Cecil Lee

Dear Anon, 1. The key success in Feng Shui is often " Not practising Feng Shui at all". 2. Frankly, if one analyse Feng Shui carefully, often the key success has much to do with our external environment. Or higher weightage is to placed on our external environment. 3. For example, just three months back, this businessman consulted on his home Feng Shui. And he is in this `metal' parts business for quite sometime. 4. After our home consultation, he asked me whether, should he invite me to look at his business Feng Shui. 5. Here, I asked him how is his business. He said, it is OK. 6. Given this understanding, I mentioned to him that it is not really necessary to do a FS audit of his business. 7. After this, he mentioned that, in-fact, quite sometime back, he got to know a FS practitioner (who had visited Singapore). He did ask this FS practitioner for comments on his office Feng Shui. My client said that the FS practitioner, simply says, "Feel free" to place or position according to what you like. 8. The morale of the story is: "Feng Shui has often much to do with the exterior. What this practitioner means is that other than Earth Luck, our Human (Man) Luck, is equally important. 9. Thus, I believe this is the same for you. If initially, you feel very comfortable with your current decor and arrangement, why spoilt it? 10. In Feng Shui, the main consideration would often be if one constantly falls sick e.g. bedroom etc.. 11. In the Holy trinity of Luck, (Heaven, Earth and Man luck); often, even if one's earth luck is not so good, but we do have good Man luck e.g. good atitude towards life etc... all these can superceed, all our worries or problems! Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Grace, The clue to the wealth element is based on two considerations: 1. Personal Ba Zi element of a person. Is the person a weak or strong wood? 2. The "Destructive Cycle" of the Five Elements Concept. Reference: http://www.geomancy.net/resources/theories/fs-5element.htm 3. If one looks carefully at the "Destructive sequence", it is actually quite misleading to say that the destructive sequence in `no good'. In fact, the destructive sequence has also to do with wealth creation. 4. For example: In the case of the wood element. A plant or tree gets its nurishment from the ground. Here, literally, the roots of the plants go into the earth to `crush' and anchor itself into it. This is indeed `destructive' to the earth. 5. But, if we look at it from a different angle; the plant or tree's wealth is associated with the earth. 6. Similarly, if we can imagine a block of wood. A block of wood can be bought cheaply or sometimes free! from nature. We can use a metal implement to carve up an object. This object, if it is a nice work of art can fetch a much higher sum. Thus, metal's wealth comes from wood. 7. A weak metal person: A weak metal person cannot directly benifit from his wealth since his metal tools are considered small. And unable to fully `attack' his wealth i.e. wood. Thus, ideally, a metal person's wealth career is often said to be in the wood area but better still if it is associated with earth element. 8. Similarly, a weak wood person's wealth element is still Earth element but better still if his /her job has much to do or associated with water element. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Further to what I had mentioned earlier, you can find some of my older resources on Pa Kua or Ba Gua under this very old link:- http://www.geomancy.net/resources/art/art-pakua.htm Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, Please see below:- 1. Usually, the most common approach in Feng Shui is "if it cannot be seen it is no longer a threat" applies. 2. Therefore, things like a screen or (for less modern approach - beaded screens) can be used. 3. The Taiwan Feng Shui approach is commonly to use plants to be used as a screen. For example, artifical plants can be used in such a situation to screen the staircase from the main door. 4. The Hong Kong type of approach is to use a water postion e.g. a fish tank to neutralise or create a flow of the Five Elements between the offending object and the main door. 4.1 The Hong Kong type of approach uses the Five Elements in a harmonious cycle. Much like the Chinese martial arts of "Tai qi". Here, under this form of martial arts; if an opponent fights hard, the `trick' here is to use his/her force by swift movements of the arms to slow it down, divert the hard blows and `return' it to the opponent. 4.2 For example, using a fish tank containing all five elements to help neutralise the threat: where: water in the tank = water element fishes = often these are gold fishes = metal element rectangle tank = earth element light in the tank = fire element some plants or greenery in the tank = wood element Here, there is a five element harmonious flow. Under this conference, I had previously posted various types of ba gua mirrors. Plus also, given a summary of their use. Hence, pa kua or (Ba gua) mirrors are often used for: 1. to deflect sha qi 2. to protect (drive away evil or prevent evil from entering a location i.e. placing it above the door) In fact the term Pa Kua is actually a Hokkien (Chinese dialect group spelling or sound like name) of the Mandarin word: Ba Gua. Thus the words are one and the same. Ba Gua can also refer to the Trigram or the First Heaven Sequence diagram on the trigram and the Later Heaven Sequence trigram. Please check out some of the resources on the main pages as I had in the past, written on them. