If the idea of redecorating your home brings up intense feelings of stress, then the ancient art of Feng Shui might be just what the doctor/decorator ordered. Believed to have started over 3,500 years ago in Neolithic China, Feng Shui is now being used across the globe to ensure the free flow of positive energy in the home. Loosely translated, the term Feng Shui means wind and water.

It is thought that the practice of Feng Shui has its origins in astrology. Feng Shui masters have been using the Ying and Yang elements found within the poles to balance out the positive and negative chi found in all living spaces. Many who follow the practice use a loupan, the traditional compass of Feng Shui. Once the directions of the house have been mapped out with the compass, elements of the house can be brought into balance with light and color.

     Although a deep understanding of Feng Shui can take years to develop, a basic understanding of its principals can help you to arrange your living space to create a sense of peace and harmony. We all want our homes to be a sanctuary where members of our families can rest and recharge. Taking into consideration a few of the Feng Shui values will help you to achieve this goal.

     Traditionally, there are five elements that need to be balanced. Following these recommendations will help you to use color and light to bring good energy to your home.

     The first element of Feng Shui is that of fire. Fire is the element associated with power and success. It is represented by the following colors: red, orange, purple, dark yellow, and pink. Feng Shui experts recommend using paint or décor elements that represent fire in the south, southwest, and northeast areas of your home.

     The second element of Feng Shui is earth. Earth is represented by all beige and brown colors as well as light yellow. The element of earth is associated with harmony in relationships and stability. Rooms of this color should be located in the center of the home as well as the northeast and southwest areas.

     The third element of Feng Shui is metal. Recommended for use in the north and northwest areas of the home, metal is represented by white, gray, and all metallic surfaces. One should incorporate the use of metal when focusing on clarity and precision. The colors of black and blue are used to represent the element of water. Water corresponds to purity and calmness and is suggested for use in the northeast and southeast areas.

     Finally, health is represented by the element of wood. The brown and green colors of wood should be utilized in the east and southeast portions of your home.

Applying the basic philosophies of Feng Shui can be simple and inexpensive. Mirrors, crystals, fountains, and bamboo are all useful tools for achieving harmony in your home. In addition, it costs nothing to de-clutter your home and simplify your living space, one of the most basic principles of Feng Shui decorating.

     Fortunately, it is easy to avoid this negativity with the careful placement of a few selected items. The front door is often seen as having great importance in Feng Shui. The front door should be inviting, but in proportion to the rest of the house. A mirror in the dinning room is said to have the positive affect of “doubling” your food. In addition, mirrors are recommended at the bottom of all staircases. Desks and workspaces should be placed near windows so that light and knowledge may flow freely.

     If your searching to bring new light and energy to your home, the ancient art of Feng Shui can provide the techniques you might be looking for. A few great resources exist on the Internet to assist you in your efforts such as www.artofplacement.com and www.crystalinks.com.