Authors Christine Bradler and Joachim Scheiner founded the Creative Feng Shui Institute in Rosenheim, Germany and are engaged in seminars, consulting, research and development of Feng Shui remedies. Their book describes the Ba Gua which is the floor plan on which are arranged key areas of a person’s life – knowledge, career, wealth, fame, marriage and so on. Artifacts used in feng shui practice direct the flow of energies to invigorate stagnant zones at home or work.

Anyone familiar with feng shui texts soon becomes aware that these authors have steered a slightly different course from classical practice. For example, traditional sources are strict with respect to the placement of water features, whereas Bradler and Scheiner are much more flexible in using them to compensate for “missing” areas of a building.

The authors are hospitable to elements from non-Asian cultures. A unicorn, door wreaths, labyrinths and angels, not generally found in Oriental contexts, introduce unusual or inspiring qualities. This permits readers to try out new arrangements. Having chosen a particular school or mentor, however, it is probably a good idea to go with them consistently.

Symbols themselves vary enormously. They can appear as metal sculptures in a garden, a painting on a parasol, or as decorative accents achieved with plants, figurines or crystals. Fans, stones and shells along with mobiles offer further ideas. Fish, especially in an aquarium, represent prosperity and abundance, while butterflies in different materials stand for change and transformation.

Animals are also important in harnessing feng shui. Their contributions revolve around peace, wisdom and protection. The Four Heavenly Animals – turtle, dragon, tiger and phoenix – define the yin/yang components of a property on which a building stands. The format is fixed according to the points of the compass and governs attributes such as freedom and new beginnings. This layout should not be confused with the Ba Gua floor plan which refers to the interior of a building as a whole as well as each individual room.

Chimes, a bell or pairs of flutes, strategically located, introduce a musical element to open or modify energy pathways.

Flowers in and of themselves carry powerful meanings in China. Plum blossoms, for example, are treasured for their purity and good luck. All plants and flowers can be used to boost chi indoors or out. Shrubs in pots, flanking a doorway, are believed to protect against negative energies.

Another class of symbols includes aromas, not always mentioned in feng shui texts. Fragrances not only create an atmosphere, they cleanse it. Incense is used for ritual purposes, just as native people smudge to disperse negativity, bring calm, and to refresh sick rooms, meditation centres and conference halls.

Feng Shui encourages experimentation and innovation. Where the book really scores is in the imagination and variety of symbols suggested. Thus Bradler and Scheiner embolden us to explore the influence of ancient practice.

Artist Klaus Holitzka has added significantly to the book by supplying many stunning black and white illustrations throughout the text. Feng Shui Symbols is available by special order through Indigo bookstores.