Outdoor Water Features

In the practice of feng shui outdoor water features not only add a sense of calm and tranquility to the area, they also attract positive chi resulting in increased harmony, balance and prosperity.

Choosing a Water Feature for Outdoors

Outside water features help to provide balance and harmony to your surroundings. As the water flows it circulates and refreshes the positive energy bringing a renewed vitality into the area.

Outdoor Water Feature Considerations

There are several important aspects to consider when choosing a water feature for your garden or yard suc as placement and the degree and type of sound produced by the water feature. Some people prefer the sound of rushing water, while others prefer the sound of gentle rain or a bubbling brook. Just as there are different types of water features, there are different types of sounds produced by fountains and waterfalls. There are also solar water fountains that hardly produce any sound at all. You also need to consider:

  • The material or materials, used to make the water feature.
  • The addition of other feng shui elements into the water feature.

Types of Outdoor Water Features

The following are some of the various types of outside water features used to enhance a garden or yard.

Water fountains

Water fountains are among the most popular water features for gardens and yards. Divided into two main types, free standing and wall mounted, fountains are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Many water fountains are made of natural materials such as:

  • Stone
  • Wood
  • Bamboo
  • Slate
  • Copper

Always keep your water fountain clean and in good condition. Make any necessary repairs as quickly as possible to keep the positive chi flowing freely.

Ponds

Incorporating a pond into your garden or backyard landscape creates a lovely water feature that allows you to be creative in its design. A man-made pond should resemble a natural pond as much as possible with a gentle circular or oval shape. Add beautiful stones and aquatic plants for a beautiful natural look.

Making a koi or goldfish pond is very auspicious. In feng shui fish represent increased wealth and success. Traditionally feng shui ponds contain nine fish, one colored black and eight gold ones. The eight gold colored fish symbolize the lucky number eight, which attracts wealth. The black colored fish symbolizes the protection and safety of the home. Many ponds include a waterfall or fountain as part of the system to circulate the water. These additions also help to increase positive energy levels and reduce and control the population of mosquitoes.

Whether your pond is a fish pond or a pond for aquatic plants, it must be kept clean and free of debris including dead leaves, branches and litter.

Bird Baths

Inviting birds into your outdoor space with the addition of a bird bath is a great way to add a water feature and increase beneficial chi. In feng shui, birds are symbols of happiness and new opportunities. In addition, many specific types of birds carry a special meaning. For example, a hummingbird symbolizes love, fidelity and ambition while a crane represents a happy marriage and a long life

Make certain to keep the water in your birdbath clean and fresh. Never allow the water to become stagnant or the stagnant energy could effect your financial and love life in a negative way.

Additional Water Features for Outdoors

A Few Tips Regarding Water Features

  • The water from a fountain or waterfall should flow, or point, toward your house. Water flowing away from the home will carry away existing positive energy.
  • Carefully consider the placement of your water feature. Typically the best placement for your water feature is the east, southeast or north direction.
  • Never place a water feature on each side of your front door.

With the many different kinds of outdoor water features available, there is certain to be one that fits your space and style perfectly as it enhances the flow of positive chi.