Create a Feng Shui Garden This Summer

Translated literally, Feng Shui means wind water. Wind represents the energy we cannot see, but can feel. Water represents the energy in our physical spaces we can see. Feng Shui is based on principles that interpret the cycles of nature using the 5 elements, helping to create balance in our lives as we connect with our environment. A garden is the perfect way to do this as we embrace nature. The 5 elements in feng shui; water, tree, fire, earth and metal, are around us all the time, influencing us through the seasons, weather, colors, shapes and even our behavior.

When spring arrives, we become energized and are excited to witness all the green sprouting up from the earth. We want to get outside and start doing things by springing into action with spring cleaning, making room to embrace the new beginnings before us. This is the influence of the tree, or wood, element. Its colors are shades of bright green and the shapes of tall, vertical columns. Accents of stripes, florals, planters and logs connect us to the practical, active energy of tree.

Following the spring season is summer, full of fun and excitement, and the element of fire. Bright, spirited colors of red, fuchsia, yellow and orange support playfulness and passions. Whimsical accents, sparkling lights and angular shapes support this spirited element. Fire brings us clarity, illumination and transformation. It is the time of high noon and summertime, when all is at its peak.

After all the fun of the summer, we slow down and take time to pause, feeling that settling energy of earth. It is the same energy we notice around 3 p.m., when we just pause, yet the day has not ended. Earth energy is supportive, nurturing and comforting. Colors depicting earth range from pale ivory, warm gold and terracotta to warm chocolate browns. Supportive shapes of rectangles and squares using brick and tile, along with comfy, cozy overstuffed seating, depict the element earth, a time of settling in.

Autumn brings us the energy of metal, when all is contracting and coming to completion, the time of early evening at the end of the day. Metal is the element of refinement, focus and control. Clean, precise lines, stones, dome shapes and the metallic colors of silver, bronze and gold, as well as clean white, depict the element of metal.

Once all is complete, it is time to begin the cycle again; the time of stillness and reflection brings us to the season of winter and time of midnight, the element of water. Irregular shapes with curves and paths that meander and flow depict the element of water. The colors of turquoise, deep blue and black support the energy of water, allowing us to be free to go with the flow, adapt and “just be.”

Each element supports the next. Water feeds the trees so they may grow. Trees fuel the fire so it may flourish. The ash from the fire nourishes the earth. The minerals in the earth create the metal. As the metal contracts to its liquid state, it creates water… and so we begin again. As we align with these elements, we become more in the flow, supporting us to be focused and clear, release our stress and enjoy this season of springtime in Mother Nature’s garden. The feng shui garden is aligned with nature.

Items placed in the garden should support the balance of nature; plants and trees should be native to the area; only plant those which naturally belong. Allow plants and trees to grow naturally, using only stakes for support. A feng shui garden takes heed of changing seasons. A feng shui garden gives pleasure. Create the “armchair form”; it should feel as if the garden is being embraced and protected. Create support behind the garden with trees, shrubs or a fence extending around the sides. Paths should be curved, keeping the edges soft and fluid.

Always remember: love has the highest vibration. Love everything in your garden; after all, it’s all about you.

Lois Kramer-Perez, CHt. is a certified feng shui practitioner. For more information, visit LoisKramerPerez.com.