5 Elements

In Feng Shui, the universe and its energy are divided into five basic elements: water, wood, fire, earth and metal. The elements are represented in the time of day, the seasons and in life. Water represents the beginning and, ultimately, the end of this circular cycle. Wood signifies new growth, childhood, morning, Spring energy. Fire exhibits full maturity, noon, Summer. Earth is ripening maturity, middle-age, afternoon warmth, early Fall. Metal represents evening, elder-age, late Fall or early Winter, the end of the growth cycle. Water finishes the circle of life, as it, in turns, initiates it again come Spring. Each element possesses representative colors and shapes, which when applied to your environment can increase that elemental energy into your space. Our catalog (coming soon!) will contain products that reflect these elements.

Water

This is the most calming of energies, the opposite of fire. Water can be running, like a waterfall ... or calm and deep, like a mountain lake. Use blue or black to represent water. Water elements could include fountains, aquariums, pictures of water, glass and mirrors. The form associated with water is anything that is flowing or non-conforming.

Wood

Wood energy elicits growth energy, which strives upwardly, much like a new sprout reaching for the Spring sun. Use this energy for new beginnings in your life, increased inspiration, and self-growth. Green is the primary color for wood energy and items that are vertical and have upward movement (like tree growth!) signify wood. Purple can also be used for growth and healing.

Fire

Fire energy is the most powerful energy in the cycle. Red, yellow and orange are the colors of fire. Use fire energy in specific areas to bring maximum impact. The pyramid is the form for fire, as is anything that is pointy and upward reaching. Much like your parents who warned you to not "play with fire," be careful with your use of red, so not to bring too much fire (too much Yang) into your life, and overwhelm all other energies. Remember, it's about balance!

Earth

Earth is Fall energy. It is about nurturing, gathering up of ripened fruits. It is about bringing comfort to your life. Colors are ecru, rust, and browns. Overstuffed, round furniture and deep textural fabrics represent earth energy, as does horizontal, rectangular pieces, such as a credenza. Clutter is a byproduct of earth ... the gathering up, but not discarding of personal items. Earth is Yin energy and too much clutter, thereby, too much yin, can create a depressive atmosphere.

Metal

Metal is the energy of elder age, of perfection, of wisdom. Creativity is also a characteristic of metal. Do you need order in your life? Try some metal elements! The colors for metal are white, grey, and pastels. Anything metal represents this energy. Glass and mirrors can be used for both metal and water. Metal energy forms can be strictly linear or strongly circular or oval.

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