprays as they contain nasty chemicals.
• Take care with the placement of water features in the kitchen, such as fish tanks, as moving water can amplify the energy in a space, regardless of whether it's positive or negative.
The kitchen is a strong source of fire energy in the home, and therefore the placement, layout and direction of the stove and oven are important elements when considering kitchen design. Kitchen design affects the intangible energy within a home and the specific placement of the stove and oven affects each occupant in the home. Having good Feng Shui requires compromise and so to make the most of the energy in your home it's best to seek advice from a qualified Traditional <a title="Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer from Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Feng Shui master</a>.
<a title="Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer from Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master from Sydney Australia</a> Fri, 25 Jul 2014 19:24:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/kitchen-feng-shui-tips/ 3 Ways to Change Your Feng Shui http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/3-ways-to-change-your-feng-shui/ Every home is unique and the energy in your home can either support you or work against your goals in life. The analogy used by Feng Shui consultants is that having good Feng Shui is like 'walking in the direction of the wind', rather than walking against it.
If you've noticed things going wrong in your life, it could reflect a number of factors such as your destiny, genetics, attitude, hard work and your actions (the <a title="Three Lucks - Heaven, Earth and Man Luck" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/three-lucks/">'Three Lucks'</a>). One thing is for sure - you have attracted your particular home for a reason, and the <a title="What is Feng Shui" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/feng-shui-concepts/">Feng Shui</a> of your home will reflect what's going on in your life.
A Traditional Feng Shui consultant can read the energy map of a home by analysing the floor plan, compass direction and age of the building, together with other factors like landforms, interior design and layouts. A home Feng Shui assessment can provide an insight into various issues that are happening in your home, such as arguments, ill-health, legal issues, good relationships and prosperity.
It's always advisable to get help from an <a title="Accredited Feng Shui Consultant - Jane Langof" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">accredited consultant</a>, but if you're not able to hire a Feng Shui consultant right now, there are a few things you can try to make a difference.
1. Change bedrooms or move the position of your bed - the Feng Shui of your bedroom reflects the state of your relationships and health, so if things are not going too well, you are probably sleeping in an area containing unfavourable energies. The risk is that you could move to an area that contains worse energy, but on the up-side, you may move into a bedroom that is more supportive for health and relationships.
2. Switch off or move water features in and around the home - water features have a powerful influence in Feng Shui and can worsen unseen energies in your home. If you have noticed your luck taking a turn for the worse since installing a water feature, try switching it off or moving it to a different location. Traditional Feng Shui consultants use water features to enhance the <a title="Wealth Sector" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/wealth-sector/">wealth sector</a> of your home.
3. The colour red - the Fire element and bright red has a powerful effect in Feng Shui. If you decorate with bright red and it's immediately noticeable upon entering a room, it can aggravate certain energies. This is applicable if red has been used to a large extent in a feature wall, bedspread or sofa. If you feel that your Feng Shui has been working against you, try decorating with a different colour. The colour red is used by Feng Shui consultants to either enhance or deactivate certain energy patterns.
Nothing replaces having a Feng Shui consultation in your own home, however you may choose to experiment with trial and error, if this works for you. If you decide to give it a go, perhaps try each change at a time, giving it a couple of months, so that you can see what's affecting you. Feel free to <a title="Contact Jane Langof" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/contact/">contact Jane</a> or leave a comment and let us know whether you've noticed any changes!
<a class="pinkText" title="Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a> Mon, 09 Jun 2014 09:36:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/3-ways-to-change-your-feng-shui/ The Truth of Relationships http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/the-truth-of-relationships/ Did you know that your birth chart is a type of cosmic code that indicates life themes, luck cycles, strengths and personality traits? The Four Pillars of Destiny (Chinese Astrology) is used by Feng Shui consultants to tap into an individual's destiny profile and provide information to help people manage aspects of life such as health, career and relationships. According to Dr Lily Chung, a leading expert on Eastern Metaphysics, relationships are largely determined by cosmic energy cycles. 
Lily's article "The Truth of Relationships" provides a brief overview on how to manage the ups and downs in relationships, as they are indicated in ones birth chart. This article is particularly useful for people going through a clash period in their spouse pillar.
<a title="The Truth of Relationship by Lily Chung" href="http://www.womensradio.com/articles/The-Truth-of-Relationship/5088.html" target="_blank">The Truth of Relationship by Lily Chung</a>
If you're a Feng Shui and Four Pillars practitioner or enthusiast, check out Lily's book "The Truth of Ups and Downs" - it's a great read!
 
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney Australia" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer based in Sydney Australia</a>
 Wed, 21 May 2014 10:19:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/the-truth-of-relationships/ Having trouble sleeping? Electro-magnetic Fields could be the problem http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/having-trouble-sleeping-electro-magnetic-fields-could-be-the-problem/ Electro-magnetic fields (EMFs) &amp; electro-magnetic radiation (EMR) are buzz words amongst Building Biologists and modern Feng Shui Consultants. Electro-magnetic fields come from energy produced by an electrical current. This can come from sources such as electrical equipment and cabling.
