Nature's Formula

Nature is the key to success – even in your office.

by Jen Boyd, PINK magazine April/May 2006

BRING NATURE’S FIVE ELEMENTS
(wood, fire, earth, metal and water) into your office and notice the difference. Determine the attributes you need and add them to your space with the substance, color and shape of your favorite art, object or fabric. According to Terah Kathryn Collins, internationally recognized consultant, author and founder of theWestern School of Feng Shui, “Every second our nervous systems are responding to our surroundings, whether we are conscious of it or not.”

Adding elements of nature to your workspace leads to results such as:

FLEXIBILITY/ VITALITY. Add wood: beautiful, healthy plants like an orchid, green and blue colors, stripes and the shape of the column. Trees, with their roots, strong trunk and branches, represent intuition, initiative and vision.

ENTHUSIASM/MOMENTUM. Add fire: a favorite lamp, ample lighting such as full-spectrum and natural, animal prints, accents of red and bright colors, and the shape of the triangle. A productive office and bright career needs fire, inspiring motivation, vigor as well as heartwarming relationships.

BALANCE/STABILITY. Add earth: soft rugs and pillows, earthenware, warm yellows, orange and earth tones, square patterns, and personal items like family photos or that lucky memento. This will help you stay grounded and centered throughout the day.

ORGANIZATION/SIMPLICITY. Add metal: a silver picture frame or metal lamp, pastel colors, simple designs and the shape of the circle. Metal accents and neutral colors will keep you sharp and keep details in line.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES. Add water: fountains, fish tanks, artwork with water flowing, and reflective surfaces. Open pathways that are free from clutter and irrelevant items to create a meandering flow of chi, contributing to a harmonious workflow. Water, like the womb, represents beginnings, creation and ideas.