KarenWho doesn’t want a more harmonious home environment? You know the feeling…orderly, spacious, clean, light, a place full of natural beauty and a sense of peace. Most of us have a visceral reaction when we’re in a space like this; our bodies and minds relax and our spirits revive. Conversely, when we’re in a space that is tight, cluttered, dirty and dark, we feel that too, in the form of tightness, discomfort, anxiety and frustration.
The ancient Chinese system of Feng Shui is based upon this idea that our physical surroundings are, like everything else, comprised of energy (life force energy, referred to as chi) and that energy affects on a physical, mental and emotional level. The practice of Feng Shui is, therefore, designed to manage the energy of a space to create balance, efficiency, peace, health and harmony.
Some consider Feng Shui to be a silly, “airy-fairy”, rigid, New Age notion. Knowing how strong an effect the energy of my physical environment has on me, I desired to learn more about it. I first researched it years ago, when my family moved into a new home, and again more recently.
While Feng Shui can be quite complex (and, yes, it can be a bit rigid at times), there are aspects of it that I find very logical and practical. My understanding is that the goal of Feng Shui is to ensure that the physical space you’re working with- a room, office, home, yard, etc. – (1) allows energy to easily enter the space, (2) keeps this energy flowing freely throughout the space and (3) prevents energy “leaks”.
Here are some simple, very “do-able” ways to manage the energy of your space and promote balance, clarity, health and harmony:
- (1) Allow energy in:
Keep home clutter free
Seating plan that encourages interaction and conversation (furniture close to each other without being jammed together)
Natural elements, such as flowers, plants, a fruit bowl, etc. (discuss five elements
Use mirrors to create a sense of expansiveness)
Use natural fibers (cotton, silk, etc.) - (2) Keep energy flowing:
Good lighting
Avoid allowing tv or other electronics to dominate the room
Sense of proportion with furniture (allows for movement between and around pieces)
Work with color (more vibrant in the living areas; softer in the bedrooms and bathrooms)
Only include items you find beautiful and meaningful
Soft edges, as opposed to pointy corners, on furniture
Keep appliances in good, working condition at all times. Replace lightbulb son that burn out; discard or replace items that break or plants/flowers that die (NO DRIED FLOWERS OR POTPOURRI)
Have a place for everything, order promotes the flow of energy
Keep countertops relatively clear (avoid cluttering the surfaces in your home)
Balance (end tables, lamps, etc.)
Allow fresh air in when ver possible (open windows or use an air purifier)
(3) Prevent energy “leaks”:
Cover the windows (blinds/curtains should allow some light in, but provide a sense of privacy and containment)
Use rugs to create a sense of grounding and security in certain areas
No computers, television, or other electronics in the bedroom (and as few as possible in other areas of the home)
When not in use, close toilet seats, closet doors, cabinets, etc.
I hope that these tips serve you well and that your home is a truly Wellegant sanctuary!
xo,
Karen
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