A Beginner’s Guide To Feng Shui

By Valeri Spiwak on February 27, 2020 at 6:11pm for Bloom Farms

Stress, conflict, negativity, depletion. Who knew incorrectly arranging furniture could lead to such extreme consequences? While hearing this may have you worried for the health of your home, fear not, neighbor—Feng Shui is here to help. 

Feng Shui (pronounced fung shway) is a traditional Chinese practice of using energy forces to harmonize individuals with the help of their surroundings. In other words, according to the principles of Feng Shui, the way your home and belongings are displayed affects you and your energy. 

The concept of Feng Shui may sound a bit esoteric, but upon closer study, this ancient furnishing ritual and how it has been said to affect so many people’s well-being suggests that there’s proof in the pudding. Let’s dive a bit deeper into what Feng Shui is and how to implement this strategic art form into your spaces. 

Feng, meaning “wind,” and Shui, which translates to “water,” embodies the idea that human life can be ideal if we allow ourselves to connect and live in “flow” with the environment around us. Because many of us spend most of our time at home, it is essential that our living space replicates the symbiotic balance of peace and harmony with the natural elements. 

Clear the Clutter

Clutter can be the largest energy block in your home. Aside from its displeasing aesthetic, clutter acts as an obstacle that blocks positive energy from freely flowing through your home. Think less is more when it comes to decor and organization. The fewer objects in the way, the more good energy can circulate your home. 

Tip: Make sure you have proper systems in place for sorting clothing, paperwork, kitchenware, office supplies and mail. 

Keep the Front Entry Clear

The front door is the portal through which energy enters and leaves. Picture energy as a guest walking into your space. If the entryway is hindered by an oversized table, toys, shoes or too much decor, the energy becomes caught and is unable to fully enter the home. 

Tip: Keep it simple. Hanging racks for keys, hats and coats can keep the floor clear. Limited space? Hang a mirror to give the area a more expansive feel. 

Clean the Windows

Think of windows as the two-way eyes of your home. Your windows, like your eyes, should be clean and free of obstructions that inhibit light or view. You should be able to see out clearly and easily welcome the light in with as few obstacles as possible. 

Tip: Swap your plastic blinds for wooden shutters for a more natural look. Incorporate soft-colored curtains or sheer panels to invite more light and warmth into your space without sacrificing privacy. ]

Maximize Natural Light

There’s something refreshing about a well-lit room, especially when the light source is direct sunlight. Natural light can boost your mood, increase productivity, improve sleep, raise your vitamin D intake and much more. Ensuring that your home is filled with as much natural light as possible may work wonders on both your well-being and your home’s energy. 

Tip: Mirror mirror on the wall, please fill my home with light for all. Mirrors are a Feng Shui mainstay as they can open up a room and extend natural light from wall to wall. 

Plants Bring Life Energy

Contrary to your Instagram feed, plants aren’t strictly reserved for trendy home decor posts; they also carry living, breathing life into your home. Plants produce oxygen and thrive off our exhaled carbon dioxide. Displaying plants in your home not only is pleasing to the eye, but also encourages a healthy synergy between natural and manmade elements.

Tips: Greenery such as ivy, bamboo, snake plants and monsteras require little maintenance while inviting much-needed energy and freshness into neglected corners.