Essential Feng Shui Tips: Gardens

Feng Shui Definitions: Gardens

Our gardens and landscaped areas are our personal passports into nature. They keep us connected to the natural rhythms of life, while replenishing and sustaining the Ch’i that meanders through our homes. Walk by a house without landscaping and you understand what a difference it makes. Whether your home has a green lawn with trees or an extensive flower and vegetable garden, keep it healthy and beautiful. Vibrant nature in your yard attracts vibrant Ch’i into your home.

• When applicable, use gardens and landscaping to complete the shape of your home (see the Bagua Map). If the overall shape of your home is not a whole square or rectangle, complete the shape by filling it in with any pleasing combination of trees, flower beds, garden sculptures, large rocks, decks, patios, fencing, lighting, specialty gardens, and water features. The “missing” area becomes a beautiful outdoor area, adding to the charm of your home.
• Consider adding a still or flowing water feature to the front yard of your home (see Front Entrances).
• Create a natural embrace around the sides and back of your property with evergreen shrubs and trees, vines, fencing, or berms. Pay special attention to privatizing areas that are in view of neighbors’ windows and doors. While your front yard is openly inviting, your side and back areas are your private retreat. Include pathways, tables, and seating in your outdoor garden design. As you enhance the embrace of nature around you, wildlife finds sanctuary in your yard, and you and your family can enjoy a private oasis.
• Make sure you have an attractive view from every window and door. Be nourished by a lovely view each time you look out of your home. Camouflage or screen unsightly views with awnings, arbors, and hanging plants. An inspirational place to rest the eye is a gift you give yourself every day.
• When possible, set aside a place for a compost heap. It’s very grounding and rejuvenating to make dirt. Louise Hay, author of You Can Heal Your Life, says, “Just make good dirt, and God will do the rest.” Composting allows you to participate in the natural cycle of life on a daily basis. Old carrot tops, fruit peelings, and coffee grounds become new soil. And, your garden benefits greatly from the rich compost you make.
• Think about including a nature sanctuary in your garden design. These sanctuaries are not pruned, planted, or mowed. Instead, plants shape themselves, wildflowers flourish, and leaves decompose where they fall. As habitats for local flora and fauna, these wild areas build pure, natural Ch’i and provide privacy around your home.