Most people have at least heard the words Feng Shui, they may even have a feng shui fountain, but the fact is that your average person doesn't really know what it means or what it entails. While it has changed since it migrated to the west, Feng Shui originated in ancient China. It is essentially a way of arranging a space that is supposed to promote a positive flow of qi, or life energy. If you are familiar with acupuncture, tai chi, or martial arts, qi is a vital part of these arts as well.

Feng shui, in particular, is about arranging a space with the proper flow of energy, and a key part of that is a balance between the elements: water, wood, fire, earth and metal. Since most of us don't have bodies of water in our homes, a feng shui fountain can play an important role in balancing a space.

Even if you're not really interested in the greater concepts of feng shui, that's no reason you can't utilize a fountain to add to the decor of a space. A lot of people enjoy having a fountain around due to the relaxing sound of running water in the background.

No matter your sense of style, there is a feng shui water fixture to fit it. Many people favor a classic Chinese design, while others like to have a more modern edge with western influences. Some people opt for truly wild abstract fountains. Fountains are available in a variety of sizes, as well. They range from huge outdoor fixtures to wall-hanging fountains to tiny fountains that will fit on a shelf or small table.

If you want to adhere to the proper feng shui principles, the placement of your feng shui water feature is of the utmost importance. The first rule is that the fountain should never be placed in your bedroom, as this is believed to bring more worry into your life. You should also avoid placing a feng shui fountain in a southern location of your home, as it conflicts with the natural energy (fire) of that space.

The best orientations to place a feng shui fountain are the north, the east, or the southeast. Each orientation can promote a different kind of positive qi flow. A northern fountain may provide a boost to your vocational success. A fountain in the southeast will bring positive energy to your overall financial success. Finally, placing a fountain to the east is a symbol of health for your family.

A feng shui fountain is a great way to start channeling positive energy through your living space. But it's just that - a start. There's a lot more to this ancient Chinese art.

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