Feng Shui in "Forbidden Kingdom"

I went to see Forbidden Kingdom with Jackie Chan and Jet Li (whom I adore) and was so tickled to see how the wu lou had a starring role in the film.  You can see Jackie Chan holding one in the photo--they are dried gourds that are Taoist symbols of longevity and good fortune and hold the elixir of immortality.  You will also see Buddhist deities holding them full of what is considered holy nectar (such as Kuan Yin holding a vase of amrita or nectar of compassion, in which she dips her willow branch for blessings).

In Feng Shui, we use them for both health cures as well as to ward off danger and accidents.   We place them beside beds,  near the front door, hanging from rear-view mirrors in cars as well as round the neck.

If you'd like to see a trailer from the film click here.

You can also read some essays of Jet Li's at his website where he writes about his teachers.