Research indicates that 20 million people in the U.S. are suffering from some form of depression.

While this is a staggering statistic to digest, it does not sound so far-fetched when you consider the over stimulating world in which we live.

Factor in that most folks spend their working days in front of computer screens under fluorescent lighting with recirculating air, and it is no wonder that lethargy and despondency are so common. 

It’s time to follow nature’s lead and get yourself outside and play.    

In feng shui, each season is associated with an element. Spring brings in wood energy, which represents new beginnings.   Summer corresponds with the fire element.  From fire comes action. 

Natural light and fresh air can make such a difference in your life.  It can help you increase your level of energy and decrease your level of stress. 

Here are some feng shui tips for getting yourself out in nature. 

If you are in a slump and lacking motivation, there is a cure… sunlight. With its yellow color, sunshine evokes feelings of joy and warmth and releases the feel-good hormone serotonin. Nature is handing us an organic healing drug for free – why not get out there and take it?

Next time you go for the car keys stop and ask yourself if walking or bike riding is a viable option. Every bit of outdoor exercise will energize you.

Look for ways to find even the smallest window of alone time. Dawn is excellent for a short meditation, which can serve as a wonderfully grounding way to start your day.

Stay in touch with nature by creating an outdoor seating area. This little retreat can be a patio, porch or corner of your yard. Space permitting, use it for dining out! 

Find a local park and encourage a friend to join you for daily walks. As it becomes routine, you will motivate each other. 

Start a mini garden, even if it is one planter. Studies reveal that flowers trigger happy emotions. Plant and give yourself a be well bouquet. 

Grow your own…herbs. Basil is not just for fresh pesto, it can relieve headaches. Mint refreshes drinks and reduces hunger. Rosemary helps to improve mental clarity. Parsley is more than a garnish; it is also an antioxidant. 

A vegetable garden allows you to eat foods that are chemical-free. You will find yourself spending more time outdoors as you care for them and watch them grow.

If planting isn’t your thing, shop at local farm markets for fresh produce. There are a variety of benefits including a healthier diet consisting of organic/pesticide-free food, the support of local business, and the social interaction /connection with others from your community as you spend time outdoors.

Check out the stars and take a moonlight stroll. 

What about yoga on the beach?

Just think of all the ways you can spend time outside connecting with nature!

Kailua-Kona is a magical land located on the West Coast of The Big Island of Hawaii.

It was my privilege to spend a glorious vacation swimming with wild spinner dolphins and experiencing the stunning corals, fish, turtles, and humpback whales who call this gorgeous island their home.

The instantaneous bonding of love and oneness that I felt deep in my soul as I integrated with pods (groups) of dolphins in the healing waters of Kona is something words cannot describe. 

These very playful and social creatures are pure love, joy, and wisdom. 

Their cohesive behavior is a clear parallel to one of the most important aspects of feng shui – the Tao connection. 

Taoism teaches us that we are all connected.  From a feng shui perspective, who we are is influenced by where we are, and our interaction and relationship with the natural world is crucial for happiness and health. 

I thought it would be fun to tap into the playful and wise dolphin energy and see what they might teach us about feng shui using the bagua.

Considered a mapping tool, the bagua reveals how different areas in our space are connected to specific aspects of our lives.  Hold it so that the bottom sectors, Wisdom, Self, and Helpful People, are aligned with the entry to a room (as if you are facing towards it and about to step in.) 

If you see an area that you would like to enhance, see tips for incorporating corresponding color and elements.

Using the bagua, feng shui tips that dolphins might share! 

You have all that you need.
Self Empowerment
Prosperity and abundance 
Purple, Red, Green, Gold, Wood, Water 

Respect all of nature, yourself and others. Lead by example.
Future
Integrity and honor
Red, Fire, Wood

Share your feelings.  Choose equality, love, kindness. 
Accept each other.
Relationships
Unconditional love
Pink, Red, Earth, Fire

Let’s get along with others.  Think pods–not being at odds.
Community/Family
Interconnectedness
Green, Black, Blue, Wood, Water

Eat what is in your environment. Support local farm markets. Be aware of your breath.
Mind Body Spirit
Health and diet
Yellow, Brown, Orange, Earth, Fire

Play, be flexible; jump for joy…just because. 
Creativity
White, Yellow, Metal, Earth

Teach and protect the young ones.  Meditate for inner peace.
Wisdom
Clarity and faith
Blue, Black, Green, Earth

Be inspired and fearless.  Do what you love. Allow.
Self – The Journey
Self-actualization and grace
Black, Blue, Water, Metal

Be compassionate towards yourself and others. Smile.
Helpful People
Support and selflessness
Silver, Gray, White, Black, Metal, Water

Let’s learn from these intelligent, non-judgmental, and playful beings.  Feel free to email me with any questions:  susan@balanceyoursurroundings.com

Mohala i ka wai ka maka o ka pua.

