The idea of the classical elements was used in Ancient Greece to simplify the complexity of nature and the world around us. At the time, four elements were named to encompass the different aspects of the world – earth, air, fire, and water. Aristotle later added “aether” to describe the anti-matter or nothingness in space and the surrounding universe.
While science has come a long way since ancient times, many cultures still believe that incorporating aspects of the classic elements into your home can help you achieve balance and peace in your life. Here are ways to incorporate each of the elements into your home decor.
Earth
The earth element is said to represent strength, power, and stability. To bring this element into your home, start by painting in neutrals and earth tones. Decorate with raw, unpainted wood furniture stained to bring out the natural tones and knots in the wood. Use stone accents and wall pieces to complement the wood elements. Earthenware, clay pots and clay figurines add the perfect finishing touch to bring the room together.
Using Himalayan salt lamps and lighting that incorporates crystals is another way to bring the earth element into your home decor. When choosing art, select pieces that showcase earthy landscapes, farms, and nature in unpolished wooden frames.
Fire
The fire element is said to represent regeneration and purification. While it has positive connotations, its volatility and power to destroy are acknowledged. That’s why only small, subtle tributes to the fire element are used in home decor. To incorporate fire, you will want to use a lot of red accents. You can use red paint for accent walls, red vases, lampshades, dishes, and other small decor pieces. When searching for art to represent the fire element, seek powerful abstract pieces that incorporate reds, yellows, and oranges.
One of the most straightforward ways to incorporate fire into your home decor is by installing a fireplace. Outdoor Flames offers built-in electric fireplaces that are guaranteed to become a focal point in your home. They also offer a water series that incorporates both water and fire for outdoor fire pits, should your desire to capture the classic elements expand to your backyard.
Water
The water element is said to represent the flow of your life. Like fire, it can be both life-giving and destructive; it is a powerful, mercurial force. To incorporate elements of water in your home decor, use different shades of blue in your paint and accent pieces. Incorporate water features, such as small fountains and aquariums to incorporate the element itself into your decor.
A less obvious way to incorporate the water element into your home is to add lots of mirrors. Like water, mirrors are said to reflect and redirect the flow of a room. When seeking art to capture this element, search for landscapes in soft hues and photos of different waterscapes.
Air
The air element is said to represent life, purity, and harmony. It has also been associated with knowledge, learning, thinking, and imagination. As the element is less tangible than its counterparts, the ideas to incorporate the air element in home decor are less direct as well. Windows should be large and unobstructed, allowing light and air to flow through. Color schemes should include light yellows and whites. Organization is the key to capturing the air element.
While you might associate plants with earth more so than air, green plants and living walls purify the air in your home and add clarity. Air purifiers, incense, windchimes, and flags are also physical representations of the air.
By adding aspects of the different classic elements into your home decor, you will achieve balance and restfulness. To take it a step further, research the components of feng shui to learn more about proper placement for overall flow.
