In a past post, I wrote that inner feng shui (self) and outer feng shui (home) be in harmony. The goal being who we are on the inside is what is represented in our physical spaces. For example, in my life I strive to be grounded and centered. My space has earthy colors, organized storage, visual order and physical reminders to center myself (like an altar).
Another approach to inner feng shui, is embracing the inner bagua. In feng shui, the bagua is a holistic approach to living that asks us to symbolize very specific facets of our lives. The bagua covers 9 essential life arenas. They are: family, abundance, fame, relationships, creativity, helpful people, career/life path, and knowledge all grounded in health. The inner bagua approach is to cultivate all these areas in our lives. For example consider the following questions:
Family: Are there unresolved family issues? How do you cultivate feeling supported in life? What does your “tribe” look like? What gives you strength?
Abundance: Do you live from perspective of prosperity or poverty? Do you find yourself focusing on lack? (lack of time, lack of money, lack of joy, ….) How do you express gratitude?
Fame: How are you projecting yourself in the outer world? How are you “delivering” your gifts to others? Is there a discrepancy between how you wish to be perceived and how you actually are perceived? What does it mean to live in integrity?
Relationships: Are your relationships with others harmonious and nurturing? If not, why not and what are you doing about it? Are you receptive and open?
Creativity: How do you express your creative side? (And don’t say you don’t have one!!) What innate gifts do you share in the world? How do you cultivate joy?
Helpful People: Have you developed a network of spiritual, physical, emotional and mental mentors that assist you in life? Do you pay attention to synchronicity?
Career/Life Path: Are you living the life you were born to live? If not, have you focused on a plan to get there? How are you courageous?
Knowledge: What do you do to learn, grow and become wise? Do you know yourself, what you need, and your values?
Health: What do you do to take good care of your mind, body and spirit? What do you do to center and ground?
I have found the best way to work through the inner bagua is pick one area and stay focused on it for as long as necessary. Once a specific goal is met, move to another area and continue the process. In doing this, I guarantee you will experience a great sense of satisfaction in yourself and in your life….not to mention joy, fulfillment, vitality, rewarding relationships, flow, peace…this list is endless!!
