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Overview
This book will introduce you to the ancient Chinese art of face reading so that you can gain insight into the personalities of your loved ones and those you meet. Discover aspects of personality you never knew existed! Chinese face reading demonstrates that faces are open books, and their individual features provide the keys to interpreting their message.
The author explores the significance of:
- Twenty-three basic eye shapes
- Twenty-three eyebrow conformations
- Thirteen ear types
- Thirteen basic nose profiles
- Nine mouth types
Along the way the author discusses the subtle distinctions within the cheekbones, the lips, the forehead, and facial creases.
Product Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781571747846 |
|---|---|
| Publisher: | Hampton Roads Publishing Company, Inc. |
| Publication date: | 08/01/2018 |
| Series: | Plain & Simple Series |
| Pages: | 160 |
| Product dimensions: | 5.50(w) x 8.00(h) x (d) |
About the Author
Read an Excerpt
CHAPTER 1
The Divisions of the Face
The ancient Chinese sages divided the face into a bewildering number of sections. There are no fewer than 130 individual physical features that can be interpreted. It's a good thing that we don't have to concern ourselves with each one of them; for a beginner, it is more than enough to start with the three basic regions dividing the face into horizontal sections.
The Three Primary Divisions of the Face
The Celestial Region or Upper Zone
The celestial or heavenly facial division occupies the area of the brow. It extends across the upper part of the face between the hairline and the eyebrows. A wide, well-proportioned forehead is considered to be generally fortunate. However, for a brow that is too wide-giving the whole face the impression of being a downward-pointed triangle — the outlook is not that good for the love life. If the brow is smooth, even, clear, and free of blemishes, it suggests a happy childhood, a fulfilling home life, and a supportive, loving family. On the other hand, the opposite is the case if the celestial region appears to be lumpy or scarred or possesses a dull, grayish skin tone.
The celestial region is further subdivided into three horizontal areas (see page 4). The area closest to the hairline relates to imagination, the brow region is associated with memory, and the area located just above the eyebrows is concerned with observation (see chapter 3, The Brow, on page 37).
The Region of Self-Will or Middle Zone
The region of self-will is otherwise referred to as the "human region" or the "region of humanity." It extends across the central portion of the face and is home to the eyes, nose, cheekbones, and ears. Ideally, each of these features should be well proportioned in relation to each of the others. The more regular the features in this area, the more settled the individual. Any feature that is disproportionately large will have an unfortunate effect, especially in affairs of the heart.
If this region is longer than the other two, then willpower and leadership potential are indicated. There is an ability to seize control of complex situations and turn them to personal advantage.
If the skin tone in the region of self-will is clear and smooth, this indicates financial good fortune in youth and middle age. If it is blotchy or scarred, or if the skin tone has a grayish tinge, then the outlook for material life is not so promising.
The Earthly Region or Lower Zone
Proportion and a good balance of features are important considerations when assessing the earthly region of the face. The bone structure must also be good in order to ensure a happy, healthy, and prosperous old age. The lips and mouth, as well as the configuration of the chin, are the most revealing factors here. Full lips combined with a strong chin are signs of a strong constitution, while thin lips and a receding chin denote frail health.
The Secondary Divisions of the Face
The Five Predominant Features
The five predominant features of the face are, predictably enough, the eyes, the eyebrows, the mouth, the nose, and the ears. If these features are regular and in proportion both to each other and to the general shape of the face, then this is a good indication of prosperity, health, and good fortune. However, should one or more of these features give a visual impression of being "out of line" or "misplaced," then fortunes will suffer. An inwardly turned eye, a bent, crooked, or broken nose, a scarred eyebrow, and a twisted lip are all features that detract from a harmonious life. This said, it may be that despite one (or more) features that fall far short of perfection, the others may be beautifully formed and provide a respite from a harsh fate.
The Five Animal Mountains and the Four Rivers
The five predominant features also have a relation to the "five mountains." The ancient Chinese regarded the face as a landscape with physical features that can be compared with the features on a map. It is not surprising that the terminology of the equally ancient traditional practice of feng shui is also used to describe areas of the face, bearing in mind the geographical connotations of feng shui.
In feng shui, each direction, East, South, West, North, and Center, is symbolized by both an element and a symbolic figure.
• East relates to the wood element, and its image is a green dragon.
• South concerns the fire element and is symbolized by the phoenix or a red bird.
• West is connected to the metal element and is represented by the white tiger.
• North is the water direction, and its image is a black tortoise.
• The central space of anything or anyplace is symbolically connected to the Earth. Its color is yellow.
Likewise, in face reading, each prominent bony feature or ridge shares this symbolism, so the brow is considered the Mountain of the Phoenix; its element, fire, is emblematic of thought.
The left cheekbone is the Mountain of the Green Dragon, symbolizing the wood element.
The right cheekbone is the Mountain of the White Tiger, symbolic of the metal element.
The chin is considered watery and is called the Mountain of the Black Tortoise.
The nose, the central feature of the face, is referred to either as the Central Mountain or the Mountain of the Yellow Emperor.
