Houseplants: The Art of Feng Shui

Photograph by Paul Gellatly

Photograph by Paul Gellatly (Ficus)

A reader from the blog has asked that I write about Feng Shui, specifically how to use houseplants correctly.  I have done some research and learned a few things myself!  In previous blogs, I've written about the importance of plants to clean the air, and discussed other positive attributes of having plants around your home.

Photo by Paul Gellatly
(Peace Lily)

In the Art of Feng Shui, life force takes center stage.   Having live plants in your home contributes to life energy, and enhances the wood element; both of which are fundamental aspects of this art.  There are common plants that are used in typical Feng Shui, however its important to note that any healthy living plant will emit a positive flow of chi into your home.

Photograph by Paul Gellatly (Jade Plant)

Plants that are commonly used are Bamboo, Palms, Orchids, Begonias, Dracaena, Peace Lily, Jade Plant, and Ficus (which I learned Buddha was sitting under when he achieved enlightenment... VERY COOL!)

If you have an area where plants aren't an option, fresh cut flowers are a good choice, as long as they are thrown away quickly, when they begin to wilt.  Also keep in mind dried flowers are never used in Feng Shui, because the life force that flower once had is gone.   Always replace a dying plant with a larger healthier plant, ensuring you overcome the reduction in chi energies.

Photo by Paul Gellatly (Bamboo)

Here are some ideals to keep in mind when decorating your home with Feng Shui in mind...  Hide any sharp and harsh lines, (for example a corner or a slanted ceiling); use a plant to hide these lines in your home and keep the flow of chi moving between rooms.  Utilize the entrance way to your home in a positive way.  This is the first space in your home where you welcome people, and fresh air enters freely.  Try growing herbs in your home, for example...  a lavender plant, known to promote relaxation.  Plants in pairs are said to increase chi in your living space.  Finally, consider placing a fern in the bedroom, with its softer leaves, it promotes relaxation and tranquility.

Photograph by Paul Gellatly (Begonia)

For centuries this ancient Chinese art... The art of Feng Shui, has been said to balance the energy, and create a sense of true harmony and peace in every room of your home.  Truthfully I have never considered Feng Shui in my home or my placement of plants.  After having researched it for this blog... I realized I already had a lot of things right but I did make a couple of changes.

We are constantly exposed to negative energy on a daily basis... The art of Feng Shui has been passed down over hundreds of years, generation to generation.  There is something to be said about tradition... Can it make a difference in your life and your home? Why not consider the possibility?

Photograph by Paul Gellatly (Tiger Fern)