Feng shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy that focuses on positioning items within a space so that positive energy, or chi, will flow inward. Chi is the life force of a space and it is influenced by five elements: wood, earth, metal, fire and water. Positive chi is achieved by balancing passive energy, which is yin, with yang, or active energy. The Feng shui principles of design apply to architectural and decorative elements which influence the flow of positive energy, bringing good fortune and life affirming chi into a space. You can utilize feng shui to bring positive energy into every room of your home.

A Feng Shui Foyer

According to feng shui, portals, such as doorss and windows, allow energy to pass in and out of a building. If your back door is aligned with your front door, chi will not remain in the home, but will pass straight through since there is no barrier between opposing doors. Offset the flow and redirect chi into the house by placing a piece of furniture, a floor sculpture, or a plant at an angle between the two doors to break the corridor between them. Or consider using a beautiful fountain that will add soothing sounds while introducing the element of water and attracting positive energy.

Feng Shui in the Living Room & Dining Room

A feng shui inspired living room focuses on function, comfort and balance so that energy and people can move freely about the space. Choose comfortable furniture and position it so conversation and interaction won’t be impeded; arrange furniture throughout the room so that there is a sense of equilibrium. Display accessories and wall art that enhances serenity and orient accessories on the same horizontal plane to direct energy around the perimeter of the room.

A feng shui dining table would be one that is round and made of wood, since glass, metal or slate are considered cold and uninviting. A round table is more inclusive than the sharp corners of a square table and it allows chi to move in a circle around the space. Keep the mood light and bright with window treatments that allow natural light to pass through and choose peaceful accents, such as a wall painting that features a serene waterfall or abstract canvas painting sets with simple Asian imagees or calligraphy. Include a wall mirror to invite positive energy into the room.

Elemental Feng Shui in the Bathroom

Mirrors capture the positive energy of water because they reflect light and images, so place a mirror in a way that makes the space feel expansive. Add the elements of earth and fire with a live plant and metal wall sculptures that feature serene Asian landscapes flanked with decorative wall candle sconces. Choose pale cool colors to maintain an uplifting spacious atmosphere.

Kitchens with Feng Shui Influence

Feng shui dictates that a kitchen should be clean and well organized and the entryway to the kitchen should be visible while cooking. If it is not, add a mirror behind the stove to direct positive energy into the kitchen and to keep the entryway visible. Add traditional elements like bamboo in basketry and a delicate wind chime to catch refreshing breezes. Offer a place to sit in the kitchen, conceal sharp objects and choose rounded corners and curved designs wherever possible.

Design a Feng Shui Bedroom

Focus on rest, relaxation and simple serenity. To allow for energy flow, a feng shui bed features a headboard of natural wood or leather without a footboard. Locate the bed in a position of power by locating it directly across from the door. Position mirrors where they do not reflect on the bed, since feng shui would view this as an invitation for a third party to enter a personal relationship. Decorate in sets of two, with pairs of lamps, night stands, wall sconces and wall art.

All text copyright Shanel. Photo from Flikr - "a restful, well-lighted space" courtesy of woodleywonderworks.