As you complete the site plan discussed previously, we do this to promote balance and a sense of what complimentary opposites bring to nature and the flow of positive energy. Proper garden design and landscaping with an understanding the role of the five elements – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water, is the first step in learning to appreciate the value of feng shui.
Why is all this important? It is structure that provides clarity with our daily activities becoming almost like a ritual and purpose that we then transmit to our living environment… These elements work together to create a balanced outdoor space. Here are some examples.
- Wood: Represents growth. Think of adding wooden benches or planting trees. In the city make sure to only plant trees that will not grow into powerlines. Wood chips used for walkways are a good source of utilizing the natural environment in your garden. The wood in my raised beds do this as well.
- Fire: Brings energy. A small, safe fire pit could be a great addition. I have a fire pit in my backyard. I also make a point never to burn leaves as the embers will spread if it’s too windy.
- Earth: Stands for stability. Large rocks or a stone pathway can do the trick. I’m always looking for large rocks to give structure and balance in my landscaping. Raised beds for my garden seems to provide the same structure.
- Metal: Encourages clarity. Consider adding some metal garden sculptures. I use metal for holding up perennials and tomatoes. I plan to experiment this year using tomato cages for some tall perennials that tend to get to top heavy. Also, metal fencing on the enclosed area for my chicken coop is important to keep out hungry racoons. I include a metal weathervane here on top of my greenhouse for good measure.
- Water: Calms and cleanses. A pond or fountain can be perfect. I have a pond in my backyard and am considering adding a fountain in the front yard as a water feature and so urce of water for birds and wildlife there as well.
It is what connects us to our role in nature through our gardens and how we attend to it that provides clarity as to how we communicate with others. For myself, it helps to re-enforce disciple and structure working to ensure a positive goal. Although now retired, my planning and teaching background show me the benefit that positive outcomes serve to show our next step. This this in mind I am guided with the thought that one step shows us what the next step should be. This is the power of feng shui in our garden and landscaping. Starting small and building confidence leads to success.
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