The ancient Chinese practice of feng shui, which actually means wind-water, creates harmony in a living space through mindful design and the artful arrangement of objects. Creating a living space in harmony with nature invites health, prosperity and good fortune.
Your garden serves as an extension of your home and an opportunity to create a serene space to gather outdoors. You can design your outdoor living space with a feng shui mindset by creating a harmonious balance of aesthetics, comfort, and energy flow.Create an inviting area for loved ones to gather that includes natural elements and eye-catching views by following these five tips to create feng shui in your garden.
Encourage the Flow of Chi Energy
Feng shui is based on the principles of tai chi; the arrangement of furniture, decorations, buildings, and even whole cities affects the energetic chi flow, according to Everyday Health, and ensures good luck, health, and relationships.
It’s important to pay careful attention to the flow of chi energy in your outdoor living space. Position seating areas away from direct paths or obstacles to allow for smooth movement and circulation. Avoid placing chairs with their backs to doors or windows, as this may disrupt the flow of energy. Remove clutter to give a positive feeling for the entire garden.
Incorporate the Five Elements
Enhance harmony in your garden by incorporating the five elements of feng shui: earth, wood, fire, metal, and water. According to mindbodygreen, adding the elements not only creates a balanced environment, it also helps establish a connection with nature.
So, how can you introduce each element into your outdoor living space? Add a water fountain or fish pond to evoke the element of water, a reminder to go with the flow and embrace change. Invite the powerful, transformative energy of fire by including lanterns, candles, or a fire pit.
Earth elements like boulders or gravel help you feel grounded and safe. Iron sculptures, singing bowls, and wind chimes evoke the strength and endurance of metal. Plant trees or add furniture made from wood to enhance wealth, health, and longevity.
Seating for Family and Friends to Gather
Creating an inviting space for friends to gather encourages prosperity and strong relationships, according to Homes and Garden. Start by choosing comfortable seating options that are both stylish and ergonomic, with ample support for the back and arms. Consider natural materials made from wood, bamboo, or rattan to evoke a sense of warmth and earthiness. Then, position seating in a way that everyone can see and hear each other to invite conversation.
Create Harmonious Focal Points
Living spaces should consider the focal point to draw attention and distribute balanced energy, according to Forbes Home. In your garden, anchor your seating arrangement with a focal point that attracts the eye. This could be an inviting fire pit, striking piece of artwork, a decorative fountain, or views of the surrounding landscape. Arrange your seating around this focal point to create a sense of cohesion and purpose.
Use Soft Contours and Curves
Embrace the fluidity of nature by incorporating smooth contours throughout your garden. According to Homes and Gardens, harsh curves, sharp edges, and straight walkways channel negative energy. Instead, create a sense of ease and tranquility by adding curved features. Look for ways to integrate contours into pathways, flowerbeds, waterlines, and the edges of fences to invite good vibes.