Feng shui decorating basics

Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese art of living, has recently come into vogue for offices and homes all over the modern world. For those trying to put more Feng Shui into their personal space, here is a quick guide to the many decorations and purchase options following the trends of this Chinese art.

For beginners, Feng Shui is a way to cultivate the energy flow and tranquility of a room or house's natural layout. This is done by arranging the furniture and layout of a room, as well as by the careful selection and positioning of symbolic decorations and artworks within the room. The entire purpose is to make the living space more enjoyable and comfortable for its inhabitants and to increase the positive energy of the room.



Placement and selection of decorative objects in the room is a key aspect of Feng Shui, and all objects have a symbolic meaning or character which can influence the energy and inhabitants of the room. When choosing a decorative item, you must be aware of the meaning behind the object and its possible impact on your life. If you are an energetic or stressed-out type of person, a symbol of energy or impact might not be the best choice. Objects in Feng Shui should remind you of your own goals, and by their existence and your growing awareness of them, should lead you to fulfill your own goals in your life.


Here is a short guide to some of the basic meanings and purposes of Feng Shui decorations and symbols. Decide which fits in best with your own lifestyle and what you might want to change in your life. Symbols for energy, love, happiness, wealth, and others abound in ancient Chinese decorations, and you should get to know and become comfortable with those meanings before making a decorating choice. Each type of decoration is also associated with a particular element as well.


Shrine: A small family shrine is one of the centerpieces of Feng Shui in the household. The family shrine should be a composition of things that are important for you, including photos of loved ones, symbols of your life, or other reminders of your dreams and aspirations. Usually set in a small alcove or quiet corner of the room, the shrine should not be neglected, but should be periodically rearranged and kept in order. You can use the shrine to burn incense, or to leave small offerings of loose change or rice as well, in a symbolic gesture to the household gods. Usually made from carved stone, these shrines have a connection to the earth element.


Small Fountains: The sound of the falling water and the constant movement is designed to add tranquility to your living space. For stressed out or busy people, this can be an opportunity to reflect on the water and let your stress flow out of your body. Fountains come in several varieties, from small constant trickles of water down a rock face to the periodic rhythmic tilting of bamboo cups into a larger pool of water. Clearly, because of the use of water, these fountains are symbolic of the element of water.


Candles: Feng Shui candles come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and meanings. Each color candle is representative of a different goal, including wealth, love, and success. Candles can be slightly scented, and their warm glow is seen to spread energy and life around the room. Because of the small flame, candles are associated with the element of fire.


Wind Chimes: Providing simple music with each breeze, wind chimes should be placed near an open door or window to lighten up the room and give it a pleasant environment. Wind chimes are symbolic of serenity and tranquility and are also thought to bring luck to whoever listens to them. Wind chimes can also incorporate other symbols, of animals or dragons, opening up a whole variety of meanings and purposes.