Patio Feng Shui

Create your outdoor oasis

by Stephanie Dempsey

Feng Shui seeks to create spaces that mimic nature. One of the easiest places to do this is the patio. Enjoying the great outdoors in a civilized setting can bring welcome balance to your life. Instead of fluorescent lights, ringing telephones and recycled air, the patio affords open sky, birdsong and fresh breezes. Of course, you'll want to add some Feng Shui cures to ensure that this haven is as peaceful and empowering as possible. That's the beauty of this ancient practice -- it combines nature's wisdom with human ingenuity. Talk about an unbeatable combination!

Now you're cooking
If you have a grill, a great place for it is in the center portion of the far side of the patio, where it will generate warmth, energy and excitement. Expect your popularity to soar if you place a cooking element in this power spot. If it's not convenient to put your grill in this spot, you can choose the far right corner, where it could add fire to your love life. Putting a grill in the near left corner of the patio is favored, since it will create peace and serenity.

It's easy being green
Adding plant life to your patio will keep your finances healthy and promote family togetherness. Keep a tall plant in the far left corner of your patio, particularly if you want to increase your income. Keeping a group of healthy plants in the center portion of the left side of the patio will encourage strong family ties, either with your blood relations or your chosen community. Get rid of any dead or dying plants.

Take a seat
Comfortable chairs make all the difference between a popular and neglected patio. If you're on a tight budget, spend the majority of your money on quality seating. Cushioned chairs that can be adjusted are ideal. Stay away from metal models if your patio gets lots of sun, or you won't be likely to linger there. Cushions for seats should be mellow earth tones like olive, brick, yellow, brown or pumpkin, as these hues invite people to relax and linger.

Table for fun
When choosing a table for your patio, give careful consideration to its shape. A square table will promote a sense of close stability, but may not be the best choice for those who like to entertain different groups of people. A round table is great for fostering community, but don't expect lots of decisions to get made here. A rectangular table promotes lively conversation. But, you may want to stay away from this shape if your family includes someone with a strong personality who makes others uncomfortable.

Keep it moving
Nature is never stagnant. If your patio doesn't get a lot of use, it could be because stagnant energy has settled there. Change this by hanging a metal wind chime on the center right side of your patio, where it will generate lighthearted energy. Alternately, you can place a water fountain near the entrance of your patio, where it will help people to release their worries and use the patio as a place for rest and relaxation.

Patio Feng Shui | Tarot.com -- Continued »