How to create good feng shui
Living in Hong Kong for over a decade has deepened my understanding of feng shui. The wind (feng) and water (shui) relate to the relationship we have with our environment: if one lives in harmony with its surroundings, then one is blessed with good fortune. My first (and only) consultation with a feng shui master many years ago felt like an astrology reading with advice on what colors and elements I had to change in our apartment. When we moved to another neighborhood, I learned more about the principles behind this respected Chinese tradition by applying the classical Bagua map to our new home. This “energy map” looked like this:
Classical Bagua applied to a 3 bedroom flat
Water
The Five Elements (wu xing) in Chinese metaphysics are Water (水 shui), Wood (木 mu), Fire (火 huo), Earth (土 tu) and Metal (金 jin). By integrating each of these elements in your home in a harmonious way, the Qi circulates freely lifting the energy of your space. Let’s start with Water. Of course, you can buy an aquarium, or build a pond or a fountain but there are other subtle ways to promote soothing, fluidity, and spirituality in your interior. You can add a black or midnight blue painting, flowing curtains, a curvy sofa, or decorative mirrors.
Wood
The Wood element represents growth, creativity, and strength. Playing with the colors blue, green, and teal will increase the vibrant energy of your space. Healthy plants and flowers can transform any space quite quickly. I specify healthy because a dying plant will invite negative energy inside, so make sure you take care of them. A pet such as a cat is considered a Wood element. Stroking your cat will definitely lift your energy.
Residential project: an Ivy plant dressing an Indian custom-made furniture
Fire
Think of the warmth of a fireplace. The Fire element brings passion, assertiveness, and strong relationships with other people. I like to place candles everywhere, especially in burned orange or powder pink. A touch of red can lift up a cold or unwelcoming corner.
Earth
The Earth element is grounding, calm and sensual, like a delicious home-cooked meal prepared with love. The earth tone colors include yellow, brown, and terracotta. You can use crystals and beautiful stones. I like to group vases, bowls, or other earthenware to create a fertile dialogue. A dog is considered an Earth element.
Metal
The Metal element invites independence, decisiveness, and intelligence, like the precision of a sharp blade. The associated colors are white, silver, gold, bronze, and copper. I like to add brushed gold planters or silver frames for a more sophisticated look and use lighting with metallic finishes.
To keep it simple, whatever brings you joy when you see (or pet) it is good feng shui!