Harmony sounds a lot like work

By LYNNE CONLAN

Executive Director, Sun City Center Area Chamber of Commerce

What if you could jump start your life just by moving some of your furniture or knick-knacks around? According to the ancient Chinese art of Feng Shui (pronounced “fung shway”), you can. If you buy into the idea that your living space reflects your life, Feng Shui tries to maintain a balance in both, promising to help you achieve success, health and happiness. And it probably won’t cost you a dime. 

Since it doesn’t cost anything — I was all in. So, I did a little more poking around. Feng Shui, which literally means “wind water,” takes the approach that your surroundings affect not just your level of comfort, but also your physical and mental health, your relationships and your success.

Let’s get some examples. The first step is to declutter your home. You’re basically trying to minimize the number of objects that collect dust. But, of course, it couldn’t be that easy. You have to declutter thoroughly…. under beds, clean out those closets, look through the books in your bookcase. I’m tired just thinking about it. But I’m told it works. 

Next, it’s recommended that air and light must move throughout your home to keep energy flowing. To increase the air flow, open your windows. Well, maybe not in the middle of summer in Florida. In terms of light? You’re supposed to keep all glass, mirrors and windows clean. And add a lamp to any dark corners. 

Plants are next. They filter the air, giving you a healthier environment. But not just any plant works. A cactus is a “no-no” since it is considered unfriendly. The following plants are on the “good” list, and are considered lucky. The good guys are the peace lily, ficus, rubber plant, English ivy, Boston fern, philodendron and the spider plant.

Now we move to color. Here’s what you need to know according to Ellen Whitehurst, author of Make This Your Lucky Day: Fun and Easy Secrets and Shortcuts to Success, Romance, Health, and Harmony. I’m just going to give you a list of what each color activates. You can pick the color you need on walls, in artwork or knick-knacks depending upon what you’re looking for in life. Here’s what she recommends color-wise: Red – luck and wealth; orange – happiness and fun; yellow – mental stimulation and power; blue – calmness, communication and spirituality; green – peace, balance and healing; purple – wealth and high spirituality; white – cleansing and purity; black – power; and brown if you want to be more nurturing. 

According to Whitehurst, most people say that a home that has been “feng shui’d” feels more peaceful and harmonious. So good luck. I’m trying to figure out what color to paint my den. I now know that brown is nurturing. That’s what I was going for. But seriously? Brown?