What is Feng Shui?
The term "feng shui" is a combination of Chinese words for wind (风 fēng) and water (水 shuǐ), and can be literally translated as "the way of wind and water." Feng shui is an ancient Chinese philosophical concept based on the idea of "conscious occupation" and harmonizing spaces, with the aim of bringing positive energy and influence to the people occupying various spaces in the world.
Feng shui also explains how the placement of objects affects the flow of energy in the home. The goal of feng shui is to invite positive chi into the home, creating an energetic and balanced life. So, how do you correctly apply feng shui to your home?
#1 Check Your Command Position
In Feng Shui, the commanding position refers to the optimal placement of key furniture, such as the bed, desk, or stove, to enhance a sense of security and control in a space. These three pieces of furniture are crucial as they represent three essential aspects of life:
- Bed (representing oneself)
- Work desk (representing career)
- Stove (representing wealth)
While it may be challenging to arrange the stove's position in the kitchen, setting the bed and work desk in a better position is relatively easier and needs to be arranged in a more optimal position.
Also, ensure that Shirvamates can see the door when arranging these items—either from the bed or the work desk. Avoid being directly parallel to the door but also avoid turning your back to it. All of this is important to achieve optimal positive energy.
#2 Go Vertical
Paying attention to the vertical composition is equally important! It can be done relatively easily by integrating various vertical shapes and lines in the home's furniture elements to symbolize 'growth.' Shirvamates can also insert a plant in a corner to make the room feel higher, or if there is extra space, consider installing tall bookshelves.
#3 Keep Things Clean
One simple but beneficial tip to maintain energy flow in the home is to keep it clean. In feng shui, clutter is believed to take up valuable space needed by new energy entering. It's advisable to maintain cleanliness, especially in the work area every day. Another easy but impactful cleaning tip is for windows, as they are considered the eyes of the building. Clean windows also maximize the entry of sunlight.
#4 Declutter the Entryway
In feng shui, the entrance serves as the gateway for energy entering the home and life. The entryway should be free of piled or scattered items. Try not to have too many items and keep it dust-free. If space allows, you can add some plants and artwork.
An advice from architects and interior designers familiar with feng shui is to "always try to provide shoe racks, coat hooks, and umbrella storage. These items have their 'designated places as home,' and they store energy from the outside world."
#5 Remove Obstacles
Is the most frequently used path in your home—such as from the bedroom to the bathroom—free from obstacles?
Is there a bedside table that causes bumps every day?
Consider how you move around the room and try to make that activity path as clear as possible. Be open to changing the layout if needed. Efficiency is everything in feng shui, so it's crucial to remove obstacles from our daily paths, making the flow of energy as smooth as possible.
The study of feng shui has a long history and relatively measurable applications. The most important aspect of designing, especially homes, is that the design should be thoughtful and functional!