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Vijay, So far, based on my personal observations, this is not a major issue. In Singapore, like anywhere else in the world, many landed properties (site) are either: 1. On the same level to the road 2. Higher than the road 3. Lower than the road Based on my personal experience, I often see many homes similar to your description ie. (para 2 type) do not encounter financial loss. Nor affect the health of the owners. But rather, more importantly, the concern is that of open drains that e.g. flow behind the house or at the side. Often, rather, if the house has a large opening e.g. sliding glass doors at the frontage with main entrance doors, there is a possibility that children may not get married or remain single. On it's own, therefore, such slope is not a major concern. And, so far, I believe, no Feng Shui book has fully stated this as a major cause of wealth loss. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Wayne, 1. Yes, some Feng Shui books warn of living close to high power transmission lines. Here, some of these books quote the magnetic field coming from such lines as `unsafe' for health. 2. So far, if I am not mistaken, there were studies conducted even by Universities to say that there are no adverse effects on human beings. 3. This could also explain why, some of us are still `allowed' by the authorities to live close to these power-lines. 4. Under Commonsense approach to Feng Shui, it is always safer to stay clear of power towers. Not because of any ill effects (magnetic force) but rather, in an unlikely senario of the tower falling down e.g. due to high winds or gale force wind etc.. Many would say this is a remote possibility. It may or may never happen! 5. In my opinion, so long as the structure does not seem to slice thru e.g. an open window or the main door, there is nothing to worry about. 6. I suspect, the other concern has more to do with "Human factor" or asthetic and our perception that high voltage is considered "dangerous". This is only a human perception. 7. In my opinion, unlike microwave energy (commonly found) in handphones in various degrees - depending on the manufacture, magnetic fields is in fact more evident in our homes. As many homes have wiring (lower voltage) running within our homes. 8. In the US, the voltage is around 110 volts. Here in Singapore and UK, the voltage is twice that i.e. 240 volts. Many people still live on average to 80 years of age. More likely, overeating e.g. overweight - has a higher contributing factor to poor health than anything else. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Vijay, Chinese Astrology and Eight House Charts ======================================== For the Eight House Charts (Compass School Feng Shui), the year of birth is enough. This is also commonly the type of information found on Chinese astrology books. In general, therefore, you are considered as a male "dragon" person - born in that year. Pillars of Destiny ================== Here, some practitioners may simply look at just the Year of birth. Some may look at the Year and Month of birth. While others may take into consideration: Year, Month, Day, Hour and Time of birth. While others may go further to look at Year, Month, Day, Hour, Time, House of Life and House of conception. The key success of Pillars of Destiny is not only taking into consideration the Year of birth only (that is where, perhaps you were asking about the Year or even the Year / Month of birth). The key to Pillars of Destiny are the various interactions "known" as clashes. For example, there are the Two combination clashes/harms and the Three combination clashes/harms. Sometimes, these clashes support one's element, while others harm it. In a basic Eight Pillars chart: Year, Month, Day and Hour (Time) of birth there are 8 variables i.e. 4 earthly branches and 4 heavenly stems. In such a basic chart, it is the two or three combinations of each of these 8 variables that can influence a chart. And another variable the house of life (can influence) the strength of one's element. And there is also the House of conception. In a full POD chart, there are the already 8 variables plus 2 more each from House of Life and House of Conception. And, the more variables, there are, the better we can find some three combinations clash to help in analysing one's chart Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Sanjay, In my opinion, it is difficult to give advise on the issue, unless you have a rough sketch. For example, is there a road separating the two premises (property) and is it a two-way street and how many lanes. It is also good to have the sketch of your home/perimeter and some of these information. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear SK, 1. Yes, I can understand the problem, here. 2. The best approach is to try to find the centrepoint of the home. Or the centre-of-gravity of the home. 3. For example, photocopy a scaled layout plan. Glue this onto a cardboard. Cut-out the outline. And (try) to balance the entire layout on a nail. (To find the centre of gravity or centrepoint) of the home. 4. The key here is to find the centrepoint. And from this centrepoint, use a `pie-chart' to radiate out the compass directions. 