Unfolded by water are the faces of flowers. Flowers thrive where there is water, as thriving people are found where living conditions are good.  

Hawaiian Saying

I identified the problem to be that I was both wired and tired at the same time – a strange cycle of somewhat opposing feelings.  This deduction made me think about yin and yang, which are described in feng shui as the extreme opposites of each other. 

Yin is considered quiet/cool energy and relates to winter, while yang is more active/hot and is associated with summer. 

It turned out that taking into consideration the possible implications of a yin/yang imbalance brought me right to the heart of the matter. 

Because I am a warm weather person I have a tendency to let cold winter weather lessen the time I spend outdoors, which is exactly what I was doing. 

It was like my body just wanted to tap into the yin-like energy of winter and remain quietly inside, but on the flip side it craved that vital connection to nature and just knew it needed to get out there and feel more alive – hence the wired state.

I decided to go for it and got bundled up preparing myself to spend the day outside. I started by raking leaves and it wasn’t long before a sense of peace kicked in.

Just taking in the sun and filling my lungs with fresh air snapped me right out of my lethargy.  Sound and activity from chirping birds energized me and brought in the liveliness of yang.

Feeling the cold and solid earth beneath me satisfied my need for yin as I kneeled to clear out flower beds.  I was amazed to realize that the very thing I was avoiding (being outside in the cold) ended up to be what grounded and balanced me. 

As I gathered leaves from around my lavender plant, it graciously released that distinctly soothing aroma to instantly calm me.  What a simple and beautiful offering. 

I felt so restored and rejuvenated that when I was done with the leaves I went and took an extended walk on the beach! 

The Taoist philosophers were certainly onto something.  Working hand in hand with the rhythms of nature, feng shui not only teaches how important balanced yin/yang energies are, but also reminds us that the Tao connection – our interaction and exposure to the natural world – is essential for overall health and happiness. 

How blessed we are to be gifted with the healing properties and wonders of nature.

Accepting the change in seasons and learning to appreciate the beauty each one has to offer is a way of honoring nature and trusting in the natural rhythm of life. 

In a state of surrender, I was recently clearing my deck and bringing in plants to protect them from the cold.  I was alarmed by one’s broken branch, but my concern soon turned to intrigue as it allowed me to notice the beautiful intricacy of the leaves.

It got me thinking about how Mother Earth is constantly nourishing us and tending to our senses.  She paints a beautiful landscape through flowers, plants, shrubs and trees.  She feeds us with fresh fruits and vegetables. 

She heals our bodies through herbs and essential oils.  She offers aromatherapy that soothes us and awakens our olfactory senses.  She lets us walk all over her as our feet get massaged in ocean sand or fresh cut lawns.

We can learn a lot from her unconditional love.  Why wouldn’t we reciprocate by being loving and respectful in return?  Learning to respect nature and all things will inherently teach us how to respect ourselves and others. 

Feng Shui is about connecting with and imitating nature to maintain a balanced flow of chi (energy.)  Taoism is based on the desire to live in harmony with the natural world.  Combining the two led to the discovery that having comfortable and harmonious environments helps inhabitants to survive and thrive.  

We know that it is detrimental to stay in relationships that do not support us.  Similarly, when we consider that everything is comprised of energy, we can understand that surrounding ourselves with clutter or objects that are broken, unused or neglected creates an unhealthy environment. 

When we increase our awareness and take care of the objects in our space, we are demonstrating respect and gratitude, which brings in positive energy.   

When we choose to clean, paint or rearrange furniture/furnishings, we bring in new energy, which sets the stage for making desired changes in our lives. 

A key aspect of Feng Shui is the ‘tao’ or way of being in tune to nature.  Just as Mother Earth nourishes us, we can learn to show respect for all things – animate and inanimate – and create spaces that support us physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. 

