Nowhere around the home is fragrance more important than in the bedroom. Scent sets the mood and tone for sleep, and relaxing notes help to create and curate a sense of calm.

According to home fragrance experts, however, there's one scent that firmly doesn't belong in your sleep space – bold florals might be a favorite for spring and summer in your kitchen or living room, but in your bedroom, these lively, fresh scents can serve to keep you alert and awake, rather than ready to drift off.

Fortunately, you don't need to wave goodbye to using your best home fragrance in your bedroom altogether. Instead, grounding, earthy aromas help you to relax and unwind.

Using Floral Scents In Your Bedroom Could Be Waking You Up

There's an important distinction when I refer to florals – it's the powerful florals, rather than soft, romantic iterations, that are of concern for disrupting sleep.

The difference is between those floral scents that make you feel enlivened, like sweet jasmine, botanicals, orange blossom, and any mint-infused blends, and those that subtly float into the background.

Certified Aromatherapist Amy Galper explains, 'How an aroma makes you feel is because of the different aromatic molecules that they are composed of. When the scent detector nerve endings in our noses get triggered by one of these molecules, it sends a signal to the emotional part of our brain that influences our mindset and behavior.

'So, smelling flowers has been known to uplift us, balance our mood, and make us feel good. Those emotions can invite us to feel more “alive” and “awake."'

Similarly, she continues, scents that come from the needles of trees, like pine, cypress, and juniper, have similar molecules. 'They uplift our mood, make us feel more positive, and can help focus.'

Therefore, while all of these scents might be among the best scents to boost productivity in a home office or to make an entryway more luxurious, using them in your sleep space is a bedroom scenting mistake to avoid, and can seriously throw off your bedroom Feng Shui, too.

The Feng Shui Scent Fix for Deep Sleep

So, what's the best way to marry Feng Shui and fragrance in your bedroom?

'On the other hand, atoms that come from the actual wood of the tree, like cedar wood, rosewood, sandalwood, are known to be heavier and more grounding, and the molecules in these oils trigger the relaxation mode in our minds and bodies,' advises Amy.

Think earthier and heavier – the P.F. Candle Co. Woody Amber & Moss Glass Candle, available at Anthropologie, the Mahogany Teakwood Candle, available at Bath & Body Works, and LE LABO Santal 26 Scented Candle, available at Selfridges, are all gorgeous options.

Importantly, though, don't forget that your home's (and your bedroom's) signature scent should be just that – signature.

'No one scent “is better” than the other,' adds Amy. 'It all depends on what you need them for.

'For example, if you are looking to reduce tension and nervous energy, sniff floral oils, but if you are looking to relax and feel sleepy before bedtime, smell some grounding wood oils.'

What to Shop

Below, you can shop my edit of relaxing, soothing scents, all of which will suit any bedroom space. Opt for a candle or my best essential oil diffuser for added ambience, and one of my best reed diffusers for something a little more low-maintenance.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Looking for more information on how to pick non-toxic candles? Choosing the right brands and ingredients is a surefire way to avoid polluting your indoor air.

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My essential oil diffuser is a non-negotiable in my sleep sanctuary, but did you know there's one area of this room you should never place yours?

The difference may seem negligible at a glance, but, as Feng Shui experts advise, placing your diffuser on your nightstand can significantly affect your sleep and prevent you from getting deep, restorative rest.

Here, they explain why your best essential oil diffuser belongs elsewhere for better sleep, and exactly where to put it instead.

Why Your Essential Oil Diffuser Doesn't Belong On Your Nightstand

As Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui Consultant and Founder of Harmonising Energies, recognizes, aromatherapy is for many, like me, a beloved bedtime ritual. But, she warns, 'The mechanics of a diffuser – specifically the misting of water – can conflict with the need for stillness,' and significantly affect your bedroom Feng Shui.

Primarily, this is because, in Feng Shui, moving water is a potent symbol of active energy.

'And, unless prescribed for a particular area, this is a no-no in the bedroom,' continues Suzanne. 'An essential oil diffuser can create a constant, rhythmic movement of water and mist. Placing this directly on a nightstand – mere inches from your head – introduces unstable Qi into your immediate auric field.'

Importantly, as Suzanne highlights, because your head is the most sensitive point for energy intake while you sleep, this 'micro-turbulence' can lead to light sleep, as your 'energy body remains engaged with the movement of the water, rather than sinking into deep, restorative stages.'

Therefore, this simple mistake can negate any efforts to create good Feng Shui in your home and affect your sleep, no matter which sleep position you're in, or which sleep hacks you try.

The 'Six-Foot Rule' for Harmony

If you can't live without your essential oil diffuser in your bedroom, you don't have to remove it entirely to curate a calm home sanctuary according to the rules of Feng Shui. Instead, advises Suzanne, simply follow the 'six-foot rule' for harmony.

'Keeping a diffuser at least six feet away creates a buffer zone between active and passive energy,' she explains. 'This distance allows the benefits of the diffuser (air quality, scent, humidity) to circulate gently, the bed area to remain energetically still and grounded, less impact of the water element in the space, and better overall balance between yin, or rest, and yang, or activity, within the room.'

Most importantly, it's not about removing the diffuser entirely. Instead, concludes Suzanne, 'It's about respecting the bedroom as a recovery space first.'

What to Shop

Perfecting your bedroom Feng Shui goes beyond the placement of your essential oil diffuser – every element, from your bedding to your fragrances, is just as important. Below, you can shop my six essentials for creating a serene and restorative sleep sanctuary.

All prices were correct at the time of publication, and bedding refers to 'Queen' sizes.

Meet the Expert

Alternatively, you can replace your essential oil diffuser with one of the best reed diffusers, which need much less maintenance and are free of water.

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One of the fundamental rules of Feng Shui, when it comes to the bedroom space, is a distinct lack of mirrors. The reasoning is simple – a mirror reflecting your bedspace can drain your energy, and invite unwanted energy into your bedroom.

That's why, when recently staying in a ryokan, or traditional inn, in Japan, I was intrigued to see a particularly clever Feng Shui feature: The full-length mirror was hidden behind a dedicated door, easily opened when needed, and closed away ahead of bedtime.

According to experts, it's one of the best ways to follow the all-important Feng Shui mirror rules, without compromising on convenience. Here's why.

This Clever Mirror Feng Shui Feature Promotes Better Rest

As Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui Consultant and founder at Harmonising Energies, explains, 'In Feng Shui, mirrors are considered powerful tools that direct and double the energy, or Qi, of what is reflected. While they are useful for making a room look larger during the day, they can become "active" disruptors at night.'

That's not the only reason that it's important to consider where mirrors should be placed in a bedroom for Feng Shui, either. Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui Expert, Interiors Therapist, and Founder of Interiors Therapy, adds, 'Mirrors amplify the energy in a room, which can lead to restlessness and poor quality sleep.'

Additionally, she warns, a mirror is said to invite infidelity in a relationship – 'bringing in the energy of a third or fourth person in the reflection' – and can also encourage ghosts and spirits into the room, all of which interfere with restful sleep.

So, after recently researching and talking to experts about bedroom Feng Shui earlier this year, I was particularly interested (and impressed) to see the cleverly hidden mirror at our hotel in Japan.

It's an easy way to avoid any negative effects of the mirror, but it made getting ready for dinner and in the morning easy, as I didn't have to leave the room entirely to see my reflection. And, throughout the night, I didn't encounter any energy shifts or disruption as I slept, either.

'By closing the door on a wall-mounted mirror, you effectively "pause" that active energy, allowing the room to become a true Yin sanctuary,' advises Suzanne Butler.

Alternative, Easy Ways to Cover Mirrors In Your Bedroom Space

Of course, not every bedroom space includes a mirror with a dedicated door. But, to enjoy all the beauty and benefits of Japanese-inspired interiors, it doesn't have to.

'You can still achieve the same results with methods to mask the reflection,' says Suzanne Butler.

• Decorative textiles: Drape a high-quality silk scarf or a linen throw over a floor-length mirror. 'This adds a soft, tactile element to the room that absorbs rather than reflects,' she explains, though it can make a space look cluttered and messy,
• Pivot: If you have a freestanding mirror, simply rotate it to face the wall or a corner before getting into bed.
• Folding screens: Placing a decorative folding screen in front of a fixed mirror to hide the glass and add a touch of flair to your space. I recommend the Japanese-inspired RISÖR Room Divider, available at IKEA, for this.
• Frosted window film: 'If you already have mirror wardrobes and changing the doors simply isn’t practical, frosting the mirror is one option, self-adhesive decals are another,' says Suzanne Roynon. 'I’ve also seen a client place a curtain track above sliding mirror doors with a beautiful full-length curtain, which is closed across them each night. It’s a simple and very effective solution.' For example, the Ringlet Adjustable Single Curtain Rod, available at Wayfair, will work perfectly for this purpose.

Alternatively, you may be rethinking whether you should have a mirror in your bedroom altogether. In this case, you may choose to relocate your mirror to another room, or to another part of your bedroom so it doesn't reflect the bed.

