In Feng Shui, a lot of money is made with the concept of energy. There are glass spirals that are believed to prevent energy from disappearing through the toilet or crystals that are supposed to protect against dangerous 'arrows' from the corners of houses. The list of Feng Shui items is endless, and they typically only benefit the sellers' wallets.
When we talk about energy in Feng Shui, we are referring to tangible energies that surround us and influence us all. In the Chinese tradition, these influences are known as the energy cycle, which in the West is commonly referred to as the 'Five Elements.' This term can be somewhat misleading, but it has become widely accepted, so we use it here as well.
In Feng Shui, these are the essential factors we consider and seek to harmonize within a house. Let's take a closer look at these 5 forms of energy, also known as
The 5 Qis
Wood Qi
Represents the light in a house. Depending on the purpose of a room, the wood energy can be stronger or weaker. We need light during the day for work, but we don't need it during the night's rest period. Therefore, it's ideal to have bedrooms facing the north and active rooms facing south and west. What good is a beautiful view of a sunset in the bedroom? It's better to use the light energy for the living room, kitchen, or workspace. Work is much easier when daylight is involved, and a social dinner is much more enjoyable when you can enjoy a nice view of the setting sun.
Fire Qi
Represents the warmth in a house. Initially, we think of heating, which is correct. But depending on a house's orientation, we can harness the natural fire energy of the sun, which becomes more apparent as energy prices continue to rise. If active rooms like the living room, kitchen, or workspace are in the southern direction, even weak winter sun can warm these areas. Anyone who has sat in a conservatory in bright winter sunlight can confirm this. Wood Qi produces Fire Qi. Where there is light, there is also warmth.
Earth Qi
Refers to human energy. The occupants of a house nurture it by keeping it clean and well-maintained. A house without Earth energy quickly becomes a ruin. How we move through a house and where we arrange our spaces are closely linked to our personal well-being. When Earth energy is harmonious - meaning the house is tidy and in good condition - we feel comfortable.
Metal Qi
Represents the air in a house. Insufficient oxygen makes us tired and prone to fatigue. Especially in winter when all windows and doors remain closed, a house 'breathes' less. How great is the joy when spring allows fresh air to circulate through the house, replacing stale and dry heating air with a refreshing spring breeze? Proper ventilation is important not only for us but also to prevent moisture and mold.
Water Qi
is self-explanatory. Getting fresh water into the house used to be much more labor-intensive. Today, we have water pipes, and we only need to turn on a tap to be supplied with clean water. The days of fetching water from a well are behind us, and dirty wastewater conveniently flows into the sewerage system nowadays.
