Background on TRIZ
TRIZ is a problem-solving methodology originating with Genrich Altshuller and colleagues in 1946. By examining many thousands of patents, Altshuller proposed that inventive solutions follow recurring patterns, summarised as forty inventive principles and related tools such as the contradiction matrix and the ideal final result. While TRIZ emerged from technical design, it has been widely adapted for management, service design, and architecture, which makes it a natural partner for design-led feng shui.

Why TRIZ is ideal for feng shui
Feng shui works with patterns of form, flow, and meaning to support human flourishing. TRIZ offers a rigorous, creativity-boosting lens that turns fuzzy hunches into systematic options. Environmental psychology research also shows growing interest in testing feng shui-related claims and design moves using empirical methods, which aligns with TRIZ’s emphasis on testable, transferable patterns.

TRIZ is fundamentally a system for recognising and organising recurrent solution patterns, distilled from large bodies of inventive practice. Feng shui is likewise a pattern discipline, reading the relationships between forms, flows, and meanings in space and time, from doorway alignments and sightlines to seasonal and circadian cycles. Bringing TRIZ into feng shui strengthens this shared pattern literacy. The contradiction matrix helps articulate and resolve common spatial tensions such as openness and privacy, visibility and refuge, movement and stillness (yin and yang of things). The ideal final result focuses attention on elegant sufficiency, encouraging minimal, low energy interventions that deliver maximum effect. Patterns of system evolution support staged adjustments as households and organisations move through life cycles, while TRIZ’s emphasis on feedback encourages iterative refinement aligned with changing temporal rhythms. In combination, they convert intuitive pattern recognition into a clearer, teachable method that preserves the spirit of feng shui while improving rigour and reproducibility.

A short tour of some TRIZ principles and how they can be applied in feng shui practice

The TRIZ canon summarises forty recurring moves, such as segmentation, taking out, merging, dynamics, another dimension, and feedback (see all 40 patterns at the end of this blog). I will develop five of these for feng shui practice.

Principle 2, Taking out: the subtractive move

Essence of the principle
Principle 2, often called taking out or subtraction, asks what can be removed to achieve the function with greater clarity, stability, or delight. It is the design equivalent of Occam’s razor applied to artefacts and environments.

Why subtraction matters
Large studies in behavioural science show that people default to adding features when solving problems and systematically overlook beneficial subtractions. Recognition of this bias is important in space design, where removing one obstructive element can outperform multiple additive fixes.

A simple illustration from design science
In experiments summarised by the University of Virginia, participants often stabilised a precarious Lego roof by adding extra bricks that reduced their bonus payment, while a better solution was to remove one brick so that the roof dropped into place and became stable. The same logic underpins the popularity of balance bikes, which remove pedals to teach cycling more effectively.

Practical feng shui applications of subtraction
Start by asking what can be taken out rather than what can be added.

• Remove one piece of over-scaled furniture that pinches the circulation path, rather than adding mirrors or cures to simulate spaciousness.
• Declutter or clear a tall stack of items near the entry that creates a partial wall and fragments first impressions, rather than placing yet another symbolic enhancer.
• Unplug one unnecessary light source that creates glare and agitation in the evening, replacing it with darkness that supports melatonin rhythms and a calmer bedroom mood.
• Edit the colour palette to two or three harmonious tones and one accent. This prevents visual noise and heightens the impact of well-chosen art.

Subtraction as a routine check
Embed a subtractive checkpoint into every consultation and design review. Ask the client to live for a week with one category removed, for example half of the corridor objects, nonessential bedside items, or duplicate chairs. Only reinstate what proves functionally or emotionally necessary.

Principle 5, Merging: make elements work together

Essence of the principle
Merging combines objects or functions to reduce clutter, friction, and decision load. It answers questions such as which two things can become one.

Practical feng shui applications of merging
• Combine entry storage and seating into a single narrow bench with concealed compartments, which tidies shoes and parcels while supporting graceful arrivals and departures.
• Merge lighting functions by using adjustable fixtures that shift from task to ambient, which reduces the number of fittings and simplifies evening transitions.
• Unify materials in open-plan rooms to guide the eye. For example, one timber tone for shelves, table, and frames will merge disparate items into a coherent field that supports calm flow.

A general TRIZ illustration
A modern smartphone merges phone, camera, audio player, and navigation. The benefit is not just fewer objects, but more coherent user journeys, which is exactly the aim in well-resolved home layouts.

Principle 15, Dynamics: design for adaptive change

Essence of the principle
Dynamics asks us to prefer adjustable, movable, and adaptable elements over fixed ones. Spaces then fit the rhythms of life rather than forcing life to fit the space.

Practical feng shui applications of dynamics

• Use mobile screens to rebalance line-of-sight issues only when they arise, rather than building permanent partitions.
• Install dimmers and layered lighting to track circadian needs, calm in the evening and alertness in the morning.
• Choose height-adjustable desks so that work zones can switch between focused effort and more relaxed collaboration.

A general TRIZ illustration
Adaptive suspension in vehicles varies stiffness with speed and load, balancing comfort and control. In rooms, adjustable elements similarly reconcile competing needs such as openness and privacy.

Principle 17, Another dimension: use vertical and depth strategies

Essence of the principle
Another dimension invites solutions that step beyond the two-dimensional plan, using height, depth, and layered sightlines to create function and flow without sprawl.

Practical feng shui applications of another dimension

• Elevate storage and free the floor to widen perceived corridors, which improves chi flow in tight flats.
• Use mezzanines or lofted beds in studios to separate rest from work without adding walls.
• Exploit layered planting and lighting to produce visual depth at entrances, making small foyers feel like invitations rather than bottlenecks.

A general TRIZ illustration
Warehouses solved throughput limits by adopting vertical racking and multi-level pick paths. Dwellings can achieve similar gains in legibility and capacity by thinking in volumes rather than just areas.

Principle 23, Feedback: close the loop between space and behaviour

Essence of the principle
Feedback institutionalises learning. It turns spaces into experiments where the environment nudges behaviour, and behaviour in turn tunes the environment.

