Feng Shui Five Elements - find out more on wood, water, earth, fire, metal

The Feng Shui Element of Water

There are five elements in feng shui. Fire, metal water, wood and earth. Each has its own unique characteristics and role in feng shui. Read about this flowing Feng Shui element from Angela Davis.

Water is the Feng Shui element of inward reflection, patience, mindfulness, and release. It is soothing, calming, and comforting in its timeless power. Just think of how the Grand Canyon was carved with the Colorado River slowly, over time but with an amazing outcome.

The Feng Shui Water Element by Angela Davis Water is associated with the career gua and is the most yin, or feminine, of the elements. It is introspective, philosophic, receptive, and creative. To replenish your strength, sleep more, drink more water, and listen to your instincts. In Feng Shui, feeling safe is a Water Element trait, true to the core.

Need to get some happy Chi in your life to feel the soothing safety of belonging? Use any of the following ideas:

In the front of your home, plant beautiful undulating vines and plants like delphiniums, kale, and violets. Install a water feature to bubble and gurgle in your safe haven; make sure the flow is directed inward toward your home (for a fountain’s flow, never direct water away from your home). Re-do the pathway running from your street to your front door with a snaking, wavy pattern (the undulating shape of Water) to slow down the energy flowing toward you. This will welcome chi gently instead of having energy slam against you all day. This simple change in landscape can be also be achieved with lining the straight walkway with plants, staggered alternately, along the walkway. Now you have a spot to sit, stay, and relax.

Angela Davis, Green Feng Shui Lady Angela Davis The Green Feng Shui Lady is a Red Ribbon Professional through the International Feng Shui Guild. She earned her Black Hat Feng Shui Certification through Karen Rauch Carters Academy of Exquisite Living as an Inspired Practitioner and is a part of Karens lineage under Grandmaster Professor Lin Yun. Read more about Angela.

Decorating with the Five Elements

Five Elements

Feng Shui as an art emphasizes the importance of the placement of objects in your surroundings to create balance and harmony in your life. By using these principles you can arrange, decorate and accessorize your home to promote health, wealth and happiness. Find out more about Feng Shui decor and the Five Elements by Diane Alba-Means.

Source: MorgueFile

Feng Shui and Feng Shui decor uses several tools to help enhance the flow of energy in your home or office. One such tool is called the Pa Kua or Bagua map, which divides your home or office into nine sections, each associated with a specific area of life, such as health, wealth, career and relationships. Another important tool, which is used hand in hand with the Pa Kua map, is the Five Element theory. The Five elements are derived from nature and are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. These are considered to be the building blocks of everything physical on earth. Feng Shui observes that we, as humans are made up of all five elements, and we are generally most comfortable when all the elements are represented in our surroundings.

Feng Shui decor includes the Five Elements that are associated with shapes, colors and materials and can be introduced into a space in pure form, using actual plants, fire, soil, metal or water, or in the form of representative objects. The most powerful objects are those, which combine the shape, color and material of an element. For example, a square, terracotta pot filled with brown soil for earth energy.

In decorating your home or office, we can use the following guide to assist us in creating an elementally balanced environment.

Wood is represented by the color green. It can be found in all wood, plants, flowers and paper. The shape for wood can be found in columns and pillars. Examples would be a tall, green vase; a green picture frame, or a tall lamp with a paper shade.

Fire is represented by the color red, and is found in lighting, candles, fireplace, sunlight, animals, leather and wool. The shapes triangle, pyramid and cones signify fire. Examples would be star-shaped candleholders, oil lamps and red or animal print fabric.

Earth is represented with yellow and earth tones. It is found in the soil, ceramics, tile, brick and stucco. Its shape is represented with square, rectangles, and plateaus. Examples would be a clay pot with yellow flowers, a square plate or checkered fabric.

Metal is present in the colors of gray, white and pastels. It is found in all metals, such as gold, silver, copper, pewter, and brass. The shapes are found in arches, circles and ovals. Examples would be a round silver tray, a pewter pitcher or an oval brass frame.

Water is represented by the colors blue, black and dark tones. Water is found in a bubbling fountain, glass, crystal and mirrors. Asymmetrical or irregular shapes are a part of the water element. Examples would be a crystal vase, a mirror or black satin fabric.

These elements can be introduced in various forms to suit your own style of decorating. You might choose wallpaper with green vertical stripes to bring more uplifting wood energy, making the ceiling appear higher and the room more spacious. Red fabric pillows on a sofa will increase the fire energy, creating an exciting atmosphere. Yellow checkered curtains in the kitchen will enhance the earth energy, which will make the room feel cozier. A round, brass, metal bowl used, as an accent piece on a coffee table, will make it feel more complete and finished. A water feature in the entry enhances the water energy, conveying a peaceful flowing atmosphere.

