blog

blog http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/ Be your own Happiness Guru http://www.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.&nbsp; 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 the July 2011 issue of Cleo Magazine in Australia.

<div class="image left" style="width: 148px;"><a title="Happiness article Cleo July 2011" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Cleo-LifeEdit-Happiness-article.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer" src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Cleo-Cover.jpg" alt="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and designer" width="148" height="195" /></a></div>

Do you have any of your own happiness tips to share?&nbsp; I'd love to hear them!
<a title="Contact Feng Shui consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney &amp; Melbourne" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/contact/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia</a>
&nbsp; Fri, 08 Jul 2011 14:46:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/be-your-own-happiness-guru/ Bedroom Feng Shui Tips http://www.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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; The interpretation and analysis of this energetic map is a technical process that follows traditional Chinese Feng Shui methods.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Decorate with the things you love and avoid displaying unwanted items in your bedroom.</li>
</ul>
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<li>Bedroom mirrors are considered taboo because they symbolically reflect unresolved issues between a couple.&nbsp; Mirrors in the bedroom also bring yang energy to a space that should otherwise be yin.&nbsp; If you must have mirrors, cover them when you sleep, or ensure they don't reflect the bed.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Moving objects activate energy in a space that should otherwise be restful and peaceful.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; This is not great for bedroom Feng Shui, and it can lead to headaches and migraines.&nbsp; Place your bed in a position to avoid sleeping under low beams and the lowest part of a sloped ceiling.&nbsp; 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?&nbsp; 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://www.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://www.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://www.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://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer working in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia</a> Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:16:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/bedroom-feng-shui-tips/ Morning Show Interview : Home Feng Shui Tips http://www.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.&nbsp; Victoria has reportedly redecorated her "posh" interiors with the help of a Feng Shui advisor".&nbsp; 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.&nbsp;
To say that I had "butterflies" in anticipation of the event is an understatement!&nbsp; 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.
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<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 title="Channel 7 Morning show with Kylie and Larry Feng Shui interview" src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Morning-Show-Interview-Jane-Langof-stills.jpg" alt="Channel 7 Morning show with Kylie and Larry Feng Shui interview" width="457" height="342" /></a></div>
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<a title="Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer from Sydney Australia" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer from Sydney Australia</a> Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:49:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/morning-show-interview-home-feng-shui-tips/ Celebrate World Feng Shui Day with me! http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/celebrate-world-feng-shui-day-with-me/ Happy New Year!&nbsp; If you've already broken your new year's resolutions, don't fret!&nbsp; Chinese New Year is coming up in February and you will have a second chance to make good.&nbsp; To celebrate Chinese New Year, IFSA Australia is hosting celebrations for World Feng Shui day in Sydney and Melbourne on 5th February.&nbsp; I will be speaking at the Sydney event, presenting on Feng Shui for 2011.
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 for 2011 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 for 2011 (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!&nbsp; 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://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer from Sydney, Australia </a>
&nbsp; Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:07:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/celebrate-world-feng-shui-day-with-me/ Jerry King in Australia http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/jerry-king-in-australia/ The International Feng Shui Association (IFSA) in Singapore established a chapter in Australia and recently held their inaugural Feng Shui Masters Convention in Melbourne, Australia, which was a resounding success.&nbsp; A first-class group of speakers presented at the conference, including International Feng Shui and Four Pillars (BaZi 八字) expert, Jerry King.&nbsp;
After the Feng Shui Masters Convention, Jerry presented an Advanced Four Pillars of Destiny workshop to a group of senior Feng Shui consultants from all around Australia.&nbsp; Jerry certainly blew everyone away with his depth of knowledge, articulate delivery and unique presentation style.&nbsp; Here is some feedback from participants at the workshop:
"Great workshop! Very well organised and presented. Jerry is a very personable, informative and dynamic presenter. Explanations are clear and material is very detailed." Janene Laird, Feng Shui consultant and IFSA Australia President 
