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How to Feng Shui Your Home

Tips & Trends

From Rory S. Coakley on some of the latest real estate news and happenings.

If you want to start 2013 off right, a few changes around the house can do the trick. You don’t have to go to great lengths—applying some basic principles of feng shui can make a world of difference. Best of all, it doesn’t have to cost much (if anything) at all.

Feng shui is a combination of art and science developed in ancient China. It’s a complex philosophy, but in the simplest terms, it’s about balancing and optimizing the energy in a space, from a single room to an entire house.

Here are a few easy ways to bring feng shui into your home:

• Ditch the clutter. This is an essential first step. Only surround yourself with items you love and need. The process of de-cluttering your home helps promote positive energy. Once you’ve cleared the clutter, keep closets and drawers organized.
• Maximize light and air. Welcome as much natural light into your home as possible. Open windows whenever the weather permits or try an air purifier. Indoor plants are another great air-purifying option.
• Surround yourself with life. Place evergreens or year-round plants by your front door, and fill your home with plenty of greenery. According to Chinese tradition, plants represent growth and good fortune.
• Express your artistic side. Put some artwork in every room. It doesn’t have to be expensive—just meaningful to you. Choose items that inspire you and get rid of anything that reminds you of negative experiences. If you’re hanging wall art, keep pieces at the same height to establish strong horizontal lines.
• Choose furnishings wisely. Select comfortable furniture that’s pleasing to the eye, and arrange it so the room is inviting. Make sure pieces of furniture face each other.
• Mind the doorways. Feng shui considers doors and windows essential to the flow of energy. Position your bed diagonally opposite the bedroom door, but not in such a way that your feet would be pointing at the door. If you have a home office, place your desk in the area opposite the door. Set up the kitchen so you can see the entrance when you’re cooking. If these placements aren’t possible, strategically hang mirrors to keep doorways in sight.

Source: Nationwide, mynationwidemagazine.com

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