Feng Shui teaches us how to achieve harmony with our environment. The words “feng shui” are Chinese and translate to “wind” and “water.” The wind is our breath, and humans are almost 60% water. Therefore, wind and water are vital elements for life.
With its roots in Taoism and Buddhism, feng shui is fundamental in every culture. A New York City apartment and a hidden cabin in the forest have very different feels. Overcrowded living spaces have been shown to affect our health, acting as a stressor.
Let’s explore some simple steps to incorporate feng shui into your environment to enhance every aspect of your life during spring cleaning this season.
By harmonizing its energy flow, feng shui helps make the most of your living space. Working with feng shui, include the five elements to properly balance your home with their traits to thrive in life:
- Wood: creativity and growth
- Fire: leadership and boldness
- Earth: strength and stability
- Metal: focus and order
- Water: emotion and inspiration
Speaking of balance, think of yin and yang. Apartments feel best when both energies are represented. For example, yin is feminine energy is associated with the moon, coolness, and quiet. In contrast, yang is masculine energy related to the sun, sociability, and heat. You can change the feeling of your space by playing with these energies.
Cut the clutter in your apartment, especially in the bedroom. The bedroom should have balance and have the most significant importance since we spend many hours sleeping in our beds. Choose a calming color for the walls and allow space on both sides of the bed. Include some of the elements, such as candles and plants. Many plants have air purifying benefits, like snake plants and palms. Never overstuff your closets. Toss those jeans you have been keeping around since high school. If the closets are stuffed, the message shows that our lives are complete and we don’t need anything else. Clearing space can invite magic into your life. Plus, you’ll feel much better letting go of clothing you do not need, giving your brain a cue to let go of other unnecessary things.
Never store items under the bed. Allow for air to be flowing all around you while sleeping. Items like shoes or books are active energy that can interrupt sleep. Mementos from past relationships stored under the bed may mean the relationship is holding you back. Instead, keep only soft items such as extra linens or pillows.
Spring is auspicious for planting new seeds and adding the wood element to inspire productivity and money. Add some plants near your desk, home office, or work area. The element of wood connects to networking, expansion, growing wealth, and opportunities.
Pay special attention to your entryway. The front door and entrance represent how you face the outside world. It’s how the world sees you, like a first impression, so keep the area clean and clutter-free. Keep the windows clean so bright light can illuminate the space. In feng shui, windows represent the eyes of the home’s inhabitants. Keep windows cleaned regularly and see how much light and joy come into your life.
Adding a few of these simple feng shui tricks can help you achieve a more mindful home that allows you to slow down and notice the beauty of the present moment. Namaste!
