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Feng Shui (pronounced “fung shway” or “foong shway”) is literally translated as “wind” and “water.” According to Wikipedia (www.wikipedia.org) feng shui means “a life-force/entity that is invisible and elusive.”

A secret ancient Chinese practice used to ensure good health and fortune for the dynasty, feng shui provides tools to examine the flow of life energy (known as “chi”) to assist in finding balance and harmony.

Traditional feng shui examines four aspects: building, environment, time, and people. However, westernized feng shui commonly only examines two of these: building and environment. Thus modern feng shui has become more an art form than an exact science.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to assist with good feng shui around your home.

Clear away clutter. Clutter can be anything disorganized, unused, or unfinished. Clutter will obstruct the free flow of energy throughout your home. Also be sure to quickly repair or replace broken or damaged items such as broken light bulbs or squeaky doors.

Keep doorways and entryways clear of obstacles. This will ensure that good energy can enter your home without obstruction. In addition, a well-positioned plant near the front door will attract positive energy into your home, while a mirror inside the door will provide an instant energy lift.

Regularly clean and air out your home. This will ensure that the energy in your home is kept fresh rather than becoming old or stagnant. Also plug sink holes and put toilet seats down to avoid positive energy flowing out, and repair leaky faucets.

Use mirrors and crystals creatively. In feng shui mirrors are used to reflect positive or deflect negative energy by increasing the energy of the reflection–the larger the mirror, the greater the increase. Crystals are used to disperse energy that would otherwise build up or stagnate. Crystals work well in long hallways or in corners of rooms.

Place a water fountain in areas where you experience challenge. Fountains create a relaxing natural soundscape which promotes flow with life and the ability to endure continuous change. Candles can also create a similar effect by providing a soft natural glow.

Install lighting appropriate to the area. Lighting affects the energy of a room. Ensure that high quality luminous lighting is available in rooms that require greater attention to detail such as in the kitchen or office. By reducing the amount of lighting in areas such as the living room or bedroom, you can create a quieter, more relaxed environment.

Create a sanctuary in your bedroom. Position your bed to ensure that your view is of something nurturing, not straight into the bathroom or down a hallway. Also remove any unnecessary electrical items as these create interference and disrupt the flow of energy. Lastly, be sure to smooth any hard edges to ensure that energy flow is not disrupted.

By taking action on these tips you will be ensuring an unrestricted flow of fresh energy through your home which will assist you in creating an environment that is supportive to your well-being.

Evan Walters is a feng shui enthusiast. For more tips visit his website at WellBeing-FengShui.com.

Source: alive #276, October 2005