Creating a Tranquility Spot for Stress Reduction

No matter our creed, race or sexuality we all, as humans, need balance, serenity and harmony in order to face the challenges of life. In this article, I will give you some suggestions and ideas that I have learned for creating such an area within your home or office.

First off, let me explain what a Tranquility Spot is. It is a section, table, self, corner, alcove or whatever you choose of your home or office that is specifically tailored with the traditional five elements (wood, metal, water, fire, and earth) of Feng Shui. This, of course, can be adapted to any elemental grouping from various traditions. Land, Sea and Sky for Celtic/Druid and Earth, Air, Fire, Water for Wicca and other Neo-Pagan traditions, of which I have also listed below. The purpose of such a place is for you to come to relax and/or meditate and release the tensions of the day.

Below are the five elements, their general description and different items that can be added to areas to create balance and stillness. Feel free to use only the elements that correspond to your chosen path.

Wood

The element of wood is associated with the trees. Wood is both pliant and sturdy and enhances creativity, cooperation and innovation.

· Figurines or carvings of wood.

· Trees, plants, and flowers, both natural and manmade. Can be in artwork as well.

· Organic fabrics.

· Green colors, such as forest, kelly, lime, celadon and sage.

Fire

The element of Fire boosts your sacred space by means of enhancing your passion and enthusiasm. Fire is hot and motivating.

· Art, object or figurines that represent the sun, fire, animals or people.

· Things made from animals, such as feathers, fur or leather.

· Traditional candles or electronic candles.

· Colors such as red and orange.

Earth / Land

The element of earth embodies stability and grounding. It increases patience and is associated with planning and other practicalities.

· Anything made from adobe, bricks, stucco or ceramics.

· Earthenware pottery.

· Art depicting deserts or canyons.

· Colors of brown, earth tones, burnt sienna, ivory or rust.

Metal

Metal is a wonderful element and when used in balancing, can improve your business and finances. Metal is symbolic of coins and gems and work well for bringing prosperity to you.

· Art or sculptures of various metals or stone.

· Natural rocks, actual metals and gemstones/crystals.

· Wind chimes.

· Colors of white, gold, silver, brass and pastels.

Water / Sea

Water represents our emotional, learning, travel and intuition. Water is nourishing and nurturing. Adding water to your sacred space heightens your studies as well as emotional relationships.

· Reflective surfaces or objects, such as mirrors, prisms, or crystal.

· A picture depicting lake, rivers or oceans.

· Fountain or fish bowl.

· Various shades of black, charcoal or navy blue.

Air / Sky

Air represents our intellect, creativity and free spirit. Air is enlightening and inspiring. Adding air to your sacred space heightens your mental clarity as well as your spiritual undertakings.

· Figurines of winged beings, whether fictional or non-fictional. (Fairies, Dragonflies, Eagles, Pegasus...)

· A picture depicting horizons, mountains and/or open skies.

· Feathers.

· Various shades of yellow, sky blue and white.

Best thing about this project is personality. Have fun with it, incorporate some of my ideas mentioned or create your own. Anything goes! Size and contents do not matter, though keeping pieces of actual nature within the area will greatly help with reducing stress.

Sources:

Creating Home Sanctuaries with Feng Shui by Shawne Mitchell with Stephanie GunningThe Way of Four by Deborah Lipp