Question: We had a water feature placed on the right side of our living room as you walked in. It broke after three years and we replaced it with a bowl of water, placed six ceramic green fish in the bowl with some pebbles. Do you think this water feature is as ‘lucky’ as the previous one?

–Donna from San Diego, CA

Answer: It sounds to me like it may have been time for your previous water feature to break.

The first thing to look at is what was going on in your life when it broke, like (for example) were you in a transitional period when it happened? Things always happen for a reason and signs can be a powerful tool in assisting us on our life’s path.

As far as the replacement, here’s my opinion. A running water feature symbolizes the movement of energy in your life, particularly around money. It is more active.

On the other hand, a bowl of water is water that is still and symbolizes the pooling of resources. It denotes more of a waiting period and a time of reflection. You need to decide which one fits better with who you are and where you are going. They are both lucky in my opinion.

As far as the 6 ceramic green fish in the bowl, my question to you is this: Do you resonate with the fish? I believe that when we practice any school of feng shui, the person living in the space must feel connected to the objects that are placed in that area.

My recommendation to you is to call a professional feng shui consultant in your area. Visit the International Feng Shui Guild: www.ifsguild.org to find someone in your city that can help.

Question: I am a single woman looking for a relationship. I heard that in Feng Shui it is better to have two bedside tables in the bedroom than one. Is that true? And do you suggest that I do that in my bedroom?

–Andrea from Madison, Wisconsin

CJ: Here is my answer. In my former work as a Feng Shui Consultant, many of my clients were single and looking for relationships. After seeing some of their bedrooms with a one-night-stand next to their bed, I could see how the symbology of the room kept them in their single status. That coupled with images on the wall of a single person or a single object…well, you get my meaning.  Whenever someone is looking for a romantic partnership in their life I always suggest to start by thinking in the number two. And yes, that includes adding a second bedside table. The idea is to make room for your beloved in a physical and energetic way. Think of it as an invitation to the Universe to draw this special person to you. So yes, Andrea, add a second bedside table and try to match it to the one you already have. Think of it as equal sides to the relationship. While you’re at it, bring in matching lamps, candles and create romance in the bedroom with passionate colors, lush fabric and whatever else you love. While your waiting for your partner to show up, you can really get into loving yourself in your favorite new sacred space. Good luck and keep me posted!

Question: I heard it’s good feng shui to have a small water fountain in a special place in your house. Is this true and if so where is the best place to put it?

S.L. –Norfolk, VA

CJ: Here’s my answer. Yes, it is very good feng shui to have a running water feature in a strategic location in your home.  For example, a small water feature on your desk in your office symbolizes abundance and the flow of money into your life. Water has properties that move energy that is stuck and helps to get things rolling. Make sure that the water is moving towards you or at 360 degrees (which is moving in all directions.) You don’t want the water moving away from you hence directing energy away.

Traditionally in feng shui, water is associated with weath and abundance. In ancient times, the Shamans of the land in China and other countries understood that to live near water where crops grew and fish was abundant, translated to an abundant livelihood where their goods could be traded at market.

There are other areas in your home where placing a water fountain is good feng shui, like in your career and/or wealth areas. However, those areas should be determined by a professional Feng Shui Consultant. If you need any referrals, just let me know. I’m happy to help.

Question: What do you think about painting the ceiling in a room the same color as the walls?

L.D. –Los Angeles, CA

CJ: Thank-you for your question. Here are my thoughts. If you are dealing with a room with angled ceilings (like the one shown to the right) I always suggest painting the entire room the same color. Angles can disrupt energy flow and cause an imbalance in the space. Painting the ceilings and the walls the same color (in this case) assist in creating balance and harmony, making it feel whole. In other words, you don’t want to draw attention to this type of ceiling.  If the room is small and square with lower ceilings and you opt for a darker color on the walls, then I suggest painting the ceiling a lighter color which will lift the energy above you and suggest a higher ceiling. If the room is bigger and has a higher ceiling you might try painting the ceiling a darker color to (energetically) bring down. We humans like to get cozy and big rooms with high ceilings tend to feel more like museums and are a big offputting for cozy living. One last thing. Don’t be afraid to paint your ceilings the same color as your walls. Experiment and see how it feels. Remember you can always contact a professional color consultant in your area who can assist you. Let me know how it goes. –Cheryl

Question: Is there something special that you should see when you open up your front door? A mirror or a flower vase or something else?

G.L. –Portland, Oregon

C.J.: Ahhh, I love this question. Thank-you for asking it. Entryways serve as greeters each time we walk into our front door. It’s such an important area as it sets the tone for our experience inside, sending us secret messages. If the area is cluttered and ugly, well you can imagine how that will affect how we feel and contribute to lower energy levels. However, if the area is beautiful, for example set up with a beautiful vase of flowers on a special table or our favorite bold print is hanging on the wall, that will bring joy to our hearts even on the most challenging of days. For many of us, the entryway is an area where we leave our ’stuff’ like our purses, keys, umbrellas, etc. and can get cluttered. If this is the case, first get organized. Keep what you don’t need and get rid of the rest. Think of this area as your personal welcoming station where you have that special bowl for your keys and a sweet mood light that draws you into the area. Whatever you decide to place in your entryway, make it something you love, or a collection of things that bring peace and love into your heart. Keep me posted!