{"id":21319,"date":"2020-11-03T07:00:25","date_gmt":"2020-11-03T07:00:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.qcdesignschool.com\/?p=21319"},"modified":"2020-11-03T07:00:25","modified_gmt":"2020-11-03T07:00:25","slug":"feng-shui-the-4-central-concepts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.qcdesignschool.com\/blog\/2020\/11\/feng-shui-the-4-central-concepts","title":{"rendered":"The 4 Central Concepts of Feng Shui"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]The founder of Eastern Design and Home Staging<\/a>, Ivy Ellerby is an Accredited Staging Professional and Advanced Feng Shui Design Professional. She is one of QC Design School’s leading tutors, specializing in Feng Shui<\/a>, Home Staging<\/a>, and Interior Decorating<\/a>. As a renowned industry expert, Ivy uses her knowledge to help consumers increase profits on home sales and implement new design ideas into their living spaces.<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Our home is an expression of ourselves. It can be seen as a container holding all of our hopes and dreams, while reflecting our fears and new ideas. It is the most common place for us to begin and end our day. Home is our charging station; a place to rejuvenate, plan our future, and celebrate our successes in the world. However, when our daily life no longer reflects life as we want<\/em> it to be, we can turn to the principles of Feng Shui<\/a> to support our desired changes.\n\nFeng Shui brings clear intention into our environments, both at home and at work. It brings clarity and harmony, even at times when the world feels chaotic. (Did someone say, “2020”?!) <\/em>\n\nThe core concepts of Feng Shui were created thousands of years ago. Lucky for us, this information was passed down generation-by-generation, so that we have this invaluable information organized into 4 central concepts.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”21323″ alignment=”” animation=”None” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

Breaking Down Feng Shui Into 4 Main Concepts<\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

1 – Ch’i<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]In order for an environment to have good Feng Shui, it must have a healthy flow of the universal life-giving force called Ch\u2019i. Ch\u2019i is the energy that permeates everything on our planet, including the energy inside our body<\/a>. The energy inside and outside of building structures is also affected by Ch’i.\n\nThe challenge of a Feng Shui Consultant is to make sure that quality of this energy remains consistently flowing in a positive manner. When Ch\u2019i is disrupted, our body experiences exhaustion, depression, irritability, and disease. But when Ch\u2019i flows smoothly, we experience happiness, fulfillment, and a joyful outlook on life.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

2 – Yin and Yang<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]A primary goal of Feng Shui is to create and maintain a balance<\/a> in all<\/em> areas of life. For instance, if our relationships with coworkers are bad, then our work life may suffer. The constant stress from work will eventually distress our health, which inadvertently would cause us to miss work more often. The lack of work attendance would affect our opportunity for promotions, or receiving a full paycheck. Thus, the cycle continues on, affecting all areas of our life!\n\nEverything in the world is made up of a balance of energies known as Yin and Yang<\/a>. When balanced, Yin and Yang energies bring harmony to our environment and give us ways to support the changes we experience in life. The symbol that represents these energies is the Taiji.[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][image_with_animation image_url=”21325″ alignment=”” animation=”None” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]This symbol represents the idea that the two energies are constantly evolving and shifting. There is always a little bit of one in the other. Neither energy is absolute!\n\nTo understand the differences of these energies, think about how an airport feels. That environment is more ‘yang’ because of the movement, sounds, and lights. Now, contrast this environment with a cemetery. The energy feels dark, still, and quiet. It is very ‘yin’.\n\nAlthough these two environments are very different, most environments in your every-day life are more blended. Certain rooms in our home<\/a> should be more yang, such as the kitchen and family room. However, in our bedrooms, we want more yin energy to be there. This is because it will allow us be able to rest and rejuvenate ourselves peacefully.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

3 – The Five Elements<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Another way that Feng Shui creates balance in a home is by focusing on the five elements<\/a>:\n
    \n \t
  1. Wood<\/li>\n \t
  2. Fire<\/li>\n \t
  3. Earth<\/li>\n \t
  4. Metal<\/li>\n \t
  5. Water<\/li>\n<\/ol>\nIn order for an interior environment to support Ch\u2019i – which, as I mentioned above, supports all<\/em> areas of our life – these elements should be present. Incorporating these elements throughout the home can create good Feng Shui.\n\nHowever, this ancient reference should not necessarily be taken literally. It’s merely an attempt to describe the\u00a0essence<\/em> of these five types of energy. Each of these energies are more easily understood through the association of these elements in nature.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”21326″ alignment=”” animation=”None” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Each element is associated with certain qualities, colors, and shapes that can be used as design elements – if you\u2019d like to enhance those qualities in your home and life.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

    Wood<\/strong><\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Wood is related to upward growth, healing, flexibility, and vitality. It is represented by green, blue, and teal. It’s also represented by tall, columnar shapes. Bamboo and houseplants are excellent examples of this element![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

    Fire<\/strong><\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Fire represents expansion, passion, inspiration, and visibility. It is related to fiery colors like red and bright orange. Triangle shapes best represent the fire element. A fireplace, candles, and lights are all examples of this element![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

    Earth<\/strong><\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Earth is related to stability, taking care of yourself, boundaries, and nourishment. It\u2019s connected to earthy colors like yellow, orange, and brown. It’s also best represented by square shapes and heavy objects. Gemstones and terracotta pots are examples of this element![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

    Metal<\/strong><\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Metal has the qualities of rigidity, contraction, lustrous beauty, and precision. White, gray, and metallic colors represent metal, as well as circular shapes. Metal statues and metal picture frames are awesome examples of this element![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

    Water<\/strong><\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Water represents deep wisdom, freedom, freshness, and our connection to others and the world around us. Black, dark blue, and wavy shapes represent water. Artwork with water, aquariums, and fountains are all examples of this element![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”21327″ alignment=”” animation=”None” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Understanding and using the five elements is a complex analysis that a Feng Shui Consultant applies to a home or office.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]\n

    4 – The Celestial Animals<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]The Four Celestial Animals<\/a> are referred to as:\n
      \n \t
    1. Black Tortoise<\/li>\n \t
    2. Green Dragon<\/li>\n \t
    3. White Tiger<\/li>\n \t
    4. Red Phoenix<\/li>\n<\/ol>\nI know, they all sound like characters from a mythological fairytale. But the names are actually derived from star constellations. They make it easier for us to learn and make reference to them!\n\nIn order for a home to have good Ch\u2019i, it should be supported by these Celestial Animals. The Celestial Animals are not live<\/em> animals, but rather a relative measure of landforms surrounding our home or office. The Four Celestial Animals energetically support the home, and are located at each of the four main compass directions outside<\/em> of the home:\n