What is feng shui?
Feng shui is the ancient Chinese philosophy of finding harmony and balance between elements. Although feng shui is used in numerous aspects of life to promote positive energy flow (“chi”) and bring about physical and mental health, success, and healthy relationships, it’s also very commonly used in interior design.
The practice of feng shui in interior design is rooted in the idea that our homes and living spaces are mirrors of what is happening inside us. Those who want to implement feng shui into their homes to promote positive energy should be very intentional with what they bring into their homes and have in their living spaces.
Using feng shui in your home
If you want to follow traditional feng shui in your home, you can follow a bagua map. The bagua map is a tool that divides your home’s unique floorplan into nine quadrants to promote the correct energy flow in each space of your home. You can read more about decorating tips using a bagua map here.
If you don’t plan on using a bagua map to follow the practices of feng shui exactly, here are some helpful tips for how to promote positive energy and apply the ideology of feng shui in a way that makes sense for you.
Living room
Arrange the couch against a wall, preferably as far from the entrance as possible but still with a clear view of the entrance. Arrange the seating so it invites people into the space and promotes conversation once people are seated. Ensure that you can easily walk throughout the room without hitting any furniture. Additionally, use a mix of different shapes, and be sure to illuminate dark corners that don’t typically get as much light. As with all spaces, only display items you truly love.
Dining room
For the dining room, choose a table that fits the space perfectly while still allowing for enough room to walk around each of the chairs. Don’t allow the dining room to be a space for clutter, but don’t make it a space that is never used, either. Place ambient light throughout the space or choose a chandelier that illuminates the entire room without pointing too much light down on one spot.
Bedroom
Arrange the bed farthest from the door but with a clear view of it, just like the couch in your living room. Try to avoid pointing your feet toward the door as this is known as a coffin position in Chinese culture. Additionally, include calm, cozy elements in the bedroom, like soft materials and lighting, symmetric bedside tables and lamps, and calming colors that make you feel safe and warm. Keep the bedroom as minimal as possible.
Overall, you can implement the practices of feng shui into your home in any way that works for you. Whether you follow a more traditional map or you loosely follow the elements of feng shui, what matters most is your intention of positive energy.
This post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. The point of view and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Realty Executives International. This post was written by Bailee Abell. Bailee Abell is a writer born and raised in California. A graduate of University of California, Santa Barbara, she loves reading classic literature, sipping warm beverages, and visiting theme parks every chance she gets. Find her at baileeabell.com.
