West Meets East©

By Caroline Patrick BorNei

Mirrors and More!

When I am asked about the benefits of using mirrors for Feng Shui, I become overwhelmed with the information that floods my internal database. Experience teaches me the effects of mirrors are immediate. The magic of reflections are as old as time itself. I have no idea how many thousands of years ago man or beast leaned over to drink from a water source and was shocked, then fascinated, by the image mirrored in the water looking back at him or her. Light and shiny objects reflect and bring light to nature whether below the oceans or in the skies.

Doubled images in Feng Shui increase whatever is reflected and bring the light of life into nature and our dwellings. Hidden “things” can no longer be hidden when brought “to light”. It is through this understanding that mirrors reflect, deflect, cover, increase the space reflected, and give a feeling of expansion. Interior designers have benefited from the magic light they bring to spaces. Almost all Feng Shui books mention the use of mirrors for “cures” and enhancements. There are a few schools of thought that disclaim their benefits, but for myself, I have seen the changes they can bring. After thousands of consultations I conclude that mirrors can be used to shift Chi immediately when placed correctly. Choose an experienced consultant when legal issues are a problem. A mirror when properly placed can ease chaos and help with a peaceful outcome.

With that said, there are times when they are not beneficial. One rule is, always check what the mirror is reflecting before hanging. Make sure the reflection is beautiful. As an example, you wouldn’t want to place mirrors reflecting mirrors, but you could place mirrors down a long Center hallway or Health Gua with Earth types of landscapes with yellow colors and earth tones to help someone with health issues. Another problem could be slanting walls, which can cause unknown illnesses and unexpected situations. Place a large or small Bagua-shaped or round mirror on these troublesome design details. They chop at a room, causing it to have a “missing corner.” A no-no in Feng Shui.

The worst case I have witnessed in a home was a decorative mirror put together in pieces. About 6 to 8 long mirrors joined together causing the person reflected to be cut into several sections. People living in this house suffered from many, many problems, from surgeries to intestinal and back problems. Another misuse is not being able to see the whole face when looking into the mirror. Make sure everyone in the family can see themselves from the top of their heads to at least their shoulders or longer when looking in the reflective surface. Women whose mouth cannot be seen “have nothing to say,” or no one listens to them, or a tall man can have his head “cut off” and feel helpless.

To increase money flow, place a plain octagonal (Bagua) shaped mirror or round mirror under your phone, credit card machine and cash register. Use these special mirrors at your altars. Place under or behind a statue of Jesus, Kuan Yin or Buddha to enhance your spiritual awareness and double the power of the piece. Use convex Feng Shui mirrors to push away bad energy or concave ones to turn things upside down and backward tricking the image, such as a tall building next to your small business building next door. To double the luck of the Family, Wealth, Fame, Marriage, Children, finding people to help you, Heaven’s favors, Career opportunities or to increase knowledge, use a mirror.

Note: Caroline Patrick BorNei (pronounced Bornay) is Caroline's Chinese name give to her by her Master Teacher His Holiness Grandmaster Lin Yin.

Traveling is in full swing for fall of 2008. August traveling to OKLAHOMA, September 17-October 1st, teaching ARIZONA Workshops in Watercolor, Oil Painting and Feng Shui including a visit to Diamond Mountain Buddhist University, ALSO a workshop on Feng Shui in Phoenix...November BOSTON, teaching in NEW YORK 1st week and KANSAS CITY. 2nd week.... REDDING, CALIFORNIA the 1st week of December workshop on Feng Shui. CHINA TOUR MARCH 2009 WITH CAROLINE, SIGN UP BEFORE JANUARY 1^st. For schedules & contact info go to www.fengshuiartistry.com

Please consult your physician for physical problems as this article only gives ideas and suggestions. Caroline is not responsible for anyone using these suggested plants or advice for cures or healing any problem either medical or Feng Shui claims. This column and article is for entertainment only. Please seek help from a qualified physician, naturopath, herbalist or other certified person for treatment.