Is it 'Good' Feng Shui to Keep Objects Under My Bed?

Question: I have a one bedroom apartment in Sherman Oaks, CA. I read in an a Feng Shui article that its not good to store items under the bed. Since space is limited, is there a Feng Shui cure that could still allow me to keep things under my bed and not negatively impact my energy? 

You always have options when implementing Feng Shui into your home and lifestyle.  You just need to be creative in how you perceive and utilize your space. While at the same time, understand the reasoning behind the Feng Shui suggestion of 'avoid keeping objects under your bed.'

To put things simple, energy rises, expands and contracts. This means, if you have a bunch of stored under the bed, it restricts energy movement (flow). Think physics. 

From a Feng Shui perspective, this could obstruct your sleeping pattern because the movement of energy cannot flow evenly around, up, over and through the energy fields of your bed and self. Taking this observation to another level, certain objects are said to carry specific energy charges that could either be beneficial or not. 

i.e.: shoes under the bed. Ideally, shoes are suggested to be stored closets if possible. Why? According to Feng Shui, shoes symbolize other people (could be co-worker's, spouse, children, friends, etc) potentially taking advantage of you.  

If you are one who keeps shoes under your bed and find that you sleep well, there is no extra worry or stress, and you do not notice other people taking advantage of you, then all is good. Again, every person's experience with Feng Shui will be unique to them. 

If you need to store items under the bed, do your best to become mindful and aware of who gave them to you, what emotional content you associate with them, symbolically ask yourself; what do they represent to you? etc.

Example of Other Acceptable Items that Could Be Stored Under The Bed:

• Extra Bedding
• Extra Clothing
• Extra Bath towels
• Small amount of books (be sure the titles and content inside the books are positive)
• If you need to keep shoes under your bed, please store the bare minimum, if possible 
• Slippers and flip flops could be the exception

Feel Free to explore these Feng Shui Tips and discover 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 Space Clear, 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.

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

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

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

5. 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. 

6. 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). 

7. 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