The role of real and mythical animals is frequently referred to in feng shui theory and folklore. In many books, there is a description of the perfect house, with a tortoise behind it, a phoenix in front of it, and a dragon and tiger on either side. These four animals are symbolic of land formations and buildings. For example, having a turtle behind a house for support or protection is a metaphor for a larger structure or a literal mountain. The presence of a bird in the foreground is symbolic of the formation of a much smaller Earth.
There is a concept that “chi” (air currents) move around the property and that the higher earth-shape in the back (the turtle) protects the house, while the smaller earth-shape in front of it (the bird) helps the house receive the right amount of chi. Like the rim of a bowl, the phoenix in front helps support or contain energy near the entrance to a home.
Then a tiger and a dragon on each side of the house represent the neighboring houses or buildings or real hills. These forms serve as a way to protect the home. In general, a home that is not surrounded by other earth structures or formations is vulnerable and overly 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 teacher I studied with has hinted at the possibility that these animals may also represent the shapes of some important constellations.
Another popular feng shui creature is the fish. Fish symbolize long life in Chinese culture, so paintings and statues are seen as lucky. In the actual application of feng shui, fish in tanks and ponds are just an excuse to help circulate the water. It is the water that is the real cure. But since feng shui comes from a very superstitious culture, the number and color of fish in the aquarium has gained great importance. In addition, different types of birds are supposed to be omens to passengers if the bird is seen flying close to the surface or making a nest on the roof.
The image of a horse cannot but symbolize travel and movement. One popular remedy is to place a horse statue in front of the door for tenants who want to sell their home.
Lions and tigers are fierce, powerful animals. It should be represented in pictures or sculptures with caution, according to people who adhere to these animal therapies. You may have seen stone lions flanking the entrance or stairs of a large building, but they are considered unsuitable for habitation.
The tiger is one of the zodiac signs in Chinese astrology. Women who are the sign of the tiger are fiercely independent and have a much more difficult time settling down with a man. February is the month of the tiger and according to car insurance statistics, more car accidents occur in the month of February. This would be consistent with the Chinese interpretation that a fast-moving tiger is also prone to accidents.
It’s 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 person of the Snake can easily be interested in metaphysics and spirituality. In the West, we think of the rat and the snake as sneaky and conniving. In some religions, there is a belief that all humans have lived at least one incarnation as each type of animal, and thus we have an unconscious understanding of what these animals are capable of in their personalities and powers.
Some birds are more monogamous than people, so there is the idea that putting pictures of lovebirds in the bedroom will attract true love. These types of things can act as a placebo, but they are not considered the most sophisticated feng shui cures.
In Chinese and Indian culture, elephants are known to attract wealth. Images of upper-trunked elephants often decorate people’s homes with the hope that the elephant will be a lucky image for them.
There are many animals that have meaning in Chinese culture and/or feng shui. It is assumed that a metal cock placed in the right place could prevent a person from committing an adulterous relationship. These animal symbols may seem out of context, but they really aren’t much stranger than the meanings we attach to certain inanimate objects in the Western world. Whether it is a flag of a country, a car hood ornament, a designer sticker, or a religious sign, we attach importance to many symbols that go unnoticed or not recognized by other cultures.
Many people are surprised to find out that I do not prescribe any of these animal symbols as feng shui cures. While I understand the psychological comfort they might provide, I don’t feel these symbols can change the energetic make-up of a room. And with symbols ultimately being so personal, (like our dreams), I don’t see how it will work for everyone the same way.