Feng Shui 101

It’s a topic discussed in most major lifestyle magazines and on your favorite home decorating shows—feng shui. While enjoying new found popularity on this half of the globe, feng shui is an ancient art that has been practiced for centuries in China. Meaning “wind” (feng) and “water” (shui), this ancient discipline is used by many to create a harmonious home environment, and its principles can be applied to almost any decorating style. In addition, using feng shui techniques can attract potential buyers by increasing the perceived value of your home. Below are a few tips on how to harness the energy and vitality of feng shui within your own home.

Reflecting disharmony. Remove or cover large mirrors in the bedroom if you don’t sleep well.

Room with a view. Place your bed to give you the widest view of the room. Your bed shouldn’t be in direct line with the door. Paint the bedroom walls in a color scheme that is both pleasant and inviting.

Calming sounds. Hang wind chimes outside your front door to create a soothing environment for occupants and guests.

Writing on the wall. Try to avoid having completely bare walls. Group together non-personal pictures or hang up interesting art pieces in a diagonal or staggered pattern.

Go with the flow. Place a blue or black doormat at your front door to encourage good things to flow in like water.

The color of love. Include the romance colors–white, pink and red–in your room. But don’t overdose with a red wall because too much red can trigger anger.

Plants for energy. Healthy plants generate positive energy. Avoid dried flowers because they have no energy left.

Look overhead. Move beds, couches and desks from under any overhead beams to keep energy flowing.

Less is more. When arranging furniture,less is better. Too much clutter can restrict the potential of a great room.

Create positive impressions. Keep counters clean, closets organized and clutter concealed in order to project an organized and stress-free environment for you and your guests.

Reprinted with permission from Buffini & Company.