Practical feng shui applications of feedback

• Maintain weekly micro-audits of how people actually move, rest, and store, then adjust layouts accordingly.
• Use simple sensors for air quality or light levels where appropriate, not as gadgets but as feedback prompts to ventilate, dim, or step outside. Check for electro-smog using basic EMFs meters.
• Keep a households’ mood and energy journal that tracks sleep quality, arguments, and joy moments by room. Over a month, patterns often reveal one or two decisive layout changes.

A general TRIZ illustration
A thermostat reads the temperature and triggers heating or cooling, a humble but perfect feedback model. The same logic applies to rituals of review in the home.

A TRIZ-guided feng shui method you can apply this week

Define the contradiction
State the tension as a pair, for example privacy versus openness in a small flat.

Choose candidate principles
Select two to three principles that might resolve the tension. For privacy versus openness, try subtraction, dynamics, and another dimension.

Prototype on paper first
Sketch two subtractive options, two adaptive options, and one vertical option. Limit yourself to five moves total to prevent scope creep.

Trial a reversible version
Remove or move items before you buy anything. Use tape to mark new boundaries, and live with each option for three days.

Collect feedback deliberately
Log traffic paths and mood changes. Keep what works, revert or tweak what does not. Repeat quarterly to keep spaces aligned with the season and life changes.

A worked example: calming a restless bedroom

The brief: A couple report light sleep and a sense of crowding in a compact bedroom.
Subtractive pass: Remove two decorative chairs that compress the bed’s approach. Remove the bright picture above the headboard that grabs attention at night. Unplug one cool-white lamp.
Merging pass: Replace two conflicting bedside tables with a single low shared unit that holds books and a soft downlight, reducing visual noise.
Dynamic pass: Add a dimmer to the main light and a warm reading lamp to shift from alertness to restfulness smoothly.
Another dimension pass: Lift closed storage to head height and clear the floor near the foot of the bed to widen the circulation arc.
Feedback pass: Log sleep quality and mood for two weeks. If improvements hold, commit to the new arrangement. If not, test one more subtractive change before any additions.

Integrating evidence without losing spirit

Respect for tradition and openness to testing
Feng shui is a living tradition of pattern literacy. TRIZ adds a disciplined language for generating options and testing them without superstition or cynicism. Recent reviews call for reliability and validity in feng shui research, which can be advanced by documenting interventions, outcomes, and user experience with simple feedback loops.

Q&A

What is the single most powerful idea to borrow from TRIZ for feng shui?
Normalise subtraction. Create a habit of removing one element before adding another. This keeps layouts legible, reduces clutter stress, and often unlocks better flow.

How does this differ from minimalism?
Minimalism can be an aesthetic. Subtraction is a problem-solving strategy. You remove only what blocks function or calm. The result may be sparse or richly textured, depending on the brief.

Can sensors and trackers fit a feng shui practice rooted in tradition?
Yes if they serve feedback rather than fetish. A low-cost air quality sensor or electromagnetic pollution meter or a sleep log can validate whether a change helped. If not, reverse it. Feedback keeps interventions honest and adaptive.

How do I start when clients expect cures and additions?
Begin with a subtractive experiment that feels safe, for example a two-week trial with one category removed near the entry or bedside. If wellbeing improves, clients usually become enthusiastic.

Which principle should I try next after subtraction?
Dynamics is a friendly follow-on. Adjustable light, privacy screens, or movable plants allow fine tuning across the day and season without heavy works.

Does TRIZ undermine the symbolic aspects of feng shui?
No. TRIZ asks whether a symbolic object is necessary for the intended effect. Sometimes the best function and the strongest symbolism both appear when you remove something that distracts from intention.

TRIZ principles

1. Segmentation Divide object; Disassemble; Divide into smallest possible parts
2. Taking out Take out harmful/unnecessary part/s; Single out useful part/s
3. Local Quality Make object non-uniform
4. Asymmetry Make object asymmetric
5. Merging Merge objects
6. Universality Make object universal
7. ‘Nested doll’ Place many in one; Move one inside another
8. Anti-weight Compensate weight using another object; Using a medium
9. Preliminary anti-action Perform anti-action in advance
10. Preliminary action Perform partial action in advance
11. Beforehand cushioning Use protective and curative measures
12. Equipotentiality Eliminate the need to elevate object
13. ‘The other way around’ Replace the action with its converse; Invert movement/position
14. Spheroidality Use no-flat shapes; Rollers; Rotation
15. Dynamics Optimise object’s parameters Movable parts; Adaptive parts
16. Partial or excessive actions Make action excessive; Make action ‘deficient’
17. Another dimension Move object in 3 dimensions; Use ‘multistories’ and ‘back sides’
18. Mechanical vibration Shake object …; using ultrasonic, EMFs fields; using resonance
19. Periodic action Make action pulsatory; Change period; Use pauses
20. Continuity of useful action Continuously perform same action
21. Skipping Skip harmful actions
22. ‘Blessing in disguise‘ Rearrange harmful actions to get a useful result; Compensate two harmful actions
23. Feedback Use feedback loop; Regulate feedback loop
24. ‘Intermediary’ Control action using an intermediary
25. Self-service Use self-performed actions
26. Copying Make copy of the object; Optical copies; Invisible copies
27. Cheap short-living Use less-costly disposable objects
28. Mechanics substitution Replace mechanical devices with physical fields
29. Pneumatics and hydraulics Make part of object gaseous or liquid
30. Flexible shells and thin films Make part of object out of shells; Isolate using shells
31. Porous materials Make object porous; Fill pores
32. Color changes Change object’s color; Make object transparent
33. Homogeneity Use similar features for contiguous objects
34. Discarding and recovering Eject used parts; Rebuild object during action
35. Parameter changes Use different phases; Consistency; Flexibility; Temperature
36. Phase transitions Use phase transitions
37. Thermal expansion Use thermal expansion and contraction; Use poly-expansion
38. Strong oxidants Use strong oxidants
39. Inert atmosphere Use an inert medium; Use inert parts
40. Composite material Use ‘armature’

Subtraction as a design ideal

A well known design maxim holds that perfection emerges when nothing more can be removed. The spirit of this principle is subtractive rather than additive. In practice, many people instinctively reach for extra parts, extra steps or extra features, even when removal would be faster, clearer and more effective.

