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Have you ever entered a space that immediately conveyed peace and well-being? Or, conversely, a space that felt "heavy" and uncomfortable? These sensations may be related to Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese practice that seeks to harmonize the energy of environments to promote health, prosperity, and happiness. In this article, we'll explore how Feng Shui can transform your home into a true sanctuary of positive energy.

What is Feng Shui?

THE Feng Shui, which literally means “wind” (feng) and “water” (shui), is an ancient Chinese art that seeks to balance energies (or Chi) in a space, ensuring that they flow harmoniously. Therefore, it is believed that by adjusting certain elements in our environment, we can positively influence various aspects of our lives, such as health, relationships, and prosperity.

Fundamental Principles of Feng Shui

To apply Feng Shui effectively, it is essential to understand its basic principles:

Yin and Yang

Yin and yang symbolize two types of energy that coexist harmoniously in the universe. In other words, neither is better or worse than the other; the important thing is to maintain balance between them.

• Yin: It represents feminine energy, both receptive and passive. Thus, it is associated with darkness, introspection, softness, and relaxation. In the environment, Yin manifests itself in cool colors, indirect lighting, soft textures, and materials such as fabrics and water.
• Yang: It represents masculine, active, and expansive energy. Thus, it symbolizes light, warmth, dynamism, and excitement. Yang elements in the environment include intense lighting, vibrant colors, metallic objects, and striking geometric shapes.

The harmony between Yin and Yang is essential for a balanced and healthy environment. Therefore, when one predominates over the other, it can generate discomfort and energetic imbalance.

How are Yin and Yang explored in Feng Shui?

In Feng Shui, the application of Yin and Yang occurs in different aspects of decoration and space organization. Here's how to find this balance in each space:

1. Lighting and Energy

• Environments very dark can become excessively Yin, causing a feeling of apathy and melancholy. Therefore, to balance, add more lighting, preferably natural, to bring out the Yang.
• If the space is very bright and stimulating, can generate agitation and anxiety (excessive Yang). In this case, adding light curtains, soft tones, and indirect lighting helps balance with Yin.

2. Colors in Decoration

• Dark and cool tones (blue, black, gray) represent Yin and are suitable for resting areas, such as bedrooms and meditation rooms.
• Vibrant and warm colors (red, orange, yellow) represent Yang and are ideal for stimulating energy in social environments, such as living rooms and kitchens.

3. Textures and Materials

• Soft and organic surfaces, such as pillows, shag rugs and fabrics, increase Yin and create a feeling of warmth.
• Rigid and shiny materials, such as glass, metal and angular furniture, increase Yang and bring more dynamism.

4. Distribution of Spaces

• Environments of rest and relaxation, such as bedrooms, should contain more Yin elements to promote tranquility. Therefore, work with soft colors, little direct lighting, and rounded furniture.
• On the other hand, environments of activity and socialization, such as offices and meeting rooms, require more Yang to stimulate focus and productivity. Thus, we have stronger lighting, vibrant colors, and well-structured furniture.

What happens when there is an imbalance?

If an environment has very Yin, can lead to laziness, demotivation, and even feelings of isolation. This is common in dark, cold, or excessively quiet places.
Likewise, an excess of Yang It can make the space too hectic, generating stress and making it difficult to relax. In short, environments that are too bright, noisy, and full of vibrant colors tend to have this effect.

The secret of Feng Shui is to always look for a healthy balance between Yin and Yang, adapting the energy according to the purpose of each space. Thus, with this harmony, it is possible to create an environment that promotes both rest and productivity, promoting well-being and prosperity.

The Five Elements

You Five Elements of Feng Shui are one of the pillars of this ancient philosophy and represent the cycles of nature and the interaction between different types of energy. Thus, the elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water — directly influence the flow of Chi (vital energy) in environments and must be balanced to create harmony.

Each element, primarily, has its own characteristics and can be represented by specific colors, materials, and shapes. Furthermore, they interact with each other through two main cycles: Creation Cycle and Cycle of Destruction.

How to apply the Five Elements in Feng Shui

1. Wood – Growth and Vitality

• Features: Represents renewal, creativity, and expansion. Above all, it symbolizes continuous growth and connection with nature.
• Associated colors: Green and woody tones.
• Shapes: Elongated and rectangular.
• Materials: Wood, bamboo and natural plants.
• Best places: Living rooms, offices and kitchens to stimulate productivity and growth.
• Usage tips: Add wooden furniture, live plants, and green decorative elements to promote energy and health.

2. Fire – Energy and Passion

• Features: Represents enthusiasm, dynamism, and power. In this sense, it stimulates action, motivation, and recognition.
• Associated colors: Red, orange, pink and purple.
• Shapes: Triangular and pointed.
• Materials: Candles, fireplaces, bright lights and decorative objects in warm tones.
• Best places: Living room and work areas where energy and dynamism are sought.
• Usage tips: Use candles, lamps, and decorative objects in red to stimulate movement and passion. On the other hand, avoid overdoing it in the bedroom, as it can make it difficult to rest.