Just think about the positive effects this could have on a global level.  I like this quote by John Muir:  “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.”

I enjoy a morning ritual of yoga and when weather permits I take my practice outside to my deck.  I find that connecting to nature immediately upon rising is a nurturing and grounding way for me to start my day.

At the break of dawn one morning, my auditory senses seemed to be more tuned in than usual as I became keenly aware of an amazing orchestra of sounds.

Against the soothing backdrop of water flowing from my fountain, there was the harmonic toning of crickets, the mewing sound of a catbird and the distinct cawing of crows.  Their individual contributions made me realize the impact that sound has on our experiences. 

A goal of feng shui is to engage our senses and become more aware of our environment.  By doing so, we can analyze how the energy in certain spaces make us feel, and incorporate beneficial changes.  

It is said that the sound of our mother’s body is the first sensory experience we have in the womb.  Before it can see or smell, a fetus can hear.  I think this is pretty amazing.

The use of bells and wind chimes is common in feng shui, primarily because their vibrations serve to change energy and purify a space. 

Research indicates that various types of sounds such as the human voice, music, drumming, lapping ocean waves and chirping birds all serve to heal the body.

Conversely, because we absorb the energy of sound, an environment filled with TV violence, loud/irritating noises or negative words can have detrimental effects including a rise in blood pressure, muscle tension and stress.

Consider the emotional impact that sound has on you.  Like most things in life, balance is the key. There are times you need the lively chatter of conversation as you connect and laugh with family and friends.  Other times you may need stillness so you can gather your thoughts or concentrate.  

Technology can be quite distracting and can lead to stress. Turning down the noise in your environment will help to turn down the noise in your mind. 

Check out CDs that use nature as instruments, or open the windows and let the real-time sounds of the natural world bring in a sense of community and calmness to your environment. 

Nature offers free sound therapy – what a shame if it falls on deaf ears.

My yard backs up to a bird sanctuary that is home to a forest and a wetland habitat.  As a feng shui practitioner and nature lover, I spend joyous hours reaping the benefits of  my environment while offering appreciation and taking in the wonders of Mother Nature.

One cold winter day, my dearest friend and I were sitting in my kitchen as she lovingly provided her support during a potentially challenging time (which thankfully turned out to have a positive outcome.)

All of a sudden she stood up and excitedly exclaimed that she just saw (what she thought was) an eagle.  She is an avid birdwatcher so even though this sighting would be relatively uncommon for the area, I pretty much believed her, and with good reason.

I swiftly grabbed my binoculars as we both ran for the deck.  At just the right moment, we were feasting our eyes on not one – but a pair of adult bald eagles as they were landing, in all their majesty, on top of an osprey platform in the sanctuary. 

Apparently, they were house-hunting and liked what they found because these first-time renters chose that platform as their nursery.

How blessed I felt!  For the next few months I was honored with the extraordinary privilege of observing the fascinating behavior of these awesome birds of prey on a daily basis.

One of the most important aspects of feng shui is “the Tao” or concept that we are all connected.  My eagle watching opportunities allowed me to experience this connection firsthand.  I became keenly aware of the vital life force of creation.

On an individual level, seeing and actually feeling  the  grace and strength of those eagles brought me into total alignment with feng shui, as I considered just how meaningful and important it was to have feelings of connectedness to the outside world.

As part of a community, guided by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Division, I was proud that we were all doing our part to show respect to this beautiful pair, who were very sensitive to human disturbance during the critical time of nest building, while educating others on how to compassionately and reverently give the new parents well-deserved privacy.

From an ecological standpoint, I was thrilled to have them as neighbors since it was a good indicator of the health of New Jersey’s environment.  Their mere presence signified positive energy/chi!

Feng shui is about getting in touch with our surroundings.  As we learn to sense the chi in all things and open our minds and hearts to what is around us, we can create spaces that are balanced and supportive.

I was taught many things while watching those spectacular birds.  In flight, they reminded me that freedom is our birthright, and that we can find the courage to reach new heights.

With intense stillness, they would spend hours perched in a tree exhibiting absolute patience and fortitude.  Clearly, they knew all about being in the present moment.

When nesting, they demonstrated sheer perseverance and unhurriedness as they (jointly) incubated their eggs with fierce dedication withstanding inclement wintry weather conditions.  Confidently and inherently, they understood how to abide by the laws of nature.

