Simple Ways to Decorate with Feng Shui: The EARTH element
This is the third article in a series that gives you simple ways to decorate with each of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. For broader introduction to the five elements read my Feng Shui 101 article about the Five Elements.
Using design elements to create the energy of EARTH
This article gives you a taste and real examples of what you can use to decorate and design with the earth element. You can choose the level and amount of the element you want to bring in to your space. I will give you: an earth element paint option, accessories to bring earth energy into a bedroom, and a simple way to bring the natural energy of earth into your space.
Why you should consider adding the earth element to your design:
- It brings supportive energy into a space
- It can ground and stabilize energy
- If you are feeling scattered and anxious
- It can enhance the center (tai chi) of a space or home (unity and well-being)
- If you want more nurturing and warmth enhance the love/partnership area
Boosting ‘earth’ element areas of the bagua
You can also use the décor ideas below to enhance an area of the bagua. The earth element is associated with the center (the tai chi), but it is also the underlying energy for two other areas of the bagua: Gen and Kun. Gen (knowledge) is connected to the imagery of stillness and the mountain. Kun (partnerships) is soft, receptive earth energy. These two areas, while holding the still and grounding energy of earth can be adjusted with symbols and their respective colours. Gen: books, knowledge, meditative symbols, and the colour blue. Kun: romantic imagery, pairs, and the colours pink and red. Read my Feng Shui 101 article for more information about the bagua.
Bringing in the earth element with design:
Earth element paint colour: You can use the colour yellow (also soft browns and sandy colours) to bring the energy of earth into a space. Earth chi is a stabilizing energy. In this example above, the yellow painted risers are both visually appealing, as well as grounding. Tip: if it works for your design and décor, add a touch of yellow (earth) to the center of your home. This is a great way to enhance the tai chi, the energetic center of the bagua that represents overall well-being. Looking for a nice bright yellow paint colour? Daffodil by Sherwin Williams is a beautiful, sunny, yellow paint colour.
Earth element art and accessories: Accessorizing is an easy and flexible way to bring the five elements into a space. You can choose how much or little you would like to add: a toss pillow, a rug or piece of art. Remember, you don’t need to paint the walls yellow or brown to add the earth element energy to a space. In the example above, you can see how artwork, toss pillows and a throw can completely change a simple white bedroom. Tip: If bright yellow feels too intense, choose a few soft, buttery yellow accessories to sooth frayed nerves and promote well-being.
Earth element - the real deal: The simplest and most straightforward way to bring the earth element into a space is with real earth. You can use natural crystals and stones, even the soil in a potted plant counts! A Himalayan salt lamp is a fantastic way to bring the natural energy of earth to any spot in your home. It combines the energy of fire and earth, plus it cleanses the energy and air in your home. Tip: The warm, glowing lamp is a perfect way to boost and enhance your love and partnership area (Bonus: if you have the room try a pair of matching lamps!).
Next week: Simple Ways to Decorate with Feng Shui: The METAL element