"Jerry, I just want to say thank you for coming all the way to Australia to teach Four Pillars. What you teach makes a lot of sense. It really has inspired me to study Four Pillars again with a fresh energy and renewed enthusiasm. In fact, I think it's become my new passion! I'm looking forward to studying with you again next year. And thanks Jane for bringing Jerry out here!" Anjela Wong, Feng Shui consultant 
"Thank you Jerry and Jane.&nbsp; Your Four Pillars workshop has been a wonderful course.&nbsp; I have consolidated so much with this course.&nbsp; I LOVE analysing the flow and will be employing it in all of my consultations from now on.&nbsp; I appreciate your frankness, openness and depth of knowledge."&nbsp; Vicki Sauvage, Feng Shui consultant 
"Thank you very much for sharing your wealth of knowledge. I have learned so much from you teaching and I am really looking forward to learning more from you." Alma Gonzalez, Feng Shui consultant 
"The workshop was well presented with heaps of content. I would be happy to study with Jerry again." Coral DiBella, Feng Shui consultant
"Jerry, thank you so much for your workshop.&nbsp; Your approach, pace and content was fantastic and made me enjoy every minute of it.&nbsp; I would have loved for the workshop to continue for as many days necessary to learn everything, but hopefully that might happen in the future.&nbsp; I hope that you will be able to come back to Australia very soon to do more workshops and seminars.&nbsp; Also, thank you Jane from Feng Shui Concepts for organizing the workshop so well which made it a great experience."&nbsp; Andrea Stoltenberg, IFSA member
Jerry King will be back in Australia in August 2011 presenting Advanced Feng Shui and Four Pillars workshops, Level 1 and Level 2.&nbsp; <a title="Email Feng Shui Concepts" href="mailto:info@fengshuiconcepts.com.au">Email us</a> for more information, or to register your interest. Thu, 04 Nov 2010 07:07:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/jerry-king-in-australia/ Kitchen Feng Shui Tips http://www.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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; If you are thinking of updating or renovating your kitchen, read on for some kitchen Feng Shui design tips.
&bull; The energy in a kitchen is ideally bright and fresh, and therefore good lighting, ventilation and cleanliness are important.
&bull; Stagnant energy is caused by clutter, grime, poor ventilation and dark corners.&nbsp; A dirty cluttered kitchen interferes with one's ability to prepare healthy and nourishing food.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.
&bull; 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.&nbsp; Kitchen design affects the intangible energy within a home and the specific placement of the stove and oven affects each occupant in the home.&nbsp; 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://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Feng Shui consultant</a>.
<a title="Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer from Sydney Australia" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer from Sydney Australia</a> Mon, 25 Oct 2010 19:24:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/kitchen-feng-shui-tips/ IFSA Australia Conference http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/ifsa-australia-conference/ IFSA Australia had their inaugural Feng Shui Masters Convention in Melbourne and it was a resounding success.&nbsp; The conference was held at the Brighton Savoy hotel overlooking the beautiful Brighton beach in Melbourne.&nbsp; We had great food and enjoyed mixing with old and new friends from the Feng Shui industry.&nbsp; 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 title="IFSA Australia conference ribbon cutting ceremony" src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/ResizedImage300225-IFSA-Australia-ribbon-cutting-ceremony.jpg" alt="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 title="IFSA Australia conference Jerry King with IFSA Australia committee" src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/ResizedImage300225-IFSA-conference-2010-Jerry-King.jpg" alt="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 title="IFSA conference Jerry King presenting on four pillars bazi &amp; eight mansions" src="http://www.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" 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 title="IFSA Australia Feng Shui masters convention dinner" src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/ResizedImage300225-IFSA-conference-committee-dinner.jpg" alt="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!&nbsp; 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://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is Feng Shui consultant and designer from Sydney Australia</a> </div>
 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 21:08:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/ifsa-australia-conference/ The Truth of Relationships http://www.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?&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; According to Dr Lily Chung, a leading expert on Eastern Metaphysics, relationships are largely determined by cosmic energy cycles.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp; 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!
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<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney Australia" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer based in Sydney Australia</a>
&nbsp; Fri, 21 May 2010 10:19:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/the-truth-of-relationships/ Trendy Bathroom Designs & Feng Shui http://www.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://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer based in Sydney Australia</a>

 
 Tue, 04 May 2010 15:08:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/trendy-bathroom-designs-feng-shui/ International Feng Shui Association comes to Oz http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/international-feng-shui-association-comes-to-oz/ As a Feng Shui consultant in Australia I was pleased to hear about the establishment of the Australian chapter of the International Feng Shui Association (IFSA), and even happier to accept an invitation to join their management team. 