5. To summarise, once, the centrepoint is found; one can then (sensibly) apply the eight house and/or the flying star charts to the home. 6. Otherwise, unlike an `L' shaped layout plan, where each rectangle can be seperately analysed; a totally odd shaped layout plan - can be very impractical to subdivide into two ro more sectors. 7. As a `last-resort', if one has a good idea of Shapes and Forms should `study' or examine or (mentally visualise) where a qi enters a specific location e.g. the main entrance door area, and imagine how - it will flow thru specific sectors etc... Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Joanna, 1. I hope I understand your message correctly. Do you mean that the bed should be on the opposite wall from the bedroom door? If so, this is often the norm - for privacy and also, one can often see who comes thru the door, first. 2. But, one must be careful of the "coffin position". This is where, the feet should not point directly towards the bedroom door. Here, this is symbolic of carrying a dead body out of the home. If there is really no choice, either: 1. do have a bed head - or a small bed head cabinet where one can place one's alarm clock and some personal items e.g. watch etc.. 2. the other alternative is leave a few inches gap between the wall and the bed head. 3. Often, some old homes one may find the wall slightly damp e.g. water / water vapour seeping thru this wall. Perhaps, one can consider using a better exterior type of paint to coat this wall. Otherwise, what you had mentioned e.g. a strong coloured wall cover - has more to do with "human" consideration i.e. a personal sense of ease. A crystal is a modern invention. Again, And, there is no proven effectiveness other than supporting commerce. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Simon, Feng Shui is about the Earth luck. Human interations and human relationships are about Human (Man) Luck. In my opinion, for a stadium, if it based on Feng Shui, this will have to do with:- 1. Yin and Yang concept Sufficient lighting e.g. flood lights to the field area without too much glare to the players / participants. 2. Congregation/ Dispersion of crowd Even for the spectators, many stadiums often have gates spaced out e.g. North, NE, East, SE etc... This has more to do with commonsense than Feng Shui i.e. human traffic movement/dispersement 3. Location Again, this is commonsense approach e.g. location should not be too windy, should have good transport facility and where possible, away from (nearby) homes or next to people's home (noisy). 4. Flow of qi Ideally, an open stadium or partially covered stadium allows for air circulation. In an indoor stadium, airconditioning or heating has to be able to `refresh' the air and make the place quite `comfortable'. 5. Other than this, in my opinion, there is very little one can (in my opinion) write about Feng Shui of a stadium - based on Earth Luck. 6. If you can stretch or pad your article by including Human and Man Luck. 7. Under Human or Man Luck, some of us feel happy, rejunevated, drive, excitement. And, all these are often good for our personal self or we can it Human/Man Luck/interaction. Anyway, good luck in your work! 8. I hope you do not mind me asking you this question: "Are you still going to write this article? ERH.. Or is it too late already to choose any other topic(s)? Warmest Regards, Cecil Kind

Dear Spencer, Since the eight house is based on true compass directions; more importantly: 1. Find the centrepoint of the home. 2. Use a compass to first locate the North-South alignment of the home. Please use the information at: http://www.geomancy.net/fs/house1.htm Here, often the solution is to use a transparency; for example those that can be photocopied using a copier (where the transparency - is heat resistant - meant to go into a photocopier). Just superimpose the layout plan to the layout plan. The direction of the interior unit "follows" where the compass markings goes. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Julie, Realistically these are some guidelines:- 1. You can rest with comfort that: You and your fiancee are not the only ones facing such a "dilemma". 2. Under the Eight House concept: more important considerations are: 2.1 For the breadwinner (often this is the male party); the main door should not be his "disaster" or "death" sector. 2.2 "The Shield" 2.2.1 Under the eight house concept; if say the bedroom is favourable for one spouse but is not favourable to the other: 2.2.2 For example if the bedroom is located at North and is the husband's dead sector while it is the wife's prosperity sector; then the wife sleeps closer to this sector; to "shield" him. 2.2.3 This is considered as one of the basis of the Eight House theory. 2.2.4 It is not like an impratical world where, "HEY!, I am afraid, both of you must live separte lives or live in separate rooms! " This is indeed simply ridiculous thought! Perhaps, one find day, we may hear of a petition for separation or divorce based on this idea " Because of Feng Shui, we HAVE HAD no choice but live separate lives! Do you think that this is a good excuse to use? Erh? Did you say a Lame Excuse? I agree:) Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Mark, Given that red is considered as the most Yang colour; it would not be favourable for a person who is: 1. a Strong Fire person or Addition of fire element to a Fire person, further intensifies the fire. It is like adding fire to fire. May inadvertently create stress for the strong fire person. 