“Is the costume of the lion dance performing at your home consecrated?” asks Sifu Sabrina

 

“So, you’ve booked a CNY lion dance performance,” says Sifu Sabrina togged up in a red bikini for a swim in her condo's pool, “but has the lion costume been consecrated?” A ghost of a scowl flits across her lips. “If not, then it is just a puppet without vital energy!” The feng shui sifu shakes her head. “Such a puppet that chews on your lettuce and swallows your ang pau is useless!” She pauses and sticks both thumbs into her bikini bottom.  “It’s best to consecrate or hooi kong the lion costume at your home before it performs. Set up an altar dedicated to the Sky God with offerings of meat and fruits and tea. Pray with joss sticks and ask the Sky God to bless the lion with chi energy. Then the head of the household should dot the eyes, nose, mouth and ears and at random points throughout its body with a Chinese brush dipped in red paint.” A smile flits across Sifu Sabrina’s lips. “Now, the lion is ready to bring good vibes into your home. Hou wan lin lin!” She patters down the staircase. "Anybody wants to join me for a swim?"

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