Tag Archives: furniture

Improving Feng Shui for the Office

By James Brickman

Using feng shui for the office can help to increase employee productivity. The aspects that may need to be adjusted include: lighting, ventilation, sound, and furniture placement.

Most offices use fluorescent lighting to decrease electric costs and the need to replace light bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs serve much longer than the regular incandescent bulbs, as well as they have larger light output. However, the savings that they offer are miniscule compared to the decrease in the employees’ productivity.

Most people dislike fluorescent light, as it makes them feel weak, tired, and unable to concentrate. Some people may experience headaches when subjected to spending hours in rooms with fluorescent light. Others complain about the hum that these bulbs produce.

Feng shui for the office suggests replacing fluorescent bulbs with regular incandescent bulbs, to help you increase your business’s output by improving the productivity of the employees.

Ventilation is yet another essential aspect. When fresh air is lacking, people start to feel tired. The lack of fresh air may lower the staff’s performance and decrease the overall productivity of a given company.

If the office has windows that are never open, it’s a great idea to start opening them regularly to stimulate and energize the employees. A powerful ventilation system can also help in this regard; however, feng shui for the office suggests that artificial ventilation is less potent than the good old open windows.

Opening both, the windows and curtains will help in taking advantage of the powerful natural sunlight that stimulates biorhythms in all living beings, including people.

Modern offices are typically located in busy and noisy locations. The sounds in an office often comprise of the traffic sounds from behind the windows and the hallway sounds from behind the walls. You can improve a lot by placing a small indoor fountain in the office or hanging chimes on the windows.

The sounds of water and wind will help to stimulate the employees’ work efficiency, at the same time helping them feel more tranquil.

Furniture placement is also very important. There are a number of flaws that can be present in a given office in regard to furniture placement. For instance, if an employee’s desk makes them sit with their back to the entrance door, they may feel tense and unsafe. This deep psychological aspect is inbred in us from time immemorial – if you don’t see who’s behind your back, you start to feel uneasy.

It is vital to move the desks so that the employees face the door. If the workers’ desk is directly in front of a wall, the feng shui for the office advises hanging a picture with open spaces (lakes or fields) on that wall.

Another flaw is when two employees are sitting right in front of each other, since one of them may start to feel their energy dissipating. It is also disadvantageous if an employee’s desk is slammed between furniture, making it hard for them to access their desk.

Adjusting the above-mentioned and other aspects can help you improve the overall staff’s efficiency in any given office.

About the Author: James Brickman runs http://www.fengshuicrazy.com which teaches the ancient art of feng shui. Please visit his website to learn more about feng shui for the office.

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Useful Feng Shui Career Tips

By James Brickman

Feng shui career tips can help you increase your personal productivity.

If you manage an office, you can use these tips to increase the overall productivity of your staff. There are a number of factors that can hinder the career growth of a person, as well as hinder the development of the entire company. The ancient Chinese notion feng shui is here to help eliminate the potential hindering factors, and increase the beneficial aspects.

Furniture positioning: The main feng shui career tip is the proper positioning of the desks. Some types of positioning are very disadvantageous, while others on the contrary, are extremely beneficial. A bad desk positioning includes: when a person’s back is to a window or door, a desk crammed into a corner, a desk facing another desk, or a desk next to the entrance door.

Sitting with the back to a door or window can make one feel “unsafe”, and is best avoided. If there’s no way to move the furniture, consider placing a mirror on the table. Sitting crammed in a corner will not allow the positive energy to circulate around the person’s desk. Facing another person may hinder concentration and cause the energy of both people to dissipate. Sitting next to the entrance door can be very agitating due to the constant annoyance of a passerby.

The best way is to sit with your back to the wall, facing the entrance door, but being a sufficient distance from it. This way, you feel protected by the wall, you see those in the doorway, and you are removed from having to answer questions by a passerby.

Clutter: The feng shui career advice states that clutter and dirt are to be avoided. The clutter and dirt prevent the free circulation of positive energy, and cause the negative energy to concentrate and stagnate instead. If at all possible, try to clean the office. Pay attention to the cabinets and shelves, and keep them free of unneeded documentation. If there are any unused objects or equipment in the office, they are best moved to storage rooms. Try to wash the curtains, keep all surfaces dusted, and the floors clean.

