If you live happily in a house or apartment, and things are going well in all areas of life, your living space most likely has good Feng Shui. But if, after moving into a new home, problems arise in relationships, finances, or health for no apparent reason, there might be a Feng Shui issue. What exactly influences us, and can the situation be improved?
The history of previous occupants, for example, can have a certain impact on new residents. A house is often said to have good or bad “energy.” Good energy will enhance pleasant feelings in the home, whereas something tragic often leaves behind residual vibrations that can be considered negative.
Turning Negative into Positive
In reality, this is not a problem of Chi energy, but rather residual “thought-forms” left over from past events. For instance, when an old prison is converted into a residential complex, or a morgue into a business office, the remodeled premises may evoke coldness or some strange, uncomfortable feeling.
One way to clear negative thought-forms is to paint the entire house or apartment before moving in. However, it is also important to remember that darkness exists due to a lack of light, and cold due to a lack of warmth. After moving to a new place, throw a few housewarming parties. Filling the home with joy and laughter will help dispel negative thought-forms.
Simple and Effective Feng Shui Improvements
There are circumstances where structural changes are impossible for various reasons, such as financial constraints or renting the home. However, there are still ways to improve the Feng Shui of your living space, such as:
- Clearing all clutter; keeping the house clean and tidy.
- Adding plenty of healthy indoor plants.
- Keeping utilities and equipment in proper working order.
- Arranging furniture in a more harmonious way.
When circumstances are far from ideal, don’t waste time worrying about the inability to make changes. Learn to accept things as they are right now, and know that opportunities for change will eventually appear. This wisdom of acceptance was taught by the ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu.
Principles of a Good Home
Regardless of the circumstances—favorable or not—you should remember the principles of good feng shui. Pay attention to:
- A good location
- A harmonious shape
- A smooth flow of Chi energy
- A good sense of well-being
A good location means a favorable spot, usually protected, with enough open space in front and a pleasant surrounding environment.
The house should have a harmonious form or shape. The ideal floor plan shape for a residential building is square or rectangular. Jagged, irregular, strange, bizarre shapes, as well as zigzag patterns or sharp angular structures, are not harmonious.
A good home must have a smooth flow of energy. Notice the nice, open space in front of the house. Inside, the dwelling should have a clear and good connection between rooms. If the house is too open, with poorly defined spaces, the energy flow will be too fast, causing anxious emotions.
For example, a large window directly opposite the entrance means that Chi energy is flowing too quickly.
On the other hand, if a house is divided into too many rooms and the passageways have many turns, creating a maze, the energy flow is too slow.
A prosperous home evokes good feelings. Generally, we all have an immediate reaction to any place. It can feel cozy or disturbing, warm or cold, joyful or depressing. This is a reaction to the Chi of the environment you are in. In general, if the first three criteria mentioned above as essential for a good home are met, the house will likely already create a pleasant impression. However, good interior design and furniture can enhance this feeling even further.
Authors: Shan-Tung Hsu, Taras Lytvyn
