Common Blunders in Feng Shui Implementation You Likely Commit
Feng shui, an ancient Chinese practice, is all about arranging your space to achieve balance and harmony. It's focusing on the life force energy, or "qi," that flows within your space. This timeless art has stood the test of time, still being relied upon today to promote harmony and balance.
Ready to dive into the world of feng shui? Feng shui expert, Anjie Cho, shares her top tips to avoiding common feng shui pitfalls. As a co-author of "Mindful Living: A Guide to the Everyday Magic of Feng Shui," Anjie provides insights on everything from flower displays to furniture placement.
1. Dried or Artificial Flowers
While dried or fake flowers may seem a low-maintenance alternative, feng shui lovers will want to opt for fresh flowers instead. Fresh flowers carry life energy and should replace their dried or artificial counterparts in your home. However, that's not to say there's no place for well-loved and meaningful dried or fake flowers – just don't use them for feng shui adjustments.
2. Desk in Front of Window
You might think placing your desk in front of a window is ideal for enjoying the view as you work, but feng shui experts cautions against it. Placing a desk in front of a window may drain your life force energy and weaken the connection between you and your productivity. Instead, try positioning the desk to the side for improved career success.
3. Bench at the Foot of the Bed
Though a bench at the foot of the bed may seem like the finishing touch for the bedroom, feng shui experts advise against it. The foot of the bed holds opportunities, especially for career success. A bench may block this energy flow, so it's best to keep this area clear.
4. Storage Under the Bed
When it comes to storage, the empty space under your bed is often overlooked. Feng shui experts suggest avoiding storing items beneath your bed, as this can obstruct the flow of energy and create unrest while you sleep.
5. Over-Reliance on Color
Using color to achieve balance is essential in feng shui. While the color purple associates with wealth, don't feel compelled to paint all your walls this color out of fear it's not enough. Colors can be introduced through decor, clothing, crystals, and even writing utensils to achieve balance.
6. Mixing Feng Shui Styles
Finding multiple feng shui sources might be tempting, but the plethora of information can create confusion and conflict. Cho recommends sticking to one source that resonates with you and following its guidance.
7. Cactus Plants
Cacti may be in vogue, but they shouldn't replace soft and heart-leaf plants in feng shui discussions. If the cactus is well-loved and thriving, it can still offer positive energy and support.
8. Confusion with Applying the Feng Shui Bagua
As one of the most common feng shui tools, the bagua can be challenging to understand. Choose a single guide or source to follow and avoid over-complicating the process by mixing different suggestions.
9. Worrying About Bad Feng Shui
Feng shui is about balance, so "good" and "bad" are two sides of the same coin. Don't worry too much about negative or bad feng shui, as each space may have unique attributes that make it beneficial to its inhabitants.
By avoiding these common feng shui pitfalls, you can create a harmonious and balanced living space.
- Decorating with Decor Styles: While incorporating various decor styles can add personality to your home, feng shui encourages a cohesive approach. Stick to one main decor style and introduce elements of others sparingly to maintain harmony and balance.
- Incorporating Decorative Items: When choosing decorative items for your space, consider the energy they bring. Geomancy, a specialty of feng shui, recommends careful placement of objects to promote positive energy.
- Balancing Rooms with Qi: Empty rooms can suffer from stagnant energy, hence it's important to utilize them effectively. Place furniture, decorative items, or plants to fill those spaces and allow the life force energy, or 'Qi,' to flow freely throughout the room.
- Exceptions to the Rules: Like any philosophical approach, feng shui has its exceptions. For instance, if a certain living arrangement feels right to you but contradicts feng shui advice, consider listening to your intuition and making adjustments accordingly.
- BHG's Feng Shui Tips: Looking for additional feng shui advice? Familiarize yourself with Better Homes and Gardens' recommendations on feng shui. Their expert tips can help you create a charming and balanced living space that aligns with the principles of feng shui.
