Feng Your Shui
So, I recently dove into the world of Feng Shui, that ancient Chinese practice all about balancing the energy in your home. Not everything blew me away and some was a bit too complicated for me with all the North and South direction, but a lot actually made sense. I’m a big believer that good vibes at home make you happier, less cranky and that our Algarve homes reflect our energy.
What’s Feng Shui, anyway?
Also known as Chinese geomancy, Feng Shui literally means “wind-water.” It’s all about how the energy, or chi, moves around your space and how to get it flowing just right so your home isn’t secretly plotting against you or blocking your flow.
Inspired by what I read, I decided to try some of it in my own home and actually had fun with it. Here’s what I changed and what felt like made a difference…
Declutter
Decluttering is a must ! Whether you’re into Feng Shui or just tired of tripping over stuff. We all hoard random junk like it’s some kind of trophy. If you haven’t used it in three years, OUT !
No one needs that weird baking pan you got as a gift when you clearly hate baking. Or the dress that’s been stuck in the back of your closet since forever because it’s not exactly fitting you. Why are you holding on to so much clutter ? Donate it, toss it, send it to charity, make other people happy. By decluttering you give space to new energy able to come in.
Sit Smart
Feng Shui says your seat matters. The golden rule? You should see the door without sitting right in front of it.
I realized I was sitting with my back to the door at work (that got me thinking. My sister actually said to me “Whaaaat ? You sit with your back to the door ?) I switched desks ASAP, and wow, feeling way more in control right away with a fresh energy and desk set up. Try it, your chair might be sabotaging you.
Money Tree
Money Tree (Pachira aquatica), your new green best friend. This little plant is said to trap good fortune with its braided trunk. It´s a pretty tree. It´s said to attract wealth and abundance but if you don’t believe in that it also is a plant that purifies and filters your air inside.
I put mine in the left corner of the living room (Feng Shui’s “wealth corner”). So far, my bank account hasn’t exploded, but at least I breathe fresher air.
Sleep Like a Baby
Your bedroom should be your chill zone. Invest in nice sheets and the best mattress (if you need help, we have those at SN Interiors). Buy silk pillowcases, they are not only fancy but actually do wonders for your hair and skin (anti wrinkle). Keep clutter away because nothing says “stress” like a pile of random stuff staring at you.
Candles are my secret weapon and highly recommended in Feng Shui. Lavender for sleepy time, woody scents for cozy vibes, and ylang-ylang if you’re feeling spicy. Avoid mirrors facing your bed (apparently, they bounce energy like a disco ball and mess with your sleep, bad omen).
Choose soft colors. I am thinking muted blues and greens. Taupes, ice blue or a dark powder rosé. Oh, and a solid headboard is very important and that you sleep against a wall. Keep your bed off the floor so energy can flow, and absolutely no weird stuff under there.
Crystals: Because Why Not?
I’m a sucker for crystals. They’re like little energy boosters and look great on shelves. Citrine for money, rose quartz for love, amethyst for chill vibes, and jade for harmony.
I pick mine based on mood and aesthetics and love them as deco items in the house. Favorite shop in the Algarve ? Pedras in Vilamoura Marina, but online options are great too to explore.
Quick Feng Shui Tips
Never keep money in the kitchen.
Always close your toilet lid.
Keep your entrance clean because first impressions matter, even to invisible energy forces.
If you want to geek out more, check out these books:
Feng Shui Modern by Cliff Tan
Feng Shui Your Life by Marie Diamond
Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life by Karen Rauch Carter
Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui by Karen Kingston
Trying Feng Shui has been a fun experiment and my home feels way more zen, cleaned and calm. What little change could you make to turn your place into a sanctuary of calm?