Using Feng Shui to Balance the Effect of Winter
Winter always seems to say…quiet down, rest, and go inward, deep, deeper. Examine the strength and mystery within yourself. It’s time now to refrain from the frantic, rush, rush, rush and assess what is really important! Prioritize and get on tract.
In Feng Shui energy talk, the Water element signified by the color black or dark blue is at its zenith. The Water element is also known as the winter element since it is so prevalent during this time. Its direction is north. This is a yin element and the number associated with it is the number one (1). Objects that represent water include aquariums and fountains. Animals belonging to this element are the rat and the boar.
The winter months push us humans together. We occupy the same space as before, just a little more closely than before. Our interior space becomes even more ‘energy’ important as we are challenged to share that space and energy.
This is an opportune time to critically survey the space that the family will share. Make certain that all the Feng Shui 101 basics have been accomplished. Clean and polish that space! (A complete and thorough housecleaning and straightening with ruthless editing of items is absolutely necessary if energy is to flow in an auspicious manner)
This month the five elements are in the following configuration:
Fire is weakest energy (Extreme Yang energy)
Water is the strongest energy (Extreme Yin energy)
Metal is a waning/weak energy (Yin energy)
Wood energy is born (Yang energy)
Earth energy is strong (Yin energy)
The emotional elements of the water element, which is very strong right now, is that of willpower, magnetism, sensitivity, wisdom, persuasiveness and the ability to focus the mind. It assists in consolidation, revelation and knowledge and its archetype is the philosopher. The associated planet is Mercury.
If water is your nourishing element and you do not have a good balance in your Feng Shui assessment, bring water elements into your environment. Since the water element is VERY strong right now, don’t overdo a good thing! Add a fishbowl, aquarium, irregular shaped glass coffee table, artwork whose predominate color is dark blue or black. If you have TOO much water, then balance your environment with the energies that will stabilize and balance the water energy. Fire elements: Candles, red triangular shaped object, reds, pinks, oranges in fabrics/ tablecloths, light up that fireplace!
The fire energy and element are at their weakest now, so using Fire energy suggestions are an excellent thing to include in your environment. You are bringing in and balancing what nature is taking away, thus creating a more harmonious and flowing energy pattern.
Another energy that will soak up some of that water energy is the Wood element. To add wood to your environment bring in a live plant or two (Some of my plants come inside this time of year) Polish up a forgotten wood piece in the attic or basement, use striped fabric or fabric with a floral design. Wood sculptures, wooden frames on pictures/photos or use wood colors. The archetype for wood is the pioneer (makes sense, doesn’t it!) The associated planet is Jupiter.
Another element that will help to balance all that water is the earth element. Get out your pottery, concrete/brick type of ornaments, if you have brass objects use them to balance the water element. Ceramic tile, ceramic drawer pulls, carved stone sculptures and fabric in earth tones will work wonders in balancing the water energy. The archetype for the earth element is the peacemaker. The associate planet is Saturn.
I personally have a close association with the water element. I have worked diligently to bring my environment into balance. Powerful water has been an issue here at my old historic home. There is no basement ….In the 1800’s,( my house dates back to 1804) land was settled where water and animal life were plentiful. I have spent 26 years here. The gardens and surrounding shrubs and trees have been added to balance all the water that exists here. In my seasonal table articles I reference that the dining room in is the North, a water element direction, so a large wood table and wood chairs were selected for that space. The brick floor was selected, a large stone fireplace was selected. Wood built-in bookcases were selected. Wood corner cabinets and side tables were selected in order to balance the extreme and powerful force of the water element. The color, green, associated with wood was selected as a wall color. On the exterior, an additional garden was added with wood arbor, gate and fencing. Stone walkways meander through the space.
Are you getting a true picture of how much water I have had to balance? If you could have seen the geyser shooting out of the fire pit, perhaps you’d begin to understand the power of water.
From time to time the water finds a tiny crack or crevice that wasn’t recently caulked and finds a way to let me know that the willful, persuasive force of the North is still present. I stand in awe and appreciation of the Water element and its energy!!
About the Author
Elyssa Baxter is a Feng Shui Expert and Master Gardener. Combining her knowledge and talents, Elyssa provides Feng Shui Assessments and consultations to individuals for themselves, their homes and their gardens, as well as to businesses. Feng Shui is the movement of energy which she designs for the client using color, placement, simplicity of style, balance and harmony to positively affect the recipients. She also consults for events, such as weddings using the couple’s Feng Shui Assessments. What a great way to start a life together!