Evidence from controlled experiments
A programme of studies at the University of Virginia examined how people solve problems when both addition and subtraction are available. Across tasks, participants routinely pursued additive fixes, despite subtraction often being the most efficient route.

Field task with Lego and cost framing
In a campus field experiment, participants were shown a Lego structure with a roof precariously balanced on a single corner support and were told they would receive a 1 dollar bonus for stabilising it. They could add bricks at a cost of 10 cents each, or remove bricks for free. One efficient solution was simply to take out a brick so the roof settled securely on the base. Without an explicit reminder, about 41 per cent chose the subtractive option. When another group was cued that removing pieces incurred no cost, the subtractive choice rose to 61 per cent.

Practice effects in the symmetry task
In a separate puzzle, participants were asked to make a 10 by 10 grid symmetrical by either adding or removing green tiles. When individuals tackled the task without practice, only 49 per cent subtracted. After three practice runs, subtraction rose to 63 per cent. Rehearsal appears to help people notice and consider subtractive moves that would otherwise be overlooked.

Organisational patterns of addition
A collaborating organisation with a newly appointed leader invited staff to propose improvements. For every suggestion that removed a policy or rule, eight suggestions added one. The observed skew mirrors the experimental findings, indicating that additive defaults are common in everyday governance as well as in laboratories and workshops.

Everyday exemplar, balance bikes
A simple example of subtractive ingenuity is the balance bike for children. By removing pedals and the chain, the design isolates the skill of balance before layering on pedalling. Many people recognise immediately that this subtraction solves a real learning problem more elegantly than the additive fix of training wheels.

Why addition dominates
The research team suggest that addition is culturally rewarded and often easier to demonstrate as a contribution. Subtractive options take cognitive effort to notice, so they require prompts, practice or review to come to mind. As a result, teams and individuals risk overlooking designs and policies that would be cheaper, simpler and better.

Implications for TRIZ Principle 2
TRIZ Principle 2, taking out, invites designers to remove the interfering part or isolate only what is necessary. The experimental evidence above shows that subtraction is not only a philosophical ideal. It is a practical lever that needs deliberate cuing and rehearsal to counter our additive bias. A straightforward protocol in consultancy or design review is to run a subtractive pass first, then consider additions only if subtraction fails to deliver the intended function.

Occam’s razor and elegant sufficiency
Occam’s razor advocates parsimony when competing explanations do the same work. Principle 2 extends that ethos from explanation to intervention, cutting away parts, rules and features that do not earn their keep. Together they champion clarity, efficiency and elegant sufficiency.

Feng Shui Beyond Time and Space: A Radical Reimagining of Environmental Harmonisation

References

Adams, G. S., Converse, B. A., Hales, A. H., & Klotz, L. E. (2021). People systematically overlook subtractive changes. Nature, 592, 258–261. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-021-03380-y Nature

Gupta, S. (2021, April 7). People add by default even when subtraction makes more sense. Science News. https://www.sciencenews.org/article/psychology-numbers-people-add-default-subtract-better

Kwon, D. (2021, April 7). Our brain typically overlooks this brilliant problem solving strategy. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/our-brain-typically-overlooks-this-brilliant-problem-solving-strategy/

Reid, W. (2021, April 7). When it comes to problem solving, new UVA study finds that less is more. UVA Today. https://news.virginia.edu/content/when-it-comes-problem-solving-new-uva-study-finds-less-more

Russo, D., Rizzi, C., Montelisciani, G., Costa, F., & Emmanouilidis, C. (2020). TRIZ based guidelines for eco improvement. Sustainability, 12(8), 3412. https://doi.org/10.3390/su12083412

Saint-Exupéry, A. de. (1939/2000). Wind, sand and stars (L. Galantière, Trans.). Penguin. (Original work published 1939)

Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (2020). William of Ockham. https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/ockham/

Journal reference: Nature, DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03380-y

Altshuller, G. (1999). The innovation algorithm: TRIZ, systematic innovation and technical creativity. Technical Innovation Center. Google Books

Han, K. T. (2023). Empirical and quantitative studies of feng shui: A systematic review. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 10, 220. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-023-01748-3 PMC

ISSSP. (2019, March 17). TRIZ, the theory of inventive problem solving. https://isssp.org/triz-the-theory-of-inventive-problem-solving/ ISSSP for Lean Six Sigma

TRIZ40. (n.d.). Solving technical problems with TRIZ methodology. https://www.triz40.com/ triz40.com

UVA Today. (2021, April 7). When it comes to problem-solving, less is more. https://news.virginia.edu/content/when-it-comes-problem-solving-new-uva-study-finds-less-more news.virginia.edu

Wikipedia. (2025). TRIZ. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRIZ

The post TRIZ for feng shui: applying inventive problem-solving to spatial harmony appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

A sunny afternoon, a cool drink, and a thought-provoking book are a fast route to balanced qi. The seven titles below have all been reviewed on FengShuiLondon.net and blend design insight with environmental psychology, clutter clearing, and even luck science – perfect companions for feng shui practitioners and enthusiasts who want to deepen theory while relaxing by the pool or on the beach… Plus a review of Speed Reading Faster at the end, to get you up to speed with reading…

The Poetics of Space – Gaston Bachelard

Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard

Bachelard’s classic invites readers to wander from cellar to attic, showing how intimate places trigger reverie and shape identity. Jan Cisek’s review highlights the book’s usefulness for consultants who must tap a client’s emotional map of home before prescribing cures. You will finish the essays seeing thresholds, corners, and stairwells as reservoirs of stored memories that must be honoured rather than bulldozed by minimalism. Read the full review on Feng Shui London here.

Feng-shui takeaway: Map Bachelard’s vertical polarity (cellar = roots, attic = aspiration) onto your Bagua to spot blockages in life-path zones.