Unfortunately, as fate would have it, after more than a month of dutiful nesting it was determined that the egg(s) were not viable and there would be no babies this time round. 

This saddened me very deeply, but then I thought of the valuable life lessons being offered:  Experience Joy Now.   Respect Nature and All Living Things.  Just Be.  After all, the essence of feng shui is to follow nature’s lead to bring harmony and inspiration into our lives.   

Note:  During the 60′s & 70′s, bald eagles suffered due to the rampant use of DDT and other dangerous pesticides.  It is reported that the banning of DDT in 1972, combined with the legal protection they received from the Endangered Species Act of 1973, positively affected bald eagle recovery and comeback.  In 2007, they came off the list of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants, but are still protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald Eagle Protection Act.  May we learn from our mistakes as we continue to respect them, and all of God’s creatures.

One of the earliest meanings of feng shui is the study of climate, geology and vegetation.  It was thousands of years ago in China that the seeds of this natural science were sown.

Natural climatic conditions such as wind and water were viewed as sacred signs that were looked upon by shamans as ways to help determine the most auspicious places for houses, altars and graves. When ideal spaces were not attainable, their search for remedies led to the ideology of feng shui, blending Taoism, astronomy, alchemy, astrology and shamanism.

In early times, Chinese philosophers seeking refuge and the serenity of nature headed to the countryside to paint landscapes of majestic mountains reaching up toward misty skies with winding rivers and pine trees.  Their awe of natural beauty was expressed on silk scrolls, screens and ceramics, as well as through verse, poetry and calligraphy. It was from this desire to be in harmony with the natural world that the philosophy of Taoism was founded, based on simplicity, intuition, spontaneity and the way (Tao) of nature. 

Feng shui is about the flow of chi and how it affects the human energy field. Taoism is about the unity of humanity and nature. Combining the two, it became apparent that having comfortable and harmonious environments helped inhabitants to survive and thrive.

Today, most folks have a tendency to focus on feng shui for home interiors. A garden, however, can be viewed as our outdoor home.  It is a beautiful representation of using the principles of feng shui to achieve the Tao connection. We can create a place for us to feel protected and sheltered as we link to the earth spirits.

In a feng shui garden, it is important to focus on the following key aspects:

Connectedness – Tao
Balance – Yin/Yang
Chi – Balance

To begin, make a list of the vegetation that you fondly recall from your childhood. This will result in positive associations that bring about feelings of comfort and belonging. Only choose plants that you love and are comfortable caring for. A high maintenance garden will result in additional stress in your life.

If you have a shed, treat it as if it were a room in your house and discard whatever is broken or unused. Clutter is a huge Tao disconnect and sheds are easy places for us to store all that stuff that we just don’t know what to do with. Without creeping too far from the garden area, the same applies to your garage!

From a yin/yang perspective, maintain a balance between sparseness and overgrowth. Be knowledgeable about plants that require sun and consider those that are happy with shade. Flower colors in the yang family are red, orange, yellow and white.  Blue, purple, violet and pink have yin energy. There is more to the beauty of flowers than meets the eye. A 10-month study performed by Rutgers University in NJ indicated that flowers can minimize depression and have a long term positive effect on moods.  It stands to reason that we send bouquets to friends and loved ones who are not feeling well or to celebrate happy occasions.

A still landscape has no life. Use movement and sound to activate chi through the use of a wind chime or mobile, bird bath or bird feeder. To further encourage wildlife, include plants that attract birds, butterflies or hummingbirds.

Healthy vegetation is a must have. Keep your beds tidy and be sure to remove and replace any dead or dying trees/shrubs.  Replace cracked pots or planters. Chi comes into our homes thru windows and doors – let it be positive chi. Conversely, if the garden is full of junk, weeds and stale energy – this too will make its way into your home!  

Use taller plants and shrubs to help protect your property from severe weather, promote privacy and block out any threatening or visually unappealing objects that face the property. Be careful not to have bushes or trees that are too close to the house blocking window views. Not only does this result in stagnant chi but it cuts off our Tao connection.

Include a threshold to your garden to provide a welcoming feeling and separate public domain from private. This can be done thru an arbor, trellis, ceramic pots or pillars. Create an edge – even an indoor room needs a wall. The use of borders helps to define space.

According to feng shui, the world is defined by the elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water.  Each one has its own shape and color evoking different emotions.  A garden benefits from balanced elements.