Visit Elyssa at http://www.theempressfengshui.com to learn practical everyday Feng Shui tips for every season, the Holidays, Home and Hearth, Garden and Self.
|
|
Metal lantern with inserted glass cylinder on stand 10.5H set of two $28.00 Reminiscent of the lanterns once carried through courtyard gardens of the Roji (dewy path) to the Cha-Shitsu garden pavilion or tea house where the Sado tea ceremony was performed. These wonders of the evening twilight will add a special glow to your own tea ceremony or evening meal…. |
|
|
Metal lantern with inserted glass cylinder on stand 10.5H set of two $28.00 Reminiscent of the lanterns once carried through courtyard gardens of the Roji (dewy path) to the Cha-Shitsu garden pavilion or tea house where the Sado tea ceremony was performed. These wonders of the evening twilight will add a special glow to your own tea ceremony or evening meal…. |
|
|
Bamboo Table Candle Holder … |
|
|
Scrolled Metal Candle Stand (Set of 2 Sizes) $108 -Metal candle stands are handcrafted and may vary in size -Measures 12×38: 9×31 -Wipe Clean -Candles not included |
|
|
3 Led Candle Each $1.99 Scene was created by using buff seamless paper, white netting for the floor, and black metallic Quasar Stars for the pathway. Red taffeta and thunder gray seamless was used to create the background. Arabian Paradise GazaboA grand entrance to your night of mystery and enchantment, this lighted cardboard and gossamer gazebo is 9′ 10″ high x 7′ 4″ wide X 7′ 4′ deep and printed on all sides. Assembly required. Arabian Paradise ColumnThese exotic printed cardboard columns are 9′ 10″ tall x 1′ 8″ wide x 1′ 8″ deep. The structures are decorated on each side and feature a 3-D topper. Easy assembly. Arabian Metal LanternFill your room with romance and enchantment. This 5′ high metal and glass lantern has a 14″ diameter base. Assembly time: One person, 10 minutes. Easy assembly. Candle sold separately. Exotic Metallic Palm TreeYou can’t set a true Arabian scene with out suitable foliage. Tree captivating trees constructed of mylar, tubing, fringe, and wire share a common 5″ wide x 5″ deep wooden base. The tallest tree stands 8′ 4″ high. Staple gun recommended for assembly (not included). Genie Bottle StandeeThis ornate bottle is fitting of an Arabian night. The 7′ 3″ high x 2′ 4″ wide x 1′ deep cardboard standee is freestanding and printed on one side only. Easy assembly. Peacock StandeeThis striking bird will beautifully grace your exotic scene. The freestanding, cardboard decoration is 3′ 10″ high x 4″ 8″ wide x 1′ deep and decorated on one side only. Easy assembly. World of Enchantment BackdropThis self-standing cardbaord backdrop measures 8′ high x 32′ long and is decorated on one side only. Assembly required. Arabian Paradise PoolA stunning focal point for your enchanted world, this 4′ 10″ high x 12′ wide x 4′ 3″ deep lighted, cardboard pool is accented with shred and mylar. Printed on three sides. Assembly required. Not intended for outdoor use. |
|
|
METAL FLOOR LANTERN $38 Fabulous floor lantern enhances your decor with cottage style romance! Scrollwork stand and bright-copper latticework candle lantern are lovely anywhere; use several sets together to elegantly illuminate a garden pathway or hall. Metal. Candle not include |
|
|
Sculpted Wedding Pillar Candles – White $27.5 We know that your wedding day will be the most important day of your life and that you will want to commemorate it in a manner that stands the test of time. These beautiful Sculpted Wedding Candles will do just that. You have to see them to really appreciate their beautiful detail. Sold individually. |
|
|
Hanging Coffee Glass Set – Black $4 Coffee tea or milk anyone? This hanging coffee glass set will surely perk you up in the morning or evening. Comes with two lightly freesia scented candles housed in a nice metal container. |
|
|
Bose UFS-20 Universal Floor Stands – Steel – Black $78.4 The slender metal stands elegantly display your speakers while hiding the speaker wires. Designed to optimize listening. |
|
|
Bose UFS-20 Universal Floor Stands – Steel – Silver $89.7 The slender metal stands elegantly display your speakers while hiding the speaker wires. Designed to optimize listening. |
|
|
Bose UFS-20 Universal Floor Stands – Steel – White $56.77 The slender metal stands elegantly display your speakers while hiding the speaker wires. Designed to optimize listening. |
|
|
Pillar Candle Stand (Set of 3 Sizes) $153 -Metal candle stands are handcrafted and may vary in size -Measures 11×46-11×31-11×38 -Wipe Clean -Candles not included |