Feng Shui is the art and science of selecting and arranging a harmonious living environment that is in balance with the five elements (fire, metal, earth, wood and water). These elements take on implications of positive or negative energy and this energy is known as Chi (pronounced chee), or more colorfully, "the dragons cosmic breath", although no one really says that anymore.
Feng Shui is all about symbolism and most importantly intention, which is a powerful form of energy, probably the most powerful on earth. Feng Shui functions on the premise that if one lives, breathes, sleeps, sits, eats and works surrounded by healthy, vibrant energy, then one will be enveloped by an aura of good vibrations that will attract excellent good fortune.
Feng Shui principles can be incorporated into the design and layout of houses and offices. It is very powerful in business for enhancing turnover and profits. Every room within the home can benefit from Feng Shui though layout, orientations, shapes, color schemes, placement of furniture, decorative objects and paintings which all add to the totality of the whole.
The first thing you'll want to do is work on the front door to your home or office. This is the most important thing because your door brings in all the "good chi" or energy. Through my front door, I want to accumulate as much good energy (which translates into wealth) as possible. This abundance of wealth can come through increased energy, a harmonious relationship, helpful people, or even guard my place against a burglary.
First, you need to determine which way your door is facing. Using a compass, stand inside the front door, looking out, to get an accurate reading.
Once you determine which way your door faces, use color and the five elements to bring good luck through your door and into your home, office or retail store.
South Facing Door: Should be painted red, brown or green and display fire motifs that include triangular shapes, the sun and lights.
North-Facing Door: Should be painted blue, black or white and have water motifs (wavy).
East or Southeast-Facing Door: Paint it green, blue or black with the motifs of wood (rectangular). I'm in the process of painting a basement apartment door black with the main door to the house upstairs black since it faces East. I hope my clients will be able to keep up with the good luck that will follow.
West or Northwest-Facing Door: Paint it white, yellow or metallic colors: gold, copper or silver, with metal motifs (round or circular shapes). A few years ago, I painted my apartment door a neat coppery orange color; our landlord freaked but, after we finished painting, we received enough money to move to another state--which was our original intention.
Southwest or Northeast-Facing Door: Should be painted a striking yellow color and show earth motifs (square shapes). I live in a house with the main door facing northeast and painted it "warning line construction yellow" and it's amazing how many people now slow down and take notice though before they used to speed on by. I painted a client's door a beautiful burgundy red for a southwest facing door and they are working on closing a billion dollar deal as we speak.
When the main door is energized with the correct color and motif, it becomes very pleasing to the eye and creates a general feeling of balance. Most often, the surrounding elements match and are drawn into the color as well creating a harmonious "first impression." Try it and see for yourself. Even if that's the only Feng Shui thing you ever do, you'll notice a difference in the good luck that starts flowing your way.
There is so much more that can be discussed about the art of Feng Shui but I think I'll keep it simple. For now, I'll let you start with the basics. Good luck - now, go out and Be Jane!
Cynthia Fountaine is a Feng Shui enthusiast. She has worked in the construction field off and on for almost 19 years working/designing projects in Vienna, Austria, Moscow, Russia, and the United States.