Wood
Rectangular
Green
Growth & change
Examples: plants, decks, fences

Fire
Triangular
Red
Action & motivation
Examples: lighting, candles, barbeques

Earth
Square
Beige, terra cotta, shades of brown
Safety & stability
Examples: clay, brick, tile

Metal
Round
Grey, white, silver
Clarity & focus
Examples: furniture, stones, sculptures

Water
Undulating, irregular shapes
Blue, black
Acceptance & flexibility
Examples: fountains, ponds

Circular stepping stones get the chi flowing. Round shapes have metal energy, and in the creative cycle metal makes water, which represents abundance. A meandering path is more inviting so it is best to incorporate curved pathways.  To mitigate the effects of a straight path, place potted plants on either side of the walkway

The sight of a hammock instantly provokes feelings of relaxation. Provide various areas for seating - a small bench for meditative purposes, two chairs for a more intimate setting or a table for social gatherings or dining. Random seating sends the message that it is ok to sit, relax and stay a while.

A vegetable garden offers us the opportunity to eat foods that are not contaminated by chemicals and herbicides. Another option not to be overlooked is the enjoyment of herbal fragrances. In addition to their aromatic properties, they can also be used for medicinal purposes. Lavender has a calming effect, basil is known to relieve headaches and sinus problems, while jasmine can aid with depression.

Gardening is an outward and visible expression of our selves. It is all about connecting with our environment by tuning into our intuition and using our five senses – hearing, smelling tasting, seeing and touching.

Garden making is no less a form of art than painting. We can be like the Taoist philosophers and artists and create a place where we can connect with nature, meditate, relax, or laugh and dine with friends. By designing with the principles of feng shui, our garden will support us physically, spiritually and emotionally.

Life wakes up from the deep sleep of winter and everything comes alive.  People just can’t wait to shed layers of clothing and feel the warmth of the sun on their skin.  Nature responds the same way. The crocus and daffodil plants push their way thru the earth as they sprout new stalks and reach for the sun.  Shrubs and trees start to form buds and are turning green.

The Chinese system of living in harmony with the natural elements and forces of earth is referred to as feng shui.  This ancient philosophy demonstrates that the world is defined by the following five elements of nature:  wood, fire, earth, metal and water.

Each element has its own specific characteristics, and can be described in terms of season, direction, color and shape.  As a feng shui practitioner, it comes as no surprise to me that wood is the element of Spring, and that the direction associated with wood is east, where the sun rises and the day begins.

Wood promotes change.  It represents flexibility, growth and new beginnings. Wood is represented thru the color green, which is also the color of photosynthesis.  The shape for wood is tall, rectangular or treelike – all traits that are perfectly revealed during the Spring season.

Cyclically, Spring it is a natural time for us to focus on removing physical, mental and emotional clutter from our lives.  Anything that is neglected, forgotten, unwanted, or unused will cause the energy in your home to slow and stagnate.  Subsequently, you will feel clogged and stuck in the past – as if your life is not moving forward.

Disorder, confusion, chaos and blockage are not signs of a healthy space.  When the energy in your home gets congested, so does your body.  The stagnant energy of clutter pulls your energy down with it, which can lead to fatigue or depression and even illness.

Everything in your environment mirrors your inner self.  A cluttered space actually reveals secrets about you. For instance, a garage that is in disarray from useless items and trash could indicate procrastination, while a basement packed with stale junk may signify living in the past or fear of an unknown future.  Folks with attic clutter may tend to worry more about the future than others, which is a direct result of having all that stuff constantly “hanging over their heads.”

Having obstructions at the main entrance of your home can restrict the flow of opportunities coming to you.  When furniture or other miscellaneous items, such as coat racks or hooks, prevent doors from fully opening, the energy is not allowed to flow freely in your space.  As a result, everything you do takes more effort.  Objects hanging from doorknobs are another form of thwarted energy.  All of these obstructions may seem slight, but through the eyes of feng shui they symbolize stumbling blocks that can hinder us from feeling comfortable and balanced in our environment.

Clutter can be described as a confused multitude of things, but it can also be defined as follows:

• Anything that is not being used
• Things that are disorganized or disorderly
• Having too much stuff in a small space
• Anything that is unfinished

Inherited belongings that you don’t particularly like and unwanted gifts also fall into this category.  Even unwelcomed and non-relaxing sounds can be counted as clutter!

