Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art creating a positive environment by applying the geomancy of heaven and earth into homes, workplaces and even tombs in order to improve life (and afterlife); now goes mobile… through cars.
If a third of our lifetime goes to sleeping in our bedrooms, 90,000 hours of that to work and three years of it in the bathroom, let’s not also forget the sizeable chunk that goes behind the wheel. The average driver (in the USA, at least) spends over 100 hours a year in commute.
Therefore, a relaxed and focused environment within our vehicles is definitely a concept to embrace when it comes to car design – we place strategic lamps and mirrors in our homes so why not in our cars! And Ford is doing just that for their next generation Ford Fusion, releasing in 2013.
Using the Taoist bagua map, which breaks down the fundamental principles of reality into interrelated concepts, Ford has applied nine elements into the design of the car model: career, knowledge, helpful people, wealth, health, relationships, family, fame and children/creativity.
On an additional note, Feng Shui expert Catherine Hilker shares her tips for improving the chi (life force) in your car, such as keeping it clutter-free and even giving it a name. “Giving a name to your car is one way to encourage a strong connection to your vehicle.”
She even recommends choosing a car color that balances your personality, as color is an important element in Feng Shui. Using symbols are also another key feature. “Add a little icon – like a statue or a medal or a picture – as a reminder to drive safely, to be courteous, or to reduce stress… It can even be something tucked in the glove box,” she suggested.
Perhaps harmony and great energy flow inside the car will lessen the pressure that you feel from rising gas prices, traffic congestion, ridiculous parking rate, sky-high car tax and, lest we forget, road rage.
Do you apply Feng Shui in your car, home or workplace? If not, what are your thoughts on using Feng Shui to create a more comfortable and relaxing driving experience?