3. Earth – Stability and Security

• Features: Represents balance, solidity, and security. Thus, it helps with concentration, health, and a sense of belonging.
• Associated colors: Earthy tones, yellow, beige and brown.
• Shapes: Square and rectangular.
• Materials: Ceramics, natural stones, clay and crystals.
• Best places: Meditation rooms and rooms to promote stability and calm.
• Usage tips: Add ceramic vases, stones and elements in earthy tones to reinforce the feeling of welcome and security.

4. Metal – Clarity and Precision

• Features: Symbolizes organization, focus, and discipline. It also aids communication and logical thinking.
• Associated colors: White, silver, gold and gray.
• Shapes: Circular and oval.
• Materials: Metals such as steel, gold, silver and shiny objects.
• Best places: Offices and study spaces, as it encourages concentration.
• Usage tips: Include metallic furniture, mirrors, and silver or gold accessories to stimulate mental clarity.

5. Water – Fluidity and Intuition

• Features: Represents tranquility, flexibility, and intuition. It also stimulates communication and wisdom.
• Associated colors: Blue and black.
• Shapes: Organic and wavy.
• Materials: Water fountains, aquariums, glass and mirrors.
• Best places: Offices, study rooms and home entrances to attract good opportunities.
• Usage tips: Use mirrors, water fountains and objects in shades of blue to bring fluidity and emotional balance.

The Interaction of the Five Elements

Elements do not act in isolation — they interact in two main ways:

1. Creation Cycle (Positive Cycle)

This cycle shows how one element can strengthen another, creating a positive flow of energy:

Wood feeds Fire → Fire generates ash that forms the Earth → Earth generates Metals precious → Metal turns into Water, in the form of condensation → Water nourishes the Wood.

Practical example: If a space feels too stagnant or lacking energy, adding elements from the creative cycle can restore the natural flow of energy.

2. Destruction Cycle (Control Cycle)

This cycle shows how one element can weaken or control another:

Fire melts the Metal → Metal cut the Wood → Wood absorbs nutrients from Earth → Earth blocks the flow of Water → Water delete the Fire.

Practical example: If an environment is overly agitated (too much Yang), adding elements that control this excess can bring more balance. For example, if there is too much Fire in a space (warm colors, intense lighting), add elements Water (shades of blue, water fountains) can help soften the environment.

How to Balance the Elements at Home?

The secret of Feng Shui lies in balancing the Five Elements according to the function of each space. Some general tips include:

• If an environment feels stagnant, add Fire (lights, candles, vibrant colors) to stimulate energy.
• If there is a lot of commotion, elements of Water (cool tones, mirrors, fountains) can bring more calm.
• If you feel a lack of focus, include Metal (metallic furniture, neutral tones) for more mental clarity.
• If you are looking for more stability, add Earth (stones, ceramics, earthy tones) to create a solid base.
• If you want more growth and creativity, enter Wood (plants, wooden furniture) to nurture new ideas.

By applying the Five Elements to your environment, you not only improve the aesthetics of the space, but also create an energetic flow that promotes prosperity, balance, and well-being.

The Bagua

THE Bagua is an essential tool in Feng Shui. It's an octagonal energy map superimposed on the floor plan of a house or room, identifying which areas correspond to different aspects of life, such as career, family, prosperity, and relationships. Therefore, harmonizing each sector of the Bagua allows you to positively influence these areas.

The Bagua is based on the I Ching, an ancient Chinese oracle, and divides the environment into nine areas, each associated with an aspect of life. These areas are called Guas and are linked to one of the Five Elements of Feng Shui, to a color and to one specific meaning.

The 9 areas of the Baguá and their meanings:

Area	Meaning	Color	Element
Work / Career	Life purpose, professional success	Black and dark blue	Water
Spirituality / Wisdom	Knowledge, learning, personal growth	Light blue, green	Earth
Family / Health	Family relationships, emotional stability	Green, blue	Wood
Prosperity / Wealth	Money, abundance, financial success	Purple, gold	Wood
Success / Fame	Reputation, recognition, self-esteem	Red	Fire
Relationships / Love	Love, marriage, personal connections	Pink, white	Earth
Creativity / Children	Inspiration, projects, fertility	White, pastels	Metal
Friends / Travel	Networking, mentors, opportunities	Gray, silver	Metal
Center / Health	Balance, physical and mental well-being	Yellow, earthy tones	Earth

How to apply Bagua in your home?

To use the Bagua correctly, it is necessary to superimpose it on the floor plan of the house or a specific room. However, the most common method is Western Hemisphere Baguá, where the Guá of Career (Work) must be aligned with the main entrance door.

Step by Step to Apply the Bagua:

1. Get the floor plan of your house and draw a rectangle or square around the entire space.
2. Divide the plant into nine equal parts, like a tic-tac-toe board.
3. Align the Career (Work) Gua with the main entrance of the property.
4. Identify the other guas, noting where each area of the house is positioned in the Bagua.
5. Activate each sector using colors, elements and objects related to each Guá.

