Indoor cultivation of green plants serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it enhances the indoor environment, making it more aesthetically pleasing. Secondly, plants absorb carbon dioxide indoors and release essential oxygen required for human survival through photosynthesis. From a Feng Shui perspective, indoor plants can release positive energy beneficial for human health and help dispel negative energies in a residence.
One of the key aspects of the influence of indoor plants and flowers on Feng Shui is the selection of plant types and their placement in different directions. The choice and arrangement of indoor plants should align with the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) and be compatible with the residents’ elemental composition.
In brief, a person’s elemental composition is influenced by the season of their birth. For example, individuals born in summer tend to have a stronger inclination towards heat, which means they require Water and should avoid Fire elements. Conversely, those born in winter need Fire elements and should avoid Water. People born in spring, which is a season of abundant Wood, require Metal elements to balance the excess Wood. For those born in autumn, which is a season of withering trees, they need Wood elements and should avoid Metal. However, this theory is quite general and should be considered as a reference; professional calculations through the Chinese BaZi system are necessary to truly understand one’s elemental composition.
For individuals lacking the Metal element in their BaZi, they can choose plants associated with the Metal element, and plant them in flowerpots or vases made of metal or adorned with metal accessories. Good plant choices in this case include the “Money Tree,” “Gold Ingot Tree,” “Jade Plant,” and “Kumquat Tree.” These plants are preferably placed in the West direction, which is beneficial for respiratory health.
The West direction is associated with the Metal element, symbolizing innovation and reforming energy. In Feng Shui, the West is also the primary “Peach Blossom” direction, which is particularly relevant for the love and romantic relationships of the youngest daughter in a family. Thus, it is advisable not to place excessively vibrant flowers in the West direction, as it may affect the romantic prospects of the youngest daughter. Since Earth nourishes Metal, and yellow is associated with Earth, placing yellow flowers in the West is a wise choice. This not only enhances the fortune of the youngest daughter but also boosts creativity for those engaged in artistic pursuits and ignites the spirit of reform for those in leadership roles.
Similarly, the Northwest direction is also associated with the Metal element and represents the most senior family members in a household or the highest-ranking authority in a company. Placing white and yellow flowers in this direction fosters family harmony and enhances the reputation of company leaders, encouraging unity among employees.
For individuals lacking the Wood element in their BaZi, they should choose plants associated with the Wood element, particularly green seed plants like “Emerald Pot Plants” and bamboo. These plants are preferably placed in the East direction, which benefits liver health.
The East direction is associated with the Wood element, representing a vibrant and energetic force. The rising sun in the East has long been believed to bring auspicious energy. When placing flowers in this direction, one can also add red flowers associated with the Fire element, creating a harmonious Wood-Fire balance. This stimulates thinking and aids individuals involved in mental tasks, such as students, writers, and planners.
The Southeast direction also belongs to the Wood element, and it influences family relationships, love, and marriage. Planting pink flowers in this direction can enhance these aspects of life.
For individuals lacking the Water element in their BaZi, they should choose plants associated with the Water element, such as hydroponic plants, and place them in blue or transparent glass containers. Good choices include the “Lucky Bamboo” and “Money Plant.” These plants should be positioned in the North direction, which aids kidney health and gastrointestinal functions.
The North direction is associated with the Water element, symbolizing family harmony and filial piety. If there are tensions between family members, placing white flowers in this direction can help ease the strained relationships. Similarly, in a company, if there are conflicts between employees and their superiors, using this method can help resolve the issues.
For individuals lacking the Fire element in their BaZi, they should choose plants associated with the Fire element, particularly flowering or fruiting plants, and place them in red flowerpots. Good choices include the “Flamingo Flower,” “Orchid,” and “Hibiscus.” These plants are preferably placed in the South direction, which benefits heart health.
The South direction is associated with the Fire element, representing beauty, nurturing, and inspiration. There are various suitable colors for this direction. Green plants can enhance the femininity of the household, while red flowers can symbolize prosperity and increase wealth. Orange flowers create a warm and cordial atmosphere.
For individuals lacking the Earth element in their BaZi, they should choose plants associated with the Earth element, particularly shade-tolerant plants, and place them in black flowerpots or containers embedded with gemstones. Good choices include “Jade Plant” and “Cactus.” These plants should be positioned in the central area of the residence, which supports the digestive system and spleen health.
The Southwest direction is also associated with the Earth element, and it governs health matters. Therefore, individuals in a sub-optimal state of health can place yellow flowers in this direction to improve their well-being. Red flowers are most suitable for the Southwest direction in an office environment.
The Northeast direction also belongs to the Earth element, representing the junior family members in a household or subordinates in an office. Placing yellow flowers in this direction can prevent conflicts and promote harmony.
Conclusion
Selecting the right indoor plants not only enhances the ambiance but also has a significant impact on one’s physical and mental well-being, as well as their relationships and career. When cultivating indoor plants, it is crucial to carefully consider the principles of the five elements and their compatibility with the occupants’ elemental composition.
However, it’s important to note that while indoor plants play a part in Feng Shui, other items and arrangements in the home also have their elemental properties and can affect the overall energy flow. Understanding the elemental properties of different items and combining them with the placement of indoor plants can result in a more harmonious and balanced living environment.