Incense, Wind Chimes & the Ancient Practice of Feng Shui

Feng Shui & the Concept of Chi

The ancient Chinese practice of feng shui focuses on creating a harmonious environment by balancing the energy flow in a space. It is based on the belief that the way in which we arrange our environment can have an impact on our lives. Central to the practice is the concept of 'chi' or 'shi', a concept from Chinese philosophy that refers to the natural flow of events and the changing nature of the world; a life force energy believed to be present in all living things and said to flow through everything in the universe. The goal of feng shui is to create an environment that promotes the free flow of chi, which is believed to have a positive impact on our wellbeing.

According to feng shui principles, chi can become stagnant or blocked in certain areas of our environment. This can happen as a result of clutter, poor lighting, or other environmental factors. When chi is blocked, it is believed to have a negative impact on our lives, leading to feelings of anxiety, stress, and even physical health problems.

Feng shui practitioners use various techniques to promote the free flow of chi, which can include the use of certain colours, the arrangement of furniture in a particular way, or adding elements such as water features, or wind chimes. The practice emphasises the importance of balancing the different types of energy that exist in our environment. Yin and yang energies for example, are believed to be opposite but complementary forces that exist in all things.

Wind Chimes & Feng Shui

One of the most popular feng shui remedies is the use of wind chimes. As well as being aesthetically pleasing and uplifting; they are also believed to encourage peace and harmony, and are considered to be one of the most effective feng shui cures for enhancing the flow of energy in a space. The sound produced by the chimes is believed to disperse stagnant chi and bring in fresh and positive energy. They can also be used to create a sense of calm and relaxation, which can help to reduce stress and promote better sleep.

Choosing the Right Wind Chime for Your Home

When choosing a wind chime for your space, it is important to consider the size, material, and placement of the chime. In feng shui, the ideal size of the wind chime should be proportionate to the size of the room. A small wind chime may not be heard, while a large wind chime may overpower a small space. The material of the wind chime is also important. Metal wind chimes are said to bring wealth and prosperity, while wooden wind chimes are thought to bring health and happiness. 

According to the principles, you should always hang your chime in a location where it can catch the wind easily (makes sense!) and avoid placing it in a location where a direct line of energy can flow, such as between two opposing doors or windows.                                    

Using Wind Chimes for Feng Shui Remedies

Chimes are used to solve a variety of areas in the practitioner's life; it is said that to enhance the energy flow in the wealth area of your home, you can hang a metal wind chime in that area. A wooden chime near your bed creates a sense of calm. They are also used to address specific challenges: hanging a chime near the front door, for example, is said to help to disperse negative energy.

Incense & Feng Shui Practice

Burning incense is also believed to have a positive effect on the energy flow. It is often used to purify and clear negative energy from a room, as well as to attract positive energy.

Certain types of incense are believed to have special properties to help in our daily lives. Sandalwood, for example, is often used for healing and meditation, while lavender incense is used for relaxation and stress relief. 

The placement and direction of the incense is considered: the incense should be placed in a position that allows the smoke to circulate throughout the room and reach all corners.

It is also worth noting that incense may not be suitable for those with respiratory issues or allergies, and if using incense, make sure your room is well-ventilated and to always choose a high quality, natural or organic incense.

Life as a Series of Small, Purposeful Steps

Creating a home and a space to feel safe is a fundamental part of our wellbeing. A careful consideration of your living space can make a huge difference to our mental and physical health.

One of the things that struck me when I started to read about the practice of feng shui was that in general much of it seems to make sense when you take time to consider it; the problem with today's fast-paced world is that often we forget to consider the little things. Whether it be adding plants to a room, or placing pictures of happy memories; a mindful approach to homemaking and the practice of heartwarming rituals is an act of self-love, encouraging appreciation and gratitude, and can make all the difference in our daily lives.

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