If you are applying the Bagua to a single room, the process is the same: align the room's entrance with the Career Gua and distribute the areas according to the map.

Applying Feng Shui as a whole in your home

Now that we understand the basics, let's explore how to apply them to different rooms in the house.

Main Entrance

THE Prohibited is considered the “mouth of Chi,” where energy enters your home. To ensure good energy flows:

• Keep the area clean and clear: Therefore, avoid accumulating objects or shoes near the door.
• Adequate lighting: A well-lit entrance attracts positive energy.​
• Use a welcome mat: In addition to being welcoming, it symbolizes the reception of good energies.

Living room

THE living room is the space for coexistence and interaction. To promote harmony:

• Furniture arrangement: Position the seats so that everyone can see each other, facilitating communication. Avoid placing the sofa with its back to the door.
• Harmonious colors: Earth tones, such as beige and brown, promote stability and comfort.
• Natural elements: Incorporate healthy plants to revitalize the environment.

Kitchen

THE kitchen symbolizes nourishment and prosperity. To balance energies:

• Keep the stove clean: It represents wealth, so take good care of it.
• Organization: Avoid accumulating unnecessary objects on countertops.
• Colors: Shades of green can stimulate health and vitality.

Room

THE room is a space for rest and rejuvenation. To create a peaceful environment:

• Bed position: Place it so that you can see the door, but are not directly in line with it.​
• Soft colors: Blue, green or pastel shades promote relaxation.
• Avoid electronics: They can interfere with the quality of sleep and the energy of the space.

Bathroom

THE bathroom can be an energy leak. To minimize this:

• Keep the door and toilet closed: This way, it will help retain positive energy within the home.
• Light colors: White or soft tones enhance the feeling of cleanliness and purity.
• Plants: Humidity-loving species can help balance energy.

Colors in Feng Shui

Colors play a fundamental role in Feng Shui, as each hue is associated with one of the five elements and can directly influence the energies of the environment. So, let's see how to use them strategically:

• Red (Fire): Stimulates energy, passion, and motivation. Ideal for social areas, but should be used sparingly in bedrooms, as it can cause restlessness.
• Blue (Water): Represents calm, introspection, and wisdom. Therefore, it is perfect for bedrooms and offices.
• Green (Wood): Symbolizes growth, renewal, and health. Therefore, it is excellent for living rooms and kitchens.
• Yellow (Earth): Evokes stability and joy. Therefore, it is ideal for kitchens and dining rooms.
• White (Metal): Purity, clarity, and organization. Therefore, it fits well in any environment, but should be balanced with other colors to avoid a coldness.

When choosing colors for your home, consider the functionality of the space and the desired emotional effect.

Plants that attract good energy

In Feng Shui, plants play an essential role, as they are symbols of growth, vitality, and renewal. However, some of the best options for attracting positive energy include:

• Peace Lily: Purifies the air and promotes tranquility. Therefore, it's ideal for bedrooms and living rooms.
• Lucky Bamboo: Symbolizes prosperity and growth. Therefore, it should be placed in the wealth area of the Bagua.
• Snake Plant: Protects against negative energies and can be placed at the entrance of the house.
• Boa constrictor: Brings abundance and balances the energy of the environment. Therefore, it is great for living rooms and offices.

Keeping plants healthy is essential, as dry or wilted leaves can block the positive flow of energy.

Common mistakes in Feng Shui

Feng Shui is amazing for elevating energy. However, some practices can disrupt this flow. Here are the most common mistakes and how to fix them:

1. Accumulation of clutter

Accumulated objects block the flow of energy. Therefore, maintaining an organized and clutter-free environment allows Chi to flow freely.

2. Poorly positioned mirrors

Mirrors reflect and duplicate the energy of a room. Therefore, avoid placing them in front of the bed, as they can cause insomnia and restlessness. Likewise, they should not be directly aligned with the front door.

3. Poorly positioned bed

Avoid placing the bed directly in front of a door or under exposed beams, as this can create energy instability and affect your rest.

4. Bathroom door always open

The bathroom is a place where energy dissipates. Therefore, always keep the door closed to prevent the escape of positive Chi.

5. Too many strong colors

Vibrant colors are powerful, but they should be used in moderation. Ideally, combine them with neutral tones to avoid overdoing it, which can cause agitation or fatigue.

In short…

Feng Shui isn't just a matter of aesthetics, but a powerful tool for transforming your home into a space of balance and well-being. Small changes in furniture arrangement, color choices, and element selection can have a positive impact on your energy and quality of life.

With a harmonious environment, you will feel the benefits of a lighter, more vibrant space that is conducive to attracting prosperity, harmony, and happiness.

Recommended reading:

Feng Shui: The Power to Attract Harmony and Prosperity – Silvana Occhialini

Clean Up Your Clutter with Feng Shui: Free Your Life from Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Clutter Forever – Karen Kingston (Author), Newton Roberval Eichemberg (Translator)

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