Are the Building Materials in Your Home Feng Shui Friendly?

Although you might have taken special care to decorate your home according to feng shui practices, it's also important to pay attention to the building materials that were used in your home's construction. These materials can have a marked impact on the level of chi energy in your home. Even though you might not be able to change some of these materials, it's good to be aware of them. In some cases, there may be things that you can do to counteract some of the overall effects of these materials.

Wood

Overall, wood has a neutral effect on chi energy. However, the finish of the wood can have somewhat of an impact on your home's chi energy. For example, if your floors are made from highly polished hardwood, the sleek and shiny finish makes it easier for positive energy to move easily throughout your home. Conversely, rough pine wood finished surfaces can slow down the movement of chi.

Metal and Glass

If you have one or more areas of your home that tend to be stagnant in terms of energy flow, metal or glass could be the perfect solution. Because of the yang nature of metal, it helps to increase the speed of chi energy. Large expanses of these materials can have a particularly powerful effect.

Stone

Smooth polished stone surfaces can create an exciting atmosphere in the home, due to the fact that chi energy can move more quickly. However, it's important to note that this fast-moving chi can also contribute to a sense of restlessness. For this reason, smooth polished stone may not be a good choice for rooms such as the bedroom where you want to encourage a serene, peaceful and restful environment. On the other hand, softer and rougher stone surfaces are great for scattering chi. Keep this fact in mind if you have a few stagnant areas of your home that could benefit from extra energy movement.

Clay and Ceramic

The use of shiny, smooth glazed tiles can create an effect similar to glass or marble in the home. However, if you want to increase the yin level of your home and slow down the chi energy movement a bit, opt for natural finish terra cotta tiles or unglazed ceramic pieces.

Fabric

When using fabric in your home, it's important to pay attention to the effect it can have on the movement of chi energy. When too much fabric is used, there can be a tendency towards stagnation. This is because the rougher surface of fabric slows down the movement of chi. Conversely, the use of fabric in rooms such as bedrooms can make the overall environment more relaxing and calm, due to slowing down the energy movement.

Synthetic Materials

Synthetic materials such as plastic should be used carefully throughout the home, due to the fact that they tend to block the free flow of chi. If you're trying to encourage more positive energy in your home, it's generally a good idea to limit your use of synthetic materials. Instead, try using more natural materials.