'Do the same with a very reflective TV screen, which has the same impact as a mirror,' adds Suzanne Roynon.

What to Shop

Perfect your bedroom mirror Feng Shui with my curated selection below. Whether you choose to cover yours with a curtain, screen, or door, I've included options for every space and taste.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

The covered mirror wasn't the only bedroom feature I loved – the traditional futon in Japan also gave me a comfortable night's sleep.

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Your bedside table arguably works harder than any other surface in your bedroom. It's where you place your bedtime book, mug of tea, or a thoughtful trinket or plant that gives you joy – but all too often, this space can end up cluttered and chaotic.

To Feng Shui experts, though, it's not the visual noise that's the problem, per se. Instead, there's one category of items they urge you must remove from your bedside table this April: Electronics.

It's not just about curating a more serene sleep space, either. Doing so can also help you to sleep better, by supporting deeper rest, and helping to make both falling asleep and waking in the morning easier.

Why You Should Remove Electronics From Your Bedside Table This April

As Beverly Biehl, Founder of The Intuitive Interior, says, most bedside tables have room for a lamp, a book, lip balm, a glass of water, and perhaps a dream journal, such as the JUBTIC Dream Journal, available at Amazon. But, she warns, 'All too many now host a laptop, an e-reader, and at least one phone.

'The e-reader isn't connected to the internet, so it can stay, but the laptop and the phone – especially the phone – must find a new place to live overnight.'

She explains that the main reason for this, in terms of Feng Shui, is that they are energetically noisy. 'All of that WiFi-connecting and text and email pinging literally acts as miniature finger-pokes, trying to get your attention when you are attempting to sleep,' and making it far more difficult to fall asleep fast.

'Even with the Do Not Disturb feature turned on, many will still notice when someone texts. The intended signal is still there, even while muted. WiFi works when there is a constant back and forth with the cell towers, and texts and emails are another form of this electronic back and forth. Our bodies, being largely electrical processors, get overheated when exposed to this for hours at a time.'

This isn't so much of a problem during the day. As Beverly adds, we can cool off by getting up to use the bathroom, grabbing a snack, or walking outside.

'At night, though, we are supposed to be sleeping for eight hours at a stretch,' she advises. 'If we have all of this electrical activity happening, our brain still overheats, even as it's trying to process all of the information it downloaded during the day. It takes a lot of energy to sort, sift, and decide what to keep and what to file away or purge!

'This is why most people sleep better in a cooler environment after all. So when we have these highly 'yang' items next to us, we add heat just at the moment when our body and brain need 'yin,' and don't get me started about how much yang a television in the bedroom adds! Yikes!'

Beverly isn't the only Feng Shui consultant to feel strongly about electronics in the bedroom space, either, and why they're certainly items to never store on your nightstand.

Katherine Troyer, Feng Shui Expert and Home Energetics Practitioner at My Home Energetics, adds, 'From a Feng Shui and nervous system perspective, the bedside area should support deep rest and a gentle transition into the day.

'Phones introduce constant stimulation and subtly signal alertness, even when they are silent. When the first thing you see in the morning is a screen, your brain immediately shifts into information-processing mode rather than body awareness.'

What to Do Instead

Fortunately, the fix is simple. 'The solution is the creation of a bedtime ritual for your phone and laptop, and any other Wi-Fi-enabled device,' advises Beverly. 'Offer them a recharging station of their own, so they feel honored and respected,' though keep this out of the bedroom, of course, and give them a 'good wipe-down with a cleaning cloth, just as you wash your own face.' The MSTJRY Charging Station, available at Amazon, is a well-reviewed pick.

Additionally, Beverly suggests using an analog clock radio that has a battery backup to make sure you don't miss your alarm. The ROBERTS Revival Rest Bluetooth Clock Radio, available at Selfridges, is currently top of my wish list.

'Give up the idea that your bed is a good office to do your work from,' continues Beverly. 'It's not. You end up with terrible posture, back pain, and zero sleep hygiene. Creating a yin space is best achieved when the space is dark, cool, and uncluttered, especially under the bed if possible,' which will also help you to avoid falling foul to the popular underbed storage habit that's the leading cause of hidden mattress mold.

'I also recommend keeping a glass of water beside the bed,' adds Katherine. 'Instead of reaching for notifications, you begin the day by giving something back to your body.'

What to Shop

Creating a sleep space that welcomes deep rest is more important than just banishing electronics from your nightstand.

Below, you can shop my six sleep essentials for getting a great night's sleep, every night:

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

'Finding ways to sleep better is a series of experiments,' says Beverly. 'Have fun with it, and notice what works and what doesn't. Then do more of what works!'

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Your home should be a sanctuary – a place where you can truly relax, unwind, and reset. It should also feel unmistakably like you, with little touches and thoughtful details that make the space your own.

One of the best places to start? Feng Shui. Experts tell us that in the Year of the Fire Horse, the focus for a calm home sanctuary has shifted toward balance, grounding, and flow in the spaces that matter most.

Working alongside interior designers, they share how simple Feng Shui adjustments can improve circulation, create harmony, and bring a sense of well-being to your home – all while keeping it practical, livable, and undeniably beautiful.

Harnessing Soothing Feng Shui in 2026 – Room By Room

The Entryway

The entryway is the first impression of your home – the space that greets you and your guests, and sets the tone for your day as you step out. In the Year of the Fire Horse, bringing balance to this area has never been more essential.

Fire energy and south-facing entryways

Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui Consultant at Harmonizing Energies, explains, ‘Fire energy accelerates whatever it touches. The front door, known as the Mouth of Qi, determines how that fast-moving energy enters your home.’ She adds that if your entryway faces south, you’re ‘amplifying Fire on Fire,’ which can feel dynamic but also slightly overwhelming.

To temper this, Suzanne recommends grounding Earth elements such as stone bowls, ceramic decor, and warm beige tones. This Virginia Handmade Stoneware Decorative Bowl at Wayfair is an elegant, affordable pick. Strong Metal elements are equally vital – a cast-iron door stop, for instance, can help stabilise energy.

North-facing entryways and Water energy

For entryways facing north, where Water energy dominates, 2026 may feel more emotionally charged or pressured. In these spaces, introduce Wood elements – think Feng Shui plants or timber furniture – to harmonize the Fire-Water interplay.

‘Keep the area uncluttered, well-lit, and calm,’ Suzanne continues. ‘In a Fire Horse year, chaos at the door equals emotional reactivity inside. A structured console with concealed storage, a shoe cabinet, warm ambient lighting instead of harsh downlights, and a cared-for plant such as a peace lily ensures energy flows in cleanly, with clarity rather than volatility.’

Color is transformative

Color is the final, transformative touch. According to Laura Hammett, Creative Director of her eponymous design studio, the ideal entryway palette for Feng Shui consists of soft, heritage-inspired hues – warm taupes, gentle blushes, or sage greens – which create a sense of depth and calm continuity from room to room.

‘Layer textures, finishes, and tones so the space feels considered yet effortless,’ Laura says. ‘Color shapes atmosphere as much as aesthetics. Warm neutrals offer grounding and comfort, blues and greens soothe the mind, and soft whites bring focus. Think about how you want the space to feel emotionally – energized, relaxed, soothed, inspired – and your palette almost chooses itself.’

From personal experience, Farrow & Ball's Green Ground is a wonderfully calming shade that works beautifully in an entryway, while Elephant’s Breath, also from Farrow & Ball, is a warm, mid-toned gray that lends understated elegance to any space.

The Living Room

Start with decluttering

Wondering how to make your living room feel truly relaxing? The best place to start, says Gala Magriñá, award-winning holistic designer and Principal and Founder of Gala Magriñá Design, is by reducing visual clutter.

‘Always try to limit the number of objects, furniture, decor, clothes, and tools in your living space,’ she advises. ‘Living lightly brings greater happiness. Choosing fewer, high-quality items that spark joy is key. An organized, uncluttered space fosters clarity and calm. By decluttering, you create room for new energy and opportunities. If you’re feeling stuck, it’s remarkable how this simple step can bring perspective and clarity.’

Invest in hidden storage

To achieve this, Gala recommends investing in hidden storage, whether a credenza, TV stand, storage ottoman, or bench. For example, the Beachcomber Handwoven Trunk at Pottery Barn elegantly conceals belongings while maintaining a fresh, streamlined look.

Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui practitioner, interiors therapist, and regular Homes & Gardens contributor, echoes this approach. ‘Opt for enclosed rather than open storage, and display only items you truly love. When everything you see delights the eye, positive energy circulates more freely.’

Seating and layout matter

Living room seating is just as vital. Prioritize comfort for relaxing, hosting, or socialising, and avoid letting the TV dominate the space. ‘The Fire Horse year amplifies social energy and emotional expression,’ notes Suzanne Butler.