Although they are not strictly part of Chinese face reading, in addition to the five mountains, the face also possesses the four rivers:
• the River Kong — the ears
• the River Ho — the eyes
• the River Wai — the mouth
• the River Chai — the nostrils
The four rivers are relevant in Chinese diagnostic practices, and these ideas are connected with the life force or ITLχITL energy. Chi, the universal breath of life, has two forms, positive and negative, sheng chi and sha chi, so each of the rivers has both positive and negative aspects. Chi arrives in the eyes in the form of light and is expelled as tears. Sound reaches the ears and is expelled as wax. Breath is the positive chi of the nostrils, while mucus is the negative chi, so only the mouth can both take in and expel chi as kind words or harsh ones, good food or bad.
The Age Positions of the Face
The ancient traditions of face reading provide specific age positions, which are dotted about the face, ears, and crown. These positions serve to highlight particular years in a person's lifetime from zero to ninety. The most important of these are known as the thirteen significant positions. These thirteen positions are found in a straight vertical line running down the middle of the face from the hairline to the tip of the chin. Each of the thirteen points has an individual traditional name and refers to the most important years of life, ranging from fifteen to seventy-one.
The Thirteen Significant Positions
1 T'ien Chung-Age 15
This position literally means "Middle Heaven." It is found just below the midpoint of the hairline, and it relates to the fifteenth year of life. A scar, blemish, bump, or dent here denotes an unhappy childhood and a confused adolescence. A dark mark indicates early poverty. A vein running into the hairline at this point reveals an immature and accident-prone nature.
2 Tien T'ing — Age 18
This is the "Central Heaven" point, relating to early adulthood. If this area is unmarked and the complexion is clear, there is a good parental bond and the person can make loyal and influential friends. If any blemish permanently marks this area, the individual will find it hard to win goodwill. It is considered a bad omen if such a mark appears spontaneously. This kind of blemish is called a "Black Cloud," and it foretells a grave misfortune that will occur very soon.
3 Ssu K'ung — Age 21
If this area has no markings at all, then the fortunes in the twenty-first year are neutral. However, a red or yellow mark or tinge to the skin is considered to be a very good omen, denoting good advice and the liking and respect of others. A gray or black mark here indicates a bumpier path through life, with periods of bad luck, especially related to the career.
4 Chung Cheng — Age 24
If there is no blemish and the skin tone is good, then early successes are forecast. If this area is dented or discolored, the subject may lack concentration and application. A black mole here is the worst omen, indicating a severe lack of patience and the unfortunate tendency to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
5 Yin T'ang — Age 27
This is a very important age point, and it connects closely to the interpretation of the eye brows (see chapter 5, The Eyebrows, on page 75). Good, clear skin here predicts a large inheritance and/or shrewd business sense. A black mole here is said to signify a long illness, while a mole or any color to one side of this point can indicate legal problems. A scar or birthmark on the yin t'ang is traditionally said to reveal adoption. Eyebrows that meet can show that this person cannot be trusted to act honorably or truthfully. Eyebrows that nearly meet — the gap between them being very small — can denote complex legal issues that will occupy much of the twenty-seventh year.
6 Shan Ken-Age 40
This is the transition point between the celestial region and the region of self-will. This area should possess a noticeable but gentle dip to ensure a harmonious flow of energies between the two regions. If a dark patch of skin is found, it can indicate periods of recurring illness. In fact, illness of short duration is often foretold by the appearance of such a dark patch. As usual in face reading, the darker the area, the longer the ailment will last. A mole directly on the shan ken reveals a move away from home to find work. However, if the mole is off-center, then digestive problems are likely.
7 Nien Shang-Age 43
This area is located at the lower end of the nasal bone, and it concerns both health and the emotional life. A mole found here is indicative of a turbulent romantic life, as well as revealing recurring stomach upsets in the forty-third year.
8 Shou Shang-Age 44
This point is found midway between the end of the nasal bone and the tip of the nose. Clear, unblemished skin in this area reveals excellent fashion sense and a strong constitution. However, a prominent lump in this area suggests failed business enterprises. The presence of a mole is bad news for romantic prospects this year.
9 Chun T'ou — Age 47
The chun t'ou is found at the very tip of the nose, and it relates to finances in the forty-seventh year. A clear complexion is obviously a good omen for prosperity. A permanent red spot or mole on the chun t'ou is also considered beneficial to finances; however, noticeably open pores or dark hairs growing here are indicative of poverty.
10 Jen chung — Age 50
This area corresponds to the philtrum, the hollow between the nose and the lips. It relates to the fiftieth year of life, and it is considered so important that a whole chapter of this book is devoted to its interpretation.
11 Shui Hsing — Age 59
The shui hsing is located on the lower lip and is interpreted along with the mouth and tongue.
12 Ch'eng Chiang — Age 69
This area is found on the upper chin. It is considered a "watery" area of the face. It therefore is connected to both travel by water and drinking liquids. Should a dark patch appear here, it is advised that voyages be postponed and drinking limited until the patch fades. Pale, dark red, or greenish patches traditionally indicate poisoning or at the very least an infection acquired by drinking impure liquids.
