Why I Cut Down That Tree in the Front Yard — And Stopped Arguing with My Husband
A homeowner shares how removing a large tree to the southeast of her house unexpectedly improved her marriage and her sleep.
Location
Austin, Texas, United States
Property Type
House
Room
Bedroom
Direction
Southeast
The Problem
My husband and I had been bickering for months. Over money, over chores, over nothing. We both felt on edge, and our bedroom — which faced the front yard — was the worst. I couldn't fall asleep without replaying every argument. The room felt heavy, like something was pressing down on us.
What They Tried
I finally called a tree service and had the massive oak removed. It was expensive — over a thousand dollars — but I was desperate. The tree had been there since we moved in, towering over the southeast corner of the house. I didn't think much of it at first. But after reading about how light and air flow affect mood, I decided to just... try.
What Happened
Within a week, the difference was noticeable. The bedroom felt brighter, airier. I started sleeping through the night. My husband and I had our first week without a single argument in months. I can't prove the tree caused our problems, but I'm not planting another one.
Spatial Orientation
| Bagua Sector | 巽 ☴ · Xun |
|---|---|
| Direction | Southeast |
| Element | wood |
What works best here
Xun (4) · Wood. Southeast loves moderate height with an airy, open feel.
Place: tall leafy plants, natural fiber rugs, light wood tones, cream and soft green.
Recommended crystal
Citrine or Green Jade — placed on a wooden side table in the southeast corner
Perfect for a creative workspace or journaling spot; natural light is your friend here
Source Analysis
1. The Original Principle
Original Chinese
见宅午巳东巽巳来有高楼大树，皆不利，宜去之吉。
English Translation
The Book of Dwellings (Zhai Jing, Tang Dynasty) states: if a house has a tall building or large tree to the southeast, it is considered unfavorable. Removing them brings good fortune.
2. About the Source
宅经 by Attributed to the Yellow Emperor · China · Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), based on earlier traditions
The Classic of Dwellings is one of the earliest surviving Chinese texts dedicated entirely to residential architecture. It presents a holistic view of the home as a living organism — comparing the house to a body with its own anatomy of walls, doors, rooms, and courtyards. Its core teaching is that a well-arranged home supports the health and fortune of its inhabitants as naturally as good soil supports healthy plants.
3. How This Principle Applies to This Case
This principle from the Zhai Jing observes that a large obstruction to the southeast can block morning light and air circulation. In this case, the oak tree cast a shadow over the southeast window of the bedroom, reducing natural light and airflow. Modern environmental psychology supports this: limited daylight can lower mood and disrupt circadian rhythms, while poor ventilation increases indoor pollutants and stress. Removing the tree restored light and airflow, creating a more restorative sleep environment and reducing irritability.
Bring the Purest Energy Into Your Home
Sourced from altitudes above 4,000 meters in the Himalayan range — the highest place on Earth and the closest to the sun. These crystals formed over millions of years in some of the planet's most pristine conditions, untouched by industrial pollution. Each piece carries the raw, unfiltered energy of the mountains. Whether placed on a nightstand, a desk, or a meditation corner, they serve as a quiet anchor — a daily reminder to pause, breathe, and reconnect.
Explore the HIMA ALAÏA collection →Case source
Jemma Salisbury
Feng Shui and home abundance content creator. Helps followers create homes that support their goals.