Learning The Basics Of Feng Shui Decorating
Many people think that feng shui decorating is an intricate and mystical undertaking that invariably ends with homes that are either extremely Zen like or full of antiquities and talismans. Actually, feng shui decorating does not have any preferred style; all that it aims for is the creation of an environment that has the energy needed to live a harmonious, balanced life.
Prerequisites for Decorating with Feng Shui
Fen shui experts will tell you that before any decorating can be done in a place, the first thing that has to be done is to get rid of traces of old negative energy and the second thing is to build a strong energy foundation with good chi. These are the steps that need to be taken:
1. To clear the place of old energy all you need to do is clean up and get rid of all the clutter that may have accumulated through the years. All of these things occupy space that you should make available for new blessings.
2. Let air in. You can do this by opening the windows and doors long enough for air to circulate. If you live in a congested urban area and the air outside is not fresh then use an air purifier. You can also use incense and put plants in to cleanse the air.
3. Be sure there is good light. Natural light is best but this is not always possible. In lieu of natural light, you can opt for full spectrum instead of the usual fluorescent lighting.
Getting Started
Once the debris of energy has been cleared and both light and air are flowing freely, you can get started with your feng shui decorating. The first step you need to make is to define the areas of your residence that correspond to certain aspirations or aspects of living. To define these areas, you need to use a bagua map.
How to Use the Bagua Map
Using a bagua map is not as complicated as it may seem. What you need to do is take a bagua map, stand at the main doorway of your home, and place the map in front of you. Put the section that says Wisdom/Career/Helpful People next to you.
Using the bagua as reference, find out what aspiration section you are standing in. For example if you are standing in the left corner, you are in an area called the wisdom area. From here, identify all the other areas in the house according to the feng shui aspirations indicated in the map. You now have a guide that shows you how spaces in your house relate to feng shui aspirations.
Choose the Colors
Once you know what elements and what aspirations are related to the spaces in your house, you can begin to choose the colors you will use. Remember that you don’t have to go overboard when you pick a color based on the elements and aspiration of areas in your house. A picture, a vase or a plant will often be enough to support the energy need in those spaces.
For example, red and strong yellow are both fire colors. They bring out vigor, passion, and excitement. You put touches of these colors in your dining room or living room if you like to give interesting dinners.
Feng Shui Objects
After you have chosen colors, you will need to position furniture. There are many tips that can guide you to place furniture correctly. Just remember that the flow of energy should be continuous and unhampered.
Once the heavy stuff is laid out, you can choose the feng shui objects that either bring good luck or cure a flaw. Usually these things come with instructions when you buy them so for sure you will know where to put them.
The most important principle to remember when decorating with feng shui is that balance and harmony are the direction for every piece of décor. For as long as these two qualities are successfully set in place, the endeavor is considered a success.
