Create desirable energy flow and harmony for your surroundings with the age-old concepts of Feng Shui.

“Feng Shui” is a technique of arranging things for ideal balance, harmony and serenity within an area to ensure a serene, nourishing, and elevating environment. Water is one of the five primary elements of Feng Shui. In fact, the Chinese term Feng Shui loosely translates to “wind and water”. Because water possesses both meditative and active qualities, a flowing water feature is a fundamental element when using Feng Shui. Many individuals choose an indoor water fountain with an Asian theme such as a bamboo fountain. Yet, a classic European  fountain could function equally well.

Materials found in the natural world such as slate, copper, stone, bamboo, and wood are all in keeping with Feng Shui principles. For example, a bamboo fountain merges water and wood energy. Tranquil Zen fountains constructed from a slab of marble combined with bronze are unobtrusive, projecting the sense of serenity and stability. They are popular as both ground mounted and wall mounted water fountains. No matter what design you prefer, make sure the water in your fountain is always clean, adequately supplied and free of debris.

When modifying your garden or yard, it is essential to take into account that in Feng Shui, all parts of the space evoke a symbolic significance. There are many different schools of Feng Shui. However, all use some type of template that divides the space into separate areas that affect one’s life. These include such factors as fame, health, friends, love, money, and more. In arranging a garden fountain, said to facilitate the flow of qi (life energy), the most auspicious placement would be in the southeast, east, or north portions of your garden.

Curved shapes are preferred in Feng Shui, so outdoor fountains that include rounded basins and those that include a sphere or orb are outstanding selections. There are many beautiful water fountains made with a chain of pottery or ceramic vessels that trickle water into each other, which permits qi to both be collected and circulated. Metal figures of birds, frogs, or meditating figures also can augment symbolism to advance wealth, health, longevity, or luck.

Many gardens can benefit from having a water fountain designed with Feng Shui principles in mind. Large wall fountains, petite tabletop fountains, stone and slate fountains, Zen fountains, and timeless garden fountains can all contribute to soothing and refreshing the positive energy in your open-air space.