Internal and External Roles in Harmony

In feng shui, internal and external factors play equally important roles in creating a harmonious, balanced, and supportive environment. Both work together to influence the flow of energy (chi) and impact your well-being, relationships, and success. Understanding these two layers allows you to holistically design your space.

External Feng Shui Factors

External feng shui factors refer to elements outside of your building or property that influence the flow of energy into your space. These factors act as the foundation for the chi that enters your home or business.

1. Natural Environment

• Mountains and Hills:

• A mountain or hill behind a property provides support and protection (known as the Black Tortoise in feng shui).

• Too steep or sharp mountains in front can block energy or create oppressive chi.

• Water Features:

• Rivers, lakes, and oceans symbolize the flow of abundance and wealth. Water should ideally be slow-moving and clean, and its location must be carefully considered.

• Tip: A river gently meandering toward the front of a property brings auspicious energy.

• Wind and Air:

• Gentle breezes invite nourishing chi. However, strong winds can scatter energy.

2. Surrounding Structures

• Buildings:

• Nearby buildings can influence your property:

• Taller buildings behind provide support.

• Sharp edges or pointed rooftops directed at your space create “Sha Chi” (negative energy).

• Roads and Pathways:

• Roads represent the flow of chi. Roads curving gently toward your property are auspicious.

• T-junctions or fast-moving roads rushing toward your home/business can bring harsh energy.

• Neighboring Land Use:

• Factories, cemeteries, or polluted areas nearby generate negative energy that can affect health and fortune.

3. Compass Directions and Orientation

• The orientation of your property (using the Bagua map or compass) influences how energy flows.

• Example: A south-facing home (associated with fame and fire energy) receives vibrant chi, while a poorly oriented home may feel dim and stagnant.

4. Landforms and Shapes

• Lot Shape:

• Square or rectangular lots encourage stability.

• Irregular or triangular lots may cause energy imbalance.

• Slope and Elevation:

• Homes on a hilltop feel empowered, while homes in a low-lying dip may experience stagnant energy.

External Feng Shui Checklist

1. Is the natural environment supportive? (Mountains, water, trees, open space).

2. What is surrounding your property? (Buildings, roads, structures).

3. How is the chi flowing toward your property? (Curving pathways or harsh lines).

4. What is the orientation? (Compass directions).

Internal Feng Shui Factors

Internal factors focus on the inside of your home or building, where you live, work, and interact. These factors control how energy flows and circulates within your environment.

1. Space Layout and Design

• Floor Plan: Open, connected spaces encourage smooth energy flow, while cramped or blocked layouts can stagnate chi.

• Room Placement:

• Bedrooms should be quiet, private, and yin (calm) spaces.

• Workspaces and kitchens thrive with more yang (active) energy.

2. Furniture Placement

• Command Position: Important furniture (like beds, desks, and sofas) should face the door but not be in direct alignment with it. This gives a sense of safety, control, and empowerment.

• Obstacles and Clutter:

• Furniture or objects that block pathways hinder chi flow and create stagnation.

• Clutter blocks new opportunities and creates energetic heaviness.

3. Elements and Décor

• Five Elements: Incorporating the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) into your space promotes balance.

• Example: Add plants (Wood) for growth, candles (Fire) for passion, and fountains (Water) for abundance.

• Colors: Colors influence mood and energy.

• Example: Soft tones in bedrooms promote relaxation, while bright tones in work areas energize.

• Mirrors: Mirrors can enhance or redirect chi when placed thoughtfully. However, avoid mirrors in bedrooms or facing the main door.

4. Lighting and Air Quality

• Lighting: Natural light brings yang energy and lifts the mood. Use artificial lighting to brighten dark areas and eliminate stagnant energy.

• Ventilation: Fresh air circulates chi, preventing stagnation.

5. Energy Flow

• Ensure that pathways, doors, and hallways are clear and unobstructed. Chi should flow gently without rushing or getting stuck.

• Staircases: Energy can move too quickly down staircases. Use rugs, plants, or artwork to slow the flow.

Internal Feng Shui Checklist

1. Is your space layout open and balanced?

2. Are key furniture pieces in the command position?

3. Do you incorporate the Five Elements?

4. Is there clutter blocking chi flow?

5. Is the space well-lit and ventilated?

Conclusion

Both external and internal feng shui factors work together to shape the energy of your environment. External elements determine how energy enters your space, while internal factors influence how it flows and is maintained. By assessing both, you can create a harmonious, supportive, and balanced space that aligns with your goals and well-being.

Ready to evaluate or design your space? Let’s align both the internal and external elements of feng shui to bring harmony and success into your life! 🌿