Lighting: Most modern buildings have fluorescent lighting. This type of lighting is bad for the overall health (it can cause problems with the eyes and blood pressure; it can cause dermatitis; it can bring out certain nervous conditions like bipolar disorder or panic attacks). Additionally, it can hinder the perception and concentration of the worker. Many people complain about the flickering and humming of such lamps, as well as they may complain about headaches. All in all, this type of lighting can prevent them from being efficient at work. If possible, replace these lamps with regular “Edison lamps.” Consider adding calming decorative floor or wall lamps in pleasant colors. Another good feng shui career tip – whenever possible, keep the window curtains open.

Materials: Some of the best materials to use in the office are wood, glass, and metal. It’s advised to use wood the most, followed by metal and glass. Synthetics (plastic, etc.) can also be used, but in moderation. It’s best to use natural materials (cotton, etc.) for the furniture upholstery also.

About the Author: James Brickman runs http://www.fengshuicrazy.com which teaches the ancient art of feng shui. Please visit his website to learn more about feng shui career tips.

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Asian Decor And Feng Shui

By Damien Pfirsch

Feng Shui and interior spaces

Feng Shui theories stem from the Taoist vision of nature, especially that our environment is animated by various energies. The Taoists categorize natural elements as Yin (the female elements) or Yang (the male elements) and Feng Shui theories advocate to create the right balance between Yin and Yang elements.

The applications of Feng Shui in Asian decor are numerous. In this first part, we will illustrate some Feng Shui rules applying to Asian decor interiors.

1. To enhance the flow of positive energy, corridors and stairways should be wide, sufficiently lighted and uncluttered. This theory is one of the reasons why Asian decor interiors are usually bright and not overwhelmed with too many home decor accents and furniture.

2. Round and smooth features help the development and of positive energy. Wedge-like, knifelike, and arrow-like walls and furniture should also be avoided. This explains why Asian decor advocate circular and round free flowing shapes.

Feng Shui believes do no only influence Asian decor interiors, but also Asian architecture. According to Feng Shui theories, a building should have three main positive attributes: stability, balance and smoothness.

1. Stability: the building should not rest on pillars or be built on a slope. Furthermore, no level (except for the ground floors) should be larger than others.

2. Balance: a construction is considered well balanced if it has a symmetrical architecture. Smoothness: there should be no strong angular features.

These three attributes also apply to Asian decor interiors: smooth shapes, symmetrical arrangements and stable arrangements are the keys to create a soothing and harmonious Asian decor.

Feng Shui and colors

The word Feng Shui (pronounced “fung shway”) which translates to “the wind and the water,” is the Chinese art of correct placement. The main goal of Feng Shui is to enhance the “Chi”, literally translated as energy, to create a harmonious and positive environment to live in.

Science has shown us that colors can affect mood, actions and emotional and biological responses. Feng Shui beliefs are no different. Here are some examples on how colors are used to maintain, calm or enhance a specific Chi energy in Asian decor.

Red is the most yang (male element color) color. It is linked with fire energy and associated with luck, probably the reason that Chinese brides wear scarlet red wedding dresses. It is therefore a considered as a very good dominant color for the entrance of a house, to invite good energy in a house. In Asian decor, this color is also represented through most of the house through vivid red home decor accents or furniture.

Another recurrent color in Asian decor is green. Green is yin energy and emblematic of the growing phase of energy. It is also considered to be a color of freshness and peace and therefore a very good color for a bedroom.

Another Feng Shui principle is: the stronger the color, the less is needed for it to be effective. This is why in most Asian decor interiors, backgrounds colors tend to be pale where as accent colors are livelier.

Feng Shui and materials

According to Feng Shui theories, the 5 elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) are the keys to create a well balanced and auspicious Asian decor. In this last part, we will consider how Asian decor designers make sure some of these elements are represented in each room.

The first element to consider in a decor is wood, because it is the creator of new life; the beginning of the five-element cycle. In Asian decor, the wood element is incorporated with the use of plants (like bamboo, bonsai or bushy potted trees). The color green is also a way to represent this element and is therefore a recurrent color in Asian decor.

Fire is the most “Yang” elements. Because fire is so strong, it has to be used sparingly in a decor. An ambiance lamp with a red shade or some candles will usually be enough to make sure this element is sufficiently represented in an Asian decor.

The metal element is represented under various forms in Asian decor: silver, gold, copper, and bronze are its main forms of expression. One can be creative when using this element; it could be bronze bowls, copper vases or silver trays. Asian decor designers always look at the shape of the accents and sharp points or angles are always avoided.

