The Chinese believed in Feng Shui, an ancient art that seeks to harmonize individuals to their environment.
The term, literally translated as "wind-water," dates back thousands of years, incorporating other natural elements – wood, fire, earth, and metal – into its philosophy. In Feng Shui, experts believe that changes are to be done, such as the repositioning of one's interior decor, to achieve better health, peace, and success.
As the Lunar New Year arrives, let's delve into the world of Feng Shui and discover how it could help improve your lifestyle.
Bedrooms, in particular, are important in Feng Shui, as it beholds your personal energy. It is important to create a space that will nourish love and healing. How to do that? By planning your furniture and putting them in the right position.
Fung Shui experts suggest that your bed should be placed in a commanding position; somewhere further from the door, but not aligned with it. One logical reason – your bed becomes a room obstruction. In Feng Shui’s philosophy, the bed will hinder the flow of positivity in your room. How to place your bed? You’d want to see your door while lying in bed, but you don't want to be the first one seen as the door opens.
There must be a wall behind your bed. Experts believe that this feature supports one’s personal strength and gives one the power to create and hold positive energy. One thing to avoid: do not place the bed on the same wall as the door, or below the window. The reason behind this is that you’ll find trouble sleeping hearing the noise from the hallway, or outdoors.
If your bed is farther from the wall, choosing a wood headboard can give you the same feeling of support. Avoid footboards; experts say these seem to “block” one’s progress in life. Another thing to avoid: placing your bed where your foot points out the door as you lay down. In the Chinese culture, this is called the Death Position; their deceased are carried out of the room feet first. Experts say this can drain out your energy.
Sleeping under sloped ceilings can give a feeling of unease. The same is true for those sleeping under the beams. Having objects bordering close to your body can give you thoughts of being compressed, and these can carry over to your dreams. To solve these tendencies, use a canopy bed. Having pillars to surround you while you sleep gives you a feeling of being supported by the downward structure of the ceiling.
To balance the energy in your room, having two nightstands on both sides will help. The visual symmetry gives you the feeling of peace – but take note, the furniture doesn’t have to match! Use your creativity to give access to both spaces from your bed. A nightstand on one side, a chair on the other can give you a polished, harmonious look without looking too uniform.
When choosing decor, pick ones with curved lines instead of sharp corners. Square furniture has a pointed energy that creates a "sharp environment," which can direct negative energy towards your body as you sleep. Drape your furniture with throws and rugs for a look of ease.
Feng Shui experts say it is wise to choose soothing colours for your bedroom. Bright and vibrant colours amplify your energy and tickles your emotions, making you more awake. Instead of using these as the main theme, pick your favourite palettes as accents. Their recommended hues? Soft colours win blue, green and lavender pacifies your mind. Open your windows during the mornings, but dim your lights and shut your windows at night to give your bedroom a more peaceful ambiance.
Mirrors are room staples, but as much as possible, do not install them facing the bed. Your eyes are sensitive to movements, and any type of reflection may alarm you. This tends to distract you from sleep.
It is wise to keep your bed away from walls that have electric appliances - television, computer, or even a small fridge. Why not limit your use of gadgets so you can sleep soundly at night without any distractions?
Work and sleep are two different worlds, and as much as possible, avoid work-related furniture inside your bedroom. Having these elements invite you to focus on your tasks other than getting your much-needed slumber, and this may have a significant impact on the quality of your sleep.
Bedrooms, Feng Shui experts add, must be placed opposite from the street. This location is quieter which helps you revel in privacy. Other places to avoid: the top of the garage or other highly-active locations, such as the restroom and entertainment room, which can keep you awake.
Feng Shui is all about energy and harmony. It uses practical approaches to meet one's circumstances and balance their surroundings. Explore this philosophy to give your room a fresh, new atmosphere. Then, switch to your favourite silk pyjamas and get the most comfortable sleep like never before.