Physical clutter in your home equates to clutter in your mind.  Piles of paperwork, books, magazines, memorabilia, unused toiletries, etc., all have an insidious way of multiplying and haunting you in the process. Having a disorderly space creates mental clutter in the form of stress, frustration or depression. Other examples of mental clutter include worrying about finances or concerning yourself with goals that were never achieved.

From an emotional standpoint, there is a parallel line when dealing with clutter and dealing with difficult emotions.  When we get rid of clothes that no longer fit or will likely never fit again, it reminds us that our aging bodies have changed. Removing possessions that belonged to a previous partner or someone who has passed on requires us to come to terms with our loss and feel grief, or to let go without feeling like we are betraying our love.

Getting our physical space in order allows us to regain a sense of clarity and order in our thoughts.  To live without clutter is to trust and have faith in the choices we make. By becoming more conscious of what you allow and keep in your home, you will develop an ability to trust the decisions you make in life.  The more you trust yourself, the more fulfilling your life will become.

Take the time to inventory your home (or office).  De-clutter by asking yourself the following two questions: “Do I really need this?”  “Is it something I really love?” The answer should be yes to at least one, but preferably to both of these questions.

A simple method to help you along is to get some boxes or garbage bags and label them:

• Trash – remembering to recycle.
• Give Away – which is really another form of recycling.
• Put Away – for the things that have made the cut and will find their way to another place in your home.

You may also need a separate bag for repairs, but you must commit yourself to taking the time to get them repaired.  There will be things that you just cannot part with at this point in time.  Put them aside and give yourself a reminder to revisit them at a later date.  Once you start the clearing process, however, you will feel so empowered that you will be surprised how easy it will become to release things!

Remember to get the belongings out of your space entirely.  Putting them in nicely labeled boxes or bags and placing them in a garage or storeroom defeats the purpose as it keeps you psychically linked to them.  Take that extra step to fully remove them from your property

Remind yourself that it is safe to let go.  Difficult feelings will likely come up as you work through this process.  Acknowledge them and be gentle with yourself by taking baby steps and working at your own pace.   Make a list and set realistic goals.  Try one closet, one drawer or one shelf at a time and then give yourself the satisfaction of crossing if off your list.  Each small area you clear releases energy and offers inspiration to continue.

Rather than look at the removal practice as a chore, consider it a way of honoring yourself and taking back control of your life.  Remember, you are free to create a personal living space of your own choosing.

Let a little Spring cleaning and clutter clearing lighten your load physically, mentally and emotionally.  You will see procrastination dissolving and find yourself motivated for a lifestyle change.  Follow nature’s lead – now is the time to be like wood.  Welcome change and try new things; take a few risks and be flexible in your thoughts and actions.

“It sure been a cold, cold winter
My feet been draggin’ ‘cross the ground
And the fields has all been brown and fallow
And the springtime take a long way around”
~ M. Jagger/K. Richards

In 1943, the American psychologist Abraham Maslow first introduced his theory of personality widely known as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. The hierarchy consists of five basic needs:

• Biological and Physiological—basic life needs such as oxygen, food, water and sleep
• Safety—protection, security, law and order
• Belonging— family, affection, relationships
• Esteem—self-respect, achievement, status
• Self-Actualization—personal growth, fulfillment

While the hierarchy indicates that our physical survival is the basic need, Maslow’s observation was that a person will not feel the second need until the first one has been satisfied, nor will they fulfill the third level without satisfying the second one.

The ancient science of Feng Shui, which originated in China somewhere between 2,000 and 4,000 years ago, parallels Maslow’s theory in that it firmly supports that our physical environment impacts our physical, emotional and mental health.  Considered to be a major branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), feng shui studies the relationship between people and their habitat.

The human being is biologically wired to respond to his/her environment.  Through the use of our five senses we experience our physical surroundings.  Our senses react by sending messages to our molecules and cells, causing further reaction from our body and mind.  Feng shui investigates how who we are is influenced by where we are.  Using Maslow’s hierarchy as a reference tool, a feng shui practitioner can ascertain where a client‘s breakdown is that might be preventing them from fulfilling their needs or reaching their full potential.

Water:   The Element of Winter
In feng shui the world is defined by the following elements:  water, wood, fire, earth and metal.  Each element has its own characteristics and can be described in terms of season, direction, color and shape.   Water is the element that is associated with winter.  This is the season when animals and nature are in a state of hibernation and people are more reflective.  The direction associated with the water element is north, where the climate is cooler.   It is the time for refuge, rest, acceptance and stillness.

