10 Feng Shui Tips for Small Spaces
The first reaction to a small space
generally sends us into the “triple D’s,” or what I would like to call the Downward, Despair, and Doldrums. The simple truth is small spaces allow us to
be closer to energy, and from a feng shui perspective, that’s golden. Just
because the space is small doesn’t mean we can’t balance it. Square footage has
no bearing on creating a harmonious and healthy living environment. So, for all
of you out there short on square footage, including college students trying to
navigate their dorm rooms, have some fun following these 10 simple feng shui
tips.
1.
If you live in an apartment building or dorm
room, determine what directional position your apartment or dorm room falls in
the larger building. This will help you with the overall elemental theme. For
example, if your apartment or dorm room sits in the southeast portent of the
entire building, then add wood and water elements.
2.
Incorporate floor plants, decorative screens,
and curtains for faux walls. It will
look fabulous and give you much needed definable living areas.
3.
Choose a focal point towards which the energy will
gravitate. This can be done with
interesting artwork, posters, sculptures, or an exotic pillow.
4.
Keep windows clean and open for natural sunlight
and fresh air. Compliment with flowing window treatment and full spectrum track
lighting aimed at walls to free up floor space and create an expansive feeling.
Obviously if you are in a dorm room there are more constraints but you can hang
window treatment and bring in your own lighting source to use instead of the
otherwise harsh overhead lighting.
5.
Consider removing closet doors and replacing
them with curtains. This will soften the
energy while giving the illusion of more space. This is a fantastic technique
that I have used for many clients including in my daughter’s apartment in
Brooklyn, New York.
6.
Think less is more when it comes to furnishings
and incorporate curved designs. Energy only moves in a sine wave pattern and
therefore will be unimpeded.
7.
Note the directions within the space from the
center point. Then address each direction with the corresponding natural element
and symbolic image to catapult the energetic ba-gua. For example, place a ceramic dish with some
stones and a metal musical instrument in the west. By doing this, you
effectively infuse the pure essence of nature and the joyful sounds of music
into the space. For more interesting ways to navigate your floor plan use my
simply DIY
Feng Shui Designs in a Flash CD.
8.
Arrange major pieces of furniture in command to
capture qi (energy) for a sense of comfort and eye appeal.
9.
Splurge on tableware and linens. Small luxuries,
such as table-top water fountains, go a long way.
10.
Have fun and invite some friends over. People actually prefer to socialize in small
spaces.
About the Author:
Mary
Jane Kasliner is a Master Feng Shui Consultant in Compass School Theories. She
is certified in Compass Feng Shui from the London Institute and has studied
world-wide with renowned masters. She owns Body Space Alignment and is the
Director of the Teaching Tortoise School of Feng Shui (www.njfengshuitraining.com
). To learn more about Mary Jane and her services visit her website: www.fengshuiyoganj.com.