Good Nature – Kathy Willis

Oxford botanist Kathy Willis distils a decade of research proving that two hours a week in greenery lowers stress hormones, sharpens focus, and speeds post-surgery recovery. Cisek’s feng-shui commentary links these findings to biophilic design: place plants where the eye rests first, choose calming greens and whites, and schedule “nature appointments” just as you would space-clearing rituals. The site’s summary is available here.

Feng-shui takeaway: Treat 120 weekly minutes outdoors as compulsory qi replenishment rather than optional leisure.

Scientific Feng Shui for the Built Environment – Michael Y. Mak & Albert T. So

Scientific Feng Shui for the Built Environment Theories and Applications (Enhanced New Edition) by Michael Y. Mak, Albert T. So (2015)

Architectural researchers Mak and So test traditional Form- and Compass-school rules against airflow modelling, daylight metrics, and case studies from Hong Kong high-rises. Their expert-systems framework lets designers simulate how mountain-backed sites or “bright hall” plazas influence thermal comfort and social interaction. Cisek recommends the book for consultants who must convince sceptical engineers with data rather than symbolism. Explore the site synopsis here.

Feng-shui takeaway: Use empirical tools (CFD, daylight software) to validate qi flow assumptions before construction begins.

Feng Shui: Teaching About Science and Pseudoscience – Michael R. Matthews

Philosopher of science Michael Matthews dissects feng shui’s historical roots, evaluates chi claims against demarcation criteria, and argues that studying feng shui in classrooms sharpens scientific literacy. Cisek praises the text because honest critique helps practitioners clarify what is symbolic metaphor versus measurable environmental factor. The full review lives here.

Feng-shui takeaway: Pair Matthews’s sceptical lens with your own case studies to strengthen evidence-based practice and avoid magical thinking and bypassing.

The Luck Factor – Richard Wiseman

The Luck Factor

After tracking 400 volunteers for a decade, psychologist Richard Wiseman identifies four habits – maximising chance opportunities, listening to intuition, expecting good fortune, and turning bad luck into feedback – that distinguish self-described lucky people. Cisek’s post frames these habits as personal feng shui: rearrange routines, not just furniture, to align with auspicious flow. It’s a must read for anyone who believes in luck and wants to boost it for personal and professional success. Read the summary here.

Feng-shui takeaway: Schedule daily micro-actions (new walking routes, serendipitous networking) to freshen the Career and Helpful People guas.

A Perfect Mess – Eric Abrahamson & David Freedman

Clutter is good for you…

Contrary to Kondo-style purges, this management study shows that moderate disorder breeds creativity and resilience. Cisek’s review argues that the key is intentional, contained chaos – think “productive piles,” not stagnant clutter. For feng-shui practitioners, the book removes guilt when a desk holds active projects signalling alive, purposeful chi. Full discussion here.

Feng-shui takeaway: Differentiate between dynamic mess that sparks ideas and inert clutter that blocks prosperity gua energy.

Conquer the Clutter – Elaine Birchall & Suzanne Cronkwright

Conquer the Clutter- Strategies to Identify, Manage, and Overcome Hoarding

Written by a clinical social worker, this guide provides diagnostic charts to distinguish simple disorganisation from hoarding disorder, plus staged intervention plans. Cisek integrates the material into feng-shui consultations by recommending body-doubling and timed “clutter sprints” before any cures are applied. See the book summary here.

Feng-shui takeaway: Clear just one cubic foot per session to prevent overwhelm and create momentum in the Health centre of the Bagua.

Speed Reading Faster by Jan Cisek & Susan Norman

Speed Reading Faster by Jan Cisek & Susan Norman

If you need a refresher on how to speed read books to maximise your summer reading, Speed Reading Faster by Jan Cisek and Susan Norman is the perfect companion for your literary adventures. This practical, accessible guide draws on the authors’ combined 50+ years of experience to teach proven techniques and shortcuts that will not only increase your reading speed but also improve your concentration, comprehension, and retention. The book covers essential skills like identifying key information, reading in meaningful chunks, opening your peripheral vision, and moving your eyes in strategic patterns—all designed to help you become a smarter, faster, and more productive reader. With practical exercises, articles, and quizzes to help you apply the knowledge immediately, this 192-page guide makes speed reading simple and effortless, allowing you to tackle that ambitious summer reading list with confidence and actually remember what you’ve read. Whether you’re a student preparing for exams, a professional who needs to review more material, or someone who simply wants to read more books for pleasure, Cisek and Norman’s expertise will help you transform your reading experience and make the most of those long summer days.

Ready, Set, Read
Whether you crave poetic reflection, hard-science validation, or pragmatic clutter tactics, these seven volumes will keep your feng-shui skills fresh through the summer heat. Pick the title that resonates with the life area you wish to boost, follow the links for in-depth reviews, and let each page turn shift your home – and mindset – toward greater harmony.

How to Display Your Summer Reads
Arrange your chosen stack on a low table in the Knowledge sector of your bagua to invite conversation and shared learning. Vertical stands or tiered shelves keep qi circulating around the spines while turning covers outward sparks joyful anticipation. Or just stack them up, on top of each other.

The post Summer Reading for the Feng-Shui-Minded appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

The Feng Shui Perspective on Straight Lines: In the practice of feng shui, straight lines are often advised against, as they are believed to channel ‘shar chi’ or negative energy. This principle stems from the observation that straight lines are rarely found in nature. When examined closely, even the straightest of lines reveal irregularities. For instance, a laser beam, though appearing straight, is actually slightly curved due to Earth’s gravitational field. This deviation from natural forms is thought to disrupt the harmonious flow of energy, or ‘qi’, in our surroundings.

Nature’s Efficiency with Curved Lines: Nature tends toward efficiency in its designs, often employing curved lines. The shortest distance between two points may be a straight line, but nature optimizes this principle with curves. Consider the sphere – it’s the shape that encloses the greatest volume with the smallest surface area. This efficiency is mirrored in the roundness of the Earth and the spherical nature of galaxies.

Curvilinearity and Angularity: The Impact of Shapes in Design and Perception

In the realm of design and perception, two fundamental concepts play a pivotal role: curvilinearity and angularity. These principles are not just elements of aesthetic appeal but are deeply ingrained in our cognitive and emotional responses to the environment around us.

