Feng Shui is the ancient art of improving all aspects of one’s life by changing the energy in one’s environment. It facilitates personal transformation and growth through the use of space and energy. Combined with the genuine intention to change, these environmental improvements have been known to increase happiness, health, prosperity, relationships, career and many other aspects of one’s life.

The principles of Feng Shui add another layer to the already multi-layered process of design and decoration. Often, the simple process of clearing a space and decluttering brings huge change. A bagua (or map) is used in modern forms of Feng Shui to map a room or location and see how the different sections correspond to different aspects in one’s life. The map is intended to be used over the land, one’s home, office or desk to find areas where there are negative or missing spaces that may need rectifying or enhancing in life or the environment.

The goal of Feng Shui is to create good “chi,” which is the spirit or energy that makes things alive. If the layout of a home is in good balance and all elements of the design are taken into account, a better state of chi is manifested. When energy is blocked because a piece of furniture is improperly placed, a space is overly cluttered or too sparsely furnished, discord becomes apparent and the chi of the space can be compromised as well.

The five elements of Feng Shui are earth, fire, metal, water and wood. each element has a different property and energy. For instance, a home with too much metal can be balanced by adding wood or water depending on the imbalance. It’s really quite fascinating.

It is important to keep in mind that Feng Shui is not a magic elixir. Many people hold the misconception that by moving a few pieces of furniture around or hanging a symbolic cure in a particular area of the house one’s life will be transformed. Feng Shui only works when one’s intention is clear and wants to create change.

Feng Shui is a great tool for helping to create balance, harmony, love, peace and prosperity. We need all the extra help we can get in these uncertain times.

Kim Radovich is the principal of Kim E. Courtney Interiors & Design in Huntington Bay, NY. A graduate of Parsons School of Design, Kim has a fine arts background and a strong commitment to aesthetics. Her design firm offers Feng Shui and sustainable design as part of a full roster of design services.

For more information on Kim please visit http://www.kimecourtneyinteriors.com or call 631.868.0595.