Combining appropriate colors with particular patterns and materials can be especially effective in manipulating the existing energy, which is the basis of many Feng Shui remedies. When using these tools and surrounding yourself with things that you love, you are creating environmental affirmations which support you in having a peaceful place to live and a place for the vital energy to circulate harmoniously throughout your home.

Diane Alba Means Owner of Hawaii Feng Shui based in Maui, Hawaii, Diane Alba-Means is a professional, certified Feng Shui Practitioner, Color Expert, Image consultant, and author. Read more about Diane.

Article Source: Decorating with Feng Shui

The Way of Water

Five Elements

Water is a powerful element in Feng Shui Five Element theory, associated with a person’s career, wisdom and life path. Find out more about the way and flow of water in this piece by Florida based, Diane Gallin.

The Way of the Water, Diane Gallin Have you ever floated on a river or lake with only the current to guide you? The water’s depth and awareness of what lies around the bend elude you, but for that moment in time you simply relinquish control and drift. Unaccustomed to weightlessness, you take a leap of faith, close your eyes and give in to the flow. The flow decides where you’re going and somehow you trust that it knows the right way. And it does.

When the proper amount and quality of Water is found lacking in a building, group or community, energy dries up, business falls short of expectations and people become stuck. When Water flows too quickly (think waterfalls and fast moving roads) energy is quickly carried downstream and its beneficial properties are lost. In authentic Feng Shui, the location of ponds, fountains and pathways all influence the fortunes of a place for better or worse based on their proximity, placement and directional flow.

Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches that Water is linked to human emotions and is vital to kidney health, which keeps all other organs in balance. While Earth provides the stability we need to focus and stay grounded, Water keeps us moving, constantly uncovering what is hidden beneath the surface and exposing what is possible. Over time Water erodes the strongest of barriers and redirects with ease and fluidity. Essential to growth, inspiration and mobility, Water can also lap away at foundations and extinguish a flame that burns brightly. In the Fire season of summer, Water (winter’s element) helps to cool anger and soothe spirits. A day at the beach puts troubles in perspective, often washing away the worries we carried there with us.

I’m inspired by the journeys of my client and friends whose lives have taken an unexpected turn over the last busy months. This is the realm of Water. If we are not fluid, all the plans, lists and notions that change in a moment can catch us off guard. Fear sets in and we try swimming upstream against the current for a while, working twice as hard to go half as far. We forget that in its march to the sea, Water finds its way over, under and through obstacles, regardless of how long the journey. Water is persistent and yields only long enough to change course, gather momentum and continue.

Diane Gallin is the founder of Wind and Water Feng Shui Consulting in Tampa Bay Florida. She distinguishes herself in the feng shui world with her clear and practical application of the ancient Chinese art and science to modern buildings and lifestyles. Read more about Diane.

Article/Image Source: The Way of the Water

Make a Splash: How to Decorate with the Water Element

Five Elements

Just as water is essential for all life on earth, so is it essential in the design of our homes and work spaces. It is a mysterious and complex element that can exist in several different chemical states (solid – ice, liquid – water, gas – vapor) and is a powerful way to bring function, freedom and flow to your home. Find out more about the Feng Shui water element by Julie Schuster.

Julie Schuster, Water Element

If you are working with traditional Feng Shui Bagua regions, the Water element is needed in the North, East and Southeast corners of the home to attract abundance, purity and health. The area of the Bagua represented by Water also relates of our “Career,” or more literally our “Path in Life.” This is fundamental to our overall happiness and health.

Color is one of the simplest and most effective ways to harness the power of the Water Element, which is most commonly represented through dark/navy blues and black. These deep, mystical colors are representative of a powerful, hidden strength that lurks just below the surface – exactly the kind of inspiration we’re trying to channel.

Since Water is such a powerful element, it’s best incorporated in “splashes” rather than as an overall theme for the home. It also works as a wonderful base-color scheme to build from (think of sea greens or yellowed straw tones against black or navy – these two colors also look stunning in the kitchen/bathroom coupled with modern cream cabinetry). Perhaps your home already suffers from a saturation of Water colors? “Dam” an over-abundance of Water with Earth Element colors like yellows, oranges and browns or allow Fire Element colors like reds, purples and oranges to naturally deplete Water, as the Water will “douse” Fire. Both of these bring about a sense of balance.

Water can be incorporated through the use of asymmetrical, undulating shapes and materials too. Substitute sharp and jagged edges for soft, fluid curves that evoke images of water and serenity. Mirrors, fountains and images of water are wonderful ways to incorporate the element as well. Flowing water helps us to let go of things we no longer need, while still water helps calm the surrounding energy and offers the feeling of a new beginning and renewed strength. When in balance with the other elements, the Water Element increases sensitivity, helpfulness and empathy. However, if unbalanced and in excess, it will leave you feeling overwhelmed and emotional. Remember, as with all things Feng Shui, it’s the balance of the elements that’s key to creating a truly harmonious space where people want to come, linger, and go with the flow!

