Decorating with Feng Shui: Five 'Sensible' Tips that Never Let You Down

When I decided to clear the negative energy in my home, feng shui was the logical choice. So, I bought a book, decided on furniture, frequented every garage sale, oddity and novelty shop. I decided to go all the way with both yin and yang colors. After combining blue, black, purple, yellow and orange, the final effect was similar to the varying stages of a healing injury. The random addition of crystals, chimes, plants, running water and nauseating incense turned my home into a flea market. There was a definite disturbance in the force.

Most feng shui tips begin with an analysis of the area to re-organize. The energy flow is dependent on the interaction and balance of five elements: earth, fire, water, metal, and wood. Imagine my surprise when I realized what these integrations affected.

• Sight. When you walk into your surroundings what do you see? Eyes are the windows to the soul. Windows are the gateways into your home. A scenic view is positive energy. Drapes, valances and blinds hide negative energy and provide privacy and security. They also retain heat to help you feel warm and lively.

• Sound. Before it can see or smell, a fetus can hear. The mother's heart beat can affect the fetus' activity. Sound is a powerful influence. The use of bells, wind chimes, running water, music and sound therapy serve to heal the body and mind.

• Smell/Taste. Many ancient cultures utilized essential oils and aromatic herbal preparations for spiritual, medicinal, fragrant and cosmetic use.

• Touch. What better relaxation than massage therapy? A reclining lounger, reiki touch, individual products for specific body areas and even crystal healing are all utilized in feng shui.

• Third Eye Chakra. This chakra is related to our ability to perceive clearly. It is also known as intuition, insight and imagination.

My decorating disaster grounded my basic senses and renewed my powers of observation. I realized the simplicity derived from thousands of years of observation, study and complex thought. All the rough edges, negative spaces, ugly colors and disorganization were replaced with positive balance and peace. Knowing, studying and continuously practicing are the ways to enhance the philosophy of feng shui. My laughing Buddha always makes me smile.

Source: first person.