‘In the living room, this can create either a vibrant connection or subtle tension, depending on balance. If your lounge is in the south sector, introduce Earth and Metal tones, textured rugs, and rounded furniture with metal bases to soften Fire’s intensity. In the west or north-west, which are Metal sectors, Fire energy can destabilise, so incorporate earthy ceramics and limit decorating with red.’

‘Seating arrangements should allow smooth pathways and encourage inward-facing conversation,’ she continues. ‘Sharp angles or cramped layouts in 2026 can heighten irritability. A rounded coffee table, natural fibre rug, and a lush green plant keep energy moving smoothly and prevent your lounge from becoming a stress zone.’ For a calming biophilic touch, try the IKEA LOHALS Rug.

Color and atmosphere

Finally, don’t feel pressured to chase every living room color trend. ‘Feng Shui specialists often prefer neutral tones for walls, floors, and ceilings,’ says Suzanne Roynon. ‘This provides a flexible backdrop, allowing furnishings and art to enhance the room’s energy. Even the most beautiful color trends can feel discordant if they clash with Feng Shui principles.’

Interior designer Laura adds that she favors warm, enveloping neutrals to create a cocooning effect after busy days. ‘These shades layer beautifully with textures, grounding the space and delivering comfort – exactly what you need in rooms designed for relaxation and unwinding.’

The Kitchen

Why kitchen Feng Shui matters

Kitchen Feng Shui may not have been on your radar before, but if creating good Feng Shui in your home matters, this hardworking space should not be overlooked.

‘The kitchen already carries Fire energy through the stove,’ explains Suzanne Butler. ‘In 2026, that Fire is amplified. If your kitchen is located in the south, south-west, or north-east sectors, the Fire Horse year can energise ambition and activity. Without balance, however, it can spark impatience or arguments. Introducing grounding elements such as stone benchtop accessories, ceramic storage jars, and wooden chopping boards can moderate this intensity.’

For a subtle, chic way to add wood into your kitchen, consider IKEA’s BRUGDHAJ Jars and a bamboo chopping board, available at Amazon.

Balancing Fire and Water

‘If your kitchen sits in the north sector, Fire clashes with Water,’ continues Suzanne Butler. ‘This can manifest as emotional sensitivity or digestive stress in the household. Adding Wood elements, like live herbs or green accents, helps mediate the balance between these elements.’

Maintenance and clutter matter

She also stresses the importance of stove maintenance. ‘Keep the stove clean and in working order, as it symbolises vitality and resources. In a Fire Horse year, the condition of your stove reflects how well you are managing abundance. Clean burners and electric stovetops carefully to ensure energy flows smoothly.’

Visual clutter is another key consideration. ‘A chaotic space affects the whole home and everyone in it,’ Suzanne warns. Clear countertops, a clutter-free fridge, and streamlined storage instantly give the kitchen room to breathe. Never neglect practical details, such as emptying bins – stagnant trash creates stuck energy,’ adds Suzanne Roynon.

Knife Feng Shui

Finally, consider your kitchen knife Feng Shui. ‘Remove knives and utensils from view,’ Suzanne advises. ‘Visible sharp objects increase irritability, cut into the space’s energy, and attract dust and grease. If arguments often start in the kitchen, storing knives in drawers is both practical and emotionally stabilizing.’ Using an in-drawer knife block, like the Joseph Joseph DrawerStore Knife Organizer, keeps everything neat and organized.

As interior designer Gala Magriñá notes, ‘Think of the kitchen as the heart of the home. It’s where you nurture through food and shared meals, so it’s essential that the space feels good, supports wellbeing, and allows energy to flow freely.’

The Bathroom

Perfecting your bathroom Feng Shui

Next, turn your attention to perfecting your bathroom Feng Shui.

‘Bathrooms symbolize release through Water energy, and this element isn’t always pure,’ explains Suzanne Butler. ‘In 2026, Fire and Water can create steam, metaphorically speaking. If your bathroom is in the south sector, you may notice heightened emotional reactions unless the space is carefully grounded.’

To balance the energy, she recommends earthy bath mats, stone trays such as the Agate Stone Catchall from Pottery Barn, and neutral tones to stabilise Fire influence. Swapping a fabric bath mat for a sleek, hygienic, fast-drying stone option, available on Amazon, is another subtle but effective way to harmonise the space.

Balancing Water and Fire

‘If the bathroom sits in the north, the Fire Horse year can partially dry excess Water energy, which is helpful, but balance is still essential,’ Suzanne continues. ‘Introduce healthy plants and soft lighting instead of harsh brightness. Bathrooms in 2026 should feel contained and calm, not clinical or echoing.’

Lighting and ambiance

This emphasis on bathroom lighting is echoed by Suzanne Roynon, who notes the trend for darker, soothing bathing experiences. ‘Try turning off the main lights and using your best candles to see if you enjoy the effect before committing to a full redesign,’ she advises. My personal pick for a spa-like scent is the Skandinavisk Fjord Scented Candle, made from a non-GMO Swedish rapeseed wax blend.

Small details matter

‘Feng Shui also encourages keeping faucets and drains in good working order,’ adds Suzanne Roynon. ‘Fix drips and blockages to prevent the draining of wealth and prosperity.’ Interior designer Gala echoes this, noting that closing the toilet lid and the bathroom door helps offset negative energy.

Finally, Feng Shui should be considered when planning a new bathroom or redesign in 2026. ‘Small details that support comfort are often underestimated,’ says Laura Hammett. ‘The placement of fittings within easy reach, the feel of materials underfoot, and sufficient storage for guest toiletries all influence how welcoming the room feels. These subtle elements make a surprisingly big difference.’

The Bedroom

Why bedrooms matter most

Finally, bedroom Feng Shui is more important than ever in 2026. Suzanne Roynon explains, ‘Of all the spaces in the home, the bedroom is the most essential for rest, romance, and relaxation. Walking into the room should instantly melt away the concerns of the day and replace them with a sense of contentment. That might seem ambitious, but with a few simple tweaks, any bedroom can achieve this, regardless of size.’

In the Year of the Fire Horse, sleep can feel more fragile because Fire governs the heart and nervous system. Suzanne Butler notes that bedrooms in the south sector may feel particularly restless this year. To restore balance, reduce red tones, remove electronics, and prioritize Metal and Earth elements alongside soft, neutral colors.

Essential furniture and lighting tips

‘A solid headboard is non-negotiable in 2026,’ she continues. ‘It provides both emotional and physical support. Matching bedside tables helps restore balance in relationships, which can feel more intense this year. Keep lighting dim to encourage downtime.’

Laura adds, ‘For spaces dedicated to relaxation, like bedrooms or cozy reading corners, bedroom lighting ideas should feel enveloping, gentle, and cocoon-like. I favor dimmable lamps and alabaster or glass wall lights, which emit a soft glow and allow you to control the ambiance.’ Small touches, such as a lightly scented candle or a low-wattage bulb from Amazon in a bedside lamp, enhance calm and make unwinding effortless.

Adjustments for north vs south bedrooms

Conversely, if your bedroom is in the north, you may notice heightened emotional sensitivity or a tendency to overthink. Suzanne Butler suggests introducing warm lighting and rich, textured fabrics to create a cocooning effect.

‘Bed placement is crucial,’ she explains. ‘Always position the bed in the command position, so you can see the door without being directly in line with it. And follow key Feng Shui mirror rules: avoid mirrors facing the bed, as amplified Fire energy combined with reflected Qi can disrupt sleep and restfulness.’

Bedding and color choices

Your mattress is the foundation of a good night’s sleep, so it’s the first place to start. I recommend the i10 mattress from Sleep Number – it’s irresistibly cool and designed to keep you comfortable throughout the night, making it easier to drift off and wake up feeling truly rested.

When it comes to the best bedding, opt for breathable natural fabrics. I’ve been testing and loving the BedThreads 100% French Flax Linen bedding, while Gala also recommends sets from Quince. ‘They offer superior comfort, are hypoallergenic, and don’t have synthetic irritants that can disrupt sleep,’ she notes. Color choices also make a difference. Interior designer Rebecca Hughes is a fan of soothing blues.

‘Decorating with blue is inherently calming and perfect for winding down. In a recent project, we used blue linen walls in the master bedroom, paired with Bennison curtains and bed textiles. The effect is timeless, serene, and restorative.’ She advises layering tactile materials like linen, wool, and warm woods, maintaining a restrained palette, and leaving space around each piece to breathe.

The power of decluttering

Decluttering is equally crucial. Katie Brindle, Feng Shui expert and Chinese medicine practitioner, explains, ‘A clean, organized bedroom allows energy to flow freely. Clutter blocks positive energy and can lead to stress and overwhelm. This is especially important under the bed, as clear space supports restorative sleep. Regular decluttering symbolizes letting go of old energy and making room for new, positive energy.’

As spring and summer approach in 2026, this focus on restoration is even more vital. Rebecca concludes, ‘We are moving away from visual noise and toward spaces that support rejuvenation: layered lighting, meaningful objects instead of clutter, and layouts that enable quiet rituals. A calm home isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating an environment that gently supports your nervous system the moment you walk through the door.’

