The ancient Chinese art of Feng Shui has been practiced for nearly 3,000 years. With so many layers of tradition and technicality, feng shui may seem daunting to introduce to your home aesthetic and ethos. However, the core of feng shui is about making you feel comfortable and at ease in your home so that it can translate into every aspect of your life – so fret not. We turned to Feng Shui expert, Catherine Brophy, to help give some basic pointers to implement feng shui for a healthier, happier space and life.
FROM CATHERINE:
Feng Shui may seem like a complex concept, but it really boils down to a simple idea—living in harmony with your space. When you enter into your home, you should feel a sense of security and relaxation—you should want to take a huge breath when you reach your door. Feng Shui is really all about making your home really feel like your place of protection, comfort, and a place that really reflects the individual that you are. And just like every person is different, so is every home, so while much of Feng Shui is different for everyone, there are a few key points to help add some positive energy to each and every space.
- Enter Your Home as if You’ve Never Seen it Before.
- Clear the Clutter.
- Look at the Center of Your Home.
- Fix or Toss Broken Things.
- Keep Your Windows Clean.
- Your Bedroom is Particularly Important.
The first exercise is to really try to see your space through a set of fresh eyes and consciously think about how your space makes you feel. Really think about what all of the things in your space mean to you—from your artwork to your couches. Is there something that makes you feel anxious? Are you still bringing your negative thoughts from your day into your home? If so—really think about why that is the case.
It sounds so simple, and that’s because it is. Mess is the antithesis of Fen Shui—so make sure that your home is neat. It’s really common sense to keep your space clean—if it’s not, you’ll feel more anxious and have a more cluttered mind.
Usually the energetic center of the home aligns with the physical center of a home, and it’s important to keep this space clear and open, as energy begins from this space. Keep couches, tables, chairs, etc. out of this area.
Is there anything that’s run-down or dilapidated in your home? Get rid of it or fix it. If your home isn’t working properly, you won’t feel as though you’re your best self. Your home can’t be a source of protection or relaxation if things don’t work, as they’re impediments to your vitality. Toss chipped plates, burned-out bulbs, and clothes with holes. Repair stopped clocks, clogged drains, teetering chairs, and loose cabinet pulls.
The windows are the eyes to your home—so make sure to wash your windows and make sure they’re clean. It’s important that windows can be easily opened and closed.
The bedroom is where we nurture and replenish our internal systems, so it’s incredibly important that your room is a place where you feel safe, healthy, and happy. Take electronics out of your bedroom, keep the area underneath your bed completely clear, and if possible, have your feet facing the door.
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