If you’ve undergone a major home redecoration, you’re likely familiar with the concept of feng shui. Meaning literally “wind-water,” feng shui is an ancient Chinese practice that channels the fluid energy of the universal qi (or cosmic energy) to create harmony between people and their surroundings. Practitioners believe that by adhering to principles of feng shui, a well-designed space can improve our health, our relationships, and even deliver a little bit of luck.
Feng shui at its most basic is the art of placement, specifically arranging the elements of a room — whether furniture, plants, or even electronics — to work naturally with their environment and balance the space’s yin and yang energy. This is achieved by adding or removing items that represent the five elements of feng shui: water, wood, fire, earth, and metal. Although each space is a unique case, good feng shui generally means creating open spaces, placing furniture a certain distance from doors and windows, and introducing elements of nature, whether through plants or natural light.
To inspire your next energy makeover, here are 12 quotes that speak to the spirit of feng shui, and how good design can change our quality of life.
Treat your home the way you treat your best friend.Rodika Tchi
Push reset and allow for fresh beginnings.Annette Kurtz
In its highest and purest form, good feng shui signifies perfect alignment between inner and outer worlds.Lada Ray
Too many things in too small a space cut off flow, block creativity, and bury beauty, much like a bad cold can make it hard to breathe.Laura Staley
It is only when you put your house in order that your furniture and decorations come to life.Marie Kondo
Always keep in mind that the strongest factor of your feng shui is you.Stefan Emunds
Every aspect of your life is anchored energetically in your living space, so clearing clutter can completely transform your entire existence.Karen Kingston
Our homes fill a basic psychological need for shelter and safety. But they should do a lot more than that.Maureen K. Calamia
Design is so simple. That's why it's so complicated.Paul Rand
Real comfort, visual and physical, is vital to every room.Mark Hampton
Featured image credit: Julio Jaimes Trejo/ Shutterstock
