Feng Shui is an ancient practice that has gained popularity recently. Learn about some objects you can use to bring balance to your home.


Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice. In olden days, it was synonymous with the term 'Kan-Yu', which refers to the law of heaven and earth. The term 'Feng Shui' can be translated as wind-water. As a practice, Feng shui involves the arrangement of furniture and available space so as to be in harmony with the natural surroundings.

Feng shui is believed to encourage the natural flow of vital energy or Qi within a household. This is accomplished by making sure that its layout is not in conflict with the environment. Generally, Feng shui may be practised right from the initial architectural planning stage. It is not unheard of to have entire apartment buildings constructed such that they adhere to Feng shui principles.
Using decorative articles in Feng shui

One major aspect of Feng shui involves the placement of certain decorative articles and objects in predetermined places to enhance the energy flow of a particular area. Each of these objects has its own designated significance or represents a particular value or feeling. For this reason, an object should be chosen only after thorough research. If you simply place an object without understanding its purpose, you will not be able to fully benefit from the effect it is supposed to have on your life.

Some objects are said to represent certain characteristics of your life like energy, happiness, love, etc. Other objects indicate the milestones or goals that you are looking to achieve in your life. It is believed that having these objects around constantly in your life will motivate you to achieve your goals. Some decorative articles in Feng shui are also associated with environmental elements. How they are used will depend on your personality type.

Shrines: A shrine is supposed to be representative of the family residing in the house. Hence, it should contain objects that are important to the family members. This includes pictures of each family member, as well as things that represent the entire family. It should also contain a symbol of what the entire family or each member of the family wishes to achieve. Feng shui shrines are usually carved out of stone and are strongly associated with the earth element.

The shrine is usually placed in a quiet corner of the home, preferably in a small niche. This does not mean that the shrine is kept in one corner and forgotten. On the contrary, the contents of the shrine should be re-arranged on a regular basis so as to remind the residents of their respective goals. You can burn incense sticks at the shrine or keep offerings like rice grains or loose coins. This is done to satisfy the household gods who will guide you and your family.

Fountains: A small fountain in your home has flowing water, which represents constant movement. According to Feng shui principles, this indicates tranquillity. It is believed that when a person is tired or stressed, the flowing water helps to drain away the fatigue, refreshing the person. Fountains are associated with the element of water.

Fountains also symbolise wealth. For example, placing a ship filled with cargo in a water fountain represents income. If the ship points inwards or towards the water spout, it refers to an invitation for new opportunities. Also, a fountain when combined with the symbol of a dragon is seen as an invitation for good fortune to enter your home.

Candles: Feng shui candles are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours. By their very nature, they are associated with fire. Different coloured candles represent different characters or feelings such as wealth, happiness, and love. Scented candles further enhance the feelings they represent. Their tiny glow is believed to spread energy in the room where they are placed.

Wind chimes: Wind chimes are usually made of metal and are placed at the entrance to a room or hung at a window. The gentle music they produce is said to be a bringer of serenity to the room. It is also believed that the person who hears their tinkling is blessed with good luck.