Unlock the secrets to a harmonious home life with our feng shui tips that'll transform your living space into a haven of balance and prosperity.
This Lunar New Year, we’re embracing feng shui wisdom straight from ancient Chinese philosophy and savvy interior designers. Feng shui focuses on optimising energy flow at home to cultivate harmony and prosperity through small tweaks. It’s the perfect way to usher in fresh 2024 vibes! While customs like spring cleaning are ingrained in CNY traditions, feng shui provides guidance all year round for balancing chi, beyond mere superstitions. Let’s dive into these essential tips (and of course there are eight of them, because eight is the luckiest number!) to realign your space and welcome abundance this season.
Give your home a fresh start with these 8 feng shui tips
1. Declutter
We all have a habit of accumulating things that disrupt the flow of positive energy (or “chi”) in our living spaces. However, according to feng shui principles, clutter is a big no-no. So, let’s kick off the new year on the right foot by having a good tidy-up. Pay particular attention to your entryway, hallway, or any other spots where clutter seems to gather up. To make this achievable, dedicate just 10 to 15 minutes each day to clear stuff out, or donate items that you’ve moved on from. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for creating space for that feel-good energy to flow freely!
And if you’re in need of some professional guidance, be sure to check out our article on the best home organisers and stylists in Hong Kong.
2. Balance the five elements
If the energy in your home has been feeling a bit off, it’s probably down to an imbalance among the five elements – earth, water, fire, metal, and wood. Each of these can be brought to life through your decor, with textures and colours that echo their essence. Fancy a bit of fire energy? Warm up the room with reds and oranges; maybe add a fireplace or some candles for good measure. Wood elements can be woven in with lovely natural wooden furniture. But here’s the thing – don’t overdo it with any one element, or you’ll throw off the balance! Have a look around each room; you’re aiming for a varied but harmonious mix where no element outshines the others. If something feels too dominant, shuffle things around to even the scales.
3. Create an inviting entrance
As any feng shui enthusiast will tell you: the entrance of your home sets the tone for the whole space. First impressions matter, so your front door area should exude positive vibes from the get-go. Ensure your door opens with ease and the surrounding area is free from clutter. Then, place a beautiful art piece, plant, sculpture, or other eye-catching focal point across from the door to invite in positive energy. And skip the front-door mirror, which can reflect opportunities right back out! Instead, choose to frame your entry with beautiful greenery on either side, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal, but also helps to gently moderate the energy flow.
For plant recommendations, be sure to check out our list of indoor plants for Hong Kong apartments.
4. Slow down the energy flow
Just like you’d gently usher a new guest through your space, feng shui is all about tempering the flow of chi as it waltzes into your home. Avoid giving it a direct route from the front to the back door; otherwise, that vibrant energy will whoosh right out! Gently coax it instead, placing rugs, artwork, and plants strategically to encourage the chi to drift gracefully throughout. And skip open floor plans, too! They may seem chic, but they tend to let energy make a quick escape. By slowing down the chi’s journey, you’ll hold onto abundance and opportunities for that bit longer.
5. Incorporate water elements
In the world of feng shui, water is synonymous with flowing wealth and blooming prosperity. The gentle tinkle of a fountain or the babble of a fish tank can usher in calm, affirmative energies. It’s a savvy move to place these water elements near entryways or facing inwards, as a way to stir up fortune. Positioning an aquarium or water feature in the southwest corner is particularly clever, as it’s said to awaken the wealth zone of your home. However, do keep on top of maintenance to ensure these water elements remain more of a balm than a burden! Steer clear of any leaks, too, as they symbolise draining away resources. When harmoniously incorporated, water can enrich chi and serve as a reminder of the enduring flow of abundance.
6. Take command in the bedroom
Your bedroom is the most sacred of spaces. In the realm of feng shui, it’s the cornerstone that shapes the tone for your entire day. For optimal safety and stability while you catch those Z’s, position your bed diagonally from the door, against a solid wall. This provides a “commanding position” that allows you to see the entrance without directly facing it. It’s also best to avoid aligning the bed with the door or under windows, as these placements can disrupt the peaceful energy flow.
If you’re sharing your space with your significant other, it might be a good idea to consider removing TVs and other electronics that could take away from your time together. And skip mirrors, which feng shui says magnify relationship problems. Instead, invest in a sturdy headboard to symbolise couples’ support.
7. Keep things contained
Let’s make our bathrooms the protectors of abundance this year. Remember: Water flows wherever it pleases, carrying with it the symbolism of wealth – so let’s not let it trickle away with every flush. Keep that bathroom door closed and the toilet lid firmly down to protect your financial energy from going down the drain. It’s like a chic little secret between you and your bank account! And for an extra splash of prosperity (and to mop up any stray water vibes), pop a few lush plants in there. They’re not just pretty – they’re your green guardians of good fortune.
8. Accentuate natural light
At the heart of feng shui is harnessing the flow of energy in a space. And what’s a sure-fire way to fill a room with those feel-good vibes? Proper lighting, of course! Let the sun shine in generously through the windows during the day. Draw back those drapes and avoid blocking natural light with bulky furniture. Come nightfall, soft lamps are ideal for soothing, intimate lighting. Candles also create cosy warmth and harmony. A bright, well-lit home filled with lamps and natural light brings active, vibrant yang energy, according to feng shui wisdom.
