Water Features In Feng Shui

Feng Shui is a Chinese system using philosophical concepts to guide us to live harmoniously within our surrounding environment. The term literally translates as “wind-water”. Its classification positions it as one of the Five Arts of Chinese Metaphysics. Metaphysics deals with the questions “What is out there” and “What is it like” and has been documented way back to the days of Aristotle. Feng Shui uses formulas and calculations so that we can work with the ever-present forces (known as Qi or Chi) that invisibly bind the Universe, Earth and Man together.

Water element in Feng Shui

Water in the Feng Shui system is quite complex as it symbolizes abundance. Of the eight areas in Feng Shui (corresponding with the eight compass points) the element of Water receives particular attention in the East, Southeast and North areas of the space under consideration. An understanding of how the other four elements are expressed in shapes and colors will assist in achieving balance rather than overwhelming the element associated with a specific area. This allows one to place a fountain in the West (which is associated with the Metal element) by using shapes, color and material that support Metal.

Making it work for you

Water symbolizes Abundance which is interpreted as wealth and prosperity. The three areas associated with water signifies Health and Family (East), Prosperity and Abundance (Southeast) and Career and Path in Life (North). Decide which one needs re-enforcing. Placing a fountain in the South area is not advisable as South is associated with the element of Fire and this combination creates conflicting energy as Water puts out Fire. Avoid a water feature in the bedroom (no matter which area it is in) as it introduces the energy of worry.

Applying it to the rooms

In addition to all the formulas and calculations intention is seen as a very important ingredient. This means one can use personal style. Normally one starts off with a map called a Bagua. The front door is then aligned with the bottom of the map. In this way nine Goals are defined. For example, the bottom center is associated with the goal of Career. To improve one’s work one can move items trophies, certificates and other work-related items to the bottom center space. Water naturally resides in this space so a water feature here will give the Career goal a good boost.

Water elements in the garden

The direction of water flow in the garden is not that critical unless it is a very large feature. A rule of thumb is that water should flow towards the house. It makes more sense within the Feng Shui model as wealth and prosperity will consequently flow in abundance towards you who, of course, is in the house. Practicality still rules in Feng Shui. Factors such as the size of the garden, its layout and even the number of fountains should be brought into the equation. Above all Feng Shui is all about the free flow of energies. Don’t hold back on changes in your garden and soon, you will feel the soothing water element’s presence!