2. a Weak water person or Too much fire will drown a already weak water person. Here, we do not want to inadvertently boil the last remaining drops of water. Significance: may cause difficulties to the weak water person. 3. a Strong Earth person Under the productive cycle, too much fire element can further inflame a strong earth person. Which is not favourable. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Vijay, 1. It is best to apply a "pie chart" method instead of using a 9 x 9 grid in such a situation. 2. There are two types of Flying Star for the home/office:- 2.1 Horizontal Flying Star Feng Shui This is the common or regular 20 Year, Yearly, Monthly Flying Star Feng Shui based on the Luo Shu grid. Since it is applies to horizontal analysis, I have mentioned that if one wants to look at the external perimeter; than locate the centrepoint of the location. And by using the pie, one can either concentrate the pie sectors - to within the interior of the home/office or extend it out (i.e. literally continue to extend/draw the lines out.) 2.2 Vertical Flying Star Feng Shui (Significance of Apartment numbers Report under Geomancy.net) For example, to those who are new to this, can use the free vertical Flying star chart to analyse different floors (storeys) of an apartment. For example, it is often said that each different level or storey is said to have different type of qi influence. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, 1. The concept: "If it cannot be seen it is no longer a threat" applies here. 2. Therefore, IF, your unit or apartment is higher than the water tank which is often enclosed in a metal container; this is often not a threat to you. 3. But if your unit faces the water tank; often, we perceive this as an 'ugly sight'. Thus, the sight of such tanks - often has to do more with "Human or Man" factors i.e. our visual perception, than actually Feng Shui. It is not like the tank is going to burst open etc... 4. On a commonsense approach to Feng Shui, it has to do more with the idea that if the roof is inadequately reinforced, there may be a situation that it could collapse on someone's unit below it. 5. The idea of an open water position has to do with evaporation. This evaporation of water creates "vapour" whether positive or negative - depending on the situation. If the wind carries this vapour towards your unit, then, it can have an effect on one's home. For one, more humidity.... Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, 1. In general (broad sense); Finance Services has to do with the Metal element. 2. This was because, Finance or Accounting was said to deal with "coins"; thus this is where it has an association with the metal element. 3. However, in the past, careers can be easily classifed. For example, a Merchant is a merchant. A butcher is a butcher. 4. But as most of us are aware, if one is a salaried worker or even working for one's self; there is a high element of "multi-skilling". 5. This is not because our "employer-tax-us-to-death" but because, now adays even a butcher may have to use a computer eg. order goods, surf the web etc... 6. A more accurate way is to look at one's core job specifications. 7. Thus even in the Finance sector, if one is a trainer e.g. corporate trainer; then he/she is more likely associated with the wood element. Where wood element is much like a tree or plant that promotes growth, learning. 8. If one is a Credit analyst or into Financial consultant (and every month must meet a required "sales" target) then, this person has a career that is more inclined towards the "Fire element" i.e. sales and marketing. 9. Under the Ba zi, career analysis or reports, one can see two major categories: Career related to one's wealth Career related to one's power and authority etc... 10. Often, there is no right or wrong answers. It is how, one properly `argue' it out. 11. Looking at it; nowadays, a career is not like the concept of Hot and Cold. And our career cannot be at the extreme ends of either Hot or cold. It often lies in between. 12. And in-fact, "multi-tasks" suggests that often, our career has all the five elements but perhaps one or two is more distinct. This is acceptable. As our job will not be so dull! 13. Today, even a home-maker has to do various tasks not just one job alone. 14. Frankly, our life will be more interesting if we do varied tasks. If not, either one is like a `dead wood' or unfortunately can be considered as a "retard". We won't want to be labelled as this rite? Warmest Regards, Cecil

Further to what I had mentioned: 1. The key success factor is always: Location, location, location, location and location. 2. Here, it suggests the "Big picture" more towards Macro Feng Shui i.e. the External environment, the Site, the Building. This is akin to top jobs such as CEO, CFO, Senior Management positions. 3. Often, when we zoom into a unit or apartment; this is like the troops: and can range from the equivalent of middle management positions to clerical. 4. If one has been in the army, the site, building befits positions like Generals, Colonels, Majors. 5. While the unit or apartment is similar to non commissioned officers ranging from Lance-corporals, corporals, sergeants. Hopefully, our home should not be equated to a "RECRUIT". If so, this is very bad. Should try to sell it off or "if it cannot be sold" give away free. (Perhaps, this is wishful thinking.. give free, also, no one wants - i.e. entrapped house). 