As a feng shui consultant visiting Madeira, I was captivated by how the island’s natural landscape and vibrant culture seamlessly integrate with the ancient principles of energy flow and balance. Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, is an archipelago comprising four islands off the northwest coast of Africa, near Morocco and north of the Canary Islands. While its namesake fortified wine, dense cakes, and warm subtropical climate are well-known to tourists, the feng shui of the main island of Madeira offers a deeper connection to its volcanic, green, and rugged landscape. With towering cliffs, pebbly volcanic beaches, and settlements nestled along the deltas of the Fajã River, Madeira’s natural elements embody the dynamic interaction of Earth, Water, and Fire energies. The island’s capital, Funchal, not only boasts vibrant botanical gardens that channel the Wood element but also features a picturesque harbour, which symbolically invites the flow of prosperity and new beginnings. It is here, against the backdrop of the harbour, that the island hosts the world’s largest New Year’s fireworks display, igniting the sky with celebratory Fire energy and enhancing the festive atmosphere with powerful, transformative chi.
Feng shui consultants in Madeira
History of Madeira
Madeira, founded and claimed by the Portuguese in 1400, is often referred to as the “island of eternal spring” due to its semi-tropical climate. Over the years, it has attracted notable visitors such as Winston Churchill and Christopher Columbus, both drawn to its serene beauty and unique energy. Madeira is also the birthplace of the renowned footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, who has a statue commemorating him in his hometown—full name Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro. The island’s capital, Funchal, which means ‘fennel plantation,’ is a vibrant city with a population exceeding 100,000, making it the sixth-largest city in Portugal.
Feng Shui of Madeira: Harmonising the Island’s Energies
The enchanting island of Madeira, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” boasts a unique blend of dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and a harmonious climate. Known for its stunning cliffs, volcanic rock formations, and tranquil waters, Madeira is not just a picturesque destination but also a treasure trove of natural energies waiting to be harnessed through feng shui.
Feng shui, the ancient Chinese art of harmonising the energies of space, can greatly enhance one’s connection to nature, the environment, and personal well-being. The principles of feng shui are grounded in the belief that everything, from landscapes to buildings and interiors, carries energy (chi). When we align ourselves and our surroundings with these energies, we foster balance, prosperity, and tranquillity.
In this blog, we will explore how the natural elements of Madeira, alongside its architecture and design, align with the principles of feng shui. Whether you are a resident of the island or a traveller seeking to enrich your experience, understanding Madeira’s feng shui can transform your relationship with the environment.
The Five Elements in Madeira’s Landscape
At the heart of feng shui is the theory of the five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element represents different aspects of nature and energy, and together they create a balanced flow of chi. Madeira’s diverse landscape naturally embodies these elements, making it a prime location for tapping into harmonious energy.
- Wood: Madeira’s verdant forests, lush gardens, and fertile valleys are rich with the wood element. The Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an excellent representation of the wood element in its purest form. Tall, ancient trees and expansive greenery bring growth, vitality, and expansion to the island. When engaging with Madeira’s wood element, consider visiting its botanical gardens or exploring the levadas (irrigation channels) that weave through the landscape, promoting a sense of flow and life.
- Fire: Madeira’s sunny climate, coupled with its vibrant sunsets, ignites the fire element. The volcanic origins of the island also symbolise the fire element, associated with passion, transformation, and dynamic energy. The jagged cliffs and fiery colours of the skies over the Atlantic waters evoke warmth, clarity, and the power to bring about change. When balancing fire in feng shui, it’s essential to do so with intention. On Madeira, the use of outdoor spaces like terraces and rooftops can help incorporate this dynamic energy into one’s home or environment.
- Earth: The Earth element is strongly present in Madeira’s rugged mountains, terraced hillsides, and volcanic rock formations. This element is stabilising and grounding, providing a sense of security and nourishment. The island’s unique terrain encourages stability and groundedness, making it ideal for those seeking to foster patience and long-term growth. To engage the Earth element in your home or space, consider the arrangement of solid, supportive furniture or the inclusion of earthen materials such as clay, stone, or ceramics.
