These natural materials seem to hold a potent life energy of their own.

To touch or hold these materials is to connect with something timeless and pure – a reminder of the beauty, enduring strength, and vitality of the natural world.

And the same materials that have sustained our world for eons can exist in our very living rooms!

Feng Shui

Feng Shui is a system of arranging your home or office in a way that promotes good energy flow and creates a harmonious environment.

Think of it as a way to declutter your space and declutter your mind at the same time.

Feng shui practitioners believe that by aligning the elements of nature (water, wood, metal, fire, and earth) with the layout of your space, you can invite positive energy into your life.

For example, placing a water feature in the wealth corner of your home or office (which is usually the far left corner of the room when you stand facing the entrance) can symbolize abundance and bring good fortune. Adding plants to your space can also help to purify the air and promote a sense of calm.

But feng shui isn’t just about moving furniture around. It’s also about creating a space that reflects your personality and promotes happiness. By choosing colors and decor that make you feel good, you can create a space that feels like home.

Just remember to have fun with it and trust your instincts to help you make decisions based on what feels energetically aligned and supportive of your well-being.

the building blocks of feng shui: water (glass), wood, earth (fibers, clay, stone), fire, metal

Each element embodies a different quality and energy, coming together in a harmonious balance to create a peaceful and thriving environment.

The sound of a trickling fountain symbolizes the calming energy of water, while the warmth of a fire represents the passion and energy of life. The strength and stability of stone and clay represent the foundation of a relationship, while the flexibility of fibers represents the adaptability and growth. The radiance of metal symbolizes clarity and purity, while the nourishing energy of wood represents the nurturing and sustenance of a relationship.

Together, these elements bring balance and beauty to any space, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

glass

“In the kingdom of glass everything is transparent, and there is no place to hide a dark heart.” ~ Vera Nazarian

In Feng Shui, glass is associated with the water element, which symbolizes flow, flexibility, and purification. The energy of glass, with its clarity and transparency, is thought to reflect these qualities, promoting a sense of calm and balance in a space.

 In addition to reflecting the water element, glass is also believed to enhance the flow of energy in a room, creating a sense of openness and clarity. 

When used in a Feng Shui setting, glass elements such as mirrors, crystal vases, or windows can be positioned in specific areas to improve the flow of energy and enhance the positive energy associated with the water element. 

The water element is also associated with wealth and prosperity, and the reflective quality of glass magnifies these qualities and bring abundance into a space. 

In Feng Shui, the use of glass in conjunction with other water element symbols such as aquariums, fountains, or blue and black color accents, can enhance its positive energy and promote a sense of balance and harmony in a space.

wood

“In the woods we return to reason and faith.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

The wood element in Feng Shui represents growth, expansion, and new beginnings. It is associated with the season of spring, a time of renewal and rejuvenation. 

In a Feng Shui setting, the wood element can be incorporated through the use of green plants, wooden furniture, and accents in shades of green or brown. The energy of the wood element is thought to bring a sense of vitality and growth to a space, promoting good health and wellness. It is also associated with abundance and wealth, and is said to attract prosperity and success. 

In a well-balanced Feng Shui environment, the wood element can be used to enhance creativity, innovation, and self-expression, making it a valuable addition to any living or working space. Additionally, the wood element is believed to provide stability and grounding, helping to promote a sense of calm and peace in a space. 

When used in a mindful and intentional way, the wood element can bring balance and positive energy to a space, creating a thriving and harmonious environment.

fibers

“Every hidden cell is throbbing with music and life, every fiber thrilling like harp string.” ~ John Muir, Father of the National Parks

In Feng Shui, fibers such as fabrics, rugs, and textiles are associated with the Wood element, which symbolizes growth, vitality, and renewal. The energy of fibers is thought to bring a sense of liveliness, creativity, and connection to nature into a space, fostering a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere.

In a Feng Shui setting, fibers in natural hues like greens, blues, and soft earth tones can enhance the nurturing and revitalizing energy associated with the Wood element.

The organic, natural quality of fibers is also believed to encourage a sense of calm and serenity, making them an ideal choice for areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and meditation spaces.

Examples of how fibers can be used in Feng Shui include:

• Rugs and Carpeting: Rugs and carpets are excellent ways to introduce the Wood element into a space, enhancing its vitality and natural energy.
• Textile Accents: Decorative pillows, throws, and curtains are effective in incorporating fibers into a space, adding warmth and a sense of comfort.
• Upholstered Furniture: Chairs, sofas, and ottomans with natural fiber upholstery bring the grounding energy of the Wood element into the room in a practical and functional way.
• Tapestries: Wall hangings and tapestries can add texture, warmth, and a sense of connection to nature, making them a great way to integrate the Wood element through fibers.
• Bedding: Natural linens and bedding play an important role in promoting relaxation and well-being in the bedroom.

