Decorating with the Five Elements of Feng Shui

Morris (Mind, Body, Home) introduces readers to feng shui through an approach that emphasizes the five elements (Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal). Based in Taoist philosophy, feng shui recognizes a relationship between mind, body, and spirit, between nature and built environments, and between body and home: “The harmony of your space will have a direct correlation with the harmony within your mind and body.” Each element embodies either active yang or calm yin, with Earth being a balance of both. Morris’s method encourages readers to discover their “own personal constitution of the five elements” and create spaces uniquely suited to their individual energy. Before arriving at any discussion of logistics in the design practice (e.g., what color to paint a kitchen or the appropriate materials for the desk in a home office), Morris prescribes a rambling reexamination of one’s life and goals using hypothetical examples: “While Susan has wonderful qualities as a nurturing and caring person, she needs more of the Wood element energy to help catalyze a change.” In the author’s view, feng shui is not just about overhauling an ugly floral couch; it’s about confronting life’s inner challenges. Her book serves an interesting, if somewhat unfocused, approach to both self help and home decorating. (Sept.)