Eastern cultures have a great reverence for the elderly, and for the ancestors who have departed from this world. Traditional cultures consider ancestors to be vitally important to the well-being of the entire family, and they are accorded a place in the home via photographs, memorabilia, and altars. Ancestors intercede on our behalf during difficult times and look after our well being day to day. Reciprocally, we offer them prayers, food, and blessings for their journey on the other side, and we continue to love and appreciate their presence in our lives. It is an ongoing, dynamic relationship.

If you would like to explore your relationship to your ancestors, work with the direction of the East. You can place your family photos and other items in the eastern location of the house or room. In the Pa-kua, the East rules Family and is the perfect location for your ancestor altar. Metaphysically speaking, it’s easiest to grasp the concept of ancestors and their importance by comparing them to the understanding we have about guides and teachers in spirit. We all know the value of a powerful guide in our lives. The same can be said about our ancestors.

Another consideration in Feng Shui is the notion of "hungry ghosts". Hungry ghosts are those souls who have passed out of their physical bodies but have become trapped at this level, unable to leave the physical world for the spiritual. They are often souls who died violently or unhappily or with addictions or attachments that trap them here. Unable or unwilling to move on without help or intervention, they can wreak havoc on a living person’s health and home, pulling the energy and vibration very, very low.

There are Feng Shui clearings and blessings designed to release and transform any lower vibration and energy, including moving hungry ghosts into the spiritual realms. It’s also a good idea to treat the Wu Kwei or 5 Ghosts location in your house with the correct element. Treat your personal Wu Kwei direction as well, and it should keep any of these problems from occurring or recurring. Wu Kei is also the recommended location for spiritual objects, power objects, and alters. They help control any of the negative influences found in this location.

We also have nature and helping spirits that surround us, living on our land and in our homes. These are helpful beings that we want to encourage to remain with us because they uplift the energies and care for the environment with great love. These devas, or spirits, are attracted to serenity, cleanliness, plants, nature, running water, and beautiful sounds. If you sometimes see little sparkles and flashes of light at the periphery of your vision, then you have caught a glimpse of one of these joyful little beings.

Like butterflies in the garden, the more the merrier. Indoors, you can entice them to stay by filling your home with healthy living plants and appropriately placed fountains and wind chimes. Beautiful music, sacred or classical, also encourages them to remain with you.

Outdoors, landscape exactly the same way you would for creating a nature garden designed to attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. You want to be sure to have running water, a profusion of blooming plants, and an untamed area that provides brush and cover. Even in the heart of the city, think natural, not pedicured, and you’ll have the sweet company of all kinds of devas and sprites. You can even put up a little spirit house like they do in cultures like Bali and Thailand. There’s nothing like a room of your own to help you feel welcomed and wanted.

And so, until next month, I wish you many blessings and great happiness. Please feel free to fax me at 713-861-9243, e-mail me at joani@wt.net, or call me at 713-861-0903 with your questions, feedback, or personal experience. I look forward to hearing from you soon!