- Metal: Although less obvious, the metal element can be found in Madeira’s clean, crisp air and the mineral-rich volcanic soil. Metal represents clarity, precision, and focus, and its energy can be found in the island’s carefully manicured landscapes and the well-preserved architecture of the towns. To bring metal into balance, one might incorporate white, grey, or metallic tones into a home’s design, or use rounded shapes and reflective surfaces to invite clarity and refinement.
- Water: Surrounded by the vast Atlantic Ocean, water is an integral part of Madeira’s feng shui landscape. Water represents wealth, abundance, and fluidity in feng shui. The island’s coastal environment, natural springs, and cascading waterfalls provide a continual source of cleansing and renewal. Harnessing the water element can be as simple as enhancing the flow of water in and around your home, whether through fountains, aquariums, or open windows that invite the refreshing sea breeze indoors.
Harnessing Feng Shui in Madeira’s Architecture
Madeira’s architecture, both traditional and modern, reflects the principles of feng shui, whether consciously or unconsciously. The distinctive Madeiran houses, known for their sloping roofs and triangular shapes, often blend with the natural environment, aligning with feng shui principles of creating harmony between built spaces and the landscape.
One of the key feng shui considerations is the orientation of a home. In Madeira, houses often face the sea or open landscapes, maximising exposure to the positive energy of the ocean (water element) and the open sky (fire element). This positioning allows homes to draw in nourishing chi from the environment, promoting a sense of peace and abundance.
When applying feng shui to Madeira’s architecture, it is important to focus on the flow of energy through the house. Ensure that entryways are open and inviting, allowing chi to flow freely. Use natural materials like wood, stone, and clay, which are abundant on the island, to create an atmosphere that feels connected to the surrounding environment.
Feng Shui for Personal Well-being in Madeira
The principles of feng shui can extend beyond architecture and landscape to personal well-being. Madeira’s natural beauty offers abundant opportunities for connecting with nature and aligning one’s personal chi with the environment.
Practices like outdoor meditation, nature walks, and mindful breathing exercises can enhance the flow of energy in the body, leading to greater balance and harmony. Madeira’s levadas, for example, are not only practical water channels but also serene paths for walking meditation. By aligning oneself with the natural rhythms of the island—whether through the ocean’s waves or the gentle rustling of forest leaves—one can cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace and vitality.
Practical Tips for Enhancing Feng Shui in Madeira
If you are looking to integrate feng shui into your experience of Madeira, here are a few practical tips:
- Enhance the Water Element: Given the island’s proximity to the ocean, consider bringing more of the water element into your home or personal space. This could be through decorative water features, a focus on blues and blacks in your décor, or ensuring that windows are open to allow in the calming energy of the sea breeze.
- Balance the Fire Element: Madeira’s sunny disposition offers plenty of fire energy. Balance this by incorporating cooling elements like wood and water into your environment. A garden space, plants, or water features can help temper the sometimes overwhelming fire energy of the sun and volcanic rock.
- Invite Earth Energy: Madeira’s terraced landscapes and volcanic soil provide strong grounding energy. Use heavy, earthy materials like pottery, stones, and brick to create a stabilising atmosphere in your living spaces. Ensure that your furniture is sturdy and well-positioned to foster a sense of stability and support.
- Optimise Entryways: Ensure that the main entrance of your home is welcoming and clear of obstructions. This is a critical feng shui principle, as the entrance is where energy flows into the home. Make use of natural light, and consider adding plants or natural elements to invite positive chi.
- Embrace Nature: Madeira’s vibrant natural surroundings are a constant reminder to stay connected with nature. Regularly spend time outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the island. This connection will naturally enhance the flow of positive energy in your life.
Harmonising with Madeira’s Energies
Madeira’s stunning landscapes, unique architecture, and vibrant natural energies make it an ideal place to explore and apply the principles of feng shui. By understanding how the five elements interact within this environment and aligning one’s living spaces and personal practices accordingly, residents and visitors alike can create a balanced and harmonious relationship with the island.
