How to Use Feng Shui in Your Bedroom to Boost Relaxation and Wellbeing

Do you Feng Shui? According to this 5,000-year-old Chinese practice, every object possesses an energy or life force (chi), which interacts with, and affects, each person’s personal flow of energy.  By adding, removing or rearranging the objects in our homes, we can effectively balance these energies to create happiness, health, success and prosperity.  Now who wouldn’t want that? 

Here are some easy, inexpensive and can’t-miss Feng Shui techniques to enhance your quality of life and transform your bedroom into a haven of wellness and calm.

1. Position your bed correctly.

Your bed is the most important object in the aptly named bedroom, so it deserves the most important placement. That would be what is called the “Commanding Position” – the farthest point from the door, but with full visibility of the doorway and anyone approaching.  That way, when you’re lying in bed, you will feel more relaxed, safe and powerful.

2. Bring in the view.

According to a famous 1984 research study, post-surgical hospital patients who gazed at gardens outside their windows healed faster and with fewer complications than those with no view. So whether you live in a managed HOA community with beautiful vistas of nature or landscaping, a high-rise or condo with panoramic city views – or anything in between – keep your blinds or curtains open to bring the view indoors. No views?  No problem – find a picturesque mural or a great piece of art to draw the eye and calm the soul.  But if you’re really craving views of nature, you can…

3. Bring nature indoors.

 Studies have shown that spending just 20 minutes in a natural setting can significantly decrease cortisol and other stress hormones in our bodies. Green plants in your bedroom evoke feelings of calm, energy and joy – a boon to both wellbeing and romance.  Feng Shui practitioners recommend adding either three or nine plants for maximum energy boosting – and if the plants have pink flowers, you’ll really amplify the effects!  But don’t stop there… rocks, crystals, floral bouquets and other natural elements can add their own unique energy and beauty to your personal space.

4. Awaken your senses.  

Enhance relaxation and a sense of romance by flooding your senses with positive, calming energy.  Take a warm and relaxing aromatherapy bubble bath, light essential oil diffusers, incense or scented candles in soothing fragrances like lavender, bergamot, orange and patchouli.  Wrap yourself in a fuzzy robe and slippers or cuddly throw, play some music that relaxes you and enjoy a spa-like setting in your very own bedroom.

5. Use appropriate lighting.

Light is one of the strongest expressions of energy, and appropriate levels of light, either through dimmer switches, lamps or candles, directly affect our personal energy flows.  Feng Shui adherents point to candles as the best sources of ambient lighting for their ability to clear static energy and impart a warm, intimate and healing atmosphere. Very important – to prevent fire hazards, be sure all candles are fully extinguished before you leave the room or fall asleep!  Which leads us to….

6. Dim the lights before bedtime.

Bright light can interfere with your sleep cycles, so start dimming the lights progressively at night to help you easily unwind and fall asleep at bedtime.  And sorry, technology lovers – that means no TVs, computers or smart phones in the bedroom, preferably always, but especially at bedtime.  Not only does the blue light they emit snuff out positive energy, but more importantly, bringing the stress and energy of work, friends and other distractions into your private haven can interfere with your relationship with your loved ones – and that includes yourself.

Applying Feng Shui techniques to your bedroom can increase the flow of calming, nourishing and sensual energy to the most private room in your home.  Want more?  Don’t miss our previous article on using Feng Shui in your home’s entryway. For additional insights and proven tips to enhance your home and your lifestyle, contact FirstService Residential, North America’s property management leader.