Can Rearranging Furniture Improve Your Quality of Life?

Question: Hi Laura! I wanted to know, will rearranging furniture in my apartment really help improve my quality of life? Thanks so much!

When learning about Feng Shui, the best way to know the answer is by doing. What I can offer, is this interesting cross-over discussion of Scientific and Traditional Feng Shui perspectives. 

Talking the language of Feng Shui, its suggested to rearrange furniture because it symbolizes refreshing the ch’i. Think of it like you are pressing a restart button. It creates better flow of movement in the home and offers new perspectives in how you see your space and self. How so? In the practice of Feng Shui, your home is a metaphor of who you are and where you are going. 

Now, lets combine Eastern philosophy and Western Science. 

Whether you implement simple or expansive Feng Shui changes, a common response is, “I feel so much better!” But how could that be? All you did was pick something up and move it. Right?

According to neurogenesis scientist, Sandrine Thuret, she says when humans choose to engage in learning new things and activities, they increase the growth of new neurological passageways in the Hippocampus. This region of the brain is responsible for learning, memory, mood, and emotions. The key words in regard to Feng Shui are 'mood' and 'emotions.'

As a client implements the suggested Feng Shui changes (such as with rearranging furniture), there is a strong opportunity for them to develop new brain cells which have been scientifically proven to improve and maintain healthier moods and emotions. 

According to MentalHealthDaily.com, by living in an enriched environment and community (such as with a home that has been Feng Shui-ied) occupants have been documented through scientific research to grow new neurons. 

Feel Free to explore these Feng Shui Tips to see what is best for you  

Feng Shui Space Clearing 101

2015 Lyric Theater in New York City before Space Clearing (circular shapes are called 'Orbs')

Space Clearing is an ancient metaphysical practice used to help heal the spirit of your home and self. This also creates healthy boundaries between Earth and Spiritual realms, while harmonizing the energy inside your home. 

It's important to remember, we share this world with more than what our eyes can see. Bon Buddhist Feng Shui refers to this as ‘predecessor energy.’ These are the energetic imprints or actual spiritual inhabitants from previous humans who once walked this plane of existence. It's strongly suggested in the practice of Feng Shui that we create healthy boundaries between these two realms. 

Tools utilized during a Space Clearing could vary from Native American white sage, sound healing (chimes, bells, singing bowls, drums, clapping), essential oils, saying a prayer from your personal practice of faith and Reiki. Below is an easy method on how to conduct an Interior House Space Clearing. 

Steps for a quick Space Clearing with White Sage:

If you need White Sage, you could order it online though Amazon.com or visit your local alternative store. 

1. Before you begin: Its recommended to conduct a space clearing between 9am - 2pm (completed by 2pm) because this is seen as the best time to clear out old stagnant energy and welcome in renewed energy (the sun rises higher into the sky).

You’ll also want to choose a day where you are not rushed for time and if you’d like, choose a day that is most supportive for conducting a space clearing (Date Selection).

2 Before you conduct the actual Space Clearing, it’s suggested to due a brief meditation to help center yourself and clear your aura so you have a clear channel of energy flowing through you.

3. Set an intention(s) for why you are Space Clearing. i.e.: What are you choosing to release and welcome in?

4. Traditionally, its suggested to smudge (burning of the White Sage) between 9am-2pm latest. 

5.. Be sure you have a fireproof container of some sort to catch the aches of the White Sage as it slowly burns.

6. As you walk your home, start the Space Clearing at your front door, move from room to room and even allow the smoke of the sage to waft into the corners of each room and closets. 

7. Open up some windows (just a crack) to allow the smoke of the sage to exit out of your home. This also helps to remove the un-beneficial energy and welcome in fresh ch’i (energy). 

8. Once you have completed the walk though of your home (all levels included) give thanks. i.e.: “Thank you for clearing and blessing my home, with much love and gratitude, Amen."

                                    Lyric Theater in New York City after a Space Clearing