Cover A spring setting with biophilic furniture from Moooi
A spring setting with biophilic furniture from Moooi
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Feng shui master Clarice Chan tells us how to create a welcoming environment for the wood dragon
This Year of the Dragon is associated with yang wood, “its energy is more active, dynamic and outward-focused,” says feng shui master Clarice Chan. This is quite a departure from the preceding Year of the Rabbit, associated with the yin water element. If the yin years are seen as times of consolidation, planning and inner development, the yang ones are times for creativity, vitality and growth.
Yang wood, Chan says, is likened to the “energy of a growing tree, reaching towards the sky and expanding its branches”. As the saying goes, a tree is only as strong as its roots—our year of growth starts with a home that promotes wellness. Here are some of Chan’s top tips.
Read more: Chinese New Year 2024: Feng shui tips for new homeowners
Above Feng shui master Clarice Chan
Feng shui master Clarice Chan
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Total declutter
Feng shui is all about creating spaces conducive to the flow of energy, or qi. “A cluttered space obstructs the smooth circulation of qi and creates stagnant energy, which in turn can transform into negative energy that causes challenges to your health, wealth and relationships,” states Chan. “Consider rearranging your furniture to establish an open and flowing layout in your living space. It’s advisable to avoid placing furniture directly in the path of doorways, as this can disrupt the natural flow of energy.”
In addition to decluttering and cleaning each room in your home and letting go of things to make room for positive energy, Chan also recommends purging one area that we often overlook—our workspaces, both physical and digital. The outdated hardware, cables and accessories need to go, and so do the many screenshots and desktop files piling up on your screens, both big and small. “By regularly reviewing and removing obsolete or redundant digital accessories, you will create and promote a sense of order and tranquillity, and also help with better focus and productivity,” Chan says.
In case you missed it: Feng shui for singles: How to invite love into your home this Valentine’s Day
Above An office featuring the Nougat marble desk from Caffe Latte
An office featuring the Nougat marble desk from Caffe Latte
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Strive for balance
Other than creating spaces with good qi circulation, feng shui also places importance on a good balance of yin and yang elements in the house. “Avoid using excessive yang characteristics, such as bright lights, loud music and vibrant colours in small spaces, as they may induce restlessness and anxiety. Conversely, a space saturated with too much yin energy, marked by dim lights and dark colours, can induce lethargy and depression,” Chan elaborates. A balance of these elements makes for a harmonious spatial experience that will allow one to find one’s centre with ease.
Above An entryway with the Redleh II rug from Rug'Society
Above Mind the Gap Dragons of Tibet wallpaper from Dowsing & Reynolds
An entryway with the Redleh II rug from Rug'Society
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Elemental energy
“In Chinese metaphysics, the concept of the five elements is fundamental. They are believed to be the universe’s building blocks, influencing various aspects of life and nature,” shares Chan. As the prevailing element of the Year of the Dragon is wood, Chan recommends incorporating elements made of wood into your surroundings.
“This can be achieved by introducing wooden furniture, adding plants and even incorporating the colour green into your decor,” she says. This is, of course, on par with our recent obsession with biophilic interior design elements. But that doesn’t mean we should forget about the other four elements, each of which plays its own supporting role to wood’s leading star.
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Above Pop 8T freestanding bioethanol fireplaces from Lime Lace
Above A textural closet and dressing area by Covet House
Pop 8T freestanding bioethanol fireplaces from Lime Lace
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The fire element activates the energy of the wood dragon. This can be represented by lighting fixtures, candles and decorative items in hues such as red, pink and purple that infuse, literally and figuratively, warmth into the space. The water element nourishes wood. Thus, Chan recommends adding water features or shades of blue to the southeast or east parts of your home.
The grounding earth elements are ideally placed southwest of your living room, says Chan. These can be represented by ceramic and crystal items, whose textures lend a grounding touch to the interior. Meanwhile, the metal element inhibits the wild growth of wood. Chan recommends adding metallic accents or colours in the west and north areas to promote balanced energy.
Colours of fortune
In addition to decorating tips, feng shui master Clarice Chan also reveals auspicious hues for specific zodiac signs, find out in the gallery below:
Red for rat and rabbit. Boost motivation and attract opportunities with the fire-element colour, with items like these handles from Dowsing & Reynolds
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