The IFSA is a Feng Shui association headed by a group of international Feng Shui masters and experts from headquarters in Singapore. They hold an annual convention, providing valuable educational and networking opportunities to Feng Shui consultants around the world.
I'm looking forward to the opportunities that IFSA Australia will bring to our local industry, and personally I've really enjoyed connecting with a wonderful group of Feng Shui consultants around Australia. If you're a Feng Shui enthusiast or practitioner and you're interested in finding out more, please visit <a title="International Feng Shui Association Australia" href="http://www.intfsa.org.au" target="_blank">www.intfsa.org.au</a> or email <a title="IFSA Australia - supporting the professional development of Feng Shui consultants" href="mailto:committee@intfsa.org.au">committee@intfsa.org.au</a>.
<div class="image left" style="width: 172px;"><a title="International Feng Shui Association Australia" href="http://www.intfsa.org.au" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/resizedimage172108-IFSA-Logo-International-Feng-Shui-Association-Australia.jpg" alt="IFSA Australia, International Feng Shui Association" title="IFSA Australia, International Feng Shui Association" width="172" height="108"/></a></div>
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney Australia" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer based in Sydney Australia</a> Sat, 20 Feb 2010 16:28:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/international-feng-shui-association-comes-to-oz/ We're loving Insight Magazine http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/we-re-loving-insight-magazine/ Last year I was happy to be offered the role of Guest Editor for the January 2010 edition of <a title="Insight Magazine - Australia's no. 1 Spiritual LIfestyle magazine" href="http://www.insightmagazine.com.au" target="_blank">Insight Magazine</a>. I wrote a cover story on the "Five Elements for Success", and invited five colleagues to contribute articles about subjects they are passionate about. The result is an uplifting and energising collection of articles that makes the January issue of Insight Magazine a great read to kick off the new year.
<div class="image left" style="width: 199px;"><img src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/resizedimage199282-Insight-Magazine-Cover.jpg" alt="Insight Magazine January 2010 cover" title="Insight Magazine January 2010 cover" width="199" height="282"/></div>
One of the most compelling stories is written by my friend and fellow Feng Shui consultant <a title="Nikki Manno, Feng Shui consultant Sydney" href="mailto:nikki@fengshuiforsuccess.com.au">Nikki Manno</a>, who describes her personal journey of surviving chronic illnesses. She talks about the lifestyle benefits that she has experienced as a result of Feng Shui, and the health benefits resulting from removing everyday chemical products from her home. <a title="Kerrie jean Erwin, Pureview" href="http://www.pureview.com.au" target="_blank">Kerrie jean Erwin</a> writes about working with Spirit, and through her experience as a gifted clairvoyant and spirit medium, Kerrie provides fascinating insights into what happens when people pass over to the spirit world. 
<a title="Sarah K Jones, Feng Shui consultant, clairvoyant, healer and teacher" href="http://www.sarahkjones.com.au" target="_blank">Sarah K Jones</a> provides excellent tips and information about meditation and connecting to our innate power, and <a title="Katina Benis, Feng Shui consultant, space clearing expert and teacher" href="mailto:natureslifestylesolutions@hotmail.com">Katina Benis</a> describes how the Universe provides signs and symbols everyday, that can potentially answer every question we ask about our lives. Feng Shui consultant and Chinese Astrology expert <a title="Jerry King, Feng Shui consultant and Four Pillars of Destiny expert" href="http://www.whitedragonhome.com" target="_blank">Jerry King</a> shows readers how understanding one's birth chart through Chinese Astrology can reduce the impact of bad luck cycles or enhance good cycles in one's life.
The January issue of Insight magazine is available in newsagents around Australia until 27th January. Subscriptions and back issues of Insight magazine are also available <a title="Insight Magazine - Australia's no. 1 Spiritual LIfestyle magazine" href="http://www.insightmagazine.com.au" target="_blank">online</a>. Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions or feedback!