Water, which is represented by the colors of blue and black with flowing or free-form shapes, plays an important role in feng shui.   In fact, shui means water in Chinese.  Water and fire are considered catalyst elements as they initiate the shape and form of the other elements.  Water is essential to life.  Nothing can live without it.  An imbalance of water may lead to feelings of isolation and can also manifest as insomnia or a lack of clarity.  Too much water can make one feel overwhelmed or over-emotional.

Everything in our Universe is composed of yin (female/passive/cool) energy and yang (male/active/warm) energy.  With its introspective energy, water is considered yin.  In the winter months we turn inward and nurture ourselves as we prepare for the approaching newness of spring and the warmth of the sun.

A Holistic View
TCM demonstrates that each element corresponds to major organs within the body and when properly aligned and balanced will augment healthy living.  The corresponding organ for the water element is the kidney.  According to TCM, the kidneys are regarded as the source of all chi within the body.  They conserve our energy so that it can be used to combat stress, to heal and prevent illness.

Because we are influenced by changes in weather, a basic principle of Chinese medicine is that it is beneficial to align our diets so they are in harmony with the seasons.  While the recommendation is to have a balance of warming (yang) and cooling (yin) foods to promote a well-balanced diet, winter’s yin energy makes it an important time to eat certain foods that will nourish and warm the body.

To help satisfy the body’s cravings for warmth, consider adding the following yang foods to your diet:  hearty soups and stews, beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, beans, whole grains, sweet potatoes, squash, mushrooms, leeks, nuts and chocolate.  Another way to increase circulation and provide the body with yang energy during the sluggish winter is to cook with fiery spices such as cayenne and black pepper or garlic and ginger.

Beat the Blues
As a result of rain, snow and longer periods of darkness, many experience feelings of depression during the winter season.  Because there is less light, we experience lower levels of the feel-good hormone serotonin.  Combine this with the all too familiar holiday stress and most folks end up burning themselves out during a season when our bodies are looking for us to rest and conserve energy.   It is no wonder that millions suffer from post holiday blues as they try to transition from yang-like hustle and bustle to yin-like hibernation.

If the winter blahs have you fatigued or depleted of energy, try some aromatherapy.  Smell is the only sense that triggers a purely emotional response.  Ginger, lemon and rosemary stimulate and energize.  Lavender calms and eases stress.

Candles represent yang energy and can also be used to balance water’s yin.  Studies indicate that people respond positively to the aroma of food.  Burning a cinnamon or apple scented candle will evoke feelings of warmth and well-being.  As you welcome a New Year, pine candles can be used as a way to let go of what is old and no longer needed.

On a cold winter night, there is a lot to be said for the soothing and warming effects of a good book with a cup of hot tea or cocoa.  Nurture your biological and physiological needs by allowing yourself to feel safe as you kick back and take refuge in the warmth, shelter and comfort of your home.

To balance the yin of the season, tap into the tao and bring the outside in.  During the day, open the curtains to let in as much light as possible.  Place timers on your lamps so that you don’t come home to a dark house.  Be sure to stay connected with nature by taking short walks.  Take the time to keep your bird feeders full of seed.  The activity and chirping of the birds will add cheerfulness to your environment, as well as bring in some harmonizing yang energy.

In a society where instant gratification is sadly commonplace, tap into water’s yin energy of stillness and patience and just be.  Learn from nature; bulbs lie dormant and rest as they absorb the nutrients that are needed before emerging for another season.   Use this time to re-charge, dream and plan for the changes that you want to make in the approaching spring, where new beginnings abound.  Increase your inner awareness.  Let the water energy help you to go with the flow of life.  Trust in your intuition and in the Universe.

All winter long I look forward to being outside where I can connect with nature, eavesdrop on conversations that the birds are having, and absorb the warmth of the sun on my skin as I maintain my garden.  The aromatic fragrances that the peonies, honeysuckle and magnolias have to offer only add to my rejuvenation process.  I am truly in a sensorial heaven.

Our Connection with Nature
The system of living in harmony with the natural elements and forces of earth is referred to as feng shui.  This ancient Chinese philosophy examines how human beings respond and react to their environments. 

