Whistle While You Work…

"Clear the clutter" is one of the easiest places to start when introducing feng shui. It becomes a mantra with its own beat and is liberating beyond words as a space is alleviated of unnecessary stuff. However, once the clutter is gone, the opportunity to really have some fun with feng shui begins. I have found most people want one of a few things when they express interest in feng shui: (1) love (2) money/better job or (3) health. For me, it is tempting to give clients specific adjustments that might bring their desires to fruition. But if we don't look at our environment beforehand and rectify any existing problems first, chances are we will continue to attract the same situations despite our better efforts.

Just like clearing the clutter is easy but time-consuming, so is the next step in creating an abundant home. Walk around. Take inventory of what is going on under your roof. If there is any part of your home that is neglected, chances are it is affecting your life. A neglected home equals self neglect. I know I have said it before, but it bears repeating. Look at your home literally and you will see similarities in your life.

Here are a few places to begin:

• Make sure your front door opens easily and completely. This is where good chi (energy) enters your home — in fact, it is referred to as the "mouth of chi." In feng shui, the front door is also associated with opportunities so don't block those from coming into your life. Evaluate the outside of the door as well as the inside of your home. Make both welcoming.
• Wash your windows — clean, clean, clean. Windows represent our ability to see clearly.  
• Replace any burnt-out light bulbs. If you can, increase the wattage in your fixtures. "The brighter, the better" is the notion here since chi lifts where there is light. Think illumination…
• Clear out any clogged drains. Clogs represent difficulty in letting go of things or situations you no longer want or need in your life. 
• Fix any plumbing problems in the house, however minor they may seem. Leaky anything is said to represent resources leaking away.
• Keep your mirrors clean. Since mirrors double everything they reflect, make it a habit to wipe them down regularly.

Even though we have just welcomed February, begin making a list of "spring cleaning" chores you can address throughout March to avoid feeling overwhelmed. My suggestion: Approach your home one room at a time. Make necessary repairs with intention and pay attention to any changes that result. As you notice subtle differences, your energy levels will change and you will feel more nurtured…which is exactly what your home is there to do for you!