Feng Shui 5 Elements
The Taoist 5 Elements; Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water.
This is different from the 4 Western Elements; Earth, Air, Water and Fire. Air is left out of the Taoism 5 Elements. The Taoists believe that everything between Heaven and Earth has an interaction with the 5 Elements. They apply them to everything from years, months, days, minutes, seasons, weather, cardinal directions, colours, organs, body parts, illnesses, speech, sounds, emotions and so on.
In ancient China, natural changes between the Elements were observed and this system was given a name ‘Wu zhong liu xing zhi Qi’, abbreviated to ‘Wu Xing’. Known in English as ‘The 5 Transformation Phases’ or more commonly in the West ‘The 5 Elements’.
Each of the 5 Elements is seen as a movement, constantly changing in our surrounding environment. An Element never dies, only the form changes as it progresses through each phase.
The 5 Element Theory is also used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Meridian Therapy, Shiatsu, Astrology, Macrobiotics, Face Reading, Martial Arts, Tai Chi etc.
Visual guide to Feng Shui room colours
Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water
Together these Elements form natural cycles – an important tool for Feng Shui. The Feng Shui 5 Elements can be used in a property to enhance or calm areas where there is imbalance. A Feng Shui consultant uses the 5 Element Theory after carrying out a Flying Stars analysis. This can help find suitable colours, materials and shapes for each area in your home.
Using the physical Element is the best way to bring it into your interior e.g. for an area that needs Earth, you could use a clay pot (Earth Element) filled with earth (Earth Element) and a small plant (Wood Element). Colour and symbolism are less effective than the physical Element. However it is all about finding the most practical solutions for you and your property. Some clients are able to use physical Elements, some will use colour and some may use just symbolism. This is where creativity and flexibility come in!
Water is the most powerful Element in Feng Shui and must be used wisely in the home. It is not advisable to use physical Water in some areas, depending on the Flying Stars analysis and the findings of other Feng Shui methods. It is important to seek guidance from a Feng Shui professional when using 5 Element Theory. Be wary of Feng Shui Practitioners who sell you various lucky ornaments to place in the home to symbolise and activate wealth, career or Element support!
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