Electro-magnetic fields can interfere with our health and the way our bodies function because of two main reasons:
1. We are comprised mainly of water, which is an excellent conductor of electricity.
2. Our bodies function through nerve impulses, which are tiny electrical currents.
Electro-magnetic fields interrupt the body's communication systems and places stress on the body, as it tries to deal with the interference. If you are exposed to high electro-magnetic fields while you sleep, your body won't be able to completely focus on regenerating and repairing. This affects quality of sleep, which can lead to poor immunity, depression and fatigue.
When your immune system is not working properly, it increases the likelihood of health problems and diseases. High electro-magnetic fields have been linked to various forms of cancer, fertility problems and neuro-degenerative disease.
All of this doom and gloom does not mean that you have to throw out everything electrical and move into a cave. Some electrical sources are worse than others, and there are simple and practical ways to minimize the exposure.
A great chunk of your day is spent in bed sleeping (or trying to), so reducing your exposure to electro-magnetic fields in the bedroom will have the greatest impact. 
<ul><li> Be aware of electrical sources around your bed. Clock radios generally produce very high electro-magnetic fields, so move them 2 metres away from your head. Electric blankets fall into the same category, so either avoid them or just heat the bed and turn them off at the powerpoint after use. All electrical equipment in the bedroom should be turned off at the powerpoint before you sleep. </li>
</ul><ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Be aware of what is on the other side of your bedhead, and if there is an electrical meter box or fuse box on the other side of the wall, move your bed to a different wall.
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<li> If you have a double storey home with children sleeping upstairs, be aware of where their beds are positioned in relation to ground floor downlights. The transformers in downlights produce high electro-magnetic fields when they are switched on.
<ul class="unIndentedList"/></li>
<li> Sources of electro-magnetic fields can be hidden in walls, ceilings and floors. Heavy duty electrical cabling (such as those powering surrounding homes) can be run under houses and the occupants may be unaware. Electricians have been known to earth wiring to copper pipes, so this can produce high electro-magnetic fields along the plumbing system of older-style homes. For that reason it may be best to avoid sleeping on the other side of a wall that contains plumbing, such as a bathroom.
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So how would you know whether you are being exposed to high electro-magnetic fields? Using the services of a Building Biologist or modern Feng Shui consultant is a good start. Ensure they have the proper equipment to measure electro-magnetic fields (we use a Bell 4180 Gauss meter). Our Feng Shui consultations include EMF checks and provide practical solutions to reduce your exposure.
For more information on electro-magnetic fields and electro-magnetic radiation, visit the following websites: <a title="www.powerwatch.org.uk" href="http://www.powerwatch.org.uk" target="_blank">www.powerwatch.org.uk</a> and <a title="www.emfacts.com" href="http://www.emfacts.com" target="_blank">www.emfacts.com</a>.
Have high electro-magnetic fields affected your health or quality of sleep? We'd like to hear about your experiences.
<a class="pinkText" title="Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a>
</ul> Sat, 12 Apr 2014 16:19:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/having-trouble-sleeping-electro-magnetic-fields-could-be-the-problem/ Organising Tips from the De-clutter Queen http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/organising-tips-from-the-de-clutter-queen/ I love spring time in Sydney! The warmer weather is on it's way and party season is approaching! A great way to lift the energy in your home is by decluttering and getting organised. Not only will this help your Feng Shui, but it is so important for your mental and emotional well-being.
Professional Organiser and De-clutter Queen Kat Tate, of Kat &amp; Kaboodle says "the good news is that no one is born organised - it's a skill anyone can learn to achieve a simpler and more peaceful life." Kat shares her top tips for getting organised:
<ul><li>Open mail over the bin: As soon as you bring it inside, open the mail and toss envelopes and junk into the bin. Don't let it pile up! </li>
</ul><ul><li> Set up a paper &amp; bill-paying station: Assign one spot in your home to process and pay bills and sort paperwork. This prevents paper piling up in several spaces. </li>
<li>Do a quick sort: Grab 5 bin bags and label them 'Keep', 'Toss', 'Move', 'Donate', 'Recycle'. Go through your clutter and place each item in one of the bags. If in doubt - throw it out!</li>
<li> Label key things: Labelling cupboards, containers, shelves etc gives every item a home and makes it easier for everyone in the household to put things back where they belong.</li>
<li> Prevent cable chaos: Label computer and appliance cords, so you can clearly see what's what and prevent unattractive and dangerous tangles.</li>
<li> Sort out your filing system: Don't let your filing system be a place where paper goes to die! About 80% of our paperwork doesn't see the light of day. Set up clear categories, avoid having a 'miscellaneous' category and ensure you clearly label folders.</li>
</ul>I've found that de-cluttering and getting organised helps people feel lighter and more energised. Having less 'stuff' means it's easier to keep your home tidy! What do you think?
