We’ve explored basic Feng Shui, which is largely about the
arrangement of and placement of objects to create lasting
harmony. In this article, we’ll explore the ways you can use a
Feng Shui color treatment to create a more harmonious atmosphere
in your kitchen – increasing the joy you get simply by being in
the room.
With Feng Shui, using color is directly related to bringing forth
the 5 elements of the ancient Chinese philosophy:
- Fire
- Earth
- Metal
- Water
- Wood
Within the palette of each element, you have colors for Yin
and Yang – the two types of energy in the universe. The Yin
energy is passive and calming, while the energy of Yang is active
and creative.
In the Chinese philosophy, one energy cannot exist without the
other, so it’s always important to remember to balance as much as
possible – i.e. using all yin colors might cause you to feel
tired and lackluster, while using all yang colors may cause
tension or aggression. Also be careful using yang colors too
much, as excesses are linked to highly emotional states.
Remember, a little Yang goes a long way!
Fire
- The Yin colors of fire are pink, purple and violet. These
colors are all associated with prosperity and abundance, and pink
is also considered the universal color of healing.
- The Yang colors of fire are red, orange and yellow. These are
all strong colors that excite, inspire and lift your mood
Earth
-
The most common earth colors are all Yang – lighter yellows,
beiges and other brown earth tones. Light yellow is linked to
good health, while is also is a good way to make spaces look
larger.
- Pale earth tones represent the Yin side of the earthen
palette. Any earthen color with a white or pink undertone works
for the Yin of earth and will create unity in your space.
Metal
- Grays and silvers are the most common colors to use for the
Yin half of metal. This part of the metal palette inspires calm
and stability.
- Gold and white and Yang colors. Gold encourages health and
success, while white is associated with love, creativity, purity
and confidence.
- A special note on white: when used with any other colors in
the metal palette, white generates calm and is a symbol of
harmony. However, too much white can produce an unfriendly
atmosphere.
Water
- The Yin color of water is blue. It reflects love and inspires
calm and soothing.
- The Yang color of water is black. Black is the color of
power, protection and knowledge.
Wood
- Green is the Yin of wood. It is restful and refreshing –
typically used to create an atmosphere of rejuvenation and
balance. However, too much green can lead to melancholy and
selfishness.
- Brown is the Yang half of wood. It is linked to feelings of
security and safety.
Above all, make sure your space is balanced! Using too many
strong Yang colors means you won’t be able to really relax and
enjoy yourself in the kitchen, but too many Yin colors and you
may never get inspired to do anything. As a rule, don’t dominate
the space with one color – if you’re painting walls, consider
using a Yin color for the main walls and a Yang color for an
accent wall.
Just a final note on incorporating SpaceMaker into your Feng
Shui, the white SpaceMaker line fits perfectly in the metal color
palette – blending small accents of silver with white for a touch
of calm and harmony to the room. The SpaceMaker black line blends
the black Yang side of water with subtle silver accents – for
protection, stability and security. These small detail accents
can be extended throughout your kitchen, while using a soothing
Yin color as the main focus of the room. Also – remember covering
walls in light colors will provide a larger sense of space to the
area.
Sources:
http://fengshui.about.com/od/fengshuicures/qt/fengshuicolor.htm
http://www.lifescript.com/Soul/Horoscope/Feng-shui/Understanding_the_Feng_Shui_Color_Guide.aspx?page=1
http://www.thespiritualfengshui.com/feng-shui-color.php