What to Shop

To help harmonize your sanctuary for the year ahead, explore our curated 2026 Feng Shui edit. From tactile textiles to thoughtfully designed storage, each piece has been carefully chosen to bring together refined design and the ancient principles of placement – all guided by the insight of our trusted experts.

Meet the Experts

For more Feng Shui advice, you can sign up for our newsletter so you never miss the latest features.

The Boston fern is one of the most luscious houseplants to grow in the home, with feathered, sword-shaped fronds. In Feng Shui, they're considered grounding and purifying, and experts say the best way to reap these qualities is by knowing exactly where to place a Boston fern.

Of course, choosing the right spot for your plant should take into account Boston fern care. Most importantly, these tropical beauties need high humidity (which you can provide with a plant mister, like this from Amazon), bright, but indirect light, and consistent moisture. But, as a Feng Shui plant, you should also consider where its energy will be maximized.

Here, Feng Shui experts outline the best (and worst) places for a Boston fern, and explain why exactly these spots help harness its positive energy in the home.

What Do Boston Ferns Represent in Feng Shui?

Boston ferns are actually one of the best indoor ferns for Feng Shui.

'In the right parts of the home, the Boston fern is a Feng Shui workhorse, purifying the air immediately around it, and pushing its beautiful ladder fronds upwards and outwards. It’s the ideal metaphor for positive Feng Shui energy,' explains Feng Shui expert Suzanne Roynon.

There's also a lot of symbolism around Boston ferns as grounding and healing plants.

'Its feathery fronds resemble the Heart Chakra’s radiating field. It softens harsh energy and restores emotional flow,' explains Feng Shui practitioner Helen Plehn.

'Because ferns are ancient plants (they existed long before flowering plants), they carry grounding, root chakra wisdom, especially related to lineage and memory,' she adds.

With all of this in mind, Suzanne and Helen share where to place a Boston fern for positive energy, and where to avoid placing it at all costs to prevent a negative feeling in the home.

Where to Place a Boston Fern – According to Feng Shui

When deciding where to place a Boston fern, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

From a houseplant care point of view, you need to keep in mind that Boston ferns are native to tropical and subtropical regions across the Americas.

Growing beneath tree canopies, they thrive in dappled light and humidity levels between 50-80%. Recreating these conditions as much as possible in the home is key to a thriving plant.

In reference to Feng Shui, the experts encourage you to look at the Feng Shui energy map (or Bagua). This maps your home with different areas governing different energies, providing insight to the best rooms for your Boston Fern.

With this in mind, here are some of the best places for a Boston fern.

The East Corner – Health and Family

Looking at the Bagua, the east corner of the home is the Health and Family area. Helen notes this is one of the strongest regions for Boston ferns.

'Here, it's a beautiful way to encourage healing family relationships or strengthening heart energy,' she says.

'Energetically, it cools fiery spaces. If a home feels tense, argumentative, or overstimulated, the Boston fern absorbs and diffuses that heat,' Helen adds.

They're thought to have Wood energy which is another reason they suit this area well.

'Here they can raise the positive vibe and support improvements in lifestyle which come with classical Feng Shui,' explains Suzanne.

The Southeast Corner – Wealth

The Bagua tells us that the southeast corner of the home governs Wealth. For the grounding energy of Boston fern, this is an ideal spot.

'Here, it supports steady abundance, not sudden bursts, but stable expansion,' says Helen.

As Suzanne mentions, the ladder-like feather fronds of Boston fern are reminiscent of a ladder and represent upward growth, a visual representation of progress and climbing the career ladder.

This is likewise why it also makes a great office plant, even better when placed in the southeast corner of the office.

'If work feels stressful or competitive, this plant restores nervous system balance,' says Helen.

The Bathroom

When it comes to specific rooms, Boston ferns are perfect bathroom plants where they can soak up extra moisture and humidity from shower steam.

'They love humid conditions, moist but not wet soil, and bright natural light without direct sun,' says Suzanne.

'For these reasons, they are ideal in bathrooms and bright airy kitchen environments. They will also love your laundry room, especially one with a very active dryer,' she notes.

'Bathrooms also represent emotional cleansing, so this is excellent placement,' Helen adds.

Where to Never Place a Boston Fern – According to Feng Shui

Just as there are some optimal places for a Boston fern, there are some spots the experts warn to avoid.

'Boston ferns do not like stagnation, so a dark corner should be avoided,' says Helen.

Not only this, but Boston ferns will slowly decline if growing in too-little light, resulting in leggy growth, drooping, and stunted growth. Instead, choose indoor low-light plants, like this ZZ plant from The Sill, for these corners.

It's a Feng Shui houseplant mistake to not meet houseplant needs and allow them to become worse for wear. That's why there are several places to never grow a Boston fern to maintain plant health.

'Avoid entryways with drafts,' says Helen. 'They prefer stable, moist air, with non-fluctuating energy,' she notes.

'Likewise, direct sun energetically burns the plant’s gentle heart frequency and may cause physical leaf scorch,' Helen adds.

FAQs

Can You Place a Boston Fern Outdoors?

Yes, you can grow a Boston fern outdoors, but only permanently across USDA zones 9-11. Though, you can successfully grow it outdoors during warmer months (where it thrives between 65-75°F) and then overwinter a Boston fern indoors as colder temperatures arrive.

If your Boston fern is turning brown, it's likely a cause of insufficient humidity levels. In this case, use methods to increase humidity for indoor plants, like placing your Boston fern on top of this pebble humidity tray on Amazon.

Shop Boston Fern Essentials

If you want to use a spider plant to boost positive energy at home, Feng Shui experts say the southeast corner (your wealth area) or east-facing rooms (linked to growth and vitality) are the most powerful placements. But simply setting it down isn’t enough – intention and positioning matter just as much as the plant itself.

The spider plant is more than just an easy-care houseplant. In Feng Shui, its arching leaves symbolize renewal, expansion and steady growth, making it a natural enhancer of balance and abundance. When placed thoughtfully using the Bagua map and so-called 'Five Element Theory', it can support everything from career momentum to harmonious relationships.

As homeowners continue prioritizing calmer, more restorative interiors in 2026, Feng Shui-friendly plants like the spider plant are gaining renewed attention for their ability to soften spaces while supporting emotional balance. In this guide, we explain why this resilient Feng Shui plant is considered auspicious, the exact spots in your home that maximize its energy, and how to align its natural vitality with your personal intentions to create a space that feels calm, supportive and prosperous.

Why Spider Plants an Auspicious Choice in Feng Shui

Spider plants are prized in Feng Shui for their ability to promote balance, purification and positive energy within the home. Their natural air-filtering qualities are believed to encourage fresh, clean Qi, helping to create a lighter, clearer environment that supports wellbeing.

Beyond air quality, their symbolism runs deeper. In Feng Shui’s Five Element Theory – which explores how wood, fire, earth, metal and water interact to shape energy – plants are typically associated with the wood element, representing growth and vitality.

‘In Feng Shui’s Five Element Theory, a well-balanced environment mirrors the natural flow of energy found in the world around us,’ explains House Therapist and Feng Shui Practitioner Amy Babish.

While spider plants contain both earth (stability) and wood (growth) elements, Amy says it’s their overall energetic movement that makes them especially powerful.

‘While the spider plant does contain earth and wood elements, we look at the energetic movement, contribution, and impact of the whole plant.’

With their cascading leaves that mimic the gentle flow of water, she explains, spider plants embody the water element – symbolizing adaptability, wisdom and restoration.

Their growth habit adds another layer of auspicious meaning. The arching foliage represents expansion and renewal, while the small ‘spiderettes’ they produce are seen as symbols of fertility, prosperity and continuous opportunity.

These macrame planters, spotted on Amazon, give a wonderfully vintage feel, especially when housing a spider plant.

How to Place a Spider Plant Intentionally

Before placing your spider plant, take a moment to set an intention for what you want it to bring into your life – whether it's growth, creativity, balance, or abundance.

Amy Babish explains that many people focus on success, ambition, and personal growth, all of which are linked to the wood element in Feng Shui. However, just like a tree needs water to grow strong, your ambitions need restoration and nourishment to thrive.

Since spider plants embody the water element, setting an intention when placing them can help create a balanced flow of energy, supporting steady growth without the stress of burnout or the frustration of feeling stuck.

One simple yet powerful way to set an intention is to speak it aloud when placing your spider plant. For example: 'May this plant support my creativity and personal growth; this plant brings harmony and abundance into my home.'

This small ritual strengthens your connection with the plant and enhances its energetic impact on your space.

Of course, keeping your spider plant healthy in its chosen spot is paramount, and this soil moisture meter from Amazon is often essential to knowing when it needs watering.

For more guidance on Feng Shui principles, Feng Shui Made Simple, from Amazon can offer valuable tips.

Best Locations for a Spider Plant, According to Feng Shui

When it comes to placement, intention is everything. Rather than positioning a spider plant at random, Feng Shui experts recommend choosing a location that aligns with what you’d like to cultivate in your life.

