What is Feng Shui?

Many folks wonder what Feng Shui means and how it works. For a moment, imagine walking into the wind. You struggle to move forward and each step is difficult. Now imagine turning around and walking with the wind. Suddenly, you feel free and you move forward with ease and speed. This is the basis of Feng Shui, which literally means ‘wind and water’. The principles of Feng Shui help you to create a home that supports you. There are subtle currents of energy that exist within and around everything in the universe. When you align with this positive energy, you will notice that your life begins to flow smoothly. The art of Feng Shui will help you to arrange your living and working environment in a peaceful and harmonious way. It will help you to realize your potential and reach your goals and desires.

You do not need to be an expert to experience the benefits of Feng Shui. The Feng Shui principles can be adapted to suit your taste and lifestyle. Even a few simple changes can improve any space and bring great rewards.

Let’s look at Feng Shui for the Nursery from "Bless the Baby" by Melanie Waxman.

Once your baby is born, the nursery is the place where you will spend a lot of time together. The room needs to be uplifting and stimulating for playtime and at the same time evoke feelings of calm and quiet for rest. Deep, untroubled sleep is very important for the development of your baby. During the night, the baby absorbs all the nourishment that he has taken in during the day and it is distributed throughout his body. Your baby grows the most while he sleeps at night.

Natural Materials

The colors, furniture and decoration of the nursery will have a direct effect on how your baby feels. Take time to choose items that create harmony and a sense of peace.

Natural wood has a neutral kind of energy. When selecting furniture, choose those made from solid wood. Light colored wood such as pine or painted pieces in pale colors will create an airy atmosphere in the room.

A wooden crib with a solid headboard will encourage feelings of stability and security for your baby. Furniture with rounded edges help the natural flow of energy and creates a softer atmosphere in the room. Pieces with sharp edges are not as safe for the baby especially when he begins to move about. Avoid filling the nursery with too much furniture or using ones that are dark and heavy. You want to create a room that feels open and spacious.

Natural Fabrics and Toys

Choose sheets, bedding, curtains and rugs from natural fibers such as cotton, linen, silk or wool. Synthetic fibers carry a static electric charge that creates a chaotic kind of energy in the room. They also make you feel unbalanced and out of sorts`. Natural fabrics on the other hand help to buffer the effects of electromagnetic influences that are present in all homes today. Cotton-filled futons are available in crib size and flannel sheets make for cozy, restful sleep. Cotton quilts attract less dust and produce a refreshing energy. Wooden floors with area rugs that are made from wool or cotton prevent stagnated energy from building up and are easy to clean. If you want wall to wall carpeting, choose one made from pure wool.

You can also choose toys from natural fabrics to create a peaceful energy in the nursery. Soft wool, cotton or silk toys help to make your baby feel safe and secure. The fresh, bright energy of the nursery is lost if lots of toys are left lying around. Energy stagnates around clutter and stops the natural flow. Plan the nursery to include easy storage for toys. You can use large wicker baskets, shelves, cupboards or wooden toy boxes.

Mobiles are both quietly stimulating and relaxing for your baby. Brightly colored or shiny mobiles create more excitement while pastel, fabric ones are more peaceful. Hang mobiles in a place that is easy for your baby to see but not directly over the crib. The graceful movement of mobiles causes energy to flow in a slow, steady manner.

Watch out for our continuing feature on Feng Shui for the Nursery.

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