The role of real and mythological animals is frequently mentioned in feng shui theory and folklore. In many books there is a description of an ideal house, which has a tortoise behind it, a phoenix in front of it, and a dragon and a tiger on each side. These four animals symbolize the earth and the building formations. For example, having a turtle behind the house for support or protection is a metaphor for a larger structure or a literal mountain. Having a bird in front is symbolic of a much smaller land formation.

There is a concept that “chi” (air currents) move around a property and the taller land form in the back (the turtle) protects the house, while a smaller land form in the front ( bird) helps the house receive the proper amount of chi. . Like the rim of a bowl, the phoenix in front helps to shore up or contain the energy near the entrance of the house.

Then the tiger and dragon on each side of the house represent neighboring houses, buildings, or actual hills. These shapes act as a way to protect the house. In a general sense, a house that is not surrounded by other structures or land formations is a bit vulnerable and too exposed to the elements. Some people take these references to animals literally and will place figurines of these creatures around their home for good luck and protection. At least one feng shui master I have studied with has alluded to the possibility that these animals also represent the shapes of certain important constellations.

Another popular feng shui creature is the fish. Fish symbolize long life in Chinese culture, so paintings and sculptures of them are considered lucky. In the actual application of feng shui, fish in tanks and ponds are just an excuse to help the water circulate. It is water, which is the true remedy. But because feng shui comes from a very superstitious culture, the number of fish and the color of the fish in the aquarium have taken on an exaggerated meaning. Also, different types of birds are supposed to be omens to the occupants if the bird is seen flying or creating a nest on the roof.

The image of a horse cannot help but symbolize travel and movement. A popular remedy is to place a figure of a horse in front of the door for occupants who want to sell their house.

Lions and tigers are considered powerful and ferocious animals. Representations of them in paintings or sculptures should be done with caution, according to people who adhere to these animal cures. You may have seen stone lions flanking the entrance or stairs of a large building, but they would be considered inappropriate for a residence.

One of the zodiac signs in Chinese astrology is a tiger. Women who are of the Tiger sign consider themselves to be fiercely independent and have a harder time settling down with a man. February is the month of the Tiger and according to auto insurance statistics, the most car accidents occur in the month of February. This would be consistent with the Chinese interpretation that the fast-moving tiger is also accident-prone.

It is interesting to note some of the cultural differences in how we relate to animals. For example, in Chinese astrology, a person born in the Year of the Rat can be a very intelligent person and a Snake person can easily be interested in metaphysics and spirituality. In the West, we think of the rat and the snake as cunning and conniving. In some religions there is a belief that all human beings have lived at least one incarnation as each type of animal, and therefore we have an unconscious understanding of what these animals are capable of in their personalities and strengths.

Some birds are more monogamous than people, so there is an idea that putting pictures of lovebirds in the bedroom will attract true love. These types of things can work as placebos, but they are not considered the most sophisticated feng shui remedies.

Elephants have a reputation for attracting wealth in both Chinese and Indian culture. Images of elephants with their trunks up often adorn the homes of people who hope that the elephant will be a lucky image for them.

There are many more animals that have meaning in Chinese culture and/or are specific to feng shui. Supposedly, a Metal Rooster placed in the right place can prevent someone from committing an adulterous affair. Taken out of context, these animal symbols may seem strange, but in reality they are not much stranger than the meanings we give to some inanimate objects in the Western world. Whether it’s a country’s flag, a car hood ornament, a designer’s label, or a religious sign, we give importance to many symbols that go unnoticed or unrecognized by other cultures.

Many people are surprised to discover that I do not prescribe any of these animal symbols as feng shui remedies. While I understand the psychological relief they can provide, I don’t feel like these symbols can change the energetic makeup of a room. And since symbols are ultimately very personal (like our dreams), I don’t see how they would work for everyone in the same way.