Attract prosperity in your home or office with these lucky charms

This Chinese New Year, boost your fortune with a couple of feng shui-approved talismans in the home or office.

Lucky Cat

I’m sure you’ve noticed the ubiquitous “Chinese lucky cat” in your favorite Asian establishments. The maneki-neko, which means “beckoning cat”, is said to bring good luck to the owner. 

Although popular with the Chinese, it actually started in Japan, and dates back to the Edo Period. It is usually in the form of a calico Japanese bobtail with a moving paw. It is believed that a raised left paw can bring in more customers for a business, while a raised right paw can attract money for the home. Color variations can signal different blessings – white stands for happiness, black wards off evil spirits, and yellow or gold means wealth. 

Set up your maneki-neko on your office desk or next to a cash register, or in the southeastern and northeastern areas of your home.

Chinese Coins

These lucky charms are said to attract energy when carried in your wallet or pocket. If you’re working in sales or towards a promotion, use 3 or 5 Chinese coins tied with a red ribbon to bring in success.

Money Frog

The distinct three-legged toad figurine with a coin in its mouth is called a money frog. It’s believed to be the pet of the Chinese god of wealth. 

Activate the flow of prosperity with a money frog in the main entrance, northern (for career) and southeastern (for wealth) areas.

Koi fish

Koi fish is believed to symbolize prosperity. The koi fish is also given as a charm in weddings as they swim in pairs and live long lives. To harness strength during difficult times, you can place three koi in a fish bowl in your home.

Bamboo plants

Decorate your home with bamboo plants, known as the Chinese symbol for strength. Place them in the east (for health) or southeast (for wealth) area of your house to attract good energy.

Chrysanthemums

Spruce up your space with fresh chrysanthemums. This colorful addition to your home is said to be carriers of yang energy and can bring you good luck. Not to mention, studies show that having fresh flowers is therapeutic for patients in recovery.

Draw in good fortune this new year! Which of these lucky charms will you be using?