Welcoming Nature’s Qi Into Our Homes
There are two ways that I like to bring in the natural energy (qi) of the outdoors into my home. The first is by regularly opening the windows, even if it is just for a few minutes in the mornings to release any stagnant energy and to bring in fresh, clean air to circulate inside the home. I think it is really rejuvenating and uplifting to do in the mornings. Fresh air welcomes in a new day and new opportunities. The second way I regularly bring in nature’s qi is by filling my home with fresh flowers, on a weekly basis. Different varieties of flowers (in reasonable price ranges) are so accessible these days. However, local and seasonal flowers are best, at least in the Feng Shui philosophy, because they carry the highest energy.
In Feng Shui, Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire are considered 5 energetic forces that help harmonize and balance a space. As beautifully detailed in Feng Shui specialist, Anjie Cho’s. book, “Mindful Homes”, each of these 5 elements is embodied by a flower in a vase. The vase that holds the flower is symbolic of earth—it is the stabilizer. The clippers used to cut the stem of the flower is symbolic of the metal element. The water inside the vase giving the flower remaining life symbolizes the water element. The flower itself is symbolic of the wood element. The sunshine that allowed the flower to grow, and that most living things need, symbolizes the fire element.
The placement of flowers in your home really comes down to where you enjoy them most; however, putting them by your front door, inside or outside, can activate your entryway, inviting fresh natural qi into your space. I have a credenza by my front door where I love to place flowers. I was recently able to get my hands on some freshly grown ranunculus and they have welcomed spring in a way I have needed this season. They have added some uplifting energy and have brought a smile to my face.
Of course, flowers are temporary, like most every beautiful and valuable thing in this world, but maintaining them to prolong their lives is important. I find the best ways to do so are by using a clean vase, changing their water every 1-2 days, removing any leaves that fall below the water line, keeping them in an area with a comfortable temperature, and removing dead leaves and petals.
Every season brings a sense of renewal—a hope for new experiences and opportunities. Our homes and living spaces can really be seen as extensions of ourselves and our lives. Welcoming in each season by inviting nature into our homes is an effective way to harmonize ourselves with the natural rhythms of life. This can be very healing and balancing both physically and mentally.