Whether it’s the calming waters of the Atlantic, the grounding energy of volcanic rock, or the revitalising greenery of the Laurisilva forest, Madeira offers a dynamic environment in which to cultivate feng shui principles, enriching not just the space around you but your internal sense of well-being as well.
Panoramic views of Madeira
The first step in appreciating the feng shui of the island is to go to Mirador Das Cruzes, which is one of the oldest viewing platforms in Madeira, built in 1936.
There are many emblematic peaks in Madeira such as ‘Pico Ruivo’, ‘Pico do Areeiro’ and ‘Pico das Torres’ with stunning views of the majestic Madeira Island landscape. Ruivo de Matard (altitude 630m) is another one.
Travelling through Funchal
Getting a bus tour of the place is the easiest and quickest way to see the place. Or you can try a toboggan thing for tourists (first used in 1850). Or follow the irrigation system called Levadas – 2150km of it – started in 1400 and finished the last one 70 years ago. Vereda dos Balcoes walk is a popular one (UNESCO heritage site). While walking you can enjoy the largest loral forest in the world (1.8m years old).
Feng shui consultant tobogganing in Madeira
San Loreto Palace: A Historical Home of Madeira’s President
San Loreto Palace, an iconic landmark in Madeira, stands proudly as the official residence of the island’s president. What many might not know is that this regal structure was originally the city’s first fortress. Built during a time when Madeira needed protection from pirate invasions, the fortress was a symbol of strength and security for the island. Today, the palace not only serves as a political hub but also houses a military museum that pays homage to Madeira’s rich history of defence and resilience.
In feng shui, the palace embodies the Earth element, symbolising stability, authority, and protection. The museum within San Loreto Palace can be seen as a way of preserving and honouring the energy of the past, while the palace itself represents the continuation of Madeira’s leadership and grounding presence on the island.
Varadouros Gate: A Portal to the Past
Constructed in 1689, the Varadouros Gate once served as the main entry point to the city of Funchal, the capital of Madeira. This historic gateway was a crucial part of the city’s defence, controlling access to the port and protecting the island from invaders. While the original fortifications may no longer be intact, Varadouros Gate remains a fascinating reminder of Madeira’s storied past.
From a feng shui perspective, gates and entryways like Varadouros Gate are critical in guiding and channelling the flow of energy, much like doors in a home. By controlling who enters and leaves, the gate influenced the quality of energy within the city’s walls. Today, Varadouros Gate stands as a symbolic guardian of Funchal, still influencing the flow of visitors and energy into the heart of the city.
The Cathedral of Funchal: Consecrated in 1517
The Cathedral of Funchal, consecrated in 1517, is one of the most significant architectural landmarks on the island. This majestic structure is a blend of Gothic and Manueline styles, reflecting both the religious devotion and artistic flair of the period. The cathedral’s imposing exterior and intricately designed interior are symbolic of Madeira’s deep spiritual roots.
In feng shui, the cathedral’s towering spires represent the Fire element, symbolising connection to the divine, enlightenment, and the ability to uplift the spirit. The consecration of such a building is an important ritual, aligning the structure with positive energies and creating a sacred space where balance and harmony can flourish. For those who visit, the cathedral offers a place to meditate, recharge, and seek peace amidst the bustling city.
Analysis of the Madeira Flag through the Five Elements Theory
The flag of Madeira features a striking design of three vertical stripes: two outer blue stripes and a central yellow stripe, with a red cross in the centre outlined in white. This design can be understood through the lens of the Five Elements theory in feng shui—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—each of which represents different aspects of energy and symbolism.
1. Wood Element:
The blue tall stripes on either side of the flag can be associated with the Wood element (tall, upward movement), which symbolises growth, vitality, and new beginnings. Blue (water element), in feng shui, is also connected to Wood’s nurturing and expansive qualities (water supports wood), aligning with the island’s lush, green landscapes and its continuous development. Madeira’s natural abundance of forests and gardens resonates strongly with the Wood element, making the choice of blue fitting for an island that thrives on nature’s growth and fertility.