‘If you know the Feng Shui bagua mandala, you can select an area of your home that aligns with your intention and place any plant there,’ says Anjie Cho, holistic interior designer and Feng Shui expert at the Mindful Design Feng Shui School.

‘For instance, you can place one in the wealth area of the Feng Shui bagua mandala with the intention that you’d like your financial investments to also flourish.’

The Bagua is essentially an energetic map of your home, explains Amy Babish. ‘The Bagua is an energetic map that overlays a space, revealing how different areas correspond to different aspects of life – such as career, relationships, health, and wealth. By understanding these connections, we can intentionally design our surroundings to support our aspirations, goals, and dreams.’

In practical terms, many practitioners align the bottom edge of the Bagua map with the wall containing your front door, dividing your home into nine life areas.

rom there, you can position your spider plant in the zone that reflects your focus – whether that’s prosperity, personal growth or professional momentum.

By intentionally placing a spider plant where it aligns with these energies, you amplify its symbolic power while creating a home that feels purposeful and harmonious.

Career and Life Journey Gua

This gua is ruled by the water element, making it a natural home for a spider plant.

Placing one in the career and life journey area is believed to enhance flow, attract new opportunities, and support both professional progress and personal growth.

‘Career and life journey gua is the most auspicious place for a spider plant,’ explains Amy Babish. ‘Intentionally placing the water element in its elemental home adds flow to whatever you’re welcoming into your life, work, and relationships. It also supports the Qi to flow into your home, supporting the overall elemental balance.’

According to the Bagua map, this area is located near the front entrance. ‘If you're looking for something new in your life such as a new job, new relationship, or simply fresh new energy, I recommend placing spider plants near the front door,’ says Lisa Morton of Pure Living with Lisa Morton. ‘This encourages new opportunities to flow towards them.’

A spider plant can also work well in a home office or workspace, where its water energy is thought to promote clarity, motivation and career momentum.

Thanks to their trailing habit, they are wonderful plants to place on a high shelf or in hanging planters. To suspend your spider plant, pot it up in a hanging indoor planter, just like this one from Amazon.

Family and New Beginnings Gua

In Five Element Theory, water nourishes wood, making the family and new beginnings gua an ideal spot for personal growth, fresh starts, or family-oriented intentions.

‘The water element generates the wood element,’ explains Amy Babish. ‘If you’re looking to grow something in your life or have an intention that needs support to flourish, placing a spider plant with intention in the family and new beginnings gua will help it along.’

On the Bagua map, this gua is located in the eastern part of your home. Ideal spots for your spider plant include the living room, dining area, or any east-facing space, where its energy can encourage renewal, growth, and strong family connections.

'When you add intention, Five Element Theory, and the Bagua map to the placement of a spider plant or any Feng Shui remedy, you’re creating opportunities for more impact, as well as an auspicious outcome,' says Amy Babish.

If you want more spider plant energy in your home, baby spiderettes can be used to propagate a spider plant.

Anjie Cho says, 'They propagate themselves given suitable living conditions, which in turn offers abundant and prosperous Qi. You don’t have to do much for them to create plant babies, which imparts beneficial energy, good luck and good fortune for the home.'

Simply repot these mini spider plants for extra greenery or share them with loved ones, making them a beautiful and ever-growing addition to your space.

For many families, decorating with red on 17 February isn’t just about picking a color – it’s a ritual that feels alive, meaningful, and full of intention. In cultures that celebrate the Lunar New Year, particularly those rooted in Chinese tradition, red isn’t just decorative. It’s a way of welcoming good fortune, love, and protection into the home as the new year begins.

During this season, homes glow with red lanterns, couplets, delicate paper cuttings, and textiles. Many even hand out lucky red envelopes with money – similar to these Red Envelopes for the Chinese New Year from Amazon – for luck and abundance.

These vibrant touches aren’t just decorative – they’re believed to sweep away bad luck and fill the space with joy, warmth, and the promise of prosperity. There’s an undeniable energy in red, a lucky color that enlivens every corner of the home and sets the tone for a bright year ahead.

Designers often note that it’s one of the most stimulating and dynamic colors, which is why it can feel so alive when woven into a home. Too much, and it can feel overwhelming, but balanced with softer tones or strategic accents, red brings warmth, vibrancy, and a sense of life – exactly what you want as a new year begins.

Decorating with red has long been a color of celebration and significance. From ancient weddings – such as Roman brides draping red shawls to symbolize love and loyalty – to modern-day China, where red represents good fortune and happiness, the hue has always carried significant meaning.

Beyond tradition, color psychologists have found that red can influence our moods, perceptions, and even our energy levels.

In interiors, it’s more than just a pretty accent color: red can subtly affect how we feel and even our physiology, making spaces feel lively, engaging, and emotionally charged. There’s something about the deep shades of crimson, scarlet, and ruby that gives a room presence and vitality, which is exactly why red feels so powerful in Lunar New Year homes.

Hebe Hatton, Head of Interior Design at Homes & Gardens, puts it beautifully: ‘Used in the right way, red room ideas don’t just energize a room – it gives it personality and presence. It can make a space feel welcoming, confident, and full of life, which is why it’s such a powerful choice when we want to set an intentional tone.’

That’s why red works so perfectly for Lunar New Year decorating. It’s not only about honoring tradition – it’s about how color makes us feel: grounded, hopeful, and ready for what lies ahead. With thoughtful placement and a mix of textures, those red accents become more than festive flair. They fill the home with optimism, energy, and warmth that lasts long after the celebrations have ended.

At the end of the day, a red palette – or even an unexpected red scheme – is as much about intention as it is about style. It’s a way to invite positivity, celebrate life, and usher in the year with hope and joy. This simple yet powerful tradition transforms your home, filling it with warmth and energy, and sets the tone for months of good fortune to come.

Shop Red Accents

Even if you’re not planning to lean into red on 17 February, this bold hue deserves a place in your home all year round. Thanks to the 'unexpected red theory' – the idea that adding a touch of red to any space instantly makes it feel more dynamic, layered and intentionally designed – even the smallest crimson accent can completely transform a room. A flash of red on a side table, bookshelf or sofa adds warmth, contrast and that elusive designer edge.

Whether you're planning on celebrating the Lunar New Year next week, which falls on February 17 this year, or don't tend to mark it, there's one little-known practice that Feng Shui experts promise can bring you wealth and abundance regardless.

Known as 'rolling in the gold,' the simple act of rolling nine oranges through your doorway on the first day of the Lunar New Year is believed to encourage good fortune, prosperity, and success.

Here's why this unusual February practice is key to creating good Feng Shui in your home in the Year of the Horse.

Why Do People Roll Oranges Through Their Entryway on Chinese New Year's Day?

To find out more about 'rolling in the gold' as a way to use Feng Shui in the Year of the Horse at home, I spoke to Suzanne Roynon, a Feng Shui consultant and interiors therapist.

She explains, 'This is an enjoyable tradition to encourage good fortune, prosperity, and success into homes on the first day of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

'In some Chinese dialects, the word for orange sounds very much like the word for ‘gold’, while tangerine evokes the word for ‘luck’, and every homeowner wants to see the benefits of having extra wealth and good luck entering their property.

'Oranges, tangerines, mandarins, and even tiny kumquats are rolled over the threshold and into the home, sometimes accompanied by a handful of Chinese coins to amplify their effect.'

And, as Katie Brindle, Chinese Medicine practitioner and cosmologist, points out, 'The bright color and round shape of an orange also resemble gold ingots, which have historically been a powerful symbol of wealth in China.'

In particular, adds Suzanne Butler, a Feng Shui practitioner from Harmonizing Energies, this is all to do with entryway Feng Shui, and is a symbolic way of activating the home's main entry point, known in Feng Shui as the mouth of qi, where opportunity and prosperity enter.

'By rolling them inward, you are intentionally welcoming fresh energy into the home for the year ahead, encouraging prosperity to arrive smoothly and stay, rather than rush back out,' she says.

Once it has been rolled in, it is then eaten with family, friends, and community, to share the positive energy around.

For added luck and prosperity, Katie explains that she always uses oranges in her red envelope ritual, significant as red is one of the luckiest colors to decorate with in 2026.

'Traditionally, in China, red envelopes are filled with money and given as gifts to pass on good fortune and blessings,' she explains. 'I use them slightly differently.

'Every year, just before Chinese New Year, I go online and buy red envelopes. I share these envelopes with my children and close friends, and, instead of money, we place a written wish for the year ahead inside our own envelope. This year, the wishes are for 2026.'

Katie shares that, once written, she places the envelopes underneath a fruit bowl, filled with mandarins.

'I then place this in a special place in my home for the first three days of the New Year,' she continues. 'You can eat a mandarin a day if you like.

'Just before the next Chinese New Year, I find my envelopes, open them, and reflect. Did my wishes come true?'

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Planning to redecorate? According to our experts, the best entryway color for Feng Shui depends on the direction your house faces.

