Guest Author - Diane Kern

In previous articles I have talked about your Feng Shui Bedroom and Feng Shui Kitchen. Today let’s talk a little about your Feng Shui Living Room. Are you one of those families that gather every evening in the living room? Or do you keep it for guests only? Does your family split up after dinner and spend time alone in their own bedrooms, den or craft room? Bring them back together again with a Feng Shui Living Room makeover.

Look around and observe your furniture, wall colors, ceiling, art work and accessories. What do they say to you? Is it relaxing? Is it comfortable to sit and have a conversation? Is there a quiet space for reading? Is there room for activities such as puzzles, games?
Is it a space where you want to spend time?

Consider the size of your room and the size of your furniture. The room and furniture should balance nicely. If your furniture is too big it can lessen the flow of qi creating dead spaces and lack of energy. You might feel blocked in your life if you cannot comfortably walk through a room without constantly bumping into things. Having too little furniture or undersized pieces can be just as bad. This creates a feeling of lack in your life. Make sure to have a well composed floor plan.

Of course it should be comfortable, but the shape and color of your furniture is important too. Consider the compass section that your living room occupies. Is it in the North? Then water colors and shapes are suitable. You can also use what will enhance the compass section, in this case metal colors and shapes. Be careful not to over do it with the metal. Keep things simple for a relaxing feel.

Neutral colors are more restful than bright and shiny colors. Keep the wall and furniture colors neutrals. That doesn’t mean you have to use tan or white for everything. There are many shades and hues of all colors. Choose those that make a background for your life instead of taking it over.

Lighting is important. You need different lighting for different purposes. Remember not too bright and not too dark. Balance is important. Fireplaces are warm and cozy but they can cause indoor pollution and even loss of heat if it is extremely cold outside. There are certain places in your house where you should not have fire. Check with your consultant to see if your fireplace is positioned correctly.

Make a quick look around your living room for any shas you may find. Are you sitting under beams or a sloped ceiling? These will create a feeling of pressure and head aches. Move furniture out from under them. The same goes for ceiling fans. Are there any corners pointing at you when you sit? Move your furniture or soften the corner with plants, curtains or by some other means.

A good feng shui living room will draw your family in. Enjoy your time together.