Bazhai, Ming Gua and Introduction to the Luopan Compass
with Matthew Chapman
November 12 - 15, 2010
December 10 - 13, 2010

In this module, we continue our journey with an introduction to Compass School Feng Shui (the second of the original 2 schools of Feng Shui). Using the Western Lopan as a reference, you will be led to an exploration of what is possible when you combine the 8 compass directions with the dynamics of yin/yang and the 5 elements theory.

With the introduction of the eight directions we follow the evolution of the "Later Heaven Trigrams" to construct the "Bagua" (an octagonal mandala with infinite uses in Feng Shui). We examine the Lo Shu (the magic square of Feng Shui) as it leads to the Ming Gua and Ba Zhai methods (the core of "Eight Houses" Feng Shui).

Using these methods you will learn how to draw an energy diagram that illustrates the 4 auspicious and 4 less auspicious directions for the individual (Ming Gua) and for the structure (Ba Zhai).

Once you have mastered these two powerful techniques you will be able to make informed and relevant choices for optimal design, that relate equally to the structure and the people within. This includes

• Basic floor plan layout
• Ideal color choices
• Ideal locations for doorways
• Ideal fabric, carpet and furniture choices and placement
• Ideal bed orientation for improving your sleep potentialIdeal orientation of desk for home or professional office
• Ideal alter locations
• Ideal location for Master Bedroom
• Ideal locations for maximum prosperity
• Ideal location for water features
• Ideal location for kitchen and hearth
• Ideal locations for garages
• Best locations for bathrooms and storage

And more!

This module will cover:

• The basic use of the Lopan compass
• Constructing the Bagua
• The origins of the Lo Shu magic square
• Ming Gua method (auspicious direction for the self)
• Ba Zhai method (auspicious directions for the structure)
• East and West life groupings
• Integrating Ming Gua and Ba Zhai with Form School assessment
• Reading the Lo Shu portents from the Lopan Compass
• Balancing the Lo Shu portents
• Constructing and decoding the 8 trigrams (early and later heaven sequence)
• The trigrams and the I Ching
• Taoist alchemy
• Maximizing Sheng Chi and minimizing Sha Chi