Curvilinearity: The Flow of Nature and Comfort
Curvilinearity refers to the use of curved lines and forms. This design element is often associated with naturalness, fluidity, and comfort. Curved lines evoke a sense of movement and continuity, mirroring the organic forms found in nature, such as the gentle curve of a river or the rounded shape of stones smoothed over time. In architecture and product design, curvilinear forms are often perceived as welcoming and soothing. They can create a sense of flow and openness in spaces, encouraging movement and interaction.

Angularity: Precision and Modernism
In contrast, angularity is characterized by sharp lines and geometric forms. Angular designs are often associated with modernism, precision, and efficiency. They convey a sense of stability, strength, and durability. In architecture, angular structures can make a bold statement, standing out with their defined edges and clear lines. However, they can also be perceived as imposing or aggressive, lacking the natural softness of curvilinear forms.

Psychological Implications
The impact of these shapes goes beyond mere visual appeal; they can significantly influence our psychological responses. Research in environmental psychology suggests that people generally find curvilinear forms more relaxing and comforting. This preference could be linked to our evolutionary predisposition towards natural environments, which are replete with soft curves and smooth contours.

Conversely, angular shapes, while often seen as sleek and modern, can sometimes evoke feelings of unease or discomfort due to their sharpness and association with man-made environments. However, they can also be perceived as more dynamic and exciting, suggesting a balance between comfort and stimulation in design choices.

Application in Various Fields

Architecture and Urban Planning: Curvilinear designs in architecture can make buildings and spaces feel more integrated with the natural world, whereas angular designs can give a sense of modernity and progress. Urban planners often use a mix of these elements to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Interior Design: The choice between curvilinear and angular furniture can drastically change the ambience of a room. Curved sofas and rounded tables often create a more informal and relaxed setting, while angular furniture can lend a room a more structured and formal air.
Product Design: The application of curvilinear and angular designs in products can influence user experience. For example, a curvilinear design in a smartphone can make it more comfortable to hold, while an angular design can give it a sleek, modern look.
Balancing the Two
In practice, the most successful designs often find a balance between curvilinearity and angularity, leveraging the strengths of each to create environments and products that are both functional and emotionally resonant. This balance can cater to diverse preferences and needs, creating spaces and objects that are not only efficient and practical but also comforting and aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion
Curvilinearity and angularity are more than just design choices; they are reflections of our interaction with the world around us. Understanding the psychological and emotional impacts of these design principles can lead to more thoughtful and human-centric architecture, urban planning, and product design, ultimately enhancing our daily experiences and interactions with our environment.

Human Preferences for Round Shapes: Vincent van Gogh once mused, “Life is probably round,” a sentiment that aligns with findings in environmental psychology. Research, including my dissertation, reveals a human preference for oval and round shapes over squares. This preference could stem from the inherent nature of circular shapes, which, as psychiatrist and author Iain McGilchrist noted, accommodate the convergence of opposites in a way that straight lines do not.

The Psychological Impact of Shapes: Circular shapes and curved lines are often perceived as more welcoming and harmonious compared to the rigidness of straight lines. This preference can influence everything from architectural design to product development. The roundness suggests a sense of completeness and continuity, which might explain why circular motifs are prevalent in various cultural and spiritual symbols.

Applying These Principles in Design and Architecture: Understanding the psychological impact of shapes can be invaluable in design and architecture. Incorporating curved lines and circular forms can create spaces that feel more natural and harmonious. In urban design, for instance, the integration of roundabouts and curved pathways can make environments feel more organic and less imposing than grid-like street layouts.

Conclusion: The shapes and lines that make up our built environment have a subtle yet significant influence on our psyche. From the feng shui philosophy’s avoidance of straight lines to the human preference for round shapes uncovered in environmental psychology, it’s clear that our surroundings shape our experiences and perceptions. As we continue to design and build our world, it’s crucial to remember Churchill’s words and consider how our creations, in turn, shape us. Whether it’s the roundness of a building or the curve of a street, these forms resonate with our innate preferences and impact our daily lives.

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At its simplest, and the most fundamental leve,l feng shui works like this:

FENG SHUI = INTENTION + ENERGY (relationship/connection) + RITUAL

Feng shui rituals

Percentage-wise, the importance of your intention (what you want) is 30%, your energy and connection is another 50%, and the ritual is only 20%. The ritual is the servant of your intention. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what you do but HOW you do it. For example, if you want to improve your relationship or find a new partner, you could hang a chewing gum in the relationship corner of your bedroom, and it will work. Of course, it’s better to place something nice and beautiful and thematic, such as a heart prismatic crystal or a romantic picture. Be very clearabout what you want. You need to be specific enough and open at the same time about your goal and purpose.

INTENTION: Goals and purposes

Please note the difference between your goals and your purposes. For example, your goal might be to run a successful online business. But your purpose will be to 1) set up a website 2) optimise with SEO 3) build a brand 4) build a strong community online around your brand, etc, etc. So the goal is the final result, and the purpose is the steps you’ll take to get there. Another example: your goal is to win/finish the London Marathon, and your purpose is to run 30 minutes every morning for the next three months to prepare.

SMART criteria
Learn how to set up a SMART purpose (Specific + Measurable + Achievable + Real + Timed) and write it down (which is always the first step in manifesting your intentions, from the virtual reality of your mind to your immediate physical reality) and then do some feng shui to optimise your environment to help you with that purpose. Knowing what you want and how is half of the success.

ENERGY Your energy (chi) and your relationship and connection to the life force

“I understand that it (feng shui) works whether you believe in it or not.” Niels Bohr, Danish Nobel Prize winner in Physics

The way to hang the horseshoe is up like the letter U, so it works like a container for your luck.

RITUAL Feng shui rituals

Some feng shui rituals work better than others because they have a stronger morphic field, i.e., a lot of people believe in and use them. For example, hanging a horseshoe above the door has been practised for centuries, and it works. “I understand that it (feng shui) works whether you believe in it or not.” said Niels Bohr, Danish Nobel Prize winner in Physics, when asked why he has a horseshoe above his door. Beliefs are perceptions about how things work, and the science behind how beliefs work is called the placebo effect.

