One of the most significant traditional holidays in China is Chinese New Year, sometimes referred to as the Spring Festival. There are many traditions and customs at this joyous time of year, and the idea of “fortune arrival” is one of the most engrained. Interestingly, it shares some similarities with Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese practice that aims to balance people with their surroundings.
A key symbol for Chinese New Year is the character “Fu” (福), which in Chinese denotes fortune, blessing, and happiness. The “Fu” character is frequently pasted on windows, doors, and walls. It is a peculiar practice to paste the character “Fu” upside down because, when said in Chinese, it sounds like “Fu Dao,” which translates as “fortune arrives.” It is thought that this small yet significant deed will bring blessings and good fortune into the house.
The positioning of the “Fu” character is likewise carefully thought out in the context of Feng Shui. The movement of Qi, the life force that permeates the surroundings, is emphasized by feng shui. The door serves as Qi’s primary point of entry into the dwelling. Pasting the “Fu” character on the door is believed to serve as a positive emblem that repels negative energy and directs the good Qi inside the house.
Additionally, the “Fu” character’s hue has an impact. During Chinese New Year, the “Fu” character is primarily represented by the color red. Red is regarded as a potent color in Feng Shui, signifying protection, energy, and good fortune. It is thought to improve the home’s positive Qi and foster a peaceful, wealthy environment. Positive energies are drawn to the brilliant red “Fu” character when it is prominently displayed.
In order to promote the arrival of fortune, the general design and decoration of the house during Chinese New Year also adheres to certain Feng Shui concepts. For instance, it’s crucial to have a clean and organized home. While a cluttered location might impede the flow of positive energy, a clutter-free environment allows the Qi to flow effortlessly. Before Chinese New Year, people frequently clean their homes thoroughly, getting rid of superfluous and outdated belongings, which represents letting go of the past and creating space for new blessings.
Additionally, the arrangement of ornaments and furniture is changed. For example, according to Feng Shui, putting lucky plants in the living room, like kumquat trees or plum blooms, might bring luck and prosperity. In addition to being lovely decorations, these plants have symbolic connotations that align with the New Year’s hopes for luck.