Tuesday 17 February marks the start of the Year of the Fire Horse, and it's the perfect opportunity to harness the growth, success, and optimism this Lunar New Year presents. One of the best, and most beautiful, ways to bring this into your home is through houseplants that represent the Year of the Fire Horse.

The Year of the Fire Horse is all about bold change, progress, and personal shifts, and Feng Shui experts say there are plenty of Feng Shui houseplants that align perfectly with this, ideal for setting good intentions for the year ahead.

Not only are they typically red houseplants that are considered to have Fire energy, there are some houseplants on this list that are particularly poignant in strengthening the energy around career and growth. Here, the experts list their top three picks and how to make the most of their energies this year.

3 Houseplants That Represent the Year of the Horse

The Year of the Fire Horse is a fast-paced and transformative period in Chinese astrology.

It combines Horse's speed with Fire's intensity, exuding independent growth, creativity, and bold change.

There are plenty of houseplants that represent these ideas in the Feng Shui practice, naturally lending themselves as the perfect companions to supporting goals this Lunar New Year.

'The Fire Horse year amplifies movement, visibility, and momentum. Bold, upright plants with strong colour and structure help channel that intensity so it doesn’t tip into chaos, burnout, or impulsive decision-making,' adds Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui.

1. Anthurium

There's no surprise anthuriums are on this list of houseplants that represent the Year of the Fire Horse, with their bright red spathes and upright growth.

'Anthuriums, with their vibrant red, heart-shaped flowers, radiate bold, fiery energy,' says Feng Shui practitioner Helen Plehn.

'They symbolize passion, protection, and courage, which are all qualities associated with the Fire Horse’s dynamic, independent spirit. The glossy red mirrors the intensity of Fire element energy,' she adds.

Red houseplants like anthuriums are often thought to have a psychological impact on us when grown in the home, as the vibrancy provides an energizing feeling.

Although not a traditional Feng Shui plant, you can still use the Feng Shui energy map (or Bagua) to decide where to best place an anthurium.

'I recommend the south of the home (the Fame and Reputation area), for personal recognition and courage this Year of the Fire Horse,' says Helen.

'The east (Health and Family) can also be a good spot, to support healing and vitality, which is especially important during the transformative Fire Horse years,' she adds.

2. Lucky Red Bamboo

When it comes to lucky houseplants, there are few more reliable than lucky bamboo. For the Year of the Fire Horse, lucky red bamboo is a top choice.

'This plant merges two powerful elements: Wood and Fire. The bamboo represents growth, resilience, and uprightness, while the red ribbon or vase adds auspicious Fire energy,' Helen explains.

'In a Fire Horse year, it symbolizes bold ambition and fast-paced movement,' she adds.

It's Feng Shui tradition to add red ribbon (you can use this red ribbon from Amazon) to lucky bamboo to harness this fire energy Helen describes. Often, lucky red bamboo is sold in this arrangement, like from Walmart.

For extra good fortune, Helen suggests placing lucky bamboo carefully:

'The southeast (Wealth and Abundance) is a good spot for activating prosperity and luck, and it supports fearless goal setting for this Lunar New Year,' she says.

3. Bromeliad

With the Year of the Fire Horse being all about bold moves and statements, there's no better choice of houseplant than bromeliads.

'These plants embody Fire Horse energy through their strong central structure and vivid colour, which represent focus, presence, and self-assurance,' describes Suzanne Butler.

'Unlike softer foliage plants, bromeliads make a statement, aligning well with a year that rewards courage and visibility.

'They are best placed in communal areas such as living rooms or dining spaces, or in the south sector of the home, where they can enhance recognition, motivation, and dynamic energy,' Suzanne adds.

Although, there is one word of warning Suzanne offers:

'They do require a significant amount of water which could dilute the Fire energy,' she says.

Nevertheless, there's no doubt bromeliads of all kinds will provide an energizing feel to interiors this year.

Just make sure to keep caring for bromeliads after they flower to encourage 'pup' growth to propagate and gain new plants for free.

FAQs

Are Peace Lilies a Good Choice for the Year of the Fire Horse?

'While the peace lily is not a natural match for the bold, fast-moving energy of the Fire Horse year, it plays an important supporting role,' says Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui.

'In Feng Shui, peace lilies represent purification, emotional regulation, and restoration, making them valuable in a year that can feel intense or overstimulating.

'Their soft white blooms and flowing leaves help calm excess Fire energy rather than amplify it,' she explains.

In terms of where to place a peace lily, Suzanne suggests bathrooms and quiet corners where they can bring some calmness, recovery, and stabilization.

No matter which houseplants that represent the Year of the Fire Horse you decide to add to your home, make sure to read up on Feng Shui houseplant mistakes to avoid.

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With the Lunar New Year less than a week away, Feng Shui experts reveal there's one particular item you should be paying particular attention to ahead of the Year of the Horse.

Prosperity bowls are designed to attract wealth, abundance, and good fortune into your home, but curating yours with powerful items such as citrus fruits is only half the job – you'll also need to know exactly where to place it for the best results.

Here, our Feng Shui pros explain exactly what a prosperity bowl is, what to put in it, and where to place it at home to harness the Year of the Horse Feng Shui.

What Is a Feng Shui Prosperity Bowl?

As Suzanne Butler, a Feng Shui practitioner at Harmonizing Energies, explains, a prosperity or wealth bowl is a prominent reminder or intention to bring wealth into your life, and is used to create good Feng Shui in your home.

'It represents having resources in an abundant reserve, rather than living in a state of constant cash outflow,' she says. 'When styled thoughtfully, it can sit seamlessly within both contemporary and classic interiors, functioning as both an energetic anchor or refined design element.'

Katie Brindle, Feng Shui expert, Chinese medical practitioner, and cosmologist, adds that these are typically curated with items that symbolize wealth, abundance, luck, and positive energy, and that each element inside the bowl is chosen for its purpose and frequency, working together to enhance your home's financial qi, or energy.

'Simple yet powerful, this tool, when used correctly, can help draw in positive financial energy,' she assures.

Where to Put a Feng Shui Prosperity Bowl

'Placement is where Feng Shui becomes particularly important,' advises Suzanne Butler. The most supportive locations for your prosperity bowl include:

• The south-east area of the home or a main living space, traditionally associated with wealth and growth, and Feng Shui wealth corners.
• The west area of the home, for new beginnings.
• The North area of the home, for career.
• A home office or study, for good office Feng Shui, especially if income is tied to decision-making or creative output. This easy Feng Shui tweak for your home office is also thought to boost focus.
• An entry console or sideboard, positioned to symbolically welcome prosperity into the home.

Ideally, continues Suzanne Butler, the bowl should be placed somewhere visible yet uncluttered, to reinforce the idea that abundance is acknowledged and respected, rather than hidden away.

However, adds Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui consultant and interiors therapist, 'If you don’t feel comfortable having a bowl of money visible to guests, place them in rooms which the family uses, but visitors don’t see.'

Where to Never Put a Feng Shui Prosperity Bowl

Knowing where to never put your prosperity bowl is also equally important.

For example, highlights Suzanne Butler, your prosperity bowl should not be placed in your bathroom ideas or near toilets, where energy is associated with loss and draining, in your kitchen ideas near sinks or stoves, where water and fire elements can clash and destabilize financial energy, or used for bedroom Feng Shui, where prosperity symbolism can interfere with rest, relationships, and emotional balance.

'Feng Shui is not just about what you add to a space, but where you place it,' she adds. 'Even the most beautifully styled bowl will struggle to work if positioned in an energetically unsuitable area.'

What Should Be Placed in a Feng Shui Prosperity Bowl?

Emilia Guasconi, certified Feng Shui consultant and founder of Your Abundant Space, advises, 'Prosperity bowls are usually filled with meaningful items such as coins, citrus fruits, crystals like citrine or pyrite, red envelopes, and symbols of growth – each item chosen to represent prosperity, vitality, and opportunity,' and makes easy energy shifts for your home.

'For a modern approach, I recommend using a beautiful ceramic or glass bowl filled with fresh mandarins, gold-toned coins, and crystals like citrine or pyrite for both energetic and aesthetic impact.'

We'd recommend using one of your best bowls for this – the Vietri Incanto Large Serving Bowl, available at Anthropologie, is perfect.

Suzanne Butler adds that you may also want to add a solid written intention or affirmation, discreetly placed, to anchor personal meaning, and you can also place your bowl on a mirror, such as the Karrina Accent Wood Round Mirror, available at Wayfair, to multiply the riches you wish to receive.

Alternatively, Katie also shares that she adds Green Aventurine stones to hers, which are believed to attract financial abundance and bring great wealth (jade can also be used as an alternative), bay leaves, to offer protection against negative energy, and Pyrite, to protect against loss while drawing in wealth and abundance.

Most importantly, warns Suzanne Roynon, don't confuse a prosperity bowl (open top) with a 'wealth jar.'

She explains, 'Wealth jars have a lid to protect the contents, which might include seeds, rice, and other dried foodstuffs, and are tucked away in the backs of cupboards or wardrobes to denote hidden wealth.

