Feng Shui Myths: What’s Real and What’s Not in the Philippines

Feng shui has been part of Filipino culture for decades, influencing how we design our homes, arrange furniture, and choose lucky charms. From Chinese-Filipino communities in Binondo to provincial towns across the country, many people use feng shui to attract wealth, improve health, and keep relationships strong.

But as feng shui spread over time, so did myths and misconceptions. Some harmless, others misleading. In the Philippines, it’s common to hear mixed advice: “Don’t put your bed in front of a mirror” or “Always face your door when you eat” or “Red wallets make you rich.” Some of these tips are grounded in traditional feng shui principles, while others are purely superstition or cultural adaptation.

In this article, we’ll separate fact from fiction by looking at common feng shui myths in the Philippines, explaining what’s real, what’s not, and what the practice truly teaches. All information here is based on verified traditional feng shui concepts and reputable sources.

Feng shui (風水), meaning “wind-water” in Chinese, is an ancient practice focused on arranging spaces to promote balanced energy flow (chi/qi). Originating in China over 3,000 years ago, it’s based on:

• The Bagua Map – a layout dividing spaces into nine areas related to life aspects (wealth, health, career, etc.).

• The Five Elements – wood, fire, earth, metal, and water, which should be balanced in the environment.

• Yin-Yang Balance – harmony between passive and active energy.

Important: Feng shui is not magic. It’s about environmental psychology, symbolism, and flow, not instant miracles.

Verdict: ❌ Not true

Feng shui is not just interior design—it’s a holistic approach that considers layout, orientation, lighting, airflow, and symbolism. For example, placing a Money Frog in your home can be part of feng shui, but it works best when combined with good placement, decluttering, and correct room arrangement.

Verdict: ❌ Partly false

In feng shui, red symbolizes fire and vitality, and it’s true that red wallets are believed to energize money flow. But owning one does not guarantee wealth. The principle only works when paired with good financial habits and proper placement of wealth enhancers in the home.

Verdict: ✅ Mostly true

Feng shui teaches that mirrors reflecting the bed can cause restless sleep by bouncing energy around the room. This can also symbolically invite a “third party” into a relationship. While modern science attributes poor sleep to light and movement reflection, the principle aligns with creating a restful environment.

Verdict: ❌ Not true

Feng shui is flexible. Not all tips apply to every home, especially in the Philippines where space is often limited (condos, apartments, and townhouses). The goal is to apply the principles that suit your environment instead of following every traditional rule blindly.

Verdict: ❌ Not true

Feng shui is a cultural practice, not a religion. It doesn’t require prayer or worship, though it can be combined with spiritual beliefs. Many Filipinos, regardless of faith, apply feng shui to improve their surroundings without conflict.

Verdict: ❌ Not true

Feng shui charms like the Money Frog, Wu Lou, or Citrine Gemstone Tree are tools to enhance certain energies, but they don’t replace action. For example, placing a Money Frog can symbolize attracting opportunities, but you still need to manage your finances wisely.

Verdict: ❌ Not true

While core principles remain, feng shui adapts to location. In the Philippines, climate, sunlight patterns, and cultural living arrangements can affect how rules are applied. For example, tropical homes may focus more on ventilation and cooling elements than northern climates.

Verdict: ❌ Oversimplified

Direction preferences depend on your Kua number (personal feng shui number) and the function of the room. While facing certain directions can be beneficial, success comes from overall environment balance, not just facing east.

Verdict: ✅ Mostly true

Clutter blocks energy flow and creates mental stress. However, sentimental items that spark joy (like family heirlooms) are not considered “bad” if displayed meaningfully and kept tidy.

Verdict: ❌ Partly false

In feng shui, water symbolizes wealth, but placement matters. A water feature in the wrong area (like the bedroom) can cause imbalance. In the Philippines, indoor fountains should be placed in the north or southeast area of the home for career or wealth luck.

For Small Condos:

• Use mirrors to expand space but avoid reflecting clutter.

• Opt for multifunctional furniture to reduce congestion.

For Family Homes:

• Create clear walkways between rooms.

• Keep family photos in the living room or hallway for harmony.

For Home Offices:

• Place your desk in the command position.

Add a Money Tree to encourage business growth.