Feng Shui is the Chinese art of interior decorating and organising spaces in your home to promote positive energy flow and wellness. Here are some tips to start creating balance and vibrant energy in all areas of your home. By using some or all of these techniques not only can you de-clutter and minimalise the home, but also your mind.
Entry way
It is good to always keep entryways clear and uncluttered, as it will invite opportunity into your home. Red is Feng Shui 2016 colour of the year, this does not mean to paint your entry way red - although very striking, it could feel a little over the top. Instead, use a throw rug or a potted plant with red tones in your entry to create a happy, vibrant and energising welcome for your guests.
Living room
It is important to ensure you let through as much natural light into your living space as possible to increase energy levels. Try to avoid using heavy bulky curtains that draw in darkness. Add lamps to brighten up dark corners. Choose a sofa with legs that can let positive energy flow through underneath. It is essential to use furniture pieces that have different textures to add interest to a room. Bring in some nature for wellness using living plants. Green from plants brings a refreshing and soothing colour into the room, which promotes rest. Mirrors create energy so try to avoid having them in places where you are winding down and relaxing.
Bedroom
If you are looking for a perfect colour to paint your bedroom, blue is best. Blue is calming and reassuring and is known to lower blood pressure and the heart rate. Work with the space accordingly to ensure your bed is not facing the bedroom door. Beds should be placed diagonally opposite the door to allow a clear view of the room and the door. Try to avoid beds that do not have any open space underneath and ensure you get rid of any clutter that may be under the bed to promote a healthy energy flow while you sleep. It is also best not to have any tech equipment in the bedroom as it disturbs sleep. If it is unavoidable, have the electronics at least two feet away from the bed. Lavender plants are colourful and fragrant; the scent stimulates calmness, so these plants are great to have around. Busy paintings or art prints can attract chaos, which makes it difficult to fall asleep. Use pictures with simple shapes. Ensure you de-clutter and keep your bedroom filled with only the essentials you need for a good night’s sleep.
Home office
Desks should never face walls, as this will obstruct concentration levels and creativity. Natural light is best for concentration and it is found that we can concentrate up to 8 hours with natural light compared to only 2 hours under artificial light. Hang one or two inspirational art prints, which will help motivate you. Bookcases should be organised based on colour and height - putting the heavier books at the bottom, if disorganised they can send out a messy vibe. Place a crystal ornament on your desk or hang one from the ceiling; crystals stimulate intellectual energy and are great for a home office.
Kitchen
The kitchen is the space in the house that promotes warmth and socialising. It is on the top Feng Shui priority list since it controls the flow of nourishment and happiness. To start, free any extra kitchen gadgets that are on your countertops. The countertops should be clutter free to leave you with lots of positive space to prep. Using a full bowl of fruit in the kitchen will attract prosperity. Grow a fresh herb garden on your windowsill and try to fill the kitchen space with natural light to attract energy. Ensure you keep your sharp knives tucked away safely in drawers. Sharp and large objects have a negative connotation and disrupt the positive flow of energy.
Bathroom
Because the bathroom is usually a small space, keeping a good flow of energy can be challenging. Negative energy can easily be increased so it is important to keep it as clean and as clutter free as possible. Use earth colours in the form of towels and decorations, as it will create balance with all the water surrounded in this room. Circular shapes and round edges are highly favoured in the world of Feng Shui. Try to incorporate it into the bathroom by getting a round mirror or round bowls for your accessories. Aloe Vera is a great plant for the bathroom, as it requires little sunlight whilst it is also a natural remedy for skin irritations.
With thanks to Lydia van Hassen, Interior Decorator & Space Planner. Call 050-6523829, email lydiavanhaasen@gmail.com or visit www.lydiavanhaasen.com for more information. Follow Lydia on Instagram@creativemedxb for more inspiration.