In feng shui, water features refer to various forms of water, whether natural or man - made, that are believed to have an impact on the flow of energy, or "chi", in a space. They play a significant role in feng shui theory and practice. The following is a detailed introduction:
Symbolism
Representing Wealth and Abundance: In feng shui, water is regarded as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. The flowing water in water features is seen as a representation of the flow of cash into the home and success in business, similar to the concepts of "cash flow" in the English language. It is believed that correctly placed water features can attract wealth and abundance.
Signifying the Flow of Positive Energy: The continuous movement of water in a water feature is considered to represent the everlasting flow of good chi. It is thought to have the power to help people attain their aspirations and bring a steady stream of positive energy to the family.
Types
Natural Water Features: These include rivers, lakes, and seas. In traditional feng shui, ideal natural water features should present certain forms, such as "jade belt encircling the waist", where the water flows in an arc around the building, which is believed to be able to gather wealth and bring good luck. Other auspicious forms include meandering water, which symbolizes the continuous flow of wealth and can resolve negative energies, and central water in front of the building, which is beneficial to family harmony and career stability.
Man - made Water Features: Such as fountains, fish tanks, and indoor tabletop water devices. Fountains are a common type, and they can be divided into indoor and outdoor ones. Indoor fountains come in various styles, such as tabletop, wall - mounted, and floor - standing, while outdoor fountains are often used in gardens, ponds, or patios. Fish tanks can also be regarded as a kind of water feature, and the movement of fish in the water is believed to activate the flow of energy.
Placement Principles
Based on the Bagua Map: According to feng shui, different areas of the space correspond to different aspects of life. For example, placing a water feature in the north area of the home is beneficial for career advancement, while placing it in the southeast area is related to enhancing wealth and abundance.
Avoiding Inappropriate Locations: It is not advisable to place water features in the bedroom or bathroom, as these areas are not considered ideal for activating wealth and positive energy. Also, avoid placing them behind the seat in the office to prevent the inauspicious pattern of "facing the water in a difficult situation".
Considering the Flow Direction: In general, the water in the water feature should flow towards the interior of the space, such as towards an entryway or the center of the room, symbolizing the entry of wealth and positive energy.
Maintenance and Precautions
Regular Maintenance: Stagnant or dirty water is believed to be able to reduce the positive energy of the water feature and attract negative energy. Therefore, it is necessary to clean the water regularly and check the proper functioning of the water feature to ensure the smooth flow of water.
Harmonious with the Environment: You can consider incorporating natural elements such as plants or stones around the water feature to enhance the overall aesthetics and create a more harmonious environment. At the same time, the size and style of the water feature should be coordinated with the space to avoid being too large or too small.
In essence, water features in feng shui are more than just decorative elements—they are considered dynamic tools to harmonize energy, invite prosperity, and foster balance in living or working spaces. When chosen mindfully, placed thoughtfully, and maintained with care, they can serve as a constant reminder of the flow of life’s abundance, creating an environment where positive chi thrives. Whether through the gentle murmur of a fountain or the serene presence of a well-tended fish tank, these water elements bridge the gap between physical space and the intangible forces that shape our daily lives, making them a timeless and meaningful aspect of feng shui practice.
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Written by Adeline Shi
Post time: Aug-22-2025