Julie Schuster is a professional Feng Shui consultant and designer from New York City who focuses on creating beautiful, engaging and functional spaces while uniting both the physical as well as the emotional well being of a space. She is also a regular contributor with the IFSG. Read more about Julie.

Article/Photo Source: Make a Splash: How to Decorate with the Water Element

Creating a Feng Shui Garden: Metal Element

Five Elements, Landscape and Gardens

“I love incorporating the 5 natural elements into a Feng Shui garden setting. Metal is especially fun as it is a great hard scape material and is represented by round and oval shapes. Also, the colors of white, silver and gold are metal.” Find out more about the Feng Shui element of metal in your outdoor spaces by Maureen Calamia.

Metal represents refinement and boldness. A little goes a long way. Especially in a Feng Shui garden.

What Not to Do!

Although this is metal and is somewhat round, no, you don’t wanted a rusted car in your garden! (Although my friend points out that she could plant a nice geranium bed in the engine!)

What to Do!

Metal can be incorporated with a beautiful, unique sculpture, such as this sculpture.

In fact, the symbolism of this sculpture is heaven on earth, represented by the circle (heaven) within the square (earth). A truly a dramatic way to incorporate metal in any garden.

Or it can be as simple (and much less expensive) as this – a gazing ball.

Metal lawn furniture, metal trellises, and fencing are more ways to incorporate metal into your yard.

Best Places for Metal

Metal is best in the West, Northwest and North areas of your property. The West is known for Completion and Creativity. The Northwest is known for Helpful People and Travel. The North is known for Life’s Journey, Opportunities and your Career.

maureenkcalamia_RR Maureen Calamia is founder of the Re-Nature Feng Shui™ philosophy based on the fact that we need to restore nature back into our lives. Maureen brings her passion for Feng Shui to the greater community as an educator and past long time IFSG board member. Read more about Maureen.

Article/Image Source: Creating a Feng Shui Garden: Metal Element

Metal Elements in Interiors

Five Elements

Metal Element, Tisha Morris Achieving balance within spaces is not only important for the healing of the space and the land it sits on, but also for the occupants residing in and using it. Feng shui is the science of balancing the energy in our living spaces in accordance with nature. While there are many facets of feng shui including furniture arrangement, the Bagua Map, space clearing, and even the modern practice of clutter clearing, the five elements are one of the primary tools used to balance the energy in spaces. The five elements connect us with our homes and our homes to nature and beyond. Learning the balance of the elements – Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal – this article will focus primarily on Metal element aspects. From Tisha Morris.

True to its character, the Metal element gives shape and form to many household furnishings. For example, a metal base is often used to give support to a table. Lamp bases, chair legs, window casings are other examples. Metal is also used in building construction, particularly in multi-story buildings in the form of steel construction where strength is paramount. Metal is often used for appliances, such as a stainless steel dishwasher. Metal comes in a variety of forms, including aluminum, steel, and iron. Because of the functionality of the Metal element, it most commonly occurs in our spaces in its literal form as opposed to symbolically.

A variety of rocks are considered to be the Metal Element in some Feng Shui Perspectives. Different composites of rock are used to create granite, slate, and marble finishes in homes. These finishes are often used as countertops because of the compatibility of the Metal and Water elements. For example, a wood countertop would soak up water, whereas a granite countertop is impervious to water and is able to maintain its integrity. This is the same reason metal is used for plumbing fixtures and even copper plumbing lines.

Metal is also used for decorative purposes in a balanced feng shui home. For example, metal art and frames are common. Accenting furniture and art with gold and silver is another way to bring Metal into a space. Including rocks in a decorative arrangement is a nice way to include the Metal element in an organic way. Crystals and gemstones are also Metal elements and can be used decoratively and/or to energetically charge spaces according to feng shui. Gemstones are known for having energetic properties specific to their color and composition.

Shape

The shape associated with the Metal element in feng shui is round. I always think of a metal washer used in construction as an example of the round shape of the Metal element. Examples of round-shaped items include tabletops, clocks, mirrors, lamps or table bases.

Color

The colors associated with the Metal element in feng shui are gold, silver, white, and pastels. Gold and silver are the most common associations with metal because base metals most commonly occur in this way.

Common Metal Element Household Items are:

Appliances
Granite and slate countertops
Marble finishes
Aluminum finishes
Stone finishes, i.e. exterior of home, fireplace
Copper finishes
Concrete
Shells
Salt lamps
Rod-iron railing
Metal chair legs
Metal table bases
Wall clocks
Metal art
Crystals and gemstones

Tisha Morris is a feng shui consultant, energy healer, and author of Mind Body Home (Llewellyn Worldwide) and Feng Shui Your Life: The Quick Guide to Decluttering Your Home and Renewing Your Life (Turner Publishing). Read more about Tisha.