About the Author: Damien Pfirsch is the founder of http://www.asiannoouveau.com, an online showroom presenting the latest home decor accents and furniture created by Asian designers. Based in Bangkok, Thailand, the website promotes Asian decor exporters to international buyers looking for unique accents to complement their collections.

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How to Decorate Using Feng Shui

By Alycia Hartzell

These words in Chinese translate to ‘wind-water’. Feng shui or wind-water is a system of placement believed to use the laws of both heaven and earth to help improve life by receiving positive energy flow. Feng shui aka wind-water was widely used to orient buildings, spiritually significant structures like tombs, as well as dwellings. The goal of feng shui as practiced today is to situate the human built environment on spots with good qi. or “perfect spot”.

Presently, and mostly in US – western practices, we use feng shui as formula in which we design our interior spaces. Meaning, the placement of our furnishings in a space is based on what will create the best energy flow for the room. Why would one want to create this? Well is it not obvious? Even if you do not welcome eastern or Asian traditions, isn’t peaceful energy flow in your home or office space better than negative energy flow?

Here are some ideas on how to feng shui your home or office:

1 – Begin with clearing out the clutter. Remove or dispose of any unnecessary objects that are taking up space. If you have things out that you are not needing to access on a daily basis, put them in a different place. It is a good idea to start with your storage units; closets, cabinets, shelving – dispose all things you do not need and then organize these areas, creating room for things you do actually need. The idea is that a room should be a room – even if we are talking about a kitchen or office, all things should have a place and there should be minimal visible clutter upon entering the room or space.

2 – Good air quality and light are also key for good energy or chi – universal energy (energy inside your body and the energy around you externally). To achieve this, you must open up the windows as much as possible to let fresh air in. In colder climates, an air purifier and/or air purifying plants are great for this. Allow as much natural light as possible into your home. Purchasing full-spectrum lights is good too.

3 – Decorate in colors that support good energy and mood. Choose colors that represent the kind of energy you are trying to achieve in your space. Examples of energy/mood are; calm, energetic, minimalistic, or clean. Color plays a huge part in the energy one feels upon entering a space. Balance light and dark colors along with smooth and rough textures.

4 – Furniture placement is a large part of practicing feng shui in your home or office. It is important not to block or interfere with the chi aka energy flow of the room. Never force furniture or accessories into a tight space. Less is always more when it comes to feng shui-ing a space. Keep it minimal and keep it simple. Position the furniture so it has a good view of the entryways. For example, in a bedroom, always have a wall at the head of your bed. This supports your mind. Make sure that when laying in your bed, your body (feet) are facing the entryway and that it is visible. A good view of the entry way is also key for couches, desks, sinks, chairs, and stoves. If this is not possible, hang a mirror so that you are able to see the entryway. There should be at least 3 feet of space between the furniture in a room. Pay special attention the space between night stands, couches and tables. Always keep in mind, coziness, comfort, and good conversation, these are all things you definitely want to have in a room. Also arranging furniture toward the main focal point of the room or space is a good idea too. Example, in a living room, the focal point could be a fireplace or hearth. Regarding decorative accessories, place them at eye level and if there is a large piece of furniture along side a wall, place the accessory for example, a painting, above the large furniture. Always aim to create harmony in a room.

Feng Shui is a way to maximize our living and working environments. It creates positive energy flow, giving us the best possible comfort in the spaces we spend a majority of our time in.

About the Author: Alycia Hartzell is a seasoned design professional with experience in both residential and commercial interior design. She writes for ContemporaryRugMall.com – a leading retailer of contemporary rugs. Learn more at: http://www.contemporaryrugmall.com

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More Feng Shui Tips

By Lily Sarmiento

Are you tired of being unlucky? Exhausted of getting into bad relationships? Still waiting for the right opportunity to go your way? Do you want changes in your life? Well then you might just get what you are looking for. So read on!

In order for one to have a healthier and happier life, some believe in the art and science of Feng Shui; wherein one must rearrange furniture which symbolically would mean something either good or bad in your life. The mastery of Feng Shui basically works on the objective of the person. It does not matter what god you worship or what you believe in. Feng Shui focuses on one’s intention and how that person wants changes in his or her life.

It is said that, for one to attain Chi, one must change the way you treat your home. A home is not simply a mere structure that you go home to from work and sleep at. It is more than just a place where you want to waste time entertaining people through social gatherings. It should serve as your own personal temple where you feel secured and safe. A home is where you should feel relaxed and at peace. It should function as a place for interaction wherein one can build a better relationship with another. Thus, a home should be one’s comfort zone whereas symbolically you place personal things or sentimental home d

What You Should Know About Your Pets And Feng Shui

By Cucan Pemo

So, you’ve decided to look into this Feng Shui thing and you’ve started to make some changes around your home. You’ve rearranged a few things here, put out a few good luck charms there and you’ve adjusted your color scheme accordingly.