To sum up

1) Decide what you want and how.
2) Write it down as a SMART purpose.
3) Anchor the intention in your environment with a feng shui ritual that is representative in some way of your intention. Read some feng shui tips for ideas.
4) Do some first steps in order to manifest it (using your SMART purpose) and follow through until you realise your goal. Never give up. Determination, persistence and patience will get you there.

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Feng shui, an ancient Chinese practice, and Prospect and Refuge Theory, rooted in evolutionary psychology, may initially seem worlds apart. Yet, both share a profound insight into human interaction with space, emphasising the importance of creating environments that support well-being, prosperity, and security. We uncover a harmonious blend of tradition and science by exploring the armchair configuration (sometimes called commanding/power position) in feng shui alongside Prospect and Refuge Theory.

How does feng shui influence financial well-being without controlling it, and what can be done about a lack of support at the back of a property? And what can be done about it?

Topographic Benefits of the Armchair/Commanding/Power Configuration/Position

The armchair configuration in feng shui refers to the ideal positioning of a home or structure, supported from the back (like the back of an armchair), protected at the sides (the armrests), and open at the front. This setup offers topographical benefits, creating a natural shield against harsh elements while opening up to positive energies and opportunities. It mimics the natural inclination for sheltered spaces that offer a vantage point over the surroundings, ensuring a site is neither exposed to prevailing winds nor closed off from the nourishing sunlight.

The ‘armchair’ configuration

The armchair configuration in feng shui is not only a matter of interior comfort but deeply intertwines with the topographical positioning of a home within its larger environmental context. This configuration seeks to replicate the natural protection and support provided by the landscape, an embodiment of the ancient feng shui principle of harmony between humanity and nature. The optimal siting of a home, according to this principle, mirrors the ideal conditions for a thriving existence, where energy (qi) is nurtured, and the elements are balanced for the benefit of its inhabitants.

A Historical Account of Feng Shui

Feng shui’s origins are deeply spiritual and practical, dating back over 3,000 years. Initially, it was grounded in the selection of grave locations for ancestral spirits, emphasising tranquillity and harmony between the deceased and the natural world. This practice evolved to encompass the living, guiding the placement and orientation of living spaces to harness the beneficial flows of qi (energy) and ensure prosperity and well-being for the inhabitants.

A Historical Account of Feng Shui

Integration of the Five Celestial Animals Theory

Expanding on the armchair configuration, the Five Celestial Animals Theory in feng shui introduces a sophisticated layer of environmental harmony, further emphasising the importance of topographical benefits. This theory, which includes the Black Tortoise at the back, the Red Phoenix in the front, the Green Dragon to the right, the White Tiger to the left, and the Yellow Snake at the centre, symbolises the ideal spatial relationships and energetic balance within a landscape.

1. Black Tortoise (Back): The presence of a protective hill or a higher ground behind a property is likened to the Black Tortoise, offering stability, support, and protection from harsh winds and energies coming from the north. This aligns with the refuge aspect, providing a secure backdrop to the living space.
2. Red Phoenix (Front): An open space or a lower ground in front of the property, symbolised by the Red Phoenix, invites opportunities, welcomes positive energy, and encourages prosperity. This openness aligns with the prospect aspect, offering a clear view of the horizon and incoming energies.
3. Green Dragon (Right) and White Tiger (Left): To the sides, the Green Dragon and the White Tiger represent slightly elevated landforms or structures that are not as high as the tortoise at the back but higher than the phoenix at the front. These formations balance the masculine (yang) energy of the dragon and the feminine (yin) energy of the tiger, promoting harmony and balance in the living environment.
4. Yellow Snake (Center): At the center, where the dwelling sits, is the Yellow Snake, symbolising Earth and the culmination of energies gathered from the surrounding celestial animals. This area is the heart of the home, where qi is harmonised and life flourishes.

Five animals topography from a classic text

Topographical Benefits and Applications of Commanding/Power Position

The armchair configuration, enriched by the Five Celestial Animals Theory, offers profound topographical benefits:

• Protection and Support: The Black Tortoise at the back and the flanking Dragon and Tiger provide a natural shield against environmental extremes, while also ensuring that the qi remains within the space, nurturing the inhabitants.
• Prosperity and Opportunity: The open space symbolised by the Red Phoenix allows for the flow of positive energy and opportunities into the home, promoting prosperity.
• Harmony and Balance: The arrangement of the celestial animals encourages a balanced flow of yin and yang energies within the space, contributing to the well-being and harmony of its residents.

Integrating the armchair configuration with the Five Celestial Animals Theory in feng shui not only aligns a home within its natural landscape for optimal energy flow but also taps into the primal human instinct for security (refuge) and potential (prospect). This sophisticated understanding of space and environment fosters a habitat that is not just physically secure but also energetically balanced, inviting prosperity, well-being, and harmony into the lives of its inhabitants.

Applications of Armchair Configuration in Bedrooms

In bedroom design, the armchair configuration promotes rest, privacy, and rejuvenation. Placing the bed so that it has a solid wall behind it, open space in front, and supportive energy on either side enhances personal comfort and a sense of security. This arrangement fosters better sleep quality, vital for physical and mental health, aligning with the feng shui belief in the bedroom as a crucial space for personal renewal.

The ‘armchair’ configuration for the bed

Applications of Armchair Configuration in Workplaces

For workplaces, this configuration emphasises the importance of positioning desks and seating to encourage focus, productivity, and protection from distractions. A supportive backdrop and clear view of the entrance enable individuals to work with confidence, fostering an environment where creativity and efficiency can flourish. Make sure you have a good office chair with the soft support for the arms to give you even more power. By applying the armchair principle, workplaces become spaces of refuge and prospect, enhancing overall job satisfaction and performance.

Applications of Armchair Configuration in Workplaces

Prospect and Refuge Theory as the Evolutionary Underpinning Philosophy

Prospect and Refuge Theory, introduced by Jay Appleton in 1975, posits that humans are instinctively drawn to environments that offer both opportunities for surveillance (prospect) and places of concealment or shelter (refuge). This theory, rooted in evolutionary psychology, suggests that these preferences are survival mechanisms that have been ingrained over millennia, providing strategic advantages in both hunting and evading predators.