6. I often mentioned, the external is very important. It is no use; making the interior or the four walls within a home like a palace but if all else outside this four walls are crumbling. 7. Often, for the interior of the home, we can only try to harmonise the home to our Ba zi as well as good placement and good qi flow (air flow). 8. And most of the enhancements or neutralisation done within a home has more to do with "Elastoplast" Feng Shui i.e. fixing problems rather than going for the big picture. 9. Seriously, if we have excellent external shapes and forms, often, we do not even need to look at Feng Shui of our interior. Many people have succeded without even the idea or notion of what Feng Shui is about. 10. The maxim goes " Fools (false gold or products touted as Feng Shui enhancements) and their money are often departed ". Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, 1. You brough up a very good question:) 2. If one had studied economics; we encounter two major terms: 2.1 Macro economics and 2.2 Micro economics. 3. The practise of Feng Shui is similar to economics: Macro and micro. 4. What you had mentioned about the building or site is akin to the most important consideration. Or First priority where this has the highest key success factor. Than say to try to enhance the 4 walls or interior of the home. 5. This is why, many developers both in Singapore and Overseas always call upon a Feng Shui Master to help `secure' their building. 5.1 The terms used are "Black" and "White" Feng Shui. 5.2 What happens is that prior to the development of a site; a Feng Shui Master scans close-by buildings. And classify these buildings into the various elements. 5.3 For example, if there are lots of earth shaped surrounding buildings. (Earth shaped buildings are often squarish or rectangular in shape). 6. At this point in time, the Feng Shui Master may recommend to the developer to build a building that has wood and water element. For example a tall building (subject to building regulation approval) and perhaps, grey or black coloured finish. 7. Here, grey or black represents the water element. And, the tall building represents wood element. 8. Under the productive sequence in Feng Shui:- Water element supports Wood element. 9. And since the entire area is litered with Earth buildings; a wood element building or combination of water on wood is favourable. 10. Since, wood building is like a tall tree, with its roots crushing into Earth to enjoy wealth. 11. Here, if we look at the Destructive cycle or also this cycle can also be known as the Wealth cycle: 12. Where wood destroys earth to create wealth for wood. Thus bring prosperity to the people occupying the building. 13. The key success in Feng Shui, Ba Zi (eight characters/pillars of destiny) all relate to the lowest common denominator: the Five elements concept. 14. I mentioned "black" Feng Shui. This is where, a Feng Shui practitioner simply do not want to create harmony but goes all out to create wealth only for his/her intended clients. For example, in the past, I had given some examples of what is "black" Feng Shui. 15. Often, for Buddhist priests, they often do not want to create ills for others thus, if they were sought by developers to develop buildings they may employ concepts like "Castle gate" theory e.g. tilting the main door at an angle etc... Here, by doing so, they do not aim poison arrows at other buildings. 16. Things like have sharp edges shooting out of a building towards other buildings or even use reflective glass; are often considered as sha qi or poison arrows to the neighbouring building. 17. If one happens to visit Hong Kong. Do try to have a view of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank (HSBC) Building. One can see the shape or profile of two "cannon" like objects on the roof-top of HSBC building aimed at Bank of China building. 18. This is an example of `black' Feng Shui. Where, you are pointing two cannons to the Bank of China BOC building. However, this is a long story as, BOC is also a building that uses "Black" Feng Shui - and perhaps: to excuse each other; HSBC can say that they are merely acting in SELF-DEFENCE? 19. If you do visit Hong Kong, do look at these two buildings:( 20. Anyway, as I had mentioned in the past, an excellent home does not only have favourable Feng Shui; but rather, it also `sucks' wealth from other building. Thus, it becomes an excellent home. If one has the money, and has a keen eye; one can have the means to buy such a home. And, can say that it is no robbery, if e.g. a row of houses are aligned, and `flowing' towards (gradient) your main door. Here, one can simply sit and collect `free' FOC (free of charge) wealth at the expense of others. 21. It is like playing stocks and shares. Someone will gain while another will lose out. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Fely, 1. Several years back, I had elaborated on the 4 celestial creatures or simply the "Four Symbolic Animals". 2. In fact, there are several perspective at looking into the Concept of the Four Celestial Creatures or the Four Symbolic Animals. I shall use the short form as FSA (stands for Four Symbolic Animals.) 3. The First Perspective is of a "SYMBOLIC" nature. This is why; it is known as the Four Symbolic Animals. 4. In many societies; the saying goes: "A picture tells a thousand words". 