<ul><a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui Consultant Sydney, Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a>
</ul> Mon, 02 Sep 2013 15:01:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/organising-tips-from-the-de-clutter-queen/ Interested in Boosting Fertility? http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/interested-in-boosting-fertility/ A Traditional Feng Shui analysis tells us how the 'unseen' energy in a home affects the health and wellbeing of the occupants. It's not uncommon to find that couples with fertility problems sleep in rooms where the energy does not support abdominal or reproductive health. 
In such cases, we advise clients to either use Feng Shui remedies or relocate to a bedroom that contains more favourable energy. Feng Shui can be used as part of a holistic approach to help people improve their health and fertility.
Take a look at this neat little article that I found through <a href="http://www.twitter.com/janelangof" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, from Naturopath and fertility expert, Gabriela Rosa - <a title="Five Tips for Fertility Fitness by Naturopath and fertility expert" href="http://www.fitforlifeonline.com.au/Articles/PHF/Are%20You%20Fertility%20Fit.pdf" target="_blank">Five Tips for Fertility Fitness</a>.
Also visit a related blog post: <a title="Sydney Feng Shui consultant helps a pregnant mum" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/feng-shui-consultant-helps-a-pregnant-mum/" target="_blank">Feng Shui consultant helps a pregnant mum</a>.
Do you have any experiences or insights to share? We'd love to hear them.
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui Consultant Sydney, Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a> Wed, 28 Aug 2013 17:52:00 +1000 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/interested-in-boosting-fertility/ Mirrors on the Bedroom Ceiling? http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/mirrors-on-the-bedroom-ceiling-/ Ever wondered if you could improve your love life by installing mirrors on your bedroom ceiling? I can't really comment on the response to 'seeing yourself' from various angles, but from a Feng Shui perspective mirrors in bedrooms are not a great idea...assuming that you want a happy and harmonious relationship!
Mirrors in bedrooms are not generally good for your Feng Shui because they symbolically reflect and magnify unresolved issues between a couple. They also bring 'yang' energy to a room that should otherwise be 'yin'. Yang energy is vibrant, energetic and active, whereas Yin energy is sedate, quiet and peaceful.
Now, the ABS doesn't release statistics on the number of households with mirrors in their bedrooms, but I'm willing to guess it's about 90%. So what can majority of the population do about it?
<ul class="unIndentedList"><li>The most important thing is that mirrors should not reflect the bed. If you have no choice, cover bedroom mirrors while you sleep at night, or relocate them to a wall where they don't reflect the bed. Have a screen or curtain across the front of a mirrored robe so that you can use the mirrors during the day. </li>
<li>Any interior designer will tell you that mirrored wardrobes are very "last-century", so it's a great excuse to have them replaced. Non-reflective surfaces are more Feng Shui friendly in the bedroom. The best place for bedroom mirrors are inside the cupboard doors!</li>
<li>For a more permanent measure, cover mirrored robes with wallpaper, and don't imagine the stuff your Nana used to have. Wallpaper is making a big comeback in the interior design world, and there are stylish and contemporary options to choose from. Give yourself an excuse to re-decorate, and call me if you need professional advice!</li>
</ul><a class="pinkText" title="Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a> Wed, 13 Mar 2013 11:15:00 +1100 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/mirrors-on-the-bedroom-ceiling-/ Pets and your Feng Shui http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/pets-and-your-feng-shui/ Pets can be great for your Feng Shui, especially when they give you love and help to enhance a happy environment. Sometimes pets can have an unfavourable influence on your Feng Shui, but with careful consideration of how your pet affects your life, this can be avoided.
Here are my top tips for keeping a Feng Shui friendly home with a pet:
<ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Pets should enhance your home rather than dominate it, so having a pet that frightens or annoys your visitors will bring unfavourable energy into the home.</li>
<li> Preferably keep pets outside and don't encourage them to sleep in your bedroom. Having your pet sleeping on the bed can cause relationship problems between couples.</li>
<li> Keep a clean environment and eliminate animal smells from the home. A smelly kitty litter is a Feng Shui crime! Aim to feed pets outside, and ensure your animals and their living areas are well maintained.</li>
<li> Look after your pets and give them what they need. A happy and contented pet brings favourable energy into a home.</li>
<li> Vacuum floors and upholstery regularly, especially if your pets are allowed inside. Pet hair represents 'yin' energy and gives people an unpleasant feeling when it gets stuck to their clothes.</li>
</ul>Having a loving pet improves your wellbeing and is great for Feng Shui, but make sure it enhances your life rather than harms it. A 'balanced' pet will enhance a balanced environment - after all, that is what Feng Shui is about.
<a class="pinkText" title="Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui master based in Sydney, Australia</a> Sun, 24 Feb 2013 11:19:00 +1100 http://fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/pets-and-your-feng-shui/