How To Use Numerology To Contour Your Face

featured this week on MindBodyGreen by Kayla Jacobs

Contouring and numerology are like chocolate and vanilla: best together.

It's safe to say that the world has had enough of misleading jawlines and deceptively high cheekbones. Enter numerology contouring, a technique that is by no means novel but has recently resurfaced as the latest trend in the green makeup game. Physiognomy, or face reading, is the art or science of reading the face of an individual in order to identify that person's personal traits. Our faces reflect our deepest emotions, whereas our eyes give others an idea about our feelings to the external world. "The human face is a map that indicates an individual's personality, personal history, mental attitudes, inner needs, morals, emotional style and verbal communication," says feng shui expert Anjie Cho.

The best thing about numerology contouring is that it's a real way to enhance what nature gave you without spending hours trying to fake razor-sharp cheekbones. Instead, keep your formulations sheer and emphasize whatever you desire! Remember that your skin tone varies by area, meaning your forehead may need a bit of brightening, where your cheeks might need to dial down the rosiness. Extra shine on your nose? Pick up a yellow tone formula like Nu Evolution Loose Powder ($39) to counteract any redness and draw an 11 along the sides of your nose; it's about defining and emphasizing your best features, and creating a gently "lifted" look through careful product placement. For deeper skin tones, the same equation is applicable; just go a shade darker, like a peach powder hue or vegan brand Han Cosmetics Pressed Blush in Coral Candy ($15) instead of a light pink pigment.

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7 Easy Ways to Feng Shui Your Apartment

featured this week on 6sqft by Hannah Frishberg

As intangible a concept as feng shui may seem, it all comes down to the basic idea of having a space you’re happy to come home to because its energy is positive. “Feng shui is an ancient philosophy about how you can improve your life and create a space that supports and nurtures you,” explained Anjie Cho, a New York-based architect, author, and founder of online mindfulness design blog and shop Holistic Spaces. Indeed, adjusting your apartment in just a few small and informed ways can make all the difference in the look and feel of your unit and, resultantly, your own wellbeing. Ahead are some ideas you can apply to your space, straight from a pro.

1. The importance of a headboard

While having your mattress on the floor may seem very zen, or in some apartments may be a spatial necessity, the pros advise against it. “A headboard is really important in feng shui,” Anjie says, “it connects the partners.” Not having a headboard can enhance the temporary feeling of a unit. If you simply don’t have space, a good alternative is wallpaper or crafting mural on the wall behind you, or mounting a mirror.

2. The 36 inch rule

No doubt about it: space is a luxury in New York. Still, if at all possible, Anjie says 36 inches of clear space between pieces of furniture should be a goal. For Anjie, there is a grace zone, but less than 18 inches between items constitutes “very cramped.” So get rid of clutter, and if it does not spark joy, try your hardest to toss it.

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Your Nine Star Ki for 2017, Year of the Fire Rooster

Happy Chinese New Year!

On Saturday, we celebrate the Chinese New Year, and the following week, on February 4, 2017, the new lunar year, The Year of the Fire Rooster begins. The energy has already begun to shift for the new year, though, so it's time for yearly energy readings! Be sure to check out our podcasts with Doris Ingber and blog post from Beth Grace for individual zodiac horoscopes, as well as what kind of energy to expect from the Year of the Rooster. 

In combination with the Chinese zodiac astrology system, I also like to use the numerology of the Nine Star Ki to prepare for the coming year and stay energetically balanced. This practice was developed in ancient China, so it only makes sense that it goes so well with feng shui, and is based on a number system of nine rather than the animal system. It also closely aligns with the five element principles and the I-Ching. 

Holistic Spaces has worked with Andrea Giordano, from AromatheraChi, again this year to create custom aromatherapy blends for each Nine Star Ki number in the Year of the Rooster. Each aromastick is created to provide support and enhance the energy for your individual number in the coming lunar year, and they can be used in conjunction with feng shui!

Now let's figure out your number and what's in store!

You can calculate your principle number by using your year of birth. Beware: this requires a little elementary math ;)

As an example, if you were born in 1986:

  • Add: 1+9+8+6 = 24

  • Reduce to a single digit: 2+4 = 6

  • Subtract from 11: 11-6 = 5

*if you were born between January 1 and February 4, subtract from 12:  12-6 = 6

If you were born in 1940:

  • Add: 1+9+4+0 = 14

  • Reduce to a single digit: 1+4 = 5

  • Subtract from 11: 11-5 = 6

*if you were born between January 1 and February 4, subtract from 12:  12-5 = 7

Here's what all that calculating means for the Year of the Fire Rooster:

If your principle number is 1, in 2017 you will be in the year of Fluctuation. This year will feel a little chaotic, as this is a time of renewal and rebirth. You many need to reinvent yourself this year. It’s a great time to let things go that are no longer serving you. 

If your principle number is 2, in 2017 you will be in the year of Prosperity. This year will feel strong and prosperous. You will begin to feel confident and be recognized for your knowledge and skills. There will still be a lot of effort, but you shall finally be harvesting the fruits of your labor.

If your principle number is 3, in 2017 you will be in the year of Celebration. This year will feel celebratory and playful. It is a great time to relax and pat yourself on the back for all the hard work that you put in the last few years. Enjoy yourself, rejoice and have some fun.

If your principle number is 4, in 2017 you will be in the year of Stillness. This year will be much quieter than the last. It will be a time of stillness, like climbing up a mountain to meditate in isolation. This is a great time to focus inward and do some self-cultivation.

If your principle number is 5, in 2017 you will be in the year of Recognition. This year you will be in the house of fire, where you have the best opportunities to be seen and recognized by others. It is a great time to receive any promotions or any other projects that you want publicity for. Be careful, as all things, good or bad, may be unveiled to the public.

If your principle number is 6, in 2017 you will be in the year of Planning. This year will feel quiet and is a time for planning. In the winter, it may appear that everything is dead on the surface, but underneath there is much life and activity. Similarly, it may feel slow, but take this time to reflect, review and plan for the future.

If your principle number is 7, in 2017 you will be in the year of Germination. This year will be the time to plant seeds. When you plant a garden, you germinate many more seeds than you need. Do the same this year. Put all your ideas out there into the universe and share them with others. Plant the seeds and see what comes up! 

If your principle number is 8, in 2017 you will be in the year of Sprouting. This year will be energetic and full of new beginnings as you catch sight of seeds that you planted last year begin to sprout and grow. Be open to new ideas and cultivate the projects that you start at this time.

If your principle number is 9, in 2017 you will be in the year of Rapid Growth. This year will be a continuation of last year where you see your sprouts grow into strong, grounded trees. This year will be busy and active, so please take care of yourself and be careful not to get burnt out.

How is your coming year looking? Are you excited? If you're interested in learning more about Nine Star Ki, check out this Holistic Spaces podcast, and take a peek at the blog, too, for ideas on how to celebrate the Chinese New Year! No matter what your number or animal, don't forget to take care of yourself during the Year of the Fire Rooster! One great way is to grab a three-dimensional dragon charm to carry with you at all times for protection and support. Since the Dragon is the Rooster's best friend, carrying this charm will keep you in his good graces. :)

by Anjie Cho