5 Tips for Using Feng Shui to Harmonise Your Home
Feng shui is an ancient Chinese art of arranging objects and space to achieve harmony and balance. When it comes to applying this art to your home, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to invest in structural renovations, all new furniture, or call in a feng shui master – it can also be as simple as moving a few things around and updating smaller furnishings. If you’re starting with the latter, read on to discover how to cultivate some of that good energy.
1. Plants
If your home is in lack of fresh foliage, the easy task of adding some greenery is a great place to start. In general, plants symbolise growth and vitality, and the colour green – the shade of most plants – is linked with rejuvenation.
Add:
Plants such as aloe vera, which is said to counteract negative energy, and bamboo, which is said to usher in peacefulness and wisdom. Jade (also known as the “money tree”) can also help boost prosperity.
Avoid:
“Spikey” plants such as cacti and snake plants, as well as any dead or withered plants.
2. Entryway
According to feng shui, it’s important to spruce up the home’s prominent entrance to clean, organised perfection to help invite positive energy from the outside in.
Add:
Optimal lighting at various heights (ceiling lights, wall sconces, and natural light are all great) and vibrant plants. If necessary, oil up any squeaks in your doors and repaint.
Avoid:
A mirror facing the door, sharp or pointy objects, and clutter. For the latter, keep it tidy by ensuring everything that is stored near the doorway has its own home – shoe racks, umbrella holders, and coat hooks are all handy.
3. Clutter
According to feng shui, clutter takes up the space that incoming energy needs, so a proper clean-out is essential. Not only is it great for feng shui, but it helps with a clear mindset too.
Add:
Pathways that are free from obstacles and hazards. For example, is there a stool you always stub your toes on? Consider moving it, or removing it completely, to ensure your home is orderly.
Avoid:
Any items that are unused, unfinished, broken, or which generally create a feeling of disarray.
4. Five Elements
The five feng shui elements – wood, earth, water, metal, and fire – should be incorporated into your home through materials in the most balanced way possible.
Add:
An even amount of objects and accents that represent each element. Plants can tick that box for wood, as well as the obvious furniture pieces. Brass finishes, such as cabinet handles and knobs, or metallic colours, work for metal. For water, wavy shapes, reflective materials and black accents (black is associated with the water element) will work too. For fire, opt for candles, warm lighting, or accents that take inspiration from the colours of a flame.
Avoid:
Too much of any one element – balance is key.
5. Vertical Lines
To encourage growth and expansion as well as make your space feel larger than it is, integrate vertical lines and shapes in your home.
Add:
A tall bookshelf or decorative ladder are easy go-to’s. More creatively, you can look for lighting which travels upward or opt for tall plants, such as rubber plants and banana plants.
Avoid:
Objects or accents that make your space look smaller than it is, as these work against your vertical lines. Dark walls, clutter, and bright, busy colour schemes can all make a room look smaller, too.
More Resources
Looking to go the extra mile and call in a professional feng shui master in Hong Kong? Here are three recommendations:
These links are shared with the only intention of being helpful, and have no affiliation with The New Moon.
