Green Living

By Sherry Brouzes

When we think of the colour green, it invokes an image of nature, forests and lush plants. In Feng Shui design, Green represents growth, harmony and renewal. In addition, Green is associated with hope and healing, a word related to protecting the environment for recycling and “green living.” The primary goal of Feng Shui design is to create an environment that supports and nurtures us where we live, work and play. Green Qi/Chi (energy) has a specific vibration we can use in design to effectively create balance to enjoy and love our life.

In Feng Shui, green is associated with the wood element, east and southeast directions and the area of the Bagua called ‘Family’. In China, green represents clean and uncontaminated items. An interesting fact is, wearing a green hat is an expression that Chinese use when a woman cheats on her husband or boyfriend because the phrase sounds similar to the word for a ‘cuckold’. This apparently dates back to the Yuan dynasty when the relatives of prostitutes were forced to wear green hats. In the Western part of the world, we associate green with wealth; for example, Americans call their paper money ‘greenbacks.’ We can see how colours have different meanings in many cultures.

Green is an excellent colour to use for the illusion of more space. It is recommended to paint small rooms Green. In addition, it is beneficial to use green spaces to separate halls and stairways. Prison walls are painted green to reduce the feelings of confinement for the incarcerated. Green is also used in medical centers, clinics and hospitals to promote healing. Surgeons and nurses wear green uniforms known as ‘scrubs’ in hospitals. Green can be used in most areas of the home as it is neither hot nor cold. Green sits in the center of the spectrum, creating peaceful Qi (lifeforce energy)

It is not the best choice for a space where a more dynamic colour is necessary.

• I recommend adding green Qi to your office and workspace as it supports decision-making skills necessary in business. When we feel stagnant and unable to move forward, Green Qi will shift our energy field. Green is also very soothing for the eyes when working and studying at a desk for long hours.

• The primary bedroom is our sanctuary, a place of rejuvenation and romance. Green Qi/Chi (energy) has a specific vibration we can use in design to create harmony and balance effectively.

• Light green lampshades make reading in the bedroom less stressful for our eyes. However, I don’t advise using dark green colours in a bedroom as it may create intense growth energy, which is not conducive to sleeping. Instead, add pastel green bedding, throw pillows, curtains or rugs. Green helps heal love relationships and is the colour of the heart chakra.

• In the kitchen, I suggest using green in moderation, green being associated with the wood element feeds the fire element. The kitchen already has an abundance of fire Chi/Qi due to the stove and cooking appliances. Unfortunately, too much fire Chi/Qi may cause irritability and outbursts in people.

We mainly identify green with the colour of trees, plants and all greenery in nature. Therefore, bringing healthy plants into our homes is the best way to cultivate healthy Chi/Qi in our spaces. In addition, plants are recommended to soften harsh lines in Feng Shui design that create negative energy and, over time, will create headaches and stress on the nervous system.. Healthy green plants exude yang energy which is excellent in most home spaces I do not advise placing large plants in a bedroom. However, smaller plants and flowers are acceptable yet best placed away from the head of your bed.

Designing offices and workspaces by adding green vegetation has many benefits, such as:

• reduced blood pressure

• reduced heart rate

• reduced employee absenteeism

• increased productivity and job satisfaction

• increases focus and concentration

• creates a spacious environment

• raises trust in management -

• improves teamwork

• reflects respect and loyalty to a company

Biophilic designs and feng shui have proven to improve all aspects of the home and workplace. For example, E.O. Wilson quotes that humans have “an innate and genetically determined affinity with the natural world.”

The colour green is an excellent choice for many spaces and buildings. It can be implemented using plants, artwork, paint, choosing low VOC (volatile organic compounds), fabrics, textiles, furnishings and décor. Humans are scientifically proven to be drawn to plants with patterns that depict nature. For example, the Fibonacci sequence has specific leaf patterns and spirals we see in flowers, plants and shells.

Biophilic design principles integrate plants and greenery in buildings and spaces. It also includes utilizing natural and artificial lighting, air flow, water features, balance in an area, sound, authenticity and safety.

Green is synonymous with life, growth and nature. It is more common today to see a biophilic design and feng shui implemented in large office spaces, airports, hospitals, libraries and new architecture. Biophilic design principles work to bring nature inside buildings where we work and live. Feng Shui and biophilic design complement each other. For example, we have seen office spaces with green ‘living walls’ that reach out to the ceiling with beautiful plants. The green Qi generates peace and rejuvenation for employees to relax during workdays. Yet, we spend eighty-five percent of our life indoors. Feng Shui and biophilic design principles use the natural elements of nature and energy flow to create an appealing and balanced space.

Green encompasses a large portion of Mother Earth. The word ‘green’ is associated with the green movement creating a healthy and sustainable environment in this modern world. Green living and Green Peace are two familiar organizations. Green is familiar to our souls. I believe Green can be used in any form of design,

space, home or building. It represents new beginnings, peace, healing, love, and trust. It is balance and harmony. It is life.

Feng Shui is green, an ancient wisdom still used today as it was over a thousand years ago.