'These are never reopened. Putting edible items into an open-topped bowl can attract vermin.'

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Next, perfect your Feng Shui furniture placement for improved energy flow at home.

When you move into a new place, you'd be forgiven if Feng Shui house numbers aren't what sells a property to you. But, as our experts in the ancient Chinese practice explain, where your house or apartment sits on a street can have more of a bearing than you may believe.

Here, they explain how your house number can affect your entryway Feng Shui, and how to fix any bad luck.

The Meaning of Different Feng Shui House Numbers

Want to know what your front door numbers mean? Nataliia Myronova, Feng Shui and spiritual advisor at Nebula, shares, 'In classical Feng Shui, the location of the house, the layout of the room, and the direction of the entrance play a key role.

'However, many people pay attention to whether an address number is considered "lucky" due to cultural tradition. In Feng Shui and Chinese numerology, each number is believed to have its own symbolism and "vibration."'

Nataliia explains what each mean:

• Zero: Wholeness. 'A symbol of both the beginning and the end – like a reset and a clean slate. In Chinese, the word for “zero” can sound similar to words associated with “good,” so having a zero in your address is often seen as supportive and full of possibility.'
• One: New beginnings. One is a neutral number, so its meaning often depends on the numbers around it. 'A one in an address can be associated with independence and forward-moving energy,' adds Nataliia.
• Two: Love and balance. The word for 'two' in Chinese can sound similar to words linked with 'ease.' Nataliia explains, 'A two in the address is often associated with harmony and supportive partnership energy.'
• Three: Positivity. Three is generally a positive number, and can be connected with growth and new beginnings, though its influence in an address is often seen as mild.
• Four: Stability. In Feng Shui, the number four is associated with stability and a strong foundation, but, Nataliia adds, '"Four" sounds similar to the word for "death," so it's often avoided.
• Five: Change. 'Often considered inauspicious because its pronunciation can be associated with negation and, in some interpretations, sadness,' advises Nataliia. 'So, having a five in an address may feel less "lucky" to some people.'
• Six: Financial wealth. Six is a strong number in Feng Shui and is often associated with success and smooth progress. Nataliia explains, 'A six in an address can be seen as supportive for luck, and even wealth. Multiple sixes, like 66, are often thought to amplify that energy.'
• Seven: Spirituality. Seven is a more ambiguous number. 'In some interpretations, its pronunciation can be associated with deception or betrayal, so it may be seen as a number that needs balancing,' says Nataliia.
• Eight: Prosperity. Eight is one of the most auspicious numbers, as, in Chinese, it can sound similar to words linked to wealth or prosperity. 'So, an eight in an address is usually considered a great sign,' shares Nataliia.
• Nine: Longevity: Nine is often associated with longevity and completion, so is generally considered a positive number.

As Nataliia touched on, putting numbers together can mean they impart different meanings. Cathy Orr, Feng Shui expert, professional organizer, and cofounder of The Uncluttered Life, shares these additions:

• 11: Strong leadership
• 22: Soulmate energy
• 33: Family luck
• 44: Strong protection
• 88: Extreme luck and wealth
• 99: Long-lasting success
• 168: Road to wealth and a very good number in an address
• 666: Smooth wealth flow
• 520: I love you

What Are the Unluckiest Numbers

'The unluckiest number is four,' advises Nataliia. 'But it's not only a "pure four" that's considered problematic.' In fact, she adds, there's a common catch that could be negatively affecting your front door ideas. 'If the digits of an address reduce to four, it may also be seen as unlucky.'

This sounds more confusing than it is in reality. For example, 31 reduces to four, as three plus one equals four. 'Along with four, the numbers five and seven are also often considered unfavorable,' Nataliia continues.

'Interestingly, 13 (even though one plus three equals four) is often seen as positive. That's because its pronunciation in Chinese can sound similar to words associated with "growth."

'By contrast, 14 is considered especially unfavorable because its pronunciation can resemble a phrase meaning “you will definitely die.” In other words, in Feng Shui, pronunciation can matter more than numerology.

'Addresses like 14, 114, 44, or 444 are often viewed as extremely negative. Still, it’s not worth dramatizing: No number automatically makes a home happy or unhappy. It also matters what energy you bring into your space.'

How to Fix Unlucky Numbers

So, how can you 'fix' unlucky Feng Shui house numbers and curate a calm home sanctuary if you're affected by this Feng Shui house feature to avoid?

'There are a few ways to do this,' assures Nataliia. 'One simple but effective option is to draw a circle around the number as a protective symbol.' You can use chalk, available at Amazon, for this. 'A slightly more involved option is to place live plants near your front door.'

Pay attention, in particular, to Feng Shui plants and lucky houseplants, like money trees, jade plants, and lucky bamboo, and avoid anything prickly, like cacti.

'Another easy trick is to hang a small mirror facing the house number or on the front door,' continues Nataliia, keeping in mind the all-important Feng Shui mirror rules. 'In Feng Shui, mirrors are believed to reflect negative energy. You can also hang a good-luck symbol near the door, like a red ribbon or a bell.'

This could also be, adds Cathy, a red doormat, available at Wayfair, or a wind chime. Alternatively, you can use rounded fonts on your house numbers for added luck, as these shapes are considered to neutralize negative energy, or switch to a Feng Shui front door color.

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Looking for ways to use Year of the Horse Feng Shui at home? Our experts reveal everything you need to know.

Room dividers are a beautiful way to break up a bedroom space with little cost and no building work involved – but the divider you choose has more bearing than just the way it looks.

It may seem unbelievable, but, as our Feng Shui experts warn, room dividers with shelves can actually disrupt your rest and sleep, leaving you tired, deflated, and groggy.

Here, they explain why this bedroom Feng Shui rule is so important, and what to use instead.

Why Room Dividers With Shelves Don't Belong In the Bedroom

We're big believers of using room divider ideas in the bedroom to zone off areas for sleeping, working, and getting ready – making your open-plan space work for you.

But, as Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui expert, interiors therapist, and regular Homes & Gardens contributor, explains, bedroom divider ideas with shelves can be very disruptive to your rest and sleep from an energy perspective, thwarting efforts you make to sleep better and could leave you lethargic come morning.

'It's not just the sharp angles cutting into the energy of the room, known as 'poison arrows' in Feng Shui, but the contents of the shelves too, especially if they include books and brightly colored decor items,' she says. 'These can be overstimulating, prevent the mind from relaxing, and scatter thoughts, making it more difficult to wind down at night.'

For that reason, it's best to style your bookcase with neutral tones and keep it firmly to the edges of your space or even out of your bedroom altogether. For example, we're a huge fan of more modern bookshelf trends, like shelves that accentuate architecture in your living room or hallway, and, if you do want to keep them in your bedroom, backward-facing books.

'There is also a subconscious impact,' continues Suzanne, 'in that the divider effectively creates a place where something could hide, which some people, especially children, can equate with "monsters under the bed",' quickly becoming one of the things in your bedroom that could be ruining your sleep.

What to Use Instead

So, how can you design a bedroom for better sleep? The key, recommends Suzanne, is opting for sheer curtains for a softer way to zone your bedroom and avoid any bedroom layout mistakes.

'A better option for screening is sheer curtains or screens with soft edges, which offer a degree of separation whilst maintaining the sanctuary every bedroom deserves.'

For example, the Melodieux White Semi Sheer Curtains, available at Amazon, are available in 13 colors with an airy, semi-transparent look, while the 3-Panel Pine Wood Frame Room Divider, available at Wayfair, features rounded edges and a natural cane design that lets light filter through, providing a soft ambiance and added privacy.

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Meet the Expert

Having some of the best sleep hacks in your arsenal can also boost sleep quality and help you drift off more easily at night.

With the Lunar New Year just around the corner, there's no better time to harness the energetic and optimistic Feng Shui energy that the Year of the Horse is set to bring on 17 February.

This year, it's all about balance, according to Feng Shui experts and practitioners, who recommend shedding unwanted possessions, balancing earth and water elements, or limiting bright colors to create good Feng Shui in your home.

What Does the Year of the Horse Signify?

If you familiarized yourself with Feng Shui in the Year of the Wood Snake last year, now is the time to shift and change your outlook to curate a calm home sanctuary for the Lunar New Year.

To find out more about what to expect, I spoke to Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui consultant, interiors therapist, and frequent Homes & Gardens contributor. 'The Year of the Fire Horse is all about forward momentum, progress, and expansion,' she explains, 'but it does come with a little effort in terms of seeking out opportunities rather than expecting them to fall into your lap.

'We can expect some turbulence and upheaval, but from the chaos comes collaboration, creativity, and community. Meditation, learning, and reflection are mindful habits to refine the intensity of a Fire year. Those who remain calm and 'ride the horse' will get the best out of the year.'

Suzanne Butler, a Feng Shui practitioner from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui, echoes Suzanne Roynon's advice, urging that the Year of the Horse is never subtle.

