Feng shui is arranging structures and items and organizing space within your room to achieve peace and balance. It is based on ancient Chinese culture, notably Taoism.
A more modern interpretation of the practice involves employing objects, colors, or locations to rewire your subconscious, aligning it with a healthy perspective. At the same time, the concepts of balance and the flow of life energy (“chi” or “qi”) are vital in your present feng shui practices.
Keep reading for more ideas on utilizing this practice’s guiding principles to create a thoughtful and serene home. Whether you spend time at home, create multi-use areas, or want to bring good energy into your space.
What is feng shui?
This practice involves arranging objects within living spaces to cultivate seamless energy with the surrounding environment. The goal is to harness and redirect the energy, channeling it to establish profound stability between individuals and their surroundings.
Principles of feng shui
Below are detailed explanations of several of its principles:
Five elements
The universe comprises five significant elements: wood, earth, metal, fire, and water. Correctly placing these elements in a home benefits its inhabitants and promotes well-being.
Bagua map
“Bagua,” meaning “eight areas” in Mandarin, relates to different life experiences. These areas include career, wealth, family, health, and more. Feng shui practitioners believe that the Bagua map offers ways to enhance energies in specific life aspects.
Yin and Yang energies
In Chinese culture, Yin and Yang energies are vital for balance. They are complementary forces that harmonize life.
Commanding position
Essential in feng shui, the commanding position suggests a favorable vantage point that allows clear views of doorways — implementing this principle in room arrangements, such as beds, sofas, and desks, aids in relaxation and confident decision-making. Having an unobstructed wall behind you also symbolizes support.
Colors
Colors associated with directions enhance positivity. For instance, green, blue, and purple signify prosperity and can be used in room decor.
Mirrors
Mirrors symbolize wisdom, positivity, and reflection. Correct placement invites wealth, happiness, and success. Care is needed to avoid adverse effects, such as not placing mirrors above beds or at nose level. Mirrors represent water and should be positioned thoughtfully. Professional guidance is recommended due to varying expert opinions.
Best feng shui items
Below is a compilation of top feng shui items to draw positive energy into your space:
Feng shui tortoise
The feng shui tortoise, another valuable addition to any home, signifies longevity. Crafted from resin, glass, metal, mud, crystal, or wood, this tortoise is strategically positioned throughout your home or business. Adhering to specific placement guidelines is believed to attract good fortune and wealth.
The evil eye
In feng shui, evil eye charms or artifacts are designed to bring luck and security. These items ward off negative and evil energies within the home. The ideal placement for the appeal is at the front entrance or in rooms with high foot traffic. The evil eye is also believed to promote peace and prosperity.
The Laughing Buddha
The Laughing Buddha holds the distinction of being the most recognizable feng shui item. It is thought to usher in happiness and luck while harmonizing, rebalancing, and nurturing various aspects of life. Placing the Laughing Buddha on a table facing the main entrance of your home is recommended.
Feng shui money frog
The money frog symbolizes wealth and success in Chinese culture, often utilized in feng shui practices. It is linked not only with prosperity, but also with longevity and knowledge. Typically crafted from metal, jade, or stone, the money frog is a feng shui enhancer.
To maximize its effects, place the money frog on a low surface, avoiding direct contact with the floor. If you incorporate a money frog into your living space, ensure its proper upkeep. Define its purpose, and regularly clean and maintain it.
Crystal lotus
A crystal lotus is another feng shui tool that attracts luck and wealth. It is also associated with fostering romantic prospects. The practice’s principles suggest placing the crystal lotus in the southwest corner near a window, harnessing positive energy.
Feng shui bamboo
Lucky bamboo serves as a potent supporter of good fortune. Lucky bamboo is a prominent feng shui item in two, three, or four layers. This resilient plant thrives in various lighting conditions and can infuse positive energy into your home.
No harm in believing
Feng shui has the potential to attract good luck, enhance health, and promote prosperity in your life. Therefore, by sticking to its principles, you can shield yourself from negative energies and maintain a state of perpetual happiness and motivation.