2. Fire Element:
The red cross in the centre of the flag clearly embodies the Fire element, which represents passion, energy, and transformation. The cross, a powerful and dynamic symbol, suggests strength, protection, and leadership, much like the fire energy that drives creativity and bold action. Madeira’s vibrant culture, fiery New Year’s celebrations, and historical resilience reflect this Fire energy, highlighting the island’s ability to inspire and transform, much like the dynamic flames of the Fire element.
3. Earth Element:
The central yellow stripe represents the Earth element, which symbolises stability, grounding, and nourishment. Yellow in feng shui is often associated with Earth, as it evokes the warmth and reliability of the sun as well as the soil. This stripe represents Madeira’s grounding energy—its volcanic origins and stable landmass—as well as its nurturing and fertile environment, which supports agriculture and human settlement. The yellow stripe in the centre of the flag can be seen as the core of the island’s balanced, rooted energy.
4. Metal Element:
The white outline of the cross relates to the Metal element, which governs clarity, precision, and organisation. In feng shui, Metal is often symbolised by white and is associated with refinement and structure. The presence of white in the flag adds a sense of purity and balance to the boldness of the red cross, symbolising Madeira’s ability to maintain clarity and order amid dynamic changes. Metal also brings focus and integrity, qualities that are important for Madeira’s governance and identity.
5. Water Element:
Although the flag does not directly feature black or deep blues, which traditionally represent Water, the presence of blue in the flag’s outer stripes also subtly invokes the Water element. Water in feng shui symbolises flow, adaptability, and abundance, which resonates with Madeira’s surrounding Atlantic Ocean. The island’s prosperity and connection to trade, travel, and cultural exchange are influenced by the Water element’s ever-moving, ever-changing nature. The blue stripes can be seen as a reflection of the island’s constant interaction with the sea, a source of both physical and symbolic wealth.
Conclusion: The flag of Madeira, when analysed through the Five Elements theory, is a balanced representation of the island’s energies. The blue (Wood) speaks to growth and vitality, the red cross (Fire) highlights passion and protection, the yellow stripe (Earth) emphasises stability and nourishment, and the white outline (Metal) brings clarity and organisation. Together, these colours and symbols reflect Madeira’s dynamic landscape, culture, and identity, creating a harmonious and powerful emblem that aligns with the natural and energetic principles of feng shui.
Palace of Justice: Built in 1956
Built in 1956, the Palace of Justice in Madeira is an architectural reflection of post-war modernism. With clean lines and a sense of order, this building symbolises fairness, clarity, and the rule of law. In feng shui terms, the Palace of Justice resonates strongly with the Metal element, which governs clarity, precision, and the removal of excess. This is fitting for a courthouse, where balance, logic, and impartiality are essential.
The design of the Palace of Justice encourages a streamlined flow of energy, promoting fairness and equilibrium, just as feng shui seeks to create harmonious spaces that support well-being. The building’s imposing presence also acts as a stabilising force within the community, symbolising order and justice.
Rua de Santa Maria: Where Art and Community Flourish
Rua de Santa Maria is one of Madeira’s most vibrant streets, known for its community-driven art projects. This narrow street in Funchal’s Old Town is lined with over 200 doors, each painted with evocative and imaginative art, transforming the street into an open-air gallery. The painted doors are a testament to the creativity and spirit of the local community, drawing visitors into a rich cultural experience.
In feng shui, doors are seen as vital elements because they act as the portal through which qi (energy) enters a space. The more attractive and welcoming a door is, the more positive energy it attracts. Rua de Santa Maria, with its beautifully adorned doors, becomes a channel for vibrant energy, each door inviting new opportunities and connections. The street serves as a living example of how art and community engagement can foster a dynamic flow of energy, enriching the lives of both locals and visitors.
