Positive and negative energy
The tenn Feng Shui means wind and water, the two indispensable elements for life. If they do not flow, there is no hannony and thus no life. Generally, the principles of Feng Shui are based on the chi and the sha. The first is the positive energy that drives the world and allows you to achieve balance in your body and spirit. The second is the energy that cannot find a way of moving freely around us and converts itself into negative energy.

In addition to these two concepts, in order to decorate according to this philosophy, you must use the five elements of nature: wood, water, fire, earth and metal. These are combined in two cycles: one destructive and the other constructive. In these, the elements generate and destroy each other successively. For example, in the destructive cycle, water destroys fire, which melts metal, which cuts wood, which fills up the earth, which soaks up water. If there is an excess amount of one element in a home, it can be compensated with another that partly eliminates it.

The five natural elements
According to the principles of Feng Shui, the interior of a home must be decorated by attempting to achieve a balance between these five elements, which are those that influence our state of mind.
Water: this is the most spiritual and relaxing element. Not only is it found in fountains and taps, it is represented by mirrors, the colour black and shiny surfaces.
Fire: this is the most emotive element. It is represented by the colour red, but also by live animals and adornments and furniture made with natural materials and textiles.
Metal: a sign of intelligence and found in metallic items, grey stone, cement and represented faithfully by the colour white.
Wood: a sign of creativity and imagination. Found in plants, paper and natural fibres. Represented by the colour green.
Earth: symbolises realism and hedonism and can be represented by clay objects. Its colour is yellow.

What to do
- Choose rounded and sculpted forms that attract the yang for lounge furniture.
- The seats of the living room and dining room should be placed to encourage communication.
- Place plants or green objects in the work area to stimulate concentration.
- Counteract the excess positive energy generated by bathroom tiles by placing a picture or wooden adornment.
- Always keep the rooms tidy and clean. Dust and untidiness attract the sha.
- Try to place the head of the bed facing north, where positive energy comes from.


What not to do
- Place the computer or other electric appliances that attract the sha in the bedroom, where they can prevent rest.
- Never sit with your back to the door in the work area or office to achieve a good performance.
- The toilet accumulates negative energy, so you should never leave the seat up.
- Avoid placing mirrors or other reflective surfaces in front of the bed, as they prevent you from letting off daily stress.
- Never place the bed under a window; it should always be placed against a door.