The relevance of Prospect and Refuge Theory to the armchair configuration in feng shui is profound. Feng shui, with its emphasis on harmonising individuals with their surrounding environment, naturally incorporates elements that fulfil these innate human needs. The armchair configuration mirrors the theory’s principles by ensuring that the living space (be it a home or office) is supported at the back (refuge), has protective sides (further refuge), and an open front (prospect). This setup not only aligns with our deep-seated preferences for safety and observational advantage but also fosters a sense of well-being and security.

armchair configuration

In the context of feng shui, the armchair configuration maximises the positive flow of qi or energy, ensuring that it circulates freely without escaping, thereby nurturing the inhabitants’ health, wealth, and happiness. This configuration is thought to create a space that is both empowering and comforting, allowing individuals to thrive.

The alignment between Prospect and Refuge Theory and feng shui underscores a universal truth about human-environment interactions: spaces that cater to our primal needs for protection and perspective promote psychological well-being and productivity. By designing environments that reflect these principles, we tap into the evolutionary logic that has shaped human preferences and behaviour, crafting spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but deeply resonant with our fundamental nature.

This synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern psychological understanding offers a powerful lens through which we can view our living and working environments. It highlights the importance of thoughtful design in creating spaces that support our innate needs, encouraging harmony between our inner selves and the outer world. Through the lens of Prospect and Refuge Theory, the armchair configuration in feng shui emerges not as a mere stylistic preference but as a manifestation of deep-seated human instincts, offering a pathway to balance, well-being, and fulfilment.

Feng Shui and Financial Well-being: Influence vs. Control and the Lack of Support at the Back of the Property

How does feng shui influence financial well-being without controlling it, and what can be done about a lack of support at the back of a property? And what can be done about it?

Feng shui provides a framework for arranging our environments in harmony with natural principles, potentially influencing aspects of our lives, including financial stability. It operates on the premise that certain spatial configurations, like a well-contained backyard, can enhance positive energy flow, indirectly supporting prosperity. However, it’s critical to distinguish between the influence feng shui can exert and the notion of control over financial outcomes.

Feng shui influences behaviour and mood by fostering environments that resonate with our innate preferences, such as security and openness, which may, in turn, support better focus, decision-making, and a positive outlook—factors that can indirectly contribute to financial well-being. But feng shui doesn’t control behaviour! Yet, the concept of control implies a direct causation that feng shui, or any environmental arrangement, cannot guarantee, especially regarding complex, multifaceted issues like financial stability.

“It’s akin to the feng shui myth that a toilet in the wealth corner (as per the bagua model) can ‘drain your finances’ or ‘flush away money’—which is, frankly, nonsense. Toilets don’t control your finances—you do.”

Financial challenges arise from a complex interplay of factors—economic conditions, personal choices, systemic issues, and more—beyond the scope of environmental influences. Recognising this distinction empowers us to appreciate feng shui’s potential benefits without overlooking the importance of proactive financial management and adaptation to broader economic realities.

In conclusion, having said that, environments, according to feng shui and Prospect-Refuge Theory, are designed to influence behaviour and outcomes by creating a conducive setting for positive energy flow and well-being. However, they do not control behaviour or dictate outcomes directly. Therefore, the idea that an open backyard directly causes financial issues oversimplifies the complex relationship between space design and life circumstances. It’s more accurate to view such environmental features as one of many factors that might influence, but not determine, financial success or failure.

Solutions

Addressing the feng shui concern of an open backyard—which is thought to potentially lead to financial instability or loss of energy (qi)—requires creative solutions that balance the need for openness with the principle of containment. Here are several feng shui strategies to harmonise an open backyard space, enhancing its energy while mitigating any negative impacts:

1. Create a Symbolic Boundary
Using plants, shrubs, or trees to outline the perimeter of your backyard can create a symbolic barrier without closing off the space entirely. Choose species that are evergreen to ensure year-round protection. This approach maintains the openness of the area while subtly defining the space’s edges, symbolically containing the qi.

Armchair configuration in the garden

2. Incorporate Water Features
Water features such as fountains or ponds, especially when placed near the backyard’s entrance, can attract positive energy and wealth, according to feng shui principles. The flowing water symbolises the flow of wealth and prosperity into the home and can act as a focal point to gather and circulate qi effectively.

3. Use Wind Chimes or Garden Sculptures
Strategically placed wind chimes can attract good energy and create a pleasant, harmonising sound that promotes the flow of qi. Similarly, garden sculptures can serve as focal points that draw attention and energy inward, preventing qi from escaping the backyard too quickly.

4. Implement Pathways and Curves
Designing pathways that meander through the backyard can guide the flow of energy throughout the space, preventing it from rushing straight through. Curved paths, as opposed to straight lines, encourage a gentle, meandering flow of qi, enhancing the space’s energy.

5. Elevate the Rear of the Yard
If possible, introduce a slight elevation at the back of the yard, mimicking the protective energy of the Black Tortoise—one of the celestial animals in feng shui. This can be achieved through landscaping, a raised garden bed, or even a row of taller plants or trees. This elevation acts as a supportive backdrop, symbolically protecting the home and containing energy.

6. Add Lighting for Evening Balance
Strategically placed outdoor lighting can energise the backyard at night, ensuring the space remains vibrant and filled with positive energy even after sunset. Lights can also highlight key features or plants, contributing to the overall balance and harmony of the space.

7. Regular Maintenance
Keeping the backyard well-maintained is crucial in feng shui. Overgrown plants, clutter, and unkempt areas can stagnate the flow of qi. Regularly tending to the garden, clearing debris, and ensuring the space is inviting and clean promotes a healthy, positive energy flow.

What if I can’t do anything about my backyard and I think its “causing” my problems?

Adopting the viewpoint that an open-air backyard is “causing” your problems can lead to a ‘false problem,’ distracting from addressing actionable factors within your control.

