Where should I put my Buddha statue?
The year 2020 is turning out to be a strange one. For some, it has meant extra time at home and the chance to give the place a facelift and our gardens some love. For many others, it has meant working from home while simultaneously home-schooling the kids.
So whether you’re in need of a calming influence, some peace of mind and a better night’s sleep, or simply the finishing touch to your home, you can rely on a Buddha statue to bring serenity and tranquility into your life.
But which way should your Buddha statue face? What difference does his posture or hand gesture make? And is it possible to get it wrong? Today we’re looking at how to harness the positive influence of the Buddha by making sure he’s placed in the optimal spot and facing the right direction. So let’s dive in.
Look up to the Buddha
Two rules everyone seems to agree on are, first, never place Buddha below eye level. Looking down on the great spiritual teacher is considered disrespectful. Second, don’t place your Buddha statue in the same room as the toilet (if you’re needing a strong positive influence here, a better bet might be your local pharmacy).
Put your Buddha statue in the place you go to relax and rebalance your emotions and where your presence is therefore strong. That’s where your Buddha will exert the most influence. Integrate your Buddha with your lifestyle - why not keep one in the car? And, according to the Feng Shui experts, the bigger your Buddha, the better.
Repel negativity
Head disruptive influences off at the pass, literally, by positioning a protective Buddha indoors facing the main entrance. This Buddha is seated, with a hand raised as if it were a shield, and an exhortation to overcome fear and be at peace. He attracts positive en- ergy or ‘chi’, and repels negative forces. Best to set this Buddha statue on a surface at least two-and-a-half feet off the ground.
Deep clean
Occasionally it’s too late. Those negative forces slipped past the gatekeeper and have already set up shop. Time for some deep cleansing. This is a job for the Buddha whose little finger and forefinger are raised like horns, with thumb and two middle fingers touching (a gesture familiar to metal fans!). But be sure to place this statue where the bad energy is, not facing the front door where guests would expect a warmer welcome.
For happiness and prosperity
Because who doesn’t want that? Opt for a Laughing Buddha and all the good stuff he attracts if you have a space that needs a focal point. A Laughing Buddha statue will be content anywhere. Just remember he likes to look east, facing the sunrise.
The heart of the matter
For your living and dining areas, or in a spot facing the main entrance, you need the Buddha who exudes warmth and self-confidence, his hands held close to the chest (by the heart) with palms facing inwards. This Buddha greets another human being with the utmost respect and adoration for the Divine in us all. And with confidence in the self we are stronger, better communicators. We “speak from the heart”.
Focus on success
A Buddha statue on a desk or somewhere it can be seen when you - or your children - are working, attracts positive energy to bring success. Choose a Buddha who is forming a circle with the thumb and index finger, which symbolises the continual energy of the cosmic order. This is the Wheel of Law, the energy of teaching and intellectual discus- sion, and the transmission of knowledge unimpeded by fear.
Buddha au naturel
Setting a Buddha statue in a corner of the garden instantly provides a focal point and gives the space an air of serenity. A reclining Buddha would be very at home here. The reclining or sleeping Buddha is an encouragement to people for seek internal harmony. Place this Buddha statue near water and plants that represent growth and rejuvenation, but make sure he is reclining to the right and facing west.
Meditation situation
A Buddha with his hands folded in prayer represents devotion and faith, perfect for the room where you go to be still. Light candles to help the energy of fire synchronise with this Buddha’s positivity. Or you could choose the Buddha who likes quiet corners. He sits with his legs folded, hands lying on his lap, his eyes fully or partially closed, deep in meditation.
Harness high energy
For places that see a lot of spiritual activity, choose a Buddha statue who represents supreme enlightenment. The right hand touching the ground in the gesture of Bhumisparsa, calling the earth to witness. This gesture evoke unshaken unity within oneself in aligning with the One source. Hold this Buddha for a couple minutes and sense the subtle shift of energy in your body.
A heads-up
Did you know that although the bust or head of the Buddha is not traditionally a pose and therefore has no historical significance, its popularity as an art form means it is generally accepted that the head of Buddha symbolises self-knowledge?
Don’t forget... There’s a Buddha for everybody. Head over here - serene Buddha Statues - to find yours.
