What is feng shui?

Feng shui is an ancient art that has its origins more than 3,000 years ago in China. In simple terms it involves principles that are used to balance the energies of a space to assure health, success and good fortune.

Feng means wind and shui means water. In oriental culture wind and water are associated with good health.

Feng shui practitioners suggest various objects that can be used to improve the beneficial aspects of an area – from aquariums and water bodies like fountains to crystals and clocks... even colours can be used to improve the energy in a home or office. is piling up in, say, the northern corner that represents luck in your work, then having a successful career could be at stake. You may be doing your best, putting in 110 per cent at work, but rewards and recognition may not be forthcoming.

“The reason? That pile of papers is repressing your career energy.”

Just clear that and you will see a positive change in your career and life, she says. amita claims that barely a couple of months after she cleared the junk from her house, her Canadian visa came through. “I also managed to find a buyer for my property and – best of all – there was a dramatic positive change in my family life,” she says.

Enthused, she went on to do more intensive courses during her stay in Canada and later in Malaysia during visits there before setting up her own company in Dubai.

So, apart from keeping the north corner of the house clutter-free, what should one keep in mind to improve career prospects?

“OK, let’s start at the office,” she says. “The first and important rule is to avoid sitting at a desk that has a floor to ceiling window right behind you. In feng shui, that is akin to sitting at the edge of cliff. You will end up being stressed out, edgy, and constantly worried about losing – or falling – from your position. Such work areas leave you vulnerable to professional threats and you will not find any support from colleagues or the management.”

But what if that’s the only desk you have and cannot move?

Then make sure the blinds are down so that it simulates a wall,