Designing With Energy

Y'know when you just have a good feeling about a place? Some people say that how a home is decorated can influence our emotional well-being far more than we realize. With the world moving faster every day, many people believe that the core of who we are has become compromised, which in turn disconnects us from our natural environment, and can make us feel out of balance with the world.

From a design perspective, this modern dilemma is one that can benefit from the ancient art of Feng Shui. Used far more often now, Feng Shui is no longer classified as a wacky trend that conjures up thoughts of  burning sage and gibberish chants. It has become a respected avenue for many people who want their homes to be a nurturing part of their life.

I thought, for this week, I would offer some simple ideas, based on Feng Shui, that can easily improve the "happiness quotient" in any space.

• Begin with the entrance to your home. Energy is attracted to curves. Use plants or garden ornaments to "soften" any angular paths that lead to your front door.
• Encourage family and friends to stay by having intimate seating areas that are not too cluttered. Add accessories that represent life and/or movement (eg. mirrors, wind-chimes, pebbles, flowers etc).
• Attract positive, natural energy by bringing in any of these five elements - Earth, Wood, Fire, Water and Metal. 
• Open windows and doors as often as possible to circulate (and remove) stale air.
• Bring calm, space and abundance to your home with mirrors, positioning them in small or unexpected places.
• Feel safe and secure by positioning your furniture (and beds) so that you can see anyone arriving or leaving.

When I first learned about Feng Shui, years ago, I was very skeptical about the whole thing, but, as I went along the premise of it started to make sense. The above information is such a small interpretation of what it represents, but I hope it has piqued your interest....