In Feng Shui, while the interior layout of a home is important, external environmental factors often play an even greater role in determining the flow of energy (Qi) and the overall fortune of the household. Many so-called “Sha Qi” (negative energy clashes) originate from unfavorable external structures, lighting, noise, or airflow. Below are five of the most common external Feng Shui disturbances that can affect your home’s energy and well-being.
1. The Position of Trees and Their Impact on Feng Shui
Trees around the entrance of your home can significantly influence the Qi entering the house:
Tree directly in front of the main door : Considered extremely inauspicious, as it blocks energy flow and creates pressure on the household.
Tree on the left of the entrance : Considered beneficial, symbolizing male benefactors and supportive masculine energy.
Tree on the right without a balancing tree on the left : Symbolizes female dominance, unstable energy, or even issues related to female entanglements or disputes.
2. Antennas and Electromagnetic Fields: Modern Feng Shui Concerns
Modern buildings often have straight antennas or round satellite dishes, which can affect the energy balance of nearby residences:
If the satellite dish faces away from your home, it absorbs electromagnetic signals and is considered beneficial.
If the dish faces your home, it emits low-frequency waves that can disturb the natural energy field inside, potentially leading to chronic health issues or severe illness.
Be mindful of the direction and number of antennas on nearby rooftops.
3. Living Near a Cemetery: When It’s Harmful, and When It’s Not
In most cases, living near a cemetery is discouraged in Feng Shui, as it invites excessive Yin energy, which can lead to health and emotional problems.
For the average person, such locations are unfavorable due to spiritual disturbances.
However, for those in specific professions (such as funeral services, medicine, or sanitation), or with certain BaZi (Chinese birth chart) configurations (e.g., strong Earth element with water), living near a cemetery might enhance financial or energetic flow, forming a so-called “Fire formation” (Huo Ju) in advanced Feng Shui.
4. Elevators Facing the Main Door: The “Sickle Sha” Effect
In high-rise buildings, if your front door directly faces an elevator, this is known as “Sickle Sha” in Feng Shui.
It symbolizes a cutting force entering the home, which can cause injury, accidents, or blood-related misfortunes.
If the occupant’s personal element favors Metal (such as doctors, hairstylists, butchers—professions involving blades), this may be seen as neutral or even positive.
For the general public, however, this configuration is considered highly inauspicious unless the profession aligns with such intense energy.
5. Nighttime Light Pollution and Emotional Disturbance
Light pollution, particularly external lights shining into the home at night, is a major disruptor in urban Feng Shui and is referred to as “Light Sha.”
Direct light into bedrooms interferes with sleep and causes agitation, potentially leading to anxiety or nervous disorders.
Constantly flashing neon signs or LED screens outside windows worsen the effect, especially for individuals who have Fire as an unfavorable element in their BaZi.
If the light is decorative and not directly intrusive—and if the resident needs Fire energy—it can be considered positive.
A harmonious home isn’t just about beautiful interiors—it also depends on understanding and neutralizing negative Feng Shui elements from the surrounding environment. Trees, antennas, elevators, light sources, and even cemeteries can significantly alter your space’s energetic flow. With awareness and intentional adjustments, you can create a balanced and supportive living space that nurtures your health, relationships, and success.
