Feng Shui and Houseplants

Feng shui is the ancient Chinese art of directing energy, and using feng shui with houseplants is an important part of the practice. The word itself literally translates into \"wind\" and \"water.\"  Thus, feng shui is concerned with energy, throughout a home. Houseplants are an important part of this esteemed art. Healthy houseplants are good and beneficial, all kinds of plants emit a positive energy and, because they cleanse air, they contribute to the positive flow of chi throughout a house. Houseplants can also be used to disguise harsh angles or other elements that would otherwise create a stagnant flow of energy, thus acting as \"bad energy sinks\" that redistribute and redirect. Feng Shui Tips There are some basic principles that you can use when placing plants in your home that will increase chi: Mind the entrance: Your front door is literally the beginning point in the journey of your home. It is where you welcome people, and where air circulates most freely. Place or hang plants near the front entrance whenever possible. Disguise harsh lines: Slopes ceilings, corners, and other sharp lines are considered negative energy enhancers because they stop the flow of chi through a house. Use plants to disguise these architectural features of your house and enhance air flow between rooms and through \"dead\" spaces. Don\'t keep dead or dying plants: It seems obvious, but dead or dying plants emit negative energy and should be discarded. This applies to cut flowers also. In general, flowers are good for the home, but declining bouquets should be discarded Keep herbs in the home: The Chinese often burn herbs after an argument or other disruptive event to purify the home. Growing herbs are also beneficial and should be kept in the home. Lavender is a particularly powerful herb as it is widely considered to promote relaxation and peace. Avoid thorns. Thorny plants form a protective barrier, thus stopping the flow of chi. If you must, place them by a window to discourage intruders. Don\'t place thorny plants near the front door. Some Plants to Use Bamboo: Any variety of bamboo is a good, even lucky bamboo. Palms Peace lilies. Hanging plants: Baskets are great for moving chi throughout a room and near the ceiling.