The Farmers’ Market: A Hub of Local Energy
Visiting Madeira’s Farmers’ Market is not only a feast for the senses but also a wonderful opportunity to tap into the local energy, or chi. The market is a lively centre where islanders and tourists alike gather to purchase fresh produce, meats, fish, and flowers. One of the unique aspects of this market is that the flower sellers are required to wear traditional Madeiran costumes, adding to the market’s cultural richness.
From a feng shui perspective, markets are bustling places of energy exchange, representing abundance and prosperity. They reflect the vitality of the local community, and visiting them allows one to experience the natural flow of energy that sustains daily life. Whether it’s the vibrant colours of the flowers or the fresh aroma of local produce, the market embodies the energy of Earth and Wood elements, offering nourishment and connection to the land.
Embroidery in Madeira: Boosting Skills and Energy
Madeira is renowned for its exquisite embroidery, a tradition that dates back centuries. Whether it’s delicate tablecloths, intricate linens, or detailed handkerchiefs, Madeira’s embroidery is a craft that requires patience, skill, and a keen eye for detail. Many visitors to the island take the opportunity to boost their own embroidery skills by attending workshops led by local artisans.
In feng shui, embroidery can be seen as a way to focus one’s energy into a creative outlet, nurturing the Wood element, which is associated with growth, creativity, and vitality. Embroidery also requires a sense of balance and precision, resonating with the Metal element. By engaging in this craft, one not only creates beautiful pieces but also cultivates patience and focus, aligning personal energy with the steady, nourishing rhythms of the universe.
Principality of Pontinha: The Landing Site of Madeira’s Founder
The Principality of Pontinha holds significant historical importance as the landing site of Madeira’s founder, João Gonçalves Zarco, in 1419. This small rocky islet, located near the harbour of Funchal, was the first piece of Madeira that Zarco and his crew set foot on, marking the beginning of the island’s colonisation.
From a feng shui perspective, Pontinha represents the Water element, as it is surrounded by the ocean and was the entry point for new beginnings on the island. Water is associated with flow, wealth, and new opportunities, making Pontinha a symbolic place of change and transformation. The energy here is fluid, encouraging new ideas and fresh starts, much like Zarco’s initial discovery of the island.
Reid’s Palace Hotel: A Historical Retreat
Reid’s Palace Hotel is a historic luxury hotel in Madeira that has played host to a number of famous guests, including Winston Churchill. It was here that Churchill found solace and inspiration to write his memoirs. The hotel, with its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and its elegant architecture, is a symbol of refinement and luxury.
Reid’s Palace is a perfect example of how feng shui can be used to create a space that nourishes creativity and peace. The hotel’s harmonious design incorporates the Earth and Water elements, with its solid structure grounding guests and its proximity to the ocean providing a calming, reflective atmosphere. Guests can also indulge in Madeira’s rich culinary traditions, including trying the famous Madeira cake, Bolo de Mel, which adds to the sensory richness of the experience.
Exploring Madeira’s Feng Shui Through Its Landmarks
Madeira’s landmarks, from its historical gates and cathedrals to its bustling markets and creative streets, each embody different aspects of feng shui’s elemental principles. Whether you are exploring the military past of San Loreto Palace, admiring the artistic doors on Rua de Santa Maria, or enjoying the serenity of Reid’s Palace, each location offers an opportunity to connect with the island’s unique energy.
By aligning these experiences with the principles of feng shui, visitors and locals alike can deepen their connection to Madeira’s landscapes, architecture, and culture, fostering a sense of balance, harmony, and prosperity.
Feng shui of Madeira with Cristiano Ronaldo
Food in Madeira: A Culinary Journey of Local Flavours
Madeira’s cuisine is a delightful reflection of its rich cultural history and the bounty of its land and sea. The island offers a unique blend of traditional Portuguese dishes with a Madeiran twist, often inspired by the lush subtropical environment and the Atlantic Ocean that surrounds it. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to experience the local flavours, Madeira’s culinary scene offers a variety of dishes that will tantalise your taste buds and connect you with the island’s vibrant energy.