If you don’t feel supported in life, consider designing other environmental features that can offer you such support. For instance, examine your bedroom or workplace (see above about bedrooms and workplaces) setup to ensure it follows supportive feng shui principles, like positioning your bed or desk to have a solid wall behind you for stability (emulating the armchair configuration). Also, placing armchairs in strategic positions within living spaces can create a sense of security and comfort. Beyond feng shui, explore other design philosophies and practices that enhance your environment’s positive impact on your well-being, such as incorporating plants for biophilic benefits, using colours that uplift your mood, and ensuring ample natural light. Creating a personalised space that reflects your needs and preferences can profoundly influence your sense of support and overall well-being.

Cultivate a feeling of being supported by engaging in practices that strengthen your connection to your environment and community. This could involve creating a personal sanctuary space where you feel at ease, participating in community gardening or local events to foster a sense of belonging, and practicing mindfulness or meditation to enhance your awareness and appreciation of your surroundings. By actively choosing to enrich your relationship with your environment and those within it, you can build a foundation of support that transcends physical spaces.

By applying these feng shui solutions, an open backyard transforms from a potential source of energy loss into a vibrant, harmonious extension of the home that supports prosperity and well-being. Each strategy works to subtly contain and nurture the flow of qi, aligning with the principles of balance and harmony that are central to feng shui.

Conclusions

The armchair configuration in feng shui, supported by the insights of Prospect and Refuge Theory, highlights a universal truth: environments profoundly influence our well-being, productivity, and sense of security. By harmonising these practices, we can create spaces that not only cater to our innate needs for shelter and perspective but also foster a deeper connection with the natural world. In bridging the gap between tradition and science, we find timeless principles for designing spaces that resonate with our deepest human instincts, promoting a life of harmony, prosperity, and well-being.

References
Appleton, J. (1975). The Experience of Landscape. London: Wiley.
Appleton introduces Prospect and Refuge Theory, explaining the evolutionary basis for human preferences in landscapes and built environments.

…. Blame feng shui

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Feng shui is wind-water
(The literal translation from Chinese and notice there is no ‘and’ between two symbols, so it’s NOT “wind and water” as some authors mistranslate and therefore create a false problem of separation – read more)

Feng = wind/spirit, shui = water/matter.

Feng shui is a holistic interior design.
(And a common sense interior design – everyone on this planet is using feng shui, consciously or not.)

Feng shui is about creating harmonious, healthy and optimum environments for working and living.

Feng shui is the art of placement or, more accurately, the art of positioning yourself in the world.

Feng shui is a physical affirmation or an affirmation with props.

Feng shui = intention + power/energy/relationship + ritual.

Feng shui is a way of ritualising power.
(Power is the ability to be in control, and how much control you feel is directly related to how much power you have.)

“the house shelters day-dreaming, the house protects the dreamer, the house allows one to dream in peace.” Gaston Bachelard, The Poetics of Space

Feng shui is space conditioning.

Feng shui is a method of solidifying and physicalising your energy and power.

Feng shui is a complex art based on the Chinese understanding of the dynamic flow of energy throughout the universe. It examines how people are affected by the environment in which they live and consciously acknowledges the connection between our external surroundings and our inner being. (circa 4000 years old)

Feng shui is similar to environmental psychology which is an interdisciplinary field focused on the interplay between individuals and their surroundings. It has a broad definition of ‘environment’, encompassing natural environments, social settings, built environments, learning environments, and informational environments. (circa 100 years old)

Feng shui is about two things: empowering yourself and balancing yourself. Empowering: managing your power, your energy. Balancing: staying in harmony with nature (the yin and yang of things).

Feng shui is a way of reading, relating to and affecting environments.

Feng shui is about minimising environmental stressors and maximising positive environmental aspects – this is what feng shui does, its function.

Feng shui is the management of power and perceptions about your environment.

“We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us.” Winston Churchill‘s all-embracing definition of feng shui, what it does

Feng shui is the psychology of space.

Feng shui is a ritual (protocol).

Watch this short clip about the power of rituals

Feng shui is a prayer with props.

Feng shui is NOT about keeping the toilet lid down.

Feng shui is a metaphor for your home and workplace.

Feng shui is chi/qi (energy).

Feng shui is yin and yang – it’s about balance.

“Feng shui is the art of placement.” Sarah Rossbach

Feng shui is about moving furniture (not).

Feng shui = intention + ritual.
(Three things: intention, +, ritual, where ‘+’ is relationship or positivity).

Feng shui is a spiritual practice.

How to do feng shui and moderate the energy (flow):
If it is obstructed – unblock it
If it is tight – loosen it
If it is lax/weak – strengthen it

Feng shui is love for…

Gaudi’s timeless advice: “To do things right, first you need love, then technique.” describes my feng shui approach.

Feng shui will affect you on many levels: physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, social, cultural, relationship-wise, health-wise, wealth-wise and so on.

Feng shui primarily belongs to the category of art and philosophy (Chinese Metaphysics) and then a bit of science.
(I’m working on the science bit and developing evidence-based feng shui). It can be said that feng shui is NOT science since there isn’t enough evidence for it to be called science in generally accepted science.

Feng shui is awareness of living environments.

“If a geomancer can recognise ch’i, that is all there is to feng shui.” Sarah Rossbach

Feng shui’s function is to create affects.

Feng shui is home and reimagining it.

Feng shui is any physical intervention that works.
(For example, if your fridge door opens the right way ie towards the kitchen or work areas, so you don’t have to go around the door to get into the fridge – then that’s good feng shui. Or if you have flexible lighting in your workplace, that’s good feng shui. Or if your computer screen is positioned ergonomically so you don’t look down at it and perform better – that’s good feng shui.)

Feng shui is the spirit embodied.

Feng shui is considered a process, not a one-off event. Sometimes, one off intervention can fix a specific problem though eg dirty electricity with dirty electricity filters.

“Don’t put your life in feng shui – put feng shui into your life.”William Spear

A simple definition from a movie, The Other Woman: “Feng shui so good, it’s important to know where to place things in order to make yourself feel better.”

and finally…

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