The Art Of Feng Shui, Bringing Beauty And Balance Into Your Homes

Developed in China over 5,000 years ago, Feng Shui is an ancient art/science/philosophy that strives to bring beauty and balance into our homes and lives.  I practice a very informal style of Feng Shui, based on common sense, intuitions and my Feng Shui “primer”, a small book, simply titled “10 Minute Feng Shui” by Skye Alexander, who recommends a variety of “cures” to bring health and happiness into your home.  Feng Shui is based on bringing “Balance” through the use and placement of the Five Classical Chinese Elements, which are - Wood, Earth, Metal, Fire, and Water.

Here are some Easy Feng Shui Tips to bring balance, harmony and beauty into your homes -

Wood: fosters intuition

Consider adding a wood bowl, or wood carved sculpture into your home’s décor. Hardwood floors, or natural wood cabinets work as well….

Earth: creates peace and calm

This could be natural stones or fossils placed throughout your home. Ceramics of any kind, dishes, bowls decorative items – any thing “clay” as clay comes from the earth, and also plants, lots of them if possible.

Metal: influences intelligence

There are so many great choices for this, metal bowls, coins, cast iron tea pots, cabinet pulls in stainless steel, brass or oil rubbed bronze, or one of my personal favorites – a brass metal or oil rubbed bronze kitchen or bathroom faucet…

Fire: creates passion and creativity

Any thing “RED”, or any shade of red, including pink. Consider painting one wall in this vibrant color….Other easy touches are candles or incense.

Water: influences clarity, inspiration, and letting go

Think “Classic Blue” – Pantone’s color of the year. We’re finding this color in EVERYTHING right now from kitchen cabinets, to tile, to decorative items such as dishware and vases. Anything that incorporates water is also good - fountains, floating candles, or floating flowers.

To sum up the key elements of Feng Shui, balance, creativity and intention.

Be calm, be thoughtful, eat well, sleep well, be kind to others – you can’t go wrong.