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney Australia" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney, Australia</a> Fri, 22 Jan 2010 11:03:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/we-re-loving-insight-magazine/ Yin and Yang with a Bang http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/yin-and-yang-with-a-bang/ Happy new year!&nbsp; It was wonderful to see the Yin and Yang symbol, representing unity, on the Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of new years' eve fireworks celebrations.&nbsp; Yin and Yang is fundamental in Chinese philosophy, and a primary guideline for Traditional Chinese medicine, Feng Shui and Chinese martial arts, amongst other modalities in Chinese metaphysics.
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<div class="image left" style="width: 450px;"><img title="Sydney Harbour 2009 New Years Eve Yin and Yang - photo by Sydney Morning Herald" src="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/_resampled/ResizedImage450300-smh-new-years-eve-09.jpg" alt="Sydney Harbour 2009 New Years Eve Yin and Yang - photo by Sydney Morning Herald" width="450" height="300" /></div>
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 Sydney Harbour, New Years Eve 2009.&nbsp; Source: Sydney Morning Herald</div>
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Yin and yang represents the duality in nature and how opposite forces are interrelated and give rise to each other.&nbsp; Yin and Yang is used to describe the energy in our environment.&nbsp; Yin characteristics are dark, still, low, cool, contracting and passive, whereas Yang can be characterized by heat, brightness, action, fast and light.
The objective in Feng Shui is to achieve balance with Yin and Yang through the use of the five elements of fire, earth, metal, water and wood.&nbsp; A balanced and harmonious home is ideal for your wellbeing, and this helps you to create an environment that allows new opportunities to enter your life.&nbsp;
Here are some tips to change the energy levels in your surroundings with Yin and Yang in mind:
<ul class="unIndentedList">
<li> Illuminate excessively dark and gloomy areas of the home with glass, light wall colours and moving objects. Lighting, mirrors, skylights, electrical equipment and plants raise the energy of a space.</li>
<li> When renovating, bigger is not always better. Bedrooms are ideally nurturing, supportive and smaller in size. In bedrooms, the Yin aspect should be emphasized and Yang objects are best avoided. </li>
<li> Yang spaces are more open and active, featuring reflective, harder surfaces for energy to travel faster. This isn't the objective in bedrooms, where softer, heavier furnishings will help to slow down energy and promote rest.</li>
<li> Water features and mirrors activate energy and can enhance the wealth sector in your home. In Feng Shui it's very important that water features and mirrors are placed in the right spot to avoid stirring unfavourable energy.</li>
</ul>
The energetic map of a home is unique, containing unseen energy that influences the health, wealth and happiness of the people living there.&nbsp; In some parts of your home you will need to emphasise the Yin characteristics to enhance energy for health, harmony and relationships.&nbsp; In other areas of your home you will need to activate Yang energy to improve prosperity and opportunities.&nbsp;
Quite often, the good energy for health and relationships is found in an active area (where it is better utilised in the bedroom), and the wealth sector is found in a bathroom, cupboard or otherwise unusable area.&nbsp; This is where the expertise of a Feng Shui consultant comes in, to harmonise the energy in your home and help you make the most of your opportunities in life.
I wish you all the best for 2010, and I hope it brings unity, peace and prosperity to you and your family xox
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer, Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/"></a><a></a>
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer, Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/"> Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney, Australia</a>
&nbsp; Tue, 05 Jan 2010 15:12:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/yin-and-yang-with-a-bang/ Chinese Astrology and Feng Shui http://www.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://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer based in Sydney Australia</a>
 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:28:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/chinese-astrology-and-feng-shui/ Feng Shui in Singapore http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/blogging-from-singapore/ Today I'm in Singapore where I have travelled to study Four Pillars of Destiny and the I Ching with Feng Shui <a title="Feng Shui Master Raymond Lo" href="http://www.raymond-lo.com/ver2/aboutmasterlo/bio.asp" target="_blank">Master Raymond Lo</a>. From the moment I arrived I was taken by the landscaping and beautiful tropical gardens in this fabulous city. One of the highlights of my trip was an invitation to dinner with <a title="Feng Shui master from Thailand Master Mas" href="http://www.mastermasfengshui.com" target="_blank">Master Mas</a>, a Feng Shui Master from Thailand, who took his entourage (and lucky me!) on an impromptu Feng Shui tour around Singapore river starting at Clifford Pier. 
