Feng shui originated in China thousands of years ago, but recently the practice has become more popular around the world. Feng shui can seem daunting, but it isn’t as complicated as some believe. In the simplest of terms, feng shui is the ancient art and science of placement. Through feng shui, we can certainly make our homes more organized, but at its core, it allows us to connect with our homes on a spiritual level. To truly feel at ease in your house, here are some simple tips on how to feng shui your home.
For good feng shui, five key elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water—should all be present in your home, whether physically or symbolically. You can channel elements through color—such as blues for water—or through objects, such as plants for earth. Be wary, though, of not adding too much of one element: balance is key. For example, an excess of metal is thought to cause can cause disorganization, hastiness, and excess movement, making for a frazzled life. If you’re a naturally disorganized person, having extra metal in your home will exacerbate the problem.
If you’ve been ignoring your squeaking doors for too long, it’s time to make a change. The sound is akin to a whine, which can elicit a stressed mood. Be sure to oil your doors as soon as they start squeaking—getting used to the noise can be all too easy. Pay particularly close attention to your front door. For good feng shui, the primary entrance to your home should have a positive energy.
This is a simple tip we’ve all heard outside the context of feng shui. However, clutter is more than just unsightly—it impedes on the clarity of our thoughts. An uncluttered house will create an uncluttered mind, so it’s time for unnecessary trinkets to go. An easy fix for clutter is to make sure you have bins, baskets, and drawers for every type of item.
Natural light is known for its healing properties, even outside the world of feng shui. One easy solution is to keep your blinds open to let in as much sunlight as possible. Be sure to clean your windows regularly so that the view isn’t obstructed. You can also strategically place mirrors to give the illusion of more space and light. Point mirrors toward a beautiful view, like a piece of art or the outdoors, rather than toward a cluttered area of your home. When it comes to how to feng shui your home, mirrors are a simple tool that will bring clarity.