In some forms of Feng Shui its said using what you already have within your home offers a stronger emotional, psychological, energetic and physical connection. In general, it is suggested to know the history attached to that item to help indicate if that object could be beneficial within your environment. 

For example, I was recently gifted a hand crafted wooden bowl from my talented Uncle. Looking at this with "Feng Shui eyes," there are various perceptions in how this inanimate object could offer a huge energy boost for my home and life force energy. 

How could this boost the energy within my home and self? 

1. It is a beautiful gift created with love. This could be a combination of the two Guas on the Ba-gua map, which include Family and Helpful People. 

2. This object also captures Creativity (which is also a Gau on the Ba-gua map). 

3. It a great way to honor family members in general, especially ones that truly love and support you. It does not have to be only with family photos. 

For this example, when I see the hand crafted bowl it triggers a happy memory, automatically connecting me to a feeling of being supported and loved. From a scientific standpoint, this could be releasing "happy-chemicals" within my brain, such as with Serotonin. On an energetic level, it could also help my heart Chakra open up more, reducing stress, worry and other unnecessary concerns in general.  My inner artist is also inspired, knowing that my Uncle set aside time to create and enjoy a hobby he loves. It reminds me, I too could due the same.  

Being open minded and receptive to the Feng Shui way of who, what, when, where and how, could offer an immense opportunity of transformation. Have fun with this process and enjoy it! Express your authentic self and be courageous enough to anchor that energy into your home and life.