Feng shui for mental health: 12 tips to bring happiness to your home

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Whether or not you believe it, your home structure and design significantly can affect your overall well-being, including your health and happiness. A space that feels good can positively influence other aspects of your life. To achieve this, the ancient Chinese practice of feng shui has been used for thousands of years. Feng shui focuses on harmonising people with their environment by arranging spaces and objects thoughtfully. By organising your space according to feng shui principles, you can promote balance and harmony, which may enhance both physical and mental health.

What is feng shui?

Rooted in ancient Chinese culture, specifically in Taoism, the term “feng shui” comes from the Chinese words 'feng' (wind) and 'shui' (water). This practice involves arranging items in your home or workspace to harmonise with the natural world. It is believed that such adjustments can positively influence the flow of ‘qi’ or ‘chi’—also known as energy or life force—thereby enhancing both well-being and prosperity. According to psychologist Juhi Pandey, "Feng shui is one of the best ways to create a mindful and peaceful environment where you truly feel good."

Principles of feng shui

Chi: Chi flows more smoothly when spaces are arranged to promote balance and openness.

Commanding position: The commanding position is key in feng shui, placing essential furniture like beds or desks where you can see the door without being directly in line. This fosters a sense of control and security.

Bagua map: The Bagua map helps assess and enhance different life areas such as wealth, health, and relationships, based on their location within your space.

Five elements: Lastly, the five elements such as wood, fire, earth, metal, and water should be balanced through colours and materials to create harmony.

Mental health benefits of feng shui

Feng shui offers several mental health benefits by promoting balance and positive energy flow.

1. Improves mood

Feng shui aims to create an environment that nurture positive energy, or 'Chi' that helps improve mood. By aligning spaces with natural elements and ensuring harmonious environment, you may find your mood uplifted and relaxed. "This can especially reduce the feeling of frustration and promote a sense of calm, leading to improved overall emotional well-being," explains Pandey. A better mood means that you will be happy in life.

2. Reduces stress

A study published by the American Psychological Association Logo reveals that living and working in cluttered spaces may cause stress and anxiety. However, good feng shui can significantly diminish stress by creating serene and balanced spaces. By eliminating clutter and arranging furniture to facilitate smooth movement, feng shui fosters a more peaceful environment.

3. Higher quality of life

A well-organized and aesthetically pleasing space can enhance your quality of life. Feng shui emphasis on balance and harmony and contributes to an environment that supports emotional stability and contentment. In a 2021 study published in the International Design Journal, 200 women living in homes designed according to feng shui principles reported a higher quality of life overall.

4. Improves focus

Feng shui promotes the arrangement of spaces in ways that enhance concentration and mental clarity. By creating designated areas for work and relaxation, it minimises distractions and improves focus. A clutter-free and thoughtfully organised workspace, a key aspect of feng shui, can lead to increased productivity and clearer thinking.

5. Enhances sleep quality

Good feng shui can lead to better sleep by addressing the energy flow in the bedroom, as per a study published in the South East European Journal of Architecture and Design. Proper placement of the bed, along with the use of calming colours and balanced elements, creates a restful environment, conducive to quality sleep. A healthy sleep cycle means better mental health.

Overall, feng shui can foster a holistic sense of well-being and promote a feeling of calmness that promotes better mental health.

Tips for using feng shui at home

It can feel overwhelming to know where to begin when cultivating good feng shui in your home. Fortunately, it does not have to be complicated. Here are 12 tips to help you kickstart your journey toward a happier home:

1. Have a strong entryway

The entryway is considered the mouth of Qi in feng shui. It is the first place where energy enters your home. Ensure your entryway is welcoming and strong by keeping it clean and free from clutter. Add a mat and possibly some vibrant plants or artwork to make the space inviting. "Avoid having a cluttered or poorly lit entry, as this can block positive energy from entering your home," suggests Pandey.

