The joy of using plants and trees

When plants are used indoors, they are an invaluable feng shui remedy for ramping up energy levels.

by Joy Abrams — 

Plants, flowers and trees are more than just food or foliage. They represent symbols of growth and prosperity that lift the spirits, reduce stress and provide natural protection from air and noise pollution. When plants are used indoors, they are an invaluable feng shui remedy for ramping up energy levels.

Feng shui practice is symbolic in the sense that all objects in the environment exude energy — some good, others not so good. The quality of chi emitted by some plants can be ascertained by applying criteria such as the proper placement in the pa kua (feng shui floor plan) and the five elements: earth, metal, water, wood and fire.

A feng shui master can help you understand how it is possible to balance the energy of a space after determining whether its elements are interacting in a creative or destructive way.

Determining the yin and yang qualities of plants will also offer some clues about creating the proper balance — but it is important to keep in mind that plants are living things and do change. You can make sure that the yin and yang qualities of plants are properly balanced by observing the cycles of the five elements.

For example, lacy ferns such as maidenhair and asparagus will present yin energies when placed near plants with sharp edges, which produce an overabundance of yang energies.

Some energizing plants and trees to include in your home décor include philodendron and peony, as well as bamboo, peach, pine and magnolia trees.

Plants enhance your chi, increase the oxygen content, improve humidity and lift the energy in your space. They are one of the most valuable remedies around to help create balance and harmony, as well as to fill your rooms with fragrance and bursts of color.

Joy Abrams, M.A., FSII, is a feng shui and yoga master and an international author who offers feng shui consultations. www.aaafengshuiandyoga.com, www.empowermentwithjoy.com or 602-791-5223.

Reprinted from AZNetNews, Volume 30, Number 4, Aug/Sept. 2011.