Master Mas talked about landform theory in Feng Shui and pin-pointed the features and structures around buildings that distinguished prosperous businesses from those that were not. Here are a few gems that I can share from my meeting with Master Mas:
<ul><li>The quality of Chi (life energy) being received into a property is the most important factor in Feng Shui. The energetic blueprint or Flying Star chart of a building can be excellent, but without the right forms and structures, the favourable 'stars' for prosperity, health and harmony can't be activated.</li>
<li>Take note of the forms around a property - dead or sick trees are an indication that the Chi entering a home could be poor quality.</li>
<li>Walk around and take notice of businesses that are thriving. You can learn a lot by looking at landforms and structures around a building without even knowing whether the energy inside the building is auspicious or not.</li>
<li>You can learn from anyone - any person or anything can be your "master", so be open and aware. Even a stray dog can teach you some lessons on survival skills!</li>
</ul>I haven't seen any stray dogs in Singapore, but one thing I have noticed is that the Singaporeans love their animals. One day I went out on a morning jog and saw a dog wearing shoes! Another thing I learned is that Singaporeans favourite pastime is shopping and eating, so I am fitting right in with this culture! Yes, I really love this place! 
Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer based in Sydney, Australia Tue, 01 Dec 2009 07:58:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/blogging-from-singapore/ Feng Shui and your Productivity http://www.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://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and designer based in Sydney Australia</a> Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:17:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-and-your-productivity/ Talking to the Higher Self http://www.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! &nbsp;<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.&nbsp; Read on to view the article.
<a title="Article by Kerrie Jean Erwin" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Talking-to-the-Higher-Self.pdf" target="_blank">Talking to the Higher Self by Kerrie Jean Erwin - Insight Magazine, October 2009</a>
Kerrie Erwin is a gifted clairvoyant, medium and spiritual healer.&nbsp; As well as doing personal readings, Kerrie is currently performing in the Rainbow Show in venues around Sydney, where she connects people with Spirit.&nbsp; I've been to her shows and I think they are entertaining, enlightening and a must see! &nbsp;Best of all, proceeds are donated to the Sydney Children's Hospital.
Are you interested in trying Kerrie's healing technique?&nbsp; We would love to hear your comments!
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer based in Sydney Australia</a>
&nbsp; Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:42:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/talking-to-the-higher-self/ Feng Shui of HSBC Building in Hong Kong http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-of-hsbc-building-in-hong-kong/ This week I met <a title="Jerry King, Feng Shui consultant" href="http://www.whitedragonhome.com" target="_blank">Jerry King</a> - an international Feng Shui practitioner &amp; Four Pillars expert from Vancouver.&nbsp; Jerry wrote a great article on the Feng Shui of the HSBC building in Hong Kong.&nbsp; This one is for the hard-core Feng Shui enthusiasts!
<a title="HSBC's Feng Shui by Jerry King" href="http://gingerpost.com/?p=662" target="_blank">HSBC's Feng Shui by Jerry King, White Dragon Consulting</a>
I first visited Hong Kong when I was 16 years old (don't ask how long ago that was!).....it's time for another trip!
Have you visited the HSBC building?&nbsp; I'd be interested to hear your opinion of Jerry's commentary.
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui consultant &amp; Interior Designer, Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer based in Sydney, Australia </a>
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&nbsp; Mon, 26 Oct 2009 22:08:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-of-hsbc-building-in-hong-kong/ Feng Shui for Business Success http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-for-business-success/ I was interviewed by the fabulous professional organiser <a title="Kat Tate, Declutter Queen &amp; Professional Organiser Sydney" href="http://www.katandkaboodle.com.au/who-we-are" target="_blank">Kat Tate</a>, for her webinar series "The Organised Office".&nbsp; In Kat's video (my YouTube debut!) I take you through general tips to boost Feng Shui in your business.&nbsp; Disregard the surprised look on my face...lol...and check out the <a title="Kat &amp; Kaboodle, Professional Organisers Sydney" href="http://www.katandkaboodle.com.au" target="_blank">Kat &amp; Kaboodle</a> website while you're there, it's great :)&nbsp; Read on to check out the video.
<a title="Kat Tate interviews Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://www.katandkaboodle.com.au/fengshui" target="_blank">YouTube - Feng Shui for Business Success video</a>
Please note that this video contains general Feng Shui tips, and there are always exceptions to the rule.&nbsp; To make the most of the energy in a building it's always advisable to seek advice from a qualified Traditional Feng Shui consultant, who can advise you on the best way to enhance energy to support your business prosperity and relationships.
