In my last blog post, I shared some great tips on how remodeling can BRING MORE JOY to a home and to its homeowners. Following along that line, the ancient art of Feng Shui seemed like the perfect topic to cover in today’s blog.
Do you want to BRING MORE HARMONY into your home? Based on some of the simple common-sense practices, this philosophy can help make your home healthier, happier, more organized AND may even boost your home’s value!
Clear the Path to the Front Door
The front door is very important in Feng Shui as it’s the main portal through which energy enters your home. From the outside, think of the chi (or energy) as a first-time visitor trying to find your home – you’ll want to make sure it’s clearly lit, well-marked and the address is visible.
Slow Down the Energy Flow
A direct line-of-sight from the front door to the back door causes the energy flow to shoot through your home too fast. Slow the chi down with a patterned rug at the entrance foyer, artwork on the walls or even a round entry table. By giving guests a reason to pause and reflect, this helps stop a home’s energy from flying straight out the back door.
For homes with interior entrance stairs, another Feng Shui solution to help anchor and slow down the flow of energy is to add a stair runner, artwork and place a grounding element that symbolizes heaviness at the top of the stairs.
Keep Your Home Clear of Clutter
Clutter is more than just visually displeasing. It can impede clarity of thought and can weigh us down emotionally. We’re all guilty of accumulating “too much stuff” that doesn’t play any specific function in our homes. Make sure you have organizational systems in place for everything in your life: from paying bills, to recycling, to having a designated spot for your keys. You’ll feel lighter, less fatigued and more efficient.
Balance the Five Elements
The five elements – earth, wood, fire, water and metal – can be present in your home either physically or symbolically. For example, bring the fire element in with warm hues, like reds and oranges or you could have the fire element present with a fireplace or burning candle.
The main goal is to strike a balance between ALL elements. It is believed that aggressive people should be mindful to limit fire elements in their décor. On the opposite end of the personality spectrum, passive people should perhaps consider infusing more of the fire element in their homes.
Maximize Natural Light
It should come as no big surprise that natural light makes us feel happier and more positive. Mirrors are often a quick and easy fix when you want to expand a space and bring in more outside light. The key is to be very mindful of WHAT the mirrors reflect. Is it a stack of bills (i.e. more clutter) or a beautiful view? When a mirror is hung, be sure it reflects more natural light, a serene view or an expansive part of the room.
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Be sure to check out our next BLOG POST on February 22nd.
Until then… it’s all about YOU!