We recently connected with Vicki Iskandar and have shared our conversation below.
Vicki, so happy to have you with us today. You are such a creative person, but have you ever head any sort of creativity block along the way? If so, can you talk to us about how you overcame or beat it?
I created my own writing process that integrates mindfulness, focus, and my background in Qigong and Feng Shui, which helped me overcome writer’s block when I was completing my manuscript for The Chinese Five Elements Oracle. Firstly, I’d devote specific days for writing where there was no other work-related meetings or projects in my schedule. It doesn’t mean that I will spend the whole day sitting on my desk trying to write. Creativity flows when there’s no pressure and no distraction and the mind is idle and open to receive inspiration. On those days, I’d start each morning with a Qigong practice that helps me connect to the wisdom of my ancestors. I set my intentions for the day during this morning practice. For example, on a particular day I may set an intention to write 700-900 words – that’s it – from 1 – 4pm. I’d start the day slowly and in a relaxed mode as the only thing I need to accomplish that day is to write those pages. If I’m done early, then I have the rest of my day free. Integrating my knowledge of Feng Shui and Chinese astrology has also been useful: I’d choose days and directions that support productivity. And of course, clearing clutter around the house and especially clearing my desk of distracting objects can really clear the mind.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m a Chinese metaphysics expert, realtor, and author who has been advising clients on Chinese astrology, Feng Shui, the I-Ching, and the ancient art of war of Qi Men Dun Jia since 2012. I founded Functional Feng Shui in 2017 to help others manifest their personal and professional visions, using a balanced, holistic approach that combines my knowledge of Chinese metaphysics with my background in business strategies, expertise in health and wellness, and a unique energetic understanding of the body informed by Qigong and yoga.
As a writer, I’ve contributed to print and digital publications since I completed my MBA in Marketing from New York University. Not a stranger to luxury and design, I started writing professionally in 2001, editing the pages of global fashion magazines, including Harper’s Bazaar Singapore. My oracle deck on Chinese astrology, The Chinese Five Elements Oracle, published by Hay House on October 10, 2023, is now available at Amazon and other fine book retailers.
I’m also a licensed California Realtor at Compass. Having worked with real estate agents, developers, investors, and homebuyers in prior years as a Feng Shui consultant, I enjoyed the interactions and the relationships built so much that I decided to get a real estate license in 2020. As a real estate agent, I help clients integrate Feng Shui principles into their real estate needs, whether it’s selling or buying or building a home.
I’ve been offering daily astrological insights, a unique blend of Chinese and Western astrology, for the past 12 years. You can follow my daily readings on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Facebook at @5elementsoracle.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My MBA degree in Marketing and expertise in Chinese metaphysics (which include Feng Shui and Chinese astrology) have served as a solid foundation in all that I do. They provide me with credibility and the skills to advise my clients, most of whom are business owners or executives. In addition, my Qigong practice helps me integrate the mind, body and spirit connection, which enrich and amplify my teachings, consulting, and writing. My advice is to stay curious and keep learning no matter how old you are. Invest in workshops that enrich the mind and the body.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
I currently focus on clients who are interested in integrating Feng Shui, Chinese astrology, and the strategic art of Qi Men Dun Jia into their personal and business practices as I find that among my clients, those who experience the biggest growth and who keep leveling up are those who combine these fields.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vickiiskandar.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5elementsoracle/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5elementsoracle
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/5elementsoracle
