As luck would have it, it's not how you play the game but where you play the game.

Lina Visconti, author of Feng Shui, Going With The Flow, suggests positioning yourself and your computer "within an environment so that you have the most benefit from the positive flow of natural energies". Basically, the idea is to create good vibes, or "chi" in your home. Unhealthy or stagnant energy is said to bring bad luck, money problems and ill health.

So if you're playing online and you want to make a few extra bucks, try putting your computer in the left-hand corner of the room and away from the window; this is called its money point. "Be sure that you are not positioned in direct line with the door," Visconti advises. By the same token, if your bathroom is in the left-hand corner of your living space then all of your luck and energy are going down the drain. But a full-length mirror placed outside of the bathroom door will deflect bad energy and save you from losing yet another hand of poker. (Good to know.)

Coincidentally, computers are great energy movers and shakers. By leaving a screensaver up while you're taking a break, you're keeping the flow. When you jump back into the game you'll have more luck than you can shake a divining rod at. And when the going gets tough, don't throw in the towel - throw in a few good luck charms! Strategically placed throughout the house or your office, these dolls can turn a few heads and make you a small fortune (or, so they say):

Goldfish - water is the symbol of money. An aquarium of goldfish symbolizes success and abundance.
Turtle - or a tortoise is said to bring both wealth and good fortune.
Pot of Coins - a glass pot or jar filled with coins will attract more money.
Conch Shell - looks nice and sounds great when you blow into it. And it's considered to be very lucky.

Obviously, it's going to take more than a few fat fish and smiling Buddha's to make you rich, but it's something to consider when your chips are down. Know what you want and focus on your goals; that's good chi.

For more information on Feng Shui, go to www.wofs.com (World of Feng Shui Online). And Lisa Visconti's book can be purchased at www.fengshuicdn.com (Feng Shui Institute of Canada).