In the realm of contemporary residential Feng Shui, how ought we to perceive it? What criteria should guide our assessment of residential Feng Shui for an optimal living experience? In what manner can we discern residential Feng Shui that aligns favorably with our fortunes? As for the twelve Chinese zodiac signs, how do we approach the selection of Feng Shui-compliant residences? Let us delve into these considerations.
In the examination of modern residential Feng Shui, a strategic placement of white, gold, or silver metallic ornaments in the northwest direction is deemed efficacious in enhancing benefactor luck and interpersonal relationships. Contrary to conventional belief, the predominant color in the living room is not the primary determinant in Feng Shui arrangement. Rather, emphasis should be placed on the overall spatial layout and the harmonization of the five elements. Selecting the appropriate color based on the orientation of the living room within the entire residence can contribute positively to Feng Shui.
Within the context of modern housing Feng Shui, it is imperative to avoid positioning the bathroom door directly facing the bedroom, as prolonged exposure may give rise to maladies. An ideal residence should impart a sense of spaciousness and brightness upon entry, devoid of psychological stress, thereby eliciting a pleasurable emotional response. It is advised not to adopt a layout with four opposing doors, commonly known as “scolding doors” in Feng Shui, as it tends to attract conflicts and disputes.
Regrettably, some contemporary architects, lacking comprehension of Feng Shui principles, inadvertently produce unconventional designs that result in unfavorable spatial arrangements. Instances include residences with a front and rear layout resembling the shape of a knife, where entering the premises reveals toilets on both the left and right sides. Such configurations may contribute to health issues and misfortunes, necessitating rectification during the renovation process. Many condominiums, unfortunately, neglect the significance of Feng Shui in their housing design, often featuring bedrooms with knife-shaped layouts. Consequently, it is imperative during the decoration phase to avoid positioning the bed directly opposite the knife edge, as it is deemed inauspicious. In the process of room decoration, one should indulge in a whimsical approach, creating a distinctive atmosphere that diverges from the ominous Feng Shui. Such a pattern is often associated with various afflictions and unfortunate incidents, requiring the intervention of altering the beams within the house to transform the ominous into auspicious. When it comes to the Feng Shui of residential spaces, meticulous attention is imperative, and while basic knowledge is essential, treating the subject as a profound discipline is necessary. We should view the Feng Shui of living spaces as a profound study, being mindful of the essentials without losing sight of the true essence of life.
Regarding the assessment of residential Feng Shui:
I. Overall Shape of the Residence
In traditional Chinese Feng Shui, residences are primarily categorized into five shapes based on the elements of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Among them, the earth shape (square) is considered most auspicious, followed by the metal shape (semi-circular). These two shapes impart a sense of stability and security. Traditional Chinese houses are predominantly of these two shapes. The least favorable shapes are the fire shape (triangular) and water shape (convoluted), both hindering physical health and obstructing career development.
II. Arrangement of the Living Room
The living room holds a pivotal position within the entire household, influencing the destiny of the entire family. Therefore, the arrangement of the living room is of paramount importance. The fundamental arrangement involves facing the Vermilion Bird in the front, the Azure Dragon on the left, the White Tiger on the right, and the Black Tortoise at the back. If these requirements cannot be met, alternative solutions must be sought, underscoring the significance that everyone should comprehend.
III. Design of the Bedroom
The bedroom, where we spend one-third of our lives, serves as a sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. The design should exude warmth. Firstly, the bedroom space should not be excessively large, with moderate interior lighting. The windows should not be overly expansive, and if unavoidable, curtains can be employed to mitigate any adverse effects. In the realm of interior spaces, it is advisable to refrain from an excessive array of electrical appliances in the bedroom. Such a practice, contributing to an abundance of radiation, can potentially impinge upon one’s well-being. Furthermore, meticulous consideration ought to be given to the selection of design elements within the bedroom, including but not limited to materials such as flooring, pendant lights, and wall art. When making choices in this regard, a preference for patterns that exude warmth over those that might evoke undue trepidation is recommended.
In the pursuit of harmonizing the Feng Shui of a dwelling, equilibrium plays a pivotal role. For instance, the introduction of verdant flora possessing both vibrant vitality and dispelling qualities is a harmonious adjustment. Should the foyer of the living space be shrouded in excessive dimness, the installation of pendant lights serves as a means of rectification. Additionally, the inclusion of auspicious animals such as the perennial turtle or Feng Shui fish contributes to the overall balance.
In contemplating the Feng Shui residence selection based on the Chinese zodiac, individuals born under the sign of the Snake, associated with the Yin Fire element, are advised to consider domiciles that face southeast. Ideal orientations for entrance doors include south, southwest, west, and northeast. Numeric considerations extend to floor levels or doorplate endings, favoring digits such as 3, 4, 6, and 9. Despite the adaptability and tranquility inherent in those born under the sign of the Snake, attention to an ample presence of moisture in the surroundings is particularly salient for individuals born in the summer.
Conversely, individuals born under the sign of the Horse, associated with Yang Fire, are best suited for residences with a southern exposure to sunlight. Favorable door orientations encompass south, southwest, and northwest, with preferred numeric endings of 1, 4, 3, and 9. Given the Horse’s inclination towards unrestrained movement, caution is advised against proximity to mountains and water, as it may adversely impact personal fortunes.
