Feng Shui Décor: Attracting the Good, Neutralizing the Bad

Don’t be misled: feng shui décor is just any normal, regular implement in interior design, and not something out of a Chinese pagoda. However, the significance here is that it incorporates principles of feng shui, an ancient Chinese philosophy that survives till today.

So what exactly is feng shui? Without being too technical, feng shui is the art and science of inviting and enhancing positive energy through the use and positioning of objects that promote harmony. According to the Chinese, the opposing forces yin and yang (similar to the concept of male and female, good and evil, north and south) are ever present in our surroundings, and we must strive to keep a relative balance or at the very least, seek to regulate its output.

Feng shui décor helps to attract good vibrations and suppress bad impressions. Below are some of the most common enhancements that are effective in bringing out the best in your home or office.

A fish aquarium is generally a “good luck” charm – it includes all the 5 elements in feng shui: water, wood, earth, metal and fire. The constant motion in the aquarium provides a welcome contrast to any room that is still and doesn’t hold much activity; while at the same time offers a sense of tranquility in any place that is bustling or filled with people. However, take note that an aquarium is inappropriate inside the bedroom, as the ceaseless movement of the fishes can have an effect on the sleeping patterns of the occupants.

Koi fish are especially held in high regard in feng shui practice, mainly due to their colors; they symbolize prosperity, good luck and long life. While they are typically reared in ponds, koi can also be raised in aquariums. If for some reason it is impossible for you to maintain an aquarium, or to nurture a pet koi in particular, a painting or artwork with koi fish designs can still do the trick.

Just like a fish aquarium, an indoor fountain also brings peace and tranquility, and helps to counter stillness in a room. For maximum effect, a good feng shui fountain should look natural or represent nature, and not one that resembles a toy, building or any man-made thing (for example, a water-spouting cartoon character). When complemented by a painting or artwork with koi designs, it can have the same effect as a fish aquarium, with all the elements of water, fire, wood, earth and metal included. Water should be running consistently; when not in use, do not leave the water stagnant, instead, remove the water.

Indoor plants are feng shui décor that add vitality to a room. They signify the wonders of nature and living, and bring to life dead or empty corners. They also help to smoothen sharp edges (known as “poison arrows” in feng shui speak). Make sure to care for your plants so that they always have that healthy color. Dead, dying or diseased plants don't give off the same aura and aren't much help in any setting.

The tinkling sounds that wind chimes make are said to discourage evil spirits or bad luck from coming into the household. They are also thought to bring good fortune in business establishments, which is why most Chinese stores have chimes on top of their doorways. They are most effective when placed in an area that picks up wind often, or where they can frequently be made to create their “music”. The best feng shui wind chimes should be the simple kind: tubes that are hollow and crafted out of either wood (bamboo is perfect!) or metal make a far better sound than those made of ceramic, glass or plastic.