Yes, that’s right. Your stuff creates vibes and directs the flow of energy, either in a positive or negative way. Seriously, it’s a thing.
It’s called Feng Shui and it is the ancient Chinese art of balancing chi (qi), the universal life force energy that binds the universe, earth and humanity together.It is believed that when this energy is aligned and balanced in a space, it promotes harmony and overall well-being. When our chi is blocked or stagnant (stuck), it can have adverse effects and create negativity. It is believed that balancing this energy flow is the key to having success and abundance in all aspects of life.
Say what?
I’m not sure if moving your couch will make all your dreams come true but I do know that the ancient Chinese have this down to a science. The Bagua Map is an ancient script mapping out the energy centers in any space, according to their relation with the four directions. It is all the rave nowadays, and used by interior designers and Feng Shui consultants (yes, that is also a thing).
Have you ever walked into a room and felt it was cold or uninviting? Or maybe you were overcome with a sense of peace and serenity? Balanced or imbalanced, those energies are attracting (or repelling) success in different areas of your life.
According to experts at HGTV, any decor in a space directly influences the chi flow. This includes placement of furniture, color of the walls, mirrors, and so on. It’s all about the vibes.
So how can you arrange your space for balance?
- De-Clutter- Are your drawers overflowing with useless junk? Is your closet full of clothes you never wear? Too much “stuff” creates stagnant energy (and bad vibes when you stress about it). If you don’t love it, need it or use it, then GET RID OF IT!
- Add Color– Don’t be scared. Color can easily shift energy and invoke specific emotions Paint a wall, add some bright throw pillows, hang an art piece. Orange IS the new black so make that color pop, girl.
- Elements- Incorporating the Chinese elements into a space brings balance (fire, earth, metal, water, wood). Add a vase, candle, waterfall or other symbol associated with each element If you’re limited on space, try using the corresponding color of each element instead. Easy, peasy
- Bathroom- Always keep the toilet seat down and not just because it’s gross. In the Chinese tradition, water is associated with wealth. So if you’re flushing with the lid up, you might be watching your money go down the drain.
- Family Room– Don’t put all the furniture against the walls because it hinders communication. And it’s a little awkward.
- Bedrooms– Beds should be accessible from both sides and not directly in line with the door. Limit electronics to reduce electromagnetic energies. Ahem…that means NO television.
- Kitchen– Feng Shui-wise, this is the most important room because it sustains life. Keep it clean and add some water symbols to help balance the strong fire energy. And yes, put those dishes away…it’s ruining the vibe.
- Mirrors– A great addition to any room as they activate, reflect and expand energy. Obviously, just watch the placement on this one…some things can’t be unseen.
- Wind chimes– Yes, I said it. Wind chimes INSIDE. Sounds crazy but they break up stuck energy, jive with the element of air and are pretty to look at.
- Symbols- Whether it’s a lucky bamboo plant or a dragon statue, find any symbol that represents good fortune to attract positive and abundant energies.
You don’t have to be an expert to make a few changes and get that energy flowing. Feng Shui can be applied to any size space and a little TLC can go a long way.
So, what are you waiting for? Go balance that chi!
Jenn Lyn, MSW, LCSW, CCH
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Certified Crystal Healer
SHE Magazine USA Correspondent