Additionally, the Wood element is associated with growth and prosperity. Using fibers in rich, vibrant colors and patterns can be believed to attract abundance and success. When incorporated thoughtfully, fibers can bring balance and positive energy to a space, creating a harmonious and nurturing environment.

natural vs. synthetic fibers

In Feng Shui, it is believed that natural fibers have a more grounding and nourishing energy than synthetic fibers. This is because natural fibers come from natural sources, such as cotton, wool, or silk, and are thought to have a more harmonious energy that is in alignment with the natural world. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are made from man-made materials and are thought to have a less harmonious energy that can disrupt the balance and harmony in a space.

Furthermore, natural fibers are believed to absorb and regulate moisture, promoting a sense of comfort and well-being in a space, while synthetic fibers are often less breathable and may contribute to an artificial or stagnant energy in a space. Additionally, natural fibers tend to be more durable and have a longer lifespan, which is also thought to contribute to the grounding and nourishing energy they bring to a space.

In Feng Shui, it is important to strive for balance and harmony in a space, and the use of natural fibers is one way to help promote these qualities. While synthetic fibers can have their place in certain design elements, incorporating natural fibers whenever possible is recommended to enhance the positive energy and grounding qualities associated with the earth element.

fire

“Do not let your fire go out… In the hopeless swamps of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all.” ~ Ayn Rand

The fire element in Feng Shui is associated with passion, energy, creativity, and transformation. The fire element is thought to bring a sense of warmth, enthusiasm, and excitement to a space, and is often incorporated through the use of lighting, candles, and other sources of illumination. The fire element is also believed to have a purifying effect, helping to clear negativity and promote positive change.

In a Feng Shui setting, the fire element is often represented by the color red, which is thought to be a powerful and dynamic color that can stimulate the mind and inspire action. It is also often symbolized by the use of triangles and stars, which are thought to represent the dynamic and transforming energy of the fire element. The fire element is also associated with the south sector of a space, which is considered to be the most active and dynamic sector. In this sector, the fire element can be used to enhance success, fame, and recognition.

However, it is also important to be mindful of the balance of the fire element in a space. Too much fire energy can be overwhelming and lead to conflict and instability, while too little fire energy can result in a lack of motivation and inspiration. The fire element should be used judiciously and in harmony with the other elements to promote a sense of balance and harmony in a space.

clay

“Learn to humble yourself, you are but earth and clay.” ~ Thomas à Kempis

The clay element in Feng Shui is associated with stability, grounding, and nourishment. As part of the earth element, clay is thought to bring a sense of grounding and stability to a space, helping to promote a sense of comfort, security, and overall well-being. In a Feng Shui setting, the clay element can be incorporated through the use of ceramics, pottery, clay tiles, and other earthy materials.

The earth element is associated with the northeast sector of a space, which is considered to be the sector of knowledge, education, and personal growth. In this sector, the use of clay and other earthy materials can help to promote a sense of grounding, stability, and support for personal growth and learning.

Additionally, the earth element is also associated with the center of a space, which is considered to be the heart of the home. In this area, the use of clay and other earthy materials can help to create a sense of balance and grounding, promoting stability and well-being throughout the entire space.

stone

“Write your worries in the sand, carve your blessings in stone.” ~ Robert F. Kennedy

The stone element in Feng Shui is associated with stability, grounding, and strength. As part of the earth element, stone is thought to bring a sense of grounding and stability to a space, helping to promote a sense of comfort, security, and overall well-being. In a Feng Shui setting, the stone element can be incorporated through the use of rocks, stones, and other natural materials.

The earth element is associated with the northeast sector of a space, which is considered to be the sector of knowledge, education, and personal growth. In this sector, the use of stone and other earthy materials can help to promote a sense of grounding, stability, and support for personal growth and learning.

Additionally, the earth element is also associated with the center of a space, which is considered to be the heart of the home. In this area, the use of stone and other earthy materials can help to create a sense of balance and grounding, promoting stability and well-being throughout the entire space.

metals

“As true as steel, as plantage to the moon, as sun to day, at turtle to her mate, as iron to adamant, as earth to centre.” ~ William Shakespeare

The metal element in Feng Shui represents clarity, precision, and structure.

 It is associated with the fall season and the color white. 

In a Feng Shui setting, the metal element can be incorporated through the use of metal objects such as picture frames, lamps, or accent pieces in shades of white, gray, or metallic hues. 

The energy of the metal element is believed to bring a sense of focus and organization to a space, promoting clarity of thought and purpose. It is also associated with the qualities of strength and determination, making it a valuable addition to any workspace or business environment. 

In addition, the metal element is thought to bring a sense of abundance and prosperity to a space, attracting wealth and success. 

The reflective quality of metal objects is believed to magnify these positive qualities and promote a sense of balance in a space. When used in a mindful and intentional way, the metal element can bring clarity, stability, and positive energy to a space, creating a harmonious and productive environment.

In conclusion…

Feng shui gives you a roadmap for arranging your home or office to promote positive energy flow and boost your well-being. Ready to tap into the elements of nature? Incorporate some water, wood, metal, fire, or earth into your decor. And don’t forget to add elements that make you smile and reflect your unique personality.

With feng shui, your space can feel like a sanctuary that supports your happiness and energy.

So go ahead, have some fun with it, and trust your gut to create a space that feels just right for you.