2. Keep shoes outside

In feng shui, shoes are considered to carry the energy of the outside world into your home. Keeping shoes outside or in a designated area helps prevent negative or stagnant energy from spreading throughout your living space. It also maintains cleanliness and reduces the amount of clutter in your home.

3. Keep traffic flow open

Avoid placing furniture or objects in a way that blocks pathways. Instead, arrange furniture to facilitate smooth movement and ease of access, which helps maintain a positive and harmonious environment. A clutter-free space allows energy to flow naturally and promotes a more relaxed and balanced atmosphere.

4. Commanding position

The commanding position is a fundamental feng shui principle that involves placing key pieces of furniture, like the bed or desk, so that you can see the door while using them but are not directly in line with it. This position symbolises control and security, as it allows you to be aware of who is entering and exiting the room. Avoid placing your bed or desk directly in line with the door, as this can create a feeling of vulnerability.

5. Create a small place for plants

Plants are vital in feng shui as they symbolise growth, vitality, and harmony. Create a small place for plants in your home, especially in areas where energy needs a boost. Choose healthy, lush plants with rounded leaves, such as jade plants or peace lilies, to enhance positive energy. Avoid thorny or spiky plants, as they can create harsh or defensive energy.

6. Declutter

Decluttering is a key practice in feng shui to promote a smooth and positive flow of Qi. Clutter can obstruct energy movement and create a sense of chaos. Regularly assess your belongings and remove items that are broken, unused, or no longer serve a purpose. You can also repair or replace these items promptly to restore harmony and prevent negative energy from lingering. "A tidy space not only enhances energy flow but also contributes to mental clarity and well-being," says Pandey.

7. Add healing colours to your home

Colour plays a significant role in feng shui by influencing mood and energy. Add healing colours to different areas of your home to enhance specific aspects of your life. For example, soothing blues and greens can promote relaxation and tranquility in bedrooms and living spaces, while energising reds and oranges can stimulate creativity and activity in workspaces. Use colours as per your personal needs but keeping in mind your mental health.

8. Play sound of nature as music

Incorporating natural sounds into your home can enhance the flow of positive energy and create a calming ambiance. "Play soothing sounds of nature, such as flowing water, birdsong, or gentle rain, to promote relaxation and tranquility," explains Pandey. Soundscapes can mask disruptive noises and create a peaceful environment conducive to rest and rejuvenation.

9. Maximise natural light and air

Natural light and fresh air are crucial for a vibrant and healthy home environment. Maximise the amount of natural light by keeping windows clean and unobstructed. Use light, airy curtains or blinds that can be easily opened to allow sunlight to flood in. Ensure good air quality by regularly ventilating your home and using air-purifying plants if needed.

10. Choose harmonious decor

Select decor that evokes feelings of harmony and positivity. In feng shui, decor should align with the overall energy of the space and support the desired atmosphere. Avoid overly aggressive or chaotic designs, and instead opt for items that bring joy and comfort. Incorporate elements that reflect balance and tranquility, such as soothing artwork, calming patterns, and balanced furniture. Harmonious decor contributes to a peaceful and nurturing environment that supports well-being and positive energy.

11. Choose luck-related wall scenery

In feng shui, wall decor can influence the energy of a room and attract positive outcomes. Choose artwork or wall hangings that represent symbols of good fortune, prosperity, or happiness. Traditional feng shui symbols, such as the Chinese dragon, koi fish, or peony flowers, are believed to bring luck and success. Position these items strategically to enhance energy in areas associated with wealth, career, or personal growth. Positive imagery can uplift the spirit and support desired goals and aspirations.

12. Sleep in the corner of your home

In feng shui, positioning your bed in a favourable location is essential for restful sleep and overall well-being. Ideally, place your bed in a corner of the room that is away from the door and not directly in line with it. This positioning provides a sense of security and protection while you sleep. Ensure the bed is against a solid wall and has a clear view of the door to maintain a commanding position as well. Pandey says, "A restful and supportive sleep environment contributes to better health and a more harmonious living space."