Feng Shui originated thousands of years ago in China. Some of its basic principals were designed specifically for Chinese. Interior Alignment is Feng Shui for Western cultures. It keeps the fundamental rules of the philosophy, but adapts them so they are more appropriate for Americans and Europeans.

Basic Philosophy

The basic philosophy of Feng Shui and Interior Alignment is that chi, universal energy, is present in every space in a home or work space. It is important that chi be able to move freely throughout the space so it nourishes each part of it. We know it is important to keep our physical bodies in optimal condition by eating healthy foods and exercising so blockages don't build up in the body. It is just as important to keep our homes and offices healthy so they feel supportive to us. We are much more productive and content when we feel that support.

Getting Rid of Clutter

One of the fastest and easiest ways to improve the feeling in a space is to eliminate clutter. When things that we don't need, love, or use on a regular basis have become permanent fixtures in our homes or offices, we start feeling blocked in life. It is harder to reach the goals we've set for ourselves. Sometimes Feng Shui is referred to as acupuncture for the home. Acupuncture releases blockages in the physical body by inserting a tiny needle in one or more meridians. Once the block has been cleared, the body can function in a more balanced way. The result is the same when you clear clutter from your home. The chi is able to flow more easily through the space and nourish it.

Three Pillars of the Home

If you are wondering if your home has "good Feng Shui", check out its three most important areas: the entry, kitchen, and bedroom. These three spaces are considered the pillars of the home. Just as any good house needs a strong foundation for support, these three areas need to be enhanced to activate the chi or universal energy that flows through every environment. The entry is where the chi enters the home so it needs to be open and inviting. The kitchen needs to be uncluttered and have ample workspaces so meal preparation is easy and comfortable. We spend about one-third of our lives in our bedroom, so it is crucial that it feels peaceful and is free of major distractions.

The Bagua

The bagua is a template of nine sections. Each section corresponds to a part of your home. The sections are Health (physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual) Career, Wisdom, Community, Power, Future, Relationships, Creativity, and Helpful People. The bagua can be used over an entire building, individual rooms and even specific pieces of furniture. It is a guide used to identify areas of concern. It also assists in deciding where to place enhancements.

Enhancements

Enhancements are what you add to your home or office to improve the feeling in a specific area. They come in a selection limited only by your creativity. Enhancements may include living things such as healthy plants or fresh flowers. Other possibilities are heavy things to give a feeling of grounding, or bright, shiny, and sparkly accessories to boost the feeling of energy in the space. On the other hand, if a room feels too busy or too energetic, soft muted colors can tone it down so it feels more relaxing. Enhancements are always a personal preference.