Compass Directions

The eight directions of the compass are each associated with a different quality of energy. Each one is linked to a colour, season, element, time of day, family member, a nine ki number, a symbol of the natural world and a trigram. These then define a very particular force in each sector of the compass. The centre forms the ninth Chi type and has its own energy quality which is stronger than the rest.

Trigrams

Trigrams are from an ancient Chinese text called the I Ching which is a book of wisdom and divination. It gives sixty-four hexagrams – every possible combination of the eight trigrams, which consist of broken and unbroken lines representing yin and yang energies.

The eight directions form the basis of the compass bagua (Pa Kua) and align with the different life areas. See Bagua. Each direction is further divided into twenty-four directions (twenty-four mountains). By using the trigram for each sector finely tuned cures can be placed in specific points of the house based upon the individual lines of the trigram (eg. yin or yang).

To give you an example of a directional energy the South has the symbol and element of fire, its season is summer and its time of day is midday, when the sun is at its highest. The energy from this direction is active and dynamic on the surface, although it also has an element of flowing flexibility within it. This energy can fire people up, promote passion and enlightenment and help to bring about fame and success. On the other hand you may not want to position your bed in this area of the house as the energy may be too strong to allow for a relaxing sleep.

A Feng Shui Consultation will determine whether the important elements of your home, such as beds, seating and work areas, are positioned in a way that will allow you to gain the maximum benefit from each particular energy.