by Raine Morie

Created on: February 26, 2009   Last Updated: March 30, 2009

When it comes to choose interior design elements and color combinations, I've always preferred applying the principles of feng shui. Feng shui, in translation means wind, water and energy (or Chi). Energy needs to flow through our surroundings like wind and water flow through nature.

The art of feng shui is to bring our intentions (consciousness) into harmony with our surroundings (matter), to bring support rather than constant challenge into our lives. We bring balance into our home by focusing our intent on the many aspects of feng shui, including the healing properties of color. The harmony of color in feng shui teachings is a powerful transformative process, and one of the best ways to choose interior design color combinations.

I've come to enjoy the process and result of feng shui color principles so much that I can't imagine going back to traditional interior design models, or seeking out an interior designer. I've created feng shui categories below for you, so you may begin applying subtle or dramatic changes to your home through color/element harmony based on the compass direction of rooms within your home. Feng shui can seem complex at first, but once you explore and learn a little about feng shui you will easily express yourself and your intentions through your interior design.

A Guide for Elemental Colors:

Fire=Red, Pink, Orange, Purple, Deep Yellow

Metal= Gold, Silver, Metals, White, Gray

Earth= Earth tones such as Tan, Beige, Light brown, Light yellow

Water= Blue, Black

Wood= Green

Color Guide for Elemental Colors based on Compass Directions:

South Fame and Reputation:

Use the element Fire, particularly in the hue of red in this direction; candles, fireplaces, ovens are good energy in this direction. A red/green combination is nurturing in this direction.

South- West Marriage, Romance and Relationships:

Pink (fire) is the color associated to this direction, but some find darker shades of yellow positive as well. Positive color combinations are pink/green, and green/blue. In your south- west corner add pink pottery and articles in symbolic two's.

This will nurture the sense of sharing in a relationship. Two pink candles can add a supportive dynamic - perhaps choose ceramic candles.

West Creativity and Children:

The color white, and shades of metal (gray, silver, copper) work best in the metal sphere of your Ba Gua. Excellent color combinations are yellow/metallic, for earth nurtures metal.

Refrain from applying red for fire exhausts metal. Consequently, does an

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