It wasn’t until recently that I began to more fully appreciate the various and complex feng shui ramifications of flags. An increase in feng shui energy in the category called wind dancers, flags tend to have additional layers of meaning and symbolism that make their ch’i, and therefore their use, more complex.
As an American, I possess a deep respect for our “Star Spangled Banner” as it is affectionately named. Instructed since grade school to “pledge allegiance to the flag”, the Stars and Stripes is an integral part of citizenship in the United States.
Reading: Feng shui flags
My daughter-in-law from New Zealand reflects that the strong attachment and symbolism that we Americans associate with our national flag is not as passionate or prevalent elsewhere.
It is understandable that the height and use of the flag of a country varies from one nation to another. However, whether it’s the United Nations, the Olympics, or an international political summit, countries around the world will quickly set themselves apart by adopting their flag design.
considering the symbolism of the flags
So what does all this have to do with feng shui?
In Feng Shui, everything possesses vital Ch’i energy and everything is connected. The energy of all types of flags, when interpreted by the viewer’s background and perceptions, can be considerably different from person to person. Flags can be used to rally support or enrage opponents. This takes their potential effect to another level.
I must admit, albeit a little sheepishly, that as a boston red sox fan, every time I come across a new york yankees flag, it strikes me in a way more infuriating than any other team. . these two clubs have been arch rivals for years and as a boston fan i have been indoctrinated not to embrace or support the yankees.
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Sports loyalty aside, flags can carry the symbolism of country, political affiliation, religion, University or corporate organization, levels of danger (nautical flags), decorative preferences and more. Particularly when flying in the breeze, they can raise both curiosity and attention in addition to energy.
many prominent hotels fly the flags of international dignitaries or prominent guests who might stay with them. In a gesture of friendship and welcome, the American flag flew in front of my daughter-in-law’s family beach house during our visit to New Zealand. we are very touched and appreciated by your kindness.
Adding additional layers of symbolism, the way a flag is displayed can increase, or deplete, its message. A flag hung at half-staff denotes respect. The same flag consciously defaced, placed upside down or left on the ground can create low and debilitating Ch’i as well as a harsh reaction from those who still support the flag’s traditional message.
Prayer flags and others with religious or spiritual symbolism create another quality of ch’i that can be widely interpreted. while visiting north india, i saw prayer flags strung back and forth along the hillsides. Although I have no idea what the intended placement was, the feng shui benefits were substantial as the banners helped deflect and slow the flow of energy down the steep slopes.
how to use flags indoors in feng shui
As a Wind Dancer, flags are a Feng Shui Energy Boost. When an area’s energy is stagnant, rushing or in need of additional support, flags are a fun option that can be used both inside and out. Whether a single color, a specialized design or a symbol to shout out your loyalty to a certain group, be sure the flag you choose is one you love.
Hung flat on an interior wall, flags can serve as art. not only national flags but also nautical flags with their colorful depictions or even a festive or seasonal theme are an interesting way to brighten up an interior space.
smaller souvenir flags can be used as decoration. As a kid, my son collected 4” x 6” flags, each on his little flagpole. he today he has lived in two countries outside the us. uu. and he traveled extensively, visiting all but one continent. how fascinating it is to see that very early in life he expressed his interest in the world and its variety of places in this way.
how to use outdoor flags in feng shui
The majority of times I recommend a flag to Clients is to balance Ch’i outdoors. There, energy rolls down hills toward or away from a structure, disrupting its smooth, even flow. This draining or rushing Ch’i can be lifted when a flag is placed high on a building.
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Flags and flagpoles have a very specific application to balance an irregularly shaped structure. placed outdoors at the point where a building’s shape would square off, flagpoles can be used to anchor a bagua corner.
If your home is not in the shape of a full square or rectangle, I encourage you to further investigate the feng shui bagua map. living in an irregularly shaped structure can disrupt the flow of ch’i and affect positive movement in many areas of our lives.
Most houses I have lived in have required some type of feng shui adjustment due to this situation. There are additional approaches to rectify the imbalance, but flagpoles are a very effective approach.
You can download your own copy of my Free Feng Shui Bagua Map so you can identify whether this situation exists for your home. It comes complete with instructions for placement. My Feng Shui Bagua Series can provide additional instructions as well.
As always, if you prefer to receive professional help with this process, contact me to place the bagua map of your home. I can give you immediate feedback on simple feng shui adjustments you can make for a more harmonized flow in your space and life.
Already have a flag proudly displayed in your home or landscape? if not, is there somewhere you’d like to add one? feng shui offers us so many different options to not only express ourselves but also to enhance the energy around us. how are you going to practice feng shui today?
have fun,
carol
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