Working from home offers flexibility, but it can also blur the lines between work and personal life. Feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of harmonising energy flow, can help remote workers create a space that fosters productivity and well-being. Here are some feng shui tips to transform your home office:
Commanding position
Ideally, position your desk diagonally from the door, allowing you to see the entrance without sitting directly in line. This “command position” empowers you and fosters a sense of control. If this isn’t possible, use a convex mirror strategically placed to reflect the doorway.
Harness natural light
Natural light energises and promotes focus. Situate your desk near a window to bathe your workspace in sunlight. However, avoid glare by employing light-filtering curtains or blinds.
Embrace earthy tones
Feng shui associates certain colours with specific energies. Earthy tones like beige, light yellow and pale green promote concentration and creativity, making them ideal for a home office. If you prefer a bolder scheme, consider incorporating these colours as accents while choosing a more stimulating hue for a pop of energy.
Declutter for clarity
Clutter hinders the flow of positive energy (chi) and can be mentally draining. Regularly declutter your workspace, keeping only essential items. Invest in storage solutions and organise your files to minimise visual clutter.
Nature’s touch
Plants represent growth and vitality. Incorporate healthy, low-maintenance plants like snake plants or spider lilies to boost energy and add a touch of life to your workspace.
Aromatherapy for alertness
Essential oils like peppermint or rosemary can enhance focus and alertness. Use a diffuser strategically placed away from your desk to avoid overpowering scents.
Sharp angles away
Sharp edges and pointed corners, like those on some furniture, are believed to create stagnant energy. If possible, avoid placing furniture with sharp angles near your desk. Opt for curved furniture or soften corners with plants or rounded objects.
Mindful touches
Surround yourself with objects that inspire and motivate you. Display inspiring quotes, artwork that evokes creativity or photos of loved ones to personalise your space and create a positive atmosphere.
By implementing these feng shui principles, you can cultivate a home office that supports productivity, sparks creativity and promotes a sense of well-being throughout your workday. Remember, feng shui is a flexible practice. Experiment and personalise your space to create an environment that resonates with you.
FAQs
What if I don't have a dedicated workspace?
Feng shui can still enhance your work area! Even a corner of your living room can be optimised. Declutter the space, position your work surface diagonally from a window if possible and add a small plant for a breath of life.
My desk faces a wall. What can I do?
If facing a wall is unavoidable, use a mirror to symbolically ‘open up’ the space and create a sense of depth. Decorate the wall with inspiring artwork or calming colours to enhance your focus.
Are there any colours to avoid in my home office?
While earthy tones promote focus, avoid overly stimulating colours like bright red near your desk. If you crave a pop of colour, consider incorporating it in a small accent piece like a lamp or artwork.
What kind of plants are best for my workspace?
Low-maintenance, healthy plants like snake plants or spider lilies are ideal. Avoid prickly cacti or drooping, unhealthy plants, as they can symbolise stagnant energy.
Are there any essential oils I should avoid?
Uplifting essential oils like peppermint or rosemary are better for promoting focus, but use them sparingly to avoid overpowering your workspace.
I can't get rid of everything on my desk! How can I manage clutter?
Invest in storage solutions like organisers or drawers. Regularly declutter your work surface, keeping only essential items out at a time. A tidy workspace promotes a clear mind.
What if I don't believe in feng shui, but I like these tips?
Feng shui principles often align with workspace practices. Experiment with these tips and see if they enhance your focus in your home office.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