One of the most important principals of feng shui is “The Tao” connection.  The Tao Te Ching, which was written by Lao Tzu roughly 2,500 years ago, teaches us that the Tao (pronounced ‘dow’) is the way we are linked to all things.  Other common translations of Tao include the path, the way, or the road.  Tao is often described as a force that flows through all life. It also means recognizing our interconnections to the natural world, our families, friends, communities, the universe and higher power.

Surprisingly, according to the American Lung Association, the average person spends approximately 90% of their time indoors in a sealed environment.  Yet, Pulitzer Prize winner Edward O. Wilson, who coined the term biophilia (love of living things), believes that we have “an innate affiliation with or an attraction to other forms of life.”   Engaging in outdoor activities during the long days of summer not only strengthens the Tao connection by allowing us to interact with our loved ones and communities, it can also lower blood pressures, boost the immune system and reduce stress.   Studies indicate that what we see accounts for 70% of what we process mentally.  The sun is perceived as yellow, a color that communicates brightness and equates to optimism.  As a result, the sun naturally produces a feel good hormone.

Fire:  The Element of Summer
In addition to the Tao, another integral component of feng shui is the five-element theory or understanding that the world is defined by the following elements of nature:  Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water.  Each element has its own specific characteristics, and can be described in terms of season, direction, color and shape.

While the element for spring is wood, representing growth and new beginnings, the element that corresponds with the ensuing summer season is fire.  The buds that formed in spring are now nourished by the summer sun as they continue to blossom and flourish.  Fire is radiant, warm and expansive. It is a very powerful element and, like the sun, is considered masculine.  Fire is a symbol of passion, and of all the five elements has the most yang (active) energy.

The direction that corresponds to fire is south and, as can be expected, the colors that are associated with it are reds, reddish purples and magenta.  The color red is considered a call to action.  In keeping with the laws of nature, birds have a good sense of color and bright red flowers get their attention for pollination.

Fire, whose shape is triangular or pointed, is all about transformation, motivation and inspiration.  It represents the opposite of lethargy or depression and reduces sadness.   In conjunction with the Tao connection and the elemental characteristics of fire, summer is the time when we get together with family and friends for outdoor barbeques, pool parties, graduations or other celebrations.  Spend one day on a public beach or boardwalk on a hot summer’s day and you will witness ongoing movement and feel the constant buzz of activity and interaction.  In the summer season, yang energy abounds.  We have a tendency to stay up later and wake up earlier.  The days of summer last longer and give us the most warmth.  In our body, this equates to the ability to establish relationships, feel passion, playfulness, and relaxation.

A Holistic View
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a holistic healthcare system used in China for more than 2,000 years that aims to treat the whole person rather than just the disease, the acupuncture meridians related to the fire element are the heart (yin) and small intestines (yang).  TCM practitioners convey that summer is the time to nourish and balance the energies of these organs.  When there is a balance, the heart properly circulates blood, creating a healthy breakdown of food in the small intestines. An imbalance could result in insomnia, low energy, digestive problems or cardiac disease.

According to TCM, it is important that we align our diets with the different seasons.  Summer is the season to eat foods that benefit the heart and to introduce cooling foods.  Certain fruits and vegetables will help you adjust your body temperature.  Examples include:  asparagus, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, celery, cucumbers, oranges, peaches, pears, potatoes, raspberries, strawberries, snow peas, tomatoes, watermelon and zucchini.

Balance is Key
Feng shui teaches us that it is important to balance each of the five elements.  Too much of the fire element in an environment can over-stimulate chi (life force or energy) which can cause burnout, impatience or anger.   An imbalance of the fire element can also injure the heart which can lead to fevers, heat stroke and other heat related ailments.  When the heart is in balance, the blood will flow easily.

The human body is more than two-thirds water.  Loss of water can lead to dehydration.  While sweating has a cleansing effect and rids the body of accumulated toxins, be careful not to get overheated and sweat too much as this could lead to fatigue and exhaustion.  To increase your mental and physical performance, it is essential to keep cool and hydrated by drinking plenty of water.  It is also important to restore your body with adequate sleep.  Preventative treatment in the summer months can protect you from getting colds or flu during the winter.

Joy is the emotion of the fire element.   Take advantage of the extra energy that summer has to offer by getting out and doing something that you love.  Let the active power of fire energy warm your heart, nourish your spirit and fill you with laughter, vitality, and inspiration.