13 Ti Ko — Age 70
The ti ko is the tip of the chin.
The Twelve Palaces of the Face
As well as the multitude of age points on the face, there are also areas called the twelve Palaces of Fortune. These perform a function similar to that of the astrological houses in horoscopes. The palaces deal with specific topics such as relationships, material wealth, health, home, and so on. Some are found in only one location, such as the tip of the nose or the center of the brow, but others are divided between two areas, such as the regions below each eye or on each temple.
Assessing the twelve Palaces of Fortune provides a background to face reading as a whole and gives important clues as to how a person's life will progress.
1 Kaun Lu Kung — The Palace of Career
As well as representing the twenty-first year, this area is an important indicator of career and business success throughout life. In addition, an unblemished, perfectly formed central brow area shows the help of influential people. However, if this area is sunken, or too prominent, it suggests that there will be great obstacles to overcome. A mole here shows the need for diligence and perseverance.
2 Chine I Kung — The Palace of Movement
There are two Palaces of Movement, and each corresponds to one of the temples. These areas should be sunken, with no prominent bones or lumps. If this is the case, the person can expect successful journeys throughout life. A particularly fine complexion in these areas shows an adventurous personality. Any sudden appearance of dark patches in the Palace of Movement shows that any trips the person has planned should be delayed until the dark patches have cleared up. Moles on either temple suggest danger from theft or suffering an accident while traveling.
3 Hsiung Ti Kung — The Palace of Brothers
The two areas directly above the eyebrows form the Palace of Brothers. This palace refers not only to near blood kin, but also to any people to whom the subject becomes attached throughout life. Long, well-formed eyebrows show happy, contented relationships with siblings and close friends. Broken, patchy, or scarred eyebrows indicate troublesome relationships.
4 Min Kung — The Palace of Life
The Palace of Life is concerned with the general emotional state. It is found in the same area as the shan ken, that is, directly between the eyebrows. Wrinkles found here in youth indicate turbulent love affairs; however, an absence of wrinkles after the age of thirty reveals a time waster and daydreamer. As usual, a good complexion with no blemishes indicates a fortunate emotional life.
5 Chi O Kung — The Palace of Sickness
Although this palace's name is unpleasant, it simply refers to the person's general state of health. It is found in the same area as the nien shang, on the bridge of the nose. Healthy signs are a good complexion, absence of blemishes, and a good, defined nose shape. However, should this area be crisscrossed with small lines or disfigured by a scar or mole, then the state of the constitution is not good, and many minor illnesses are foretold.
6 Ts'ai Pai Kung — The Palace of Wealth
As the name implies, this palace is concerned with material issues. It is found at the tip of the nose in the same position as the chun t'ou, so it relates to the forty-seventh year. A dark blemish here reveals a person who is too ready to accept responsibility and feels as though the weight of the world rests upon his shoulders. A scar here is a bad sign for prosperity, while a red mark or a particularly mobile nose tip is considered fortunate for finances.
7 T'ien Chai Kung — The Palace of House and Farm
This palace is found in two areas, each between the upper eyelid and the eyebrow. It relates not only to domestic life and family matters, but also to pets and livestock. If these areas are clear, with a good complexion, all will be well, but if they are scarred or of a very dark color, the subject will be a worrier. A mole on either eyelid indicates that some portion of the subject's life will be afflicted by poverty.
8 Nan Nu Kung — The Palace of Man and Woman
This palace is also concerned with family affairs. It is found in two areas, directly below the eyes. Naturally, the type of eye and the condition of the surrounding tissue are very relevant to establishing the fortunes predicted by this palace. Many crossed lines here suggest leaving the family home at an early age. A distinct crisscross pattern denotes strained family relationships and lack of contact, which becomes more evident with the passing of the years. If this area is baggy, very gray, wrinkled, or lumpy, then the family will be a continuous source of worry to this person.
9 Ch'I Ch'ien Kung — The Palace of Wife and Mistress
The Palace of Wife and Mistress corresponds to the cheekbones and, as the name suggests, is concerned with the character of the "significant other" in a person's life. In men, the right cheek is most relevant to the assessment of this palace, and in the case of women, it is the left. If the skin here is very tight and shiny, marital relations will become strained. A dent here is a bad sign, indicating infidelity. A mole in this palace shows a flirtatious and possibly wicked nature. However, as long as the cheekbones are not too prominent and the skin of this area is clear of blemishes, then a good-natured, reliable, virtuous, and wise spouse is forecast.
(Continues…)
Excerpted from "Face Reading"
by .
Copyright © 2018 Jonathan Dee.
Excerpted by permission of Hampton Roads Publishing Company, Inc..
All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Excerpts are provided by Dial-A-Book Inc. solely for the personal use of visitors to this web site.
Table of Contents
Introduction vi
1 The Divisions of the Face 1
2 The Shape of the Face 23
3 The Brow 35
4 The Eyes 53
5 The Eyebrows 75
6 The Nose and Cheekbones 91
7 The Ears 107
8 Cheek Lines of the Face 123
9 The Mouth, Lips, Philtrum, and Chin 131