We all know that if we take a few moments each day to be present in our selves, our environments, and our particular situations, it helps us to cope, appreciate, be aware, and generally enhances the positive aspects of our lives. In Feng Shui the question we would ask is “How can our environments assist us in being present?”
The answer is that there are many ways!
I received this advice many years ago. When the phone rings, instead of jumping to answer it, let it ring a couple of times and use that brief moment to be present. It doesn’t seem like much time does it? But I find that it makes a noticeable difference in my day. So, is there something in your environment that you must repeatedly respond to such as the phone, a doorbell, the fax machine, or incoming email; and can you build in a moment or two of being present before you respond?
Another option that is popular right now is to use positive words and phrases in your environment. How about “Be Present”, “Breathe”, “Exhale”, “Peace”, “Joy”, or “Believe”? You can do something as simple as print or write your inspiring words and display them in a place where you will see them often. Preferably a place where you really need them, such as at your desk or in your kitchen. You can also purchase decorative art with inspiring words. I particularly like the wall plaques that are only six inches or so high, but are very long to accommodate all of the letters. They are perfect for hanging above a door or window. If you like arts and crafts, you can stencil or hand paint words or phrases right onto the wall. And for the very daring (who aren’t inclined to change their minds all the time!) you could even get a tattoo.
Symbols are a wonderful visual aid that can remind us to be present. I happen to resonate with the OM symbol, but there are all kinds of cultural and religious symbols. What speaks to you? I also include the written characters from other languages in this category. Being a Feng Shui consultant I am of course partial to Chinese, but many languages are very beautiful in their written form. And, in addition to displaying symbols and foreign language characters in your environment, you can wear them as jewelry. I’ve seen many beautiful pieces in all price ranges.
The key with all of these “reminders” is to pay attention. If you stop noticing your environmental affirmations, as we tend to do with things that have been in our presence for a while, move things around and change them out. Mix it up! Variety can help to keep visual cues effective.
Possibly the most useful and available environmental symbol, is anything at all! You choose something and attach your own personal meaning to it. Maybe I will decide that my pen means “Breathe” or my red scarf means “Joy”. It’s kind of like tying a string around your finger. Then you can remember your personal word or phrase each time you see or use your visual cue.
