Feng Shui is based on a Taoist vision. It’s an ancient art and science that seeks balancing the movement and energy within a space or environment. Land’s energy, also known as Chi, brings the theories of yin and yang and the five elements together to create the basic concepts of Feng Shui. Arranging and decorating a space in a manner that projects a positive flow of life’s energy, or chi flow, can bring a positive flow towards you.

YING AND YANG

Yin-Yang are opposites They are either on the opposite ends of a cycle, like the seasons of the year, or, opposites on a continuum of energy or matter. This opposition is relative, and can only be spoken of in relationships. For example: Water is Yin relative to steam but Yang relative to ice. Yin and Yang are never static but in a constantly changing balance.

Interdependent: Can not exist without each other Nothing is totally Yin or totally Yang. Just as a state of total Yin is reached, Yang begins to grow. Yin contains seed of Yang and vise versa. They constantly transform into each other. For Example: no energy without matter, no day without night.

Mutual consumption of Yin and Yang Relative levels of Yin Yang are continuously changing. Normally this is a harmonious change, but when Yin or Yang are out of balance they affect each other, and too much of one can eventually weaken (consume) the other. Four (4) possible states of imbalance:

Preponderance (Excess) of Yin
Preponderance (Excess) of Yang
Weakness (Deficiency) of Yin
Weakness (Deficiency) of Yang

Inter-transformation of Yin and Yang. One can change into the other, but it is not a random event, happening only when the time is right. For example: Spring only comes when winter is finished.

(resource: http://www.sacredlotus.com/theory/yinyang.cfm)

FIVE ELEMENTS

Fire

fire - yellowlampsplus200

Considered the most powerful of all the elements
Represents energy, passion, expansion and transformation.
In the home, represented by: a candle, or by color (e.g. red lampshade)
Color: red, orange and yellow
Season: summer
Direction symbolized: south
Triangular

Wood

Helps to develop creative energies such as inspiration, motivation and passion.
Represents: personal growth and renewal and purifies and redirects chi.
In the home, represented by: plants, trees or by green objects, (e.g. green pillows)
Color: green and sometimes purples, not pastels
Season: spring
Direction symbolized: east and southeast
Shape: Rectangle

Water

Directly related to the flow of money and career.
Flowing water helps us to let go of things we no longer need.
Still water helps the surrounding energies to be calm and offers the feeling of a new beginning and renewed strength.
In the home, represented by: a water feature, fish tank or pond. Crystals, wavy statues or artwork and paintings of water scenes are other ways the element of water may be represented.
Color: blues
Season: winter
Direction symbolized: north
Shape: Wavy

Metal

Draws and unifies all of the elements together. They act as transmitters, conducting the various energies to different areas.
Stimulates mental strength and intellectual abilities, making it easier to focus and think clearly.
Color: white, silver, gray and black
Season: fall
Direction symbolized: west and northwest
Shape: Round

Earth

Representing permanence, stability and home, the earth element is solid giving a sense of security and grounding support.
It strengthens the feelings of safety and adds a sense of comfort from within.
Rock features, thick carpet, antique pottery and old books help to bring the earth element indoors.
Color: brown, beige, sierra and other muted colors
Season: end of summer
Direction symbolized: center, northeast and southwest
Shape: Square

The elements interactions

Productive Cycle Water feeds plants to give rise to Wood. Wood in turn can create Fire. The by-product of Fire is ash, in this case the Earth element. From the Earth comes Metal, which in turn can help collect Water, thus going full circle.