Deep-Sea Scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo): A Must-Try Delicacy
One of Madeira’s most famous and unique dishes is deep-sea scabbardfish, known locally as “Espada.” This long, sleek fish is found in the deep waters surrounding the island and has a firm, white flesh with a mild, slightly sweet flavour. It is typically served with bananas or passionfruit, which highlights the fusion of Madeira’s oceanic and tropical influences.
For the most authentic experience, you should try this dish at one of Madeira’s hidden gems—a tiny eatery that is only accessible by cable car. The journey to this secluded spot not only offers breathtaking views but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of the island. The restaurant’s intimate setting enhances the experience of savouring the scabbardfish, making it a memorable culinary adventure.
In feng shui, the fish represents the Water element, symbolising wealth and abundance. Consuming fresh, local seafood such as scabbardfish allows one to align with the nourishing energy of the sea and experience the prosperity of Madeira’s waters firsthand.
Fortified Madeira Wine: A Timeless Tradition
No culinary journey in Madeira would be complete without sampling the island’s world-renowned fortified wine. Declared officially in 1455, Madeira wine has a rich history and a distinctive production process that involves heating the wine and ageing it for many years. With an alcohol content of around 17%, this wine has a unique depth of flavour, ranging from dry and crisp to sweet and syrupy, depending on the grape variety and the ageing process.
One of the remarkable qualities of Madeira wine is its longevity—it can last for up to 200 years, making it one of the most durable wines in the world. Whether you enjoy it as an aperitif or a digestif, Madeira wine connects you with centuries of tradition and craftsmanship.
In feng shui, wine and alcohol are linked to the Fire element, representing warmth, passion, and transformation. Drinking Madeira wine allows you to symbolically embrace these qualities, inviting warmth and dynamic energy into your life. The process of sharing a glass of Madeira wine with friends or family can also enhance relationships, as the act of drinking together fosters connection and joy.
Monstera Deliciosa: A Taste of Madeira’s Exotic Fruits
Another intriguing aspect of Madeira’s food culture is its array of exotic fruits, one of which is the fruit of the Monstera Deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant. While the plant is often admired for its large, perforated leaves, it also produces a fruit that is said to taste like a combination of pineapple, banana, and jackfruit.
The Monstera Deliciosa fruit is not only delicious but also a unique culinary experience. The fruit must be eaten cautiously, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals when unripe, which can irritate the mouth. However, once fully ripe, the fruit is a tropical delicacy, offering a sweet, refreshing taste that captures the essence of Madeira’s fertile land.
From a feng shui perspective, fruits like the Monstera Deliciosa embody the Wood element, which is associated with growth, vitality, and creativity. Eating fresh, local fruit is a way to connect with the Earth’s energy and absorb the nourishing power of nature into your own body. The act of consuming such fruits aligns your personal chi with the island’s abundance, supporting health and well-being.
Embracing the Flavours and Energies of Madeira
Madeira’s food is much more than just sustenance—it is an expression of the island’s natural wealth, history, and cultural diversity. From the deep-sea scabbardfish to the robust Madeira wine, and the exotic Monstera Deliciosa fruit, each dish and drink offers an opportunity to connect with the island’s energy in a meaningful way.
Through the principles of feng shui, the food of Madeira resonates with different elements that nourish and balance the body, mind, and spirit. Whether you are seeking the abundance of the Water element through seafood, the warmth of the Fire element in Madeira wine, or the vitality of the Wood element in tropical fruits, the island’s cuisine offers a path to harmony and well-being.
So, as you explore Madeira’s culinary delights, take a moment to appreciate not only the flavours but the energies they embody. Each bite and sip is a step towards aligning with the natural flow of chi that sustains this beautiful island and its people.
Feng shui consultants in Funchal, Madeira
A quick Google search revealed that there are no feng shui consultants in Funchal, Madeira. But if you live in Funchal, Madeira and are looking for a feng shui consultant near you – with 40+ years of experience in feng shui and environmental psychology feel free to call/text me on +44 7956 288574 for a quote for feng shui consultation for your home or workplace. Although I live in London, I do remote feng shui consultations. Email me