Posted by More than being just a place to kick back and relax, your living room is a precious space where memories are created. It’s likely one of the areas in your home that receives plenty of foot traffic, not just from your family–it’s where guests are welcomed and received, too.
Because of these reasons, your living room is a place that is positively crackling with energy. According to the principles of Feng Shui, that energy, or Qi, should be directed and harnessed effectively in order to promote balance and harmony in the home. Not sure what feng shui is? Read on below for a breakdown of the basics, as well as a few tips on how to use it in your living room:
Feng Shui 101
The term “Feng Shui” translates to “wind” and “water”, symbolizing the flow of energy and the cyclical patterns of nature. Practiced by the Chinese since ancient times, it is the art and science of optimizing the arrangement of one’s surroundings to ensure the smooth and positive flow of energy, often referred to as “Qi” or “Chi”.
Even if you don’t particularly subscribe to the metaphysical, utilizing the principles of feng shui when decorating and arranging your home can still be hugely beneficial. Most suggestions are practical, helping you make the most out of your space and improving the overall ambiance of the room using lights, colors, textures, and other elements.
Feng Shui Your Way to a Better Living Room
Identify the “Command Position”
At its core, the command position in Feng Shui involves positioning key furniture and elements in a way that offers you a clear view of the room’s entrance while ensuring that you’re not in direct alignment with it. This arrangement is often used for beds, desks, and seating areas, as it symbolizes a position of authority, control, and security.
In a living room, it’s best to put your couch (often the largest piece of furniture in the room) in the command position. To further control and anchor the energy, consider adding living room accent chairs, such as the ones sold by Stickley, directly opposite it.
Position them in a way that encourages conversation by placing them at an angle while still facing the couch. In addition to living room accent chairs, place a coffee table at the center of the tableau that is of proportionate size to the couch. To fully define the space, consider adding an area rug.
Encourage Positive Flow by Decluttering
Clutter is like static noise in your living room’s energy frequency. Miscellaneous items block the flow of positive energy and can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Take a moment to declutter your space, removing things that no longer serve a purpose or hold sentimental value. Picture your living room as a river–the smoother the flow, the clearer the water. Keep only what you truly cherish, which will create a serene environment that promotes clarity and calmness.
Choose Soothing Colors
Colors have a profound impact on our emotions and mindset. In Feng Shui, selecting the right colors for your living room can make a world of difference. Opt for soft, soothing hues like gentle greens, calming blues, and warm neutrals. These colors resonate with the five elements of Feng Shui: wood, water, earth, fire, and metal. When used properly, combining these hues creates a harmonious blend of energies.
Let the Light In
Natural light is like a breath of fresh air for your living room’s energy. Keep your windows unobstructed and use light curtains to allow sunlight to fill the space. Natural light symbolizes clarity and positivity, dispelling any stagnant energy.
Incorporating the principles of Feng Shui allows you to cultivate a space that radiates with positive energy while creating a sanctuary that you can enjoy with your entire family, as well as any guests that you welcome into your abode. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to move a few things around–the results might just surprise you!