You’ve bought into the power of positive thinking bit and you’ve been slowly replacing items that put you in a negative frame of mind. Everything is coming together for the perfect Feng Shui home, expect for one thing. Fluffy and Fido keep treating your new furniture design like it’s a jungle gym and you’re getting orange cat fur and brown dog fur mixed in with your green and blue Feng Shui furniture.

What to do? Well, there is only so much you can do with the pet dog and cat. Here are a few pointers to help you with pets and Feng Shui in your home.

– Your pet is good Feng Shui. Really, they are! Pets are full of life, vitality and wonderment. Even if you have a big, lazy fat cat, their quiet confidence and approach to the world fills your home with positive energy and not just cat hair. If you thought you had to take Fluffy and Fido to the pound to generate that perfect Feng Shui home, think again. You might want to go to the pound for a second cat, but not to give one up.

– Cleanliness is next to Feng Shuiness – Yes, it’s true, you’ll be happier and in a better state of mind in a clean home. And nothing is better for your pets than a well taken care of carpet, water dish and cat box. If it takes a build up of cat hair to get you to drag out the vac, then consider your pets a positive influence on your Feng Shui.

– In proper Feng Shui, people and animals must be kept separate. What that means is that if you have a dog, you should make sure he or she gets the proper training to obey commands. If you have a cat, keep them off the furniture, unless it’s a piece of furniture that is specifically made for the cat or dog. Make sure you discipline them when they do something wrong and love them when they are good. This will boost your Feng Shui.

– Keep the pets out of the bedroom. Feng Shui is all about love and, as we all know, for couples, most lovemaking happens in the bedroom. Have this as a human-only space. Don’t allow the cat or dog into the room at all if you can and don’t let the pets sleep on the bed at night since it tends to separate the two people sleeping in it.

– Pets shouldn’t be the entire focus of the home. Most people love their pets as much as they love their children, but they should have a space and a place all their own. If you invite company over and the smell of the cat box is the first thing they notice, it will bring in feelings of pity and sadness into the home and that’s not going to help your Feng Shui. Neither will having guests scared to death by a big, scary dog every time they come over. Pets should know their place and not rule over the home.

– Don’t let a pet compromise your health. If you’re allergic to cats, even just a little, it’s probably time to give Fluffy to a relative. You won’t ever feel optimal if you keep pets that are making you sick around the home. Proper Feng Shui requires a clear, positive state of mind and that can be hard to keep when you’re constantly reaching for the Kleenex.

– Don’t let too much pet luck ruin you. Yes, pets, overall, are good Feng Shui due to their energy and love, but if you’re leaving the house every day covered in pet hair and you aren’t confident about your appearance, then you might want to cut down on the number of pets you own. It’s all about frame of mind. If your depressed about your appearance due to the pets, change the pet situation.

Your pet’s connection to your Feng Shui might be bigger than you think. If you were to sit and write down every aspect your pet makes to your life, the list would be much longer than you probably think.

If you think having a pet is affecting you love life, then you need to decide if having the pet is more important than finding a lover and stick with that decision. Don’t let it nag at you and bring down your level of positive chi. Having a pet can be a wonderful experience, but it only helps your Feng Shui as long as you want it to.

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Feng Shui To You!

By Kerry A. Francis

What is Feng Shui? Feng Shui ( which is pronounced properly “FEIING SWEE” in the Cantonese Chinese dialect” is a way and means of creating harmony between humans and their environment to enhance well being. An ancient Chinese theory of design and placement, Feng Shui grew from observations that people are affected – both positively as well as negatively by their surroundings. You may well have noticed that some places seem always to impart luck on their environments whereas some people seem to always have happiness and health imparted by their surroundings.

In your home and environs, good Feng Shui helps create harmonious family relationships, fosters good health, revives energy and enthusiasm and even encourages fertility and good sex drive. In business it encourages prosperity and success. By changing your surroundings Feng Shui allows you to change your life for the better.

Because there are so many elements contributing to your environments, applying Feng Shui may initially seem to be a complex matter. However there are some basic, time honored remedies which will not involve anything more than simple efforts and little expense.

In some cases Feng Shui can be as simple as moving furniture around, changing the colors of your d