Feng shui, originated over 4000 years ago in China, where it was used by the great emperors to lay out entire cities because of its power to generate luck and fortune. Today, the term is often found when it comes to interior design, as many people use the elements of feng shui to effect the environment around them by strategically organizing their surroundings to improve their lives. 

The five feng shui elements are wood, water, fire, metal and earth. Each of these elements vibrates in a different manner, affecting the environment differently. Color, in relation to the elements, is one of the simplest ways to shift the energy of a space because colors are an expression of each of the feng shui elements. These five elements are used in designated areas within a home, office or any space, known as a Bagua, according to its feng shui energy map.The element of fire stands for career efforts and high energy. This is the element of the south and is represented by the colors orange, red, yellow, pink and purple. The element earth represents stability and protection in all relationships. It is the center element of the home and light yellow, beige, and earthy hues are its corresponding colors. Metal is used for clarity and mental sharpness and is represented by the colors gray and white. Water is the element of abundance and calming energy as well as purity and ease. Use it in the east and southeast, and its colors are blue and black. Wood stands for health and wealth. Use it in the south, representing it with plenty of browns and greens.