'It arrives with movement, momentum, and a collective urge to break free from what feels too tight, too slow, or too small,' she adds. 'In 2026, that energy is amplified by Fire, making this not just a Horse year, but a Fire Horse year, one of the most dynamic combinations in Chinese metaphysics, and 2026 is the first time in 60 years that it has been seen.

'Horse energy is about speed, independence, and forward motion. It doesn't wait for perfect conditions. It moves when something no longer fits.'

So, what does that mean in terms of using Feng Shui in your home this year? 'This is a year that rewards clarity and courage,' continues Suzanne B, 'and it punishes stagnation. You can't coast in a Fire Horse year. You either move with the energy, or you feel like you're being dragged by it.'

Here are seven easy ways our experts recommend channelling that energy for good in your home:

1. Bring In Earth Elements

As Beverly Biehl, Feng Shui master and founder of The Intuitive Interior, warns, though the fact that the 2026 Yang Fire Horse year is a Double Fire year means it's destined to be filled with enthusiasm, rapid growth, and optimism, it may also leave you prone to self-destructive behaviors from being self-centered, too trusting, and too timid to go for what you truly desire. 'Its youthful and playful energy needs to have downtime and solo pursuits to avoid burnout,' she says.

For this, Beverly recommends bringing in Earth elements, such as cozy blankets, deep cushioned sofas, and thick pile rugs to create a sanctuary vibe. You may also choose to decorate with blue.

'Adding Teal accents in the Center of the home threads the needle between the Water element that will cool the Fire, and the Wood element that will feed the Fire,' she explains. The BEDELITE Fleece Throw Teal Blanket, available at Amazon, is an ideal, affordable pick.

'Reflective surfaces and high gloss finishes also add to the Water energy that would nourish the Center,' adds Beverly. Just be mindful of Feng Shui furniture placement.

2. Shed Unwanted Possessions

Next, says Suzanne Roynon, it will be easier to enjoy life in 2026 without the encumbrances of clutter, as overstuffed homes will become a burden as the months pass. For that reason, it's important to declutter for good Feng Shui.

'Take the opportunity in the run-up to Chinese New Year on 17 February to tune into the remaining snake vibe by shedding unwanted possessions, and start spring cleaning early,' she advises, using decluttering methods that work for you and your space. 'You’ll be releasing pent-up stagnant energy, so your home is sparkling for the super-charged Fire Horse when it gallops in.'

You want to create a space that supports momentum, rather than blocking it.

Suzanne Butler explains, 'The Horse does not move well through clutter. It trips in narrow corridors, piles, and bottlenecks. If your home feels congested, your life often does too.'

So, focus on fixing your home's traffic flow, beginning with walkways, entry points, and high-traffic areas.

'If you have to step around things, squeeze past furniture, or navigate piles, your home is mirroring resistance in your life,' adds Suzanne Butler. 'Let go of what belongs to an old version of you. Clothes you no longer wear. Objects tied to guilt, obligation, or just in case.

'The west of your home signifies new beginnings; if this is full of old memories that you need to whittle through, you may find yourself stuck in the past. Make it a priority to clear out.'

Collecting items in a storage basket, available at Walmart will help you decide whether to donate or sell these decluttered items later.

Similarly, another important area to think about is your front door, which represents opportunity and direction.

'Your front door is where life meets you,' Suzanne Butler continues. 'In a Fire Horse year, it should feel like an invitation, not an apology. Make sure it opens fully, feels welcoming, and isn't blocked or forgotten,' to ensure good entryway Feng Shui.

'The Horse is about evolution. Keeping what no longer fits slows you. Feng Shui isn’t about controlling the year. It’s about removing friction so you can move with it.'

3. Plan for Power Outages

This one might seem a little more left-field, but Feng Shui consultant Suzanne Roynon highlights that predictions suggest this may be a year of infrastructure and power supply challenges, representing the imbalance between light and dark.

'It won't hurt to have a backup plan, with batteries, candles, and portable chargers for phones, along with books to distract for occasional WiFi outages,' she says, to prepare your home for a power cut. It's also a good idea to have a home battery backup and emergency heating on hand for these emergencies – the DREO Space Heater, available at Amazon, is a bestseller.

You can also learn how to hook up a generator to your house. Their costs are higher upfront, but they're cheaper to run and excellent for maintaining the running of your home in an outage.

'These periods are messages to slow down and take a break from the constant noise and distraction of modern life,' adds Suzanne Roynon.

4. Keep the South of Your Home Quiet

'Each year, there is one direction in the compass that hosts the unstable 5 Yellow energy,' says Beverly, which is typically linked to obstacles, instability, and misfortune. 'This year it's the South, associated with Fame and Reputation. To avoid negative self-talk, gossip, and muddled communication, keep that area quiet and add more Metal items. This essentially creates a structured "fire pit" to keep the energy burning bright, but safely!'

Suzanne Roynon adds that, alongside decorating with mixed metals, it's also advisable to embrace grey, white, and light earthy colors in this area to support your Feng Shui.

She says, 'Feng Shui professionals recommend removing piquant tones from this area and keeping the space as calm as possible for the duration of 2026.

If you're not looking to fully redecorate this year, adding just a touch of metal, with the Tarbes Boho Abstract Metal Wall Decor, designed by Kelly Clarkson and available at Wayfair, will look stylish and tap into the positive energy of the Year of the Horse at the same time.

5. Limit Bright Colors

On that same vein, as Suzanne Roynon stresses, with the Year of the Horse being a fire year, you may be tempted to activate the fire energy in the home by decorating with red, decorating with orange, or decorating with a pink room.

But, she says, it's best to use these colors wisely, and limit them to soft furnishings and rugs, such as the Brandt Abstract Indoor Rug available at Wayfair, rather than wallcoverings or large furniture.

'An overpowering amount of fire can be exhausting, leading to anger, irritation, and burnout,' she explains, 'so if you start to feel these things, rein in the hot colors.'

6. Clear Your Desk

In the Year of the Horse, your workspace matters more than ever, stresses Suzanne Butler, as the Fire Horse year rewards clarity, strategy, and decisive action.

'A cluttered desk creates mental static,' she warns. 'Clear outdated paperwork, broken tech, and old notes. Then add one item that represents where you are going, not where you’ve been. Your environment should reflect momentum, not memory.'

To perfect your desk Feng Shui, this addition might be plants, candles, or crystals, available at Etsy. You can also make easy Feng Shui tweaks for your home office to boost focus.

7. 'Roll In the Gold'

Finally, explains Beverly, 'I also like the tradition of rolling in the Gold where you take nine oranges and roll them into the house as you walk in your front door on the first day of the Lunar New Year. It's fun, a bit silly, and sends the message to the Universe that you are ready for your abundance!'

For the next Lunar New Year, why not grow your own orange tree with our citrus tree care growing guide?

'Above all, this is not the year to be wishy-washy about where you are headed,' adds Beverly. 'The Horse loves to have a place to run towards, and if you have a "home base" in mind, it will take you there very quickly. Now it's time to hold on tight!'

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All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

'In a Fire Horse year, life accelerates whether you are ready or not,' says Suzanne Butler. 'Your home can either become an anchor that steadies you, or another weight you carry. Clear the runway. When the gate opens, you don’t want to be sorting boxes. You want to be ready to run.'

Wondering about the Feng Shui house features to avoid? Our experts break down everything you need to know.

Not only are bonsai trees houseplants that double as living sculptures, but in the Feng Shui tradition, they also exude vitality and represent harmony and balance. But, Feng Shui experts say the only way to unlock this energy is knowing where to place a bonsai tree correctly.

There's no denying bonsai care is specific and takes time to master. That's why it's slightly different from other Feng Shui houseplants, requiring more attention and not being particularly low-maintenance. However, it's through meticulous attention to detail that one can unlock the mindfulness art of bonsai – placing it intentionally is one of the key factors in this.

Here, the experts impart their wisdom on where to place a bonsai tree to encourage both long-lasting growth and positive energy in the home.

What Do Bonsai Trees Represent in Feng Shui?

Bonsai trees are not traditional Feng Shui plants, but they have gained popularity for bringing a sense of balance and harmony, as well as encouraging disciplined practice.

'Because it mimics nature on a miniature scale, it evokes balance, mindfulness, and the essence of Earth Qi (Chi), the grounding, stabilizing energy in Feng Shui,' says Feng Shui practitioner Helen Plehn.

'They are often associated with the Wood Element, which supports growth, vitality, and upward momentum in your life,' she explains.

As well as its physical characteristics, there's much to be said about the art of bonsai.

Carefully pruning and shaping a bonsai tree (using special bonsai tools, available on Amazon) is a mindful, disciplined, and creative practice that can restore your feeling of balance.

With that being said, this will only be felt when a bonsai tree is placed in certain spots of the home. Here, Feng Shui experts advise.

Where to Place a Bonsai Tree – According to Feng Shui

When deciding where to place a bonsai tree, there are a couple of things to consider.

In Feng Shui, experts urