🧭 The eight directions
8 entries · fortune encyclopedia
Each of the eight directions carries an element and a meaning. When something matters, borrow the energy of the direction. Enter your birth details and your own favourable directions appear above too.
East (Wood) — beginning and growth
Where the morning sun rises; the direction for starting things
East is the direction of the rising sun and of spring, and it stands for growth, health and drive. A study or a child’s room is well placed to the east, and it goes well with green. It is the direction that lends force to any first step — a project’s first meeting, taking up a sport.
Southeast (Wood) — connection and news
Where the wind carries word; the direction of romance and reputation
Southeast is the direction of wind and governs relationships, communication and reputation. If you want luck in love, keep the southeast bright and fragrant — flowers or a diffuser suit it. It is also a good place for anything to do with news arriving: invitations, letters, a CV.
South (Fire) — honour and expression
The direction of the spotlight; keep the lights bright
South is the midday sun, the direction of honour, popularity and expression. With a promotion, an exam or a presentation ahead, brighten and tidy the southern side of your home and add a touch of red or orange. Keeping certificates and trophies in the south is a traditional placement.
Southwest (Earth) — stability and home
The mother’s direction; yellow and beige suit it
Southwest is the direction of broad ground and stands for harmony at home, stability and persistence. Family photographs and ceramics — objects with earth in them — suit it, in yellows and beiges. When the mood at home feels unsettled, the advice is to start tidying from the southwest.
West (Metal) — harvest and money
The direction that gathers in; pairs with white and metal
West is the setting sun and autumn — harvest, results, money. The evening light through a western window is said to ripen wealth, so keeping the west clean with white or gold objects, or a metal money box, is a favourite arrangement.
Northwest (Metal) — authority and patrons
The direction of the father and the backer
Northwest is the direction of heaven and stands for authority, leadership and help from people who matter. When you need a superior’s confidence, or backing for a venture, put the northwest in order. A good direction for a study or the head of the household’s space.
North (Water) — wisdom and recharging
The direction of deep night; the seat of sleep and study
North is deep water and winter, governing wisdom, learning and rest. It suits study or writing that needs sustained concentration, and it suits sleeping well. It pairs with navy and black — and one soft lamp keeps it from getting too dark, which balances it.
Northeast (Earth) — change and accumulation
The direction of the turning point; saving and starting again
Northeast is the direction of the mountain and stands for stopping, turning, and stacking things up. Borrow its force when preparing a change of life — a new job, a move — or when starting a savings plan. It is also the corner where clutter collects, so keeping it tidy matters especially.