Bring balance and harmony to your home with the art of Feng Shui. Directly translated as ‘wind-water’ in English, feng shui is an ancient Chinese practice that helps align external surroundings with inner wellbeing and emotional needs.
1.Declutter the home for balance and good flow of energy
"By inviting good energy flow into the home, good health, luck and wealth are said to follow" says Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture Choice. The first step to start by decluttering as much as possible.
Tidying up is a great way to start the new year with a clean slate. A neat home works wonders for our mental clarity and overall health. In feng shui, each space is connected and allows positive energy to flow throughout the property.
Add a decorative mirror to the living room to make the space feel larger and multiply the positive energy flow. Meanwhile, closets or drawers overloaded with old items block the chi (energy) so it’s best to discard items that are no longer used.
Aside from decluttering, incorporate the yin and yang concept into the décor. Yin (feminine) and yang (masculine) is a belief that two contrasting forces cannot exist without each other. Apply this concept by mixing different shapes together.
For example, contrast the sharp edges of wall hangings with the soft curves of a sofa or mirror in the living room. This will balance out the room and give it a more relaxing feel.
2.Create a calming space in the bedroom
A bedroom is a place of rest so it is important to create a calm and soothing ambience. To maintain a relaxing atmosphere, remove or hide mirrors to avoid an overload of energy in one space.
When it comes to furniture placement, the bed should be the main focus of the room. In feng shui, this symbolises a commanding position that allows you to take charge and handle life’s many challenges. The bed is best positioned diagonally away from your door as you will still be able to see it clearly while not being in a direct line to it.
“Placing your bed up against the wall will also give you a sense of security and ground you when you sleep. And for extra strength and stability, a bed with a headboard will represent this with its solid support and build.
3. Channel productivity in the home office
Similar to the bedroom, the home office should be decorated to match its purpose. Since this room places emphasis on productivity, the desk should be the main focus here. It’s also important to accessorise thoughtfully to maintain a neat space.
Use plants to invite positive energy and freshen up the home. In feng shui, they are commonly associated as a life force and bring in growth, prosperity and luck. Common indoor plants that are said to attract these good elements include the pothos (money plant), lucky bamboo and peace lily.
