A Balanced Bedroom
What you’ve heard about feng shui in the past may have made it sound overly complex and a little hocus pocus, but that’s just because you weren’t told the basics. Put simply, feng shui (pronounced “fung shway”) is “the art of arranging your environment so that it supports you living a happy, loving, successful life,” says Jayme Barrett, author of Feng Shui Your Life. As a couple, and possibly even first–time homeowners, consider employing some of these principles for peaceful living into your shared quarters.
According to this ancient school of thought, all the little details of your living space—from furniture placement to the colors on the walls—either encourage or hinder the flow of chi, or vital life force. Enhancing your home’s chi may lead to more money, better health, and even a more rocking sex life…and it may be as simple as moving your sofa.
An overcrowded boudoir isn’t the most refreshing scene to wake up to. If you only employ feng shui in one room of your home, make it your bedroom. The better the flow of chi in this all-important, rejuvenating space, the healthier your relationship will be.
Soothing colors The best hues for your bedroom are calming neutrals, like beige and grounding brown, as well as sensual accent colors, like pink and peach. Avoid clutter because it blocks the flow of chi and can get in between the two of you and create conflict.
Fresh flowers A small bouquet on the nightstand creates romance. Soft pink or peach roses are the perfect choice. Pink symbolizes harmony and the opening of the heart.
Firm headboard The back of your bed should be up against a solid wall (not one with a window) and should face the door. A headboard is essential because it will ground and give support to everything in your life.
Curves and images Circular or oval furniture creates the best feng shui. Soft-edged chairs and pillows promote the flow of chi. Hanging your favorite artwork near your bed works too. Maybe it’s a beautiful ocean photo from your honeymoon.
New bedding Newlyweds should always have a new mattress and box spring, not one that either of you slept on with anybody else. From a feng shui standpoint, the energy of other people who’ve slept there lingers on the bed.
Bare floors Using the space under your bed for storage blocks energy. If you must utilize that space, reserve it for items like light linens organized neatly in a box (but never for old letters, books, bills, or files).
Tip Indulge your senses by opting for soft and luxurious fabrics like silks, satins, flannels, and even velvet
All images courtesy of Feng Shui Your Life/Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.