For those born under the sign of the Goat, associated with arid Earth, dwellings with a southwest orientation are deemed suitable. Favorable door orientations include southwest, south, and east, with preferred numeric endings of 2, 5, 7, 8, and 9. The selection of residences should prioritize well-ventilated and dry conditions in the southwest direction. According to the theories of Feng Shui, the southwestern direction is associated with low-lying terrain. When selecting a residence, it is advisable to have the main entrance or the living room facing southwest. For those born in the year of the Monkey, which corresponds to the element of Yang Metal, the southwest direction is particularly favorable. It is auspicious to dwell in a house that opens up expansively to the southwest, with a view of lower terrain preceding higher elevations. The entrance door should preferably face southwest, southeast, or north, while the floor number or the ending digit of the house number should ideally be 2, 5, 7, 8, or 9.
Considering the interplay of the Five Elements, where Fire counters Metal, it is crucial to avoid locating the kitchen or stove in the southwest sector of the house. Additionally, structures with strong fiery attributes should not dominate the southwestern view of the residence.
For individuals born in the year of the Rooster, corresponding to Yin Metal, the western direction holds significance. It is favorable to reside in a house that presents a spacious square or plaza before ascending buildings. The entrance door should face west, southeast, or northeast, while the floor number or the ending digit of the house number should preferably be 7, 4, 9, or 8. Considering the interaction of the Five Elements, where Metal engenders Water, excessive darkness or humidity in the western aspect of the residence might deplete personal energy fields. Conversely, excessive brightness should also be avoided, as it may agitate the fiery energies and disrupt personal harmony.
Individuals born in the year of the Dog, associated with Dry Earth, find harmony in the northwest direction. Ideal residences are those nestled against hills or those with a prevalent earthy atmosphere in the northwest. The entrance door should face northwest, east, or south, while the floor number or the ending digit of the house number should be 6, 4, 9, or 8. For those under the Dog sign, it is unfavorable to have the kitchen or water sources in the northwest, particularly for those born between the seventh and ninth lunar months. Having a stove in the northwest sector of the home can significantly impact personal fortunes.
For individuals born in the year of the Pig, associated with Yin Water, the northeast direction is auspicious. Ideal entrances face north, northeast, east, or southwest, with floor numbers or house numbers ending in 6, 4, 9, or 8 being favorable. Pigs possess the admirable trait of adaptability, affording them a multitude of housing options. However, it is imperative to prioritize cleanliness, tidiness, and optimal ventilation in the vicinity of one’s abode. As for those born in the Year of the Rat, associated with the Yang Water element and aligned with the northern direction, it is advisable to select a residence where the northern water energy flows abundantly, ideally situated near water bodies. The entrance should preferably face northeast, north, west, or southeast, and the floor or door number should end with 1, 6, 7, or 9. Individuals born in the spring, given the heightened water energy, are encouraged to choose dwellings with northern exposure, featuring nearby institutions such as schools, literary pagodas, or recreational areas, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a bright and well-lit environment.
For those born in the Year of the Ox, governed by the Wet Earth element and aligned with the northeast direction, a residence with moist air in the northeast is recommended, favoring cool and shaded areas. The entrance should face northeast, north, west, or southeast, and the floor or door number should end with 2, 5, 7, 8, or 9. Caution is advised to steer clear of buildings in the northeast with a heavy presence of fire elements, such as factories or glass-walled structures. The inherent dryness of the earth element may compromise one’s energy field and influence overall fortune adversely.
Tigers born in the Year of the Tiger, associated with the Yang Wood element and aligned with the northeast direction, should opt for residences abundant in flora and fauna in the northeast, preferably close to parks. The entrance should face east, northeast, south, or northwest, and the floor or door number should end with 2, 5, 7, 8, or 9. Individuals born in autumn, with an abundance of the Metal element, must be cautious as metal restrains wood. Thus, it is crucial to avoid structures in the northeast with a disruptive influence, such as sharp angles or incomplete constructions, to safeguard one’s personal fortunes.
For those born in the Year of the Rabbit, governed by the Yin Wood element and aligned with the east direction, an ideal residence is one in proximity to flora, or a house with a flourishing wood energy towards the east. The entrance is ideally oriented towards the east, northeast, northwest, or southwest. The numerical endings of floor levels or door numbers are preferably 3, 4, 8, or 1. Individuals born in spring or winter should avoid residences with excessive humidity due to heavy moisture in the air. It is favorable for the external surroundings of the residence to include educational institutions, restaurants, and recreational areas.
As for the Dragon, associated with the element of damp earth and positioned in the southeast, it is advisable to inhabit houses nestled against hills or open southeastern terrains. The entrance should face southeast, west, or north, with numerical endings of 3, 4, 6, or 9 for floor levels or door numbers. It is noteworthy that the Dragon governs the seas, influencing cloud patterns and rainfall, making the presence of water features, such as ponds or rivers, in the southeast direction particularly auspicious to enhance personal fortunes. Recommended reading: Feng Shui Orientation for Residences.