5. What better way to understand a concept is via symbolism or a picture of: 5.1 The FRONTAGE Where possible, we should imagine that the frontage should have clear space. Much like a bird (Phoenix) flying freely in front. This is good, because, if there is clear space i.e. for a landed property either a flat piece of land or a water position such as a pond - would mean that nothing else can be built above it. Thus "Clear space". 5.2 The SOLID BACK e.g. similar to the profile of tortise Here, the picture is that preferably, the back of the home or site should have a solid back. 5.3 The Green Dragon and the White Tiger In this pictorial representation; if we are facing the frontage; we should always consider the dragon is on the left and the tiger on the right side. 6. Thus, we dont' care whether where the house is or compass direction is; this is one way of looking at a pictorial representation of a home. 7. Under this PICTORIAL representation; we cannot fool hardly consider that the Phoenix must be at the South and the tortise MUST be at the North. 8. This is because, today, Feng Shui is International. In the past, agree that the model under Para 7 applies to China (Northern hemisphere). 8.1 This is where, it is always preferred to have the frontage of a home face South. To avoid the yellow dust and cold winds blowing from the North. For example, in Beijing, China, this idea applies. 9. Another PERSPECTIVE is from the Compass School point-of-view. 9.1. I hope that you have now understand that from Para 1 to 8, I am relating the FSA to a pictorial representation. An easy to understand model - that most of us can relate to. 9.2 Under the Compass School of Feng Shui, the difference lies in the idea that based on true cardinal (compass points): Compass direction East = Green dragon (Wood) West = White tiger (Metal) North = Black tortise (Water) South = Phoenix (bird) (Fire) and in-fact, there is another symbol i.e. the Yellow snake which is the centrepoint representing Earth element. 10. Thus, before one applies the Dragon, Tiger, Tortise, Phoenix or FSA concept, do ask the question: Is one trying to apply it from a PICTORIAL perspective? OR from a Compass School perspective? Note: Earlier, I used the terms Green Dragon, White Tiger, Black tortise and Red phoenix under the pictorial representation. In fact, to further reduce confusion; on applying the 4 FSA; one should take out the colour since this colour association is more relevant to the Compass School Feng Shui; as opposed to the Shapes and Forms representation of the FSA. Where under the compass school; Green = East White = West Black = Norh Red = South etc... 11. Under the compass school Feng Shui, East is truly based on compass direction East; West is west etc... 12. Under Traditional Feng Shui, the most effective use of the external pictorial representation is the search for good sites in a VIRGIN land. In a virgin land, it would be great for example to see (visually) see a dragon formation or hill in gentle embrace with the tiger. 13. Therefore, the 4 FSA can either be a representative of the Shapes and Forms School (pictorial representation) or Compass School Feng Shui. 14. Often, the Compass School Feng Shui is more effectively used looking at or focusing on a site, the building and interior. 15. While, the Shapes and Forms persective (pictorial representation) is far more effective used on the external front. 16. Like the modern warfare plane; the pictorial representation or Shapes and Forms is like the modern long range radar system. While the Compass School interpretation is akin to the shorter range, close proximity radar system. 17. Frankly, Feng Shui is not a mystery; but rather based on commonsense and good fundamentals. Warmest Regards, Cecil I want to Fely

1. Further to what I had mentioned, this year; there is a documentary about "The Climb to Mount Everest". 2. Frankly, I forgot about the actual title or whether it was on Cable TV: National Geographic or Discovery Channel. 3. But, there was this sad case of a woman from USA, who TRIED to be the first female American to climb Mount Everest without the use of oxygen tanks. 4. Here, again we can draw a parallel with our daily lifes. The higher the climb to Mount Everest, the thinner there is in oxgen. And we all know, lack of oxgen (with our without strenous) physical activity - is tough. 5. Here, the parallel is again: " WE HUMANS MUST FIT OUR ENVIRONMENT ", FIRST! AND NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND". 6. It is so difficult already to climb Mount Everest with oxgen tanks. And near impossible without it. 7. As the saying goes " A miss is as good as a mile". Not only the person not become the first person, she never ever will do so. 8. We must first "take care of our environment". Since the higher chance of "success" is the use of the oxgen tank, we should unfortunately do so. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Further to what I had mentioned, we should always remember the "Holy Trinity" of the LUCK system: 1. To recap: 1.1 Heaven Luck - What is suppose to be given to us 1.2 Earth Luck - Our Home 1.3 Human Luck - Truly, the most important aspect here is our relationship with family members, close ones, friendship and human bonding. 1.4 The other "BULLSHIT" HUMAN LUCK has to do with purchasing of material goods. This is known as "PAIN IN THE NECK". Or "BLACKHOLE" THEORY. Purchasing goods in the hope of improving our luck is very much like placing ourselves in a vicious cycle of poverty. Not the least, burning a big hole in our pockets. 