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer based in Sydney, Australia</a> Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:02:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-for-business-success/ 2GB Radio Interview http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/2gb-radio-interview/ This has been a fabulous week for publicity in the Feng Shui industry.&nbsp; I was interviewed by <a title="The Small Business Show with Prue MacSween" href="http://www.2gb.com/index.php?option=com_homepage&amp;id=29&amp;Itemid=333" target="_blank">Prue MacSween</a> from <a title="2GB radio with Prue MacSween" href="http://www.2gb.com/" target="_blank">2GB radio</a> for The Small Business Show, and the topic was Feng Shui for the office.&nbsp; In Prue's entertaining style, she ponders the question - "Can Feng Shui really benefit your business, or do some people think it's a lot of Chop Suey?"
Enjoy the audio clip!

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For more information and tips visit my blog post: <a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/feng-shui-for-your-office/">Feng Shui for your office</a>.
<a title="Jane Langof Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui Consultant and Interior Designer based in Sydney, Australia</a> Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:24:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/2gb-radio-interview/ Feng Shui Concepts in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-concepts-in-the-sunday-telegraph-newspaper/ "Even real estate agents are turning to Feng Shui, writes Katrina Creer".&nbsp; I was delighted to be interviewed by the Sunday Telegraph for a feature article about Feng Shui and the benefits of hiring a professional consultant.&nbsp; The president of the <a title="Real Estate Institute NSW" href="http://www.reinsw.com.au" target="_blank">Real Estate Institute</a>, <a title="Steve Martin, President of the Real Estate Institute NSW" href="http://www.reinsw.com.au/Default.aspx?PrintFriendly=True&amp;ArticleID=2893" target="_blank">Steve Martin</a>, and agent <a title="John McGrath" href="http://www.johnmcgrathblog.com.au/" target="_blank">John McGrath</a> of <a title="McGrath" href="http://www.mcgrath.com.au/" target="_blank">McGrath Real Estate</a>, comment on how Feng Shui can improve the energy in a home and improve property saleability.&nbsp; <a title="Angus Kell &amp; State Managers of Archicentre" href="http://www.archicentre.com.au/html/statemanagers.html" target="_blank">Angus Kell</a> of <a title="Archicentre for renovation planning advice" href="http://www.archicentre.com.au" target="_blank">Archicentre</a> recommends investing in the services of a Feng Shui consultant for homes in suburbs that are of interest to Asian buyers.&nbsp; <a title="Property Developers Dyldam" href="http://www.dyldam.com.au/" target="_blank">Property developers Dyldam</a> comment on the benefits of using a Feng Shui consultant to help design their best selling property development, Lotus Apartments in Carlingford.
Read the story here: "<a title="Sunday Telegraph - Jane Langof Feng Shui Consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/assets/Articles/Sunday-Telegraph-Jane-Langof-Feng-Shui-Consultant-Sydney.pdf" target="_blank">We're picking up good vibrations</a>" 4th October 2009 (download 2.5MB).
A big thankyou goes to my client Linda Kho and her family in Hunters Hill, Sydney, for being so generous in welcoming the Sunday Telegraph team into their home and sharing their positive experiences with Feng Shui.&nbsp; The main changes to Linda's home include the re-arrangement of furniture, re-decorating and de-cluttering.&nbsp; We added red accessories to various rooms, a water feature to the wealth sector and Feng Shui remedies in certain locations using a specific combination of the five elements of fire, earth, metal, water and wood.
There's a reference to Asian items in the article, and I'd like to clarify that I personally love Asian decor and statues of Buddha.&nbsp; The comment was meant to address the problem of over-filling a home with tacky lucky objects.&nbsp; A well balanced decorating scheme is key in producing a beautiful and harmonious interior.
If you have any questions or feedback about the article, please leave a comment!
<a title="Jane Langof, Feng Shui consultant &amp; Interior Designer Sydney" href="http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/about/">Jane Langof is a Feng Shui consultant and Interior Designer based in Sydney Australia</a> Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:25:00 +1100 http://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au/blog/feng-shui-concepts-in-the-sunday-telegraph-newspaper/