1.5 As mentioned, earlier, many of us read too many Feng Shui books or influenced by many people to the effect that in order to have wealth, we must buy or place a fish tank or water fountain in our home. 1.6 What is worse here is that: Firstly, some of us may not be suitable to have a water feature. 1.7 A real water feature that is beneifical is similar to a vibrant water fall e.g. much like a large continous water flow e.g. Nigara falls or something like this. Here, water is said to constantly friction with air to create negative ions. 1.8 Imagine, placing a water feature in a small living room. Firstly, are you aware, what happens to all the evaporated moisture? Especially if it is an enclosed room. Dampness, and many of the water in this so called water feature will eventually get dirty, algae etc.... It does not make sense that it brings us health. 1.9 Therefore, always look suspciously at people or even Feng Shui practitioners - especially, if they do sell fountains or water features. 2.0 Often, they will tout that they have a fantastic water feature that can make one rich. Here, please ask the practioner: "Do you mean that it MAKES YOU RICH? and not me?" Since, you purchase it so cheaply e.g. at $180 but charging me something like $688 or more for the water feature? 3. Have one ever wondered, what is the difference between an INDOOR water fountain (feature) and an OUTDOOR open air water fountain feature? 4. Many of the rich can afford to have open outdoor water feature. Since, often, if it rains, and it is not enclosed, water is often renewed. 5. For those with an indoor water feature, more often, one must be truthful - How often does one change the water - if ever? 6. More often, it is very common nowadays, to be invited to do a FS audit for an existing (stayed in home) to find that the water feature has been chucked aside or left dry. This is so, after 6 months or more after the owners no longer is interested in it or found no benefical results from his earlier purchase. 7. If one is truly down with luck, or if the earth luck is so, so; under the Holy Trinity of LUCK, we should instead try to improve our Human (Man) Luck. For husbands and wife, communicate more (or better) and have a better relationship. This is "FREE" and often no need money. For example, a kiss or a hug does not costs any money - but instead, give a uplift! Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Spencer, 1. In past messages, actually, I have covered this subject, already. 2. But, I will try to help you understand it from a different perspective:- 3. Here, just remember this statement: " Humans must harmonise ourselves to our environment and not the other way around ". 4. For example, in the past, I elaborated on a specific condominium: Rivervale Crest condominium, Sengkang, Singapore. 5. I have actually, provided an illustration of my concern for this condo. 5.1 Perhaps, if one has the time try to do a SEARCH under this forum for " Rivervale " to find out more about this article. 5.2 Briefly; (in my opinion) this is a relatively small condo with a flat swimming pool. The swimming pool is very much like "stagnant pool" of water. 5.3 The condo blocks/ units are in a U shaped configuration. The main concern is that this condo is at an angle where the swimming pool gets a "steady stream of morning sun towards the afternoon sun. " 5.4 Here, many would think that units facing the swimming pool have the `best' Feng Shui. But the problem arise because (Singapore) has relatively high sunshine: the stagnant pool (Swimming pool's) water vapourise and often, this moisture would rise and `pass' thru units in the blocks. 5.5 Often, when the residents first moved-in; and if they have young children; many of the bedrooms face this pool. Some children, have initially fallen sick when they first moved-into these homes. 6. Here, WE HUMANS MUST FIT OUR ENVIRONMENT AND NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND. 7. This idea is similar to your question: "Do we consider our PERSONAL CHART? or the HOUSE CHART?" 8. Here, like human beings, each home has it's own "birth chart". For example, when we chart a "Flying Star" chart of a home, we must consider, when it was `born', compass directions etc.... 9. In my earlier example: the FIRST priority is to consider the birth chart of the home. THEN secondly consider how best we can `FIT' into this sector of the home. 10. For example, if the home's birth chart is: Period 7 (1984 to 2003) House Direction: West 2 or 270 degrees 10.1 And happen that our master bedroom is located at South sector with the following Flying Stars: #1 mountain #5 water with base stat #2 10.2 Under this sector; there is an imbalance caused by bad #2 and #5 (bad EARTH stars). 10.3 Given this situation, we should not try to enhance or inflame thiw room further with two elements: Fire element (red, pink or purple) Earth element (yellow, cream or beige). 10.4 This is because under the Productive cycle of the Five Elements concept: Fire (aids or fuels) Earth 10.5 And it is not good to add Earth to Earth. 10.6 Thus under this sector, it is not favourable to introduce either Fire or Earth elements into this master bedroom. 11. What happens if the person wanting to stay in this room so happens to be a WEAK EARTH Person? 12. Under just one dimension of Feng Shui i.e. just by looking at one's Ba Zi: if the person is a WEAK EARTH PERSON, the best element to aid this person is: 12.1 The best element to help WEAK EARTH GROW is FIRE element 12.2 The next best element to help WEAK EARTH GROW is adding Earth to Earth. (This is not as favourable as adding Fire but is the next best choice.) 13. As one can see from the above: THE HOUSE BIRTH CHART at the masterbedroom where this person intends to sleep in is best to AVOID: FIRE element and EARTH element. 14. Thus, originally, it would be ideal or nice for this room to be painted `pink' (fire) or `cream' (yellow) or a combination of this e.g. walls or curtains or bedsheet. But, because this sector of the house cannot accept or best to avoid : Fire or earth; we HAVE NO CHOICE but to avoid having the person's favourable element of "Fire and Earth" for this room. 15. Thus as a result, it is best for the room to be painted `white' (a neutral colour). 16. Sorry, for the lengthly response. 17. I do hope, that you can now see, HOW IMPORTANT it is to first consider the BIRTH CHART of the HOME. After that, we should NEXT see HOW BEST we humans can try to fit to the home. 18. Again, this is not a do or die situation. Many people may say " Die " my bedroom cannot fit me??? 19. Again, I have emphasised many times that even if one sector cannot `fit' us, we should be `exam' smart. And try to answer as many other questions correctly. 20. For example, I often quoted that teachers often remind their students to maximize their marks or score. Nevermind, if the receive a marginal pass for one question. This is not the end of the world! Where possible, try to answer all compulsory questions or attempt to answer them. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Aquino, 1. Grey represents "water element". 2. Usually a harmonious colour e.g. external walls that can blend with this "water element" is white. This is because under the Five elements concept: `Metal' supports `Water' element 3. This is why, if one looks carefully at the `colour' wheel chart; and most "normal" Interior designers IDs/architects will often recommend white walls with this grey colour. I don't mean therefore to say that some IDs or architects can be "abnormal". 4. But often on an asthetic level we often do not see earth tones such as yellow, cream or beige or even peach go with this type of grey colour. 5. More often the orange redish tile (fire element) goes very well with cream or beige (earth element). 6. Under the Five elements concept: Fire helps support or fuel earth. (A harmonious combination). 7. Alternatively, white external walls can also be considered as a neutral element and it can also go well with a red / orange tile - looking at it from the "destructive cycle" i.e. Fire controls metal element. 8. In Feng Shui, it is better not to have the primary colour : BLUE for roof tiles. This is symbolic of having water over one's head. And under the Chinese I-Ching definition: Water means difficulty. 9. If we do have blue tiled roof - then it is best that the walls are white. Again, Metal (white) can be used to neutralise or `flow' with water element. 10. On another subject: Where possible, for a home AVOID using blue tinted glass windows. This can either be clear glass affixed with a thin sun-x film of blue or the glass itself is blue coated. 11. The rationale is because under Symbolism in Feng Shui, this is like having `water' (wealth) leak out of the home. 12. If you do have blue tinted windows, and for those who are in financial distress, and may not be able to afford to change the windows, then -> try to use white coloured blinds or e.g. day curtains to help `neutralise' the effect of wealth leak from the windows. 13. Similarly, it is best never to install pothole windows or circular windows. As this is symbolic of a ship - with potholes -- and symbolically, this may cause the boat/ship to sink. (financial distress). Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Annie, 1. Reference location map: http://www.streetdirectory.com.sg/map.jsp?x=28803.82&y=28968.79&level=7&postal=088879&star=1&xyfile=&oldX=28803.82&oldY=28968.79&heading=150+NEIL+ROAD%2C+BUKIT+PASOH+CONSERVATION+AREA+%28088879%29 2. Yes, in my opinion, the Cantonment entrance is better. 3. Nowadays, with air-conditioning, there is no issue with road noise. 4. Given that often, one cannot directly affect the external environment; from a Feng Shui perspective; the most Feng Shui can do here are: 4.1 Examine the main entrance facing - and harmonizing the signage to fit the `facing' direction of the unit. For example, the direction will be affected by the height, and if possible the type of colours used. Often, if possible, a three coloured signage is preferred against a two coloured signage. (Three colours signify progress). 4.2 For the signage, it is best to adopt "Yin and Yang" dimensions. For example if the length of the signage is 58 cm (even) then the width should be odd no. such as 39, 41 cm etc.. 5. As mentioned, given the external is often uncontrolable, for favourable Feng Shui; the best location (internal layout) to be optimised for: reception, meeting room and especially the CEO, Manager's sitting positions. 6. Where possible, do check that the doors for each floor opens inwards. For example, if the upper floors have a door opening outwards, it is better to have a second eg. glass door that opens inwards. This is considered the Key success factor in Feng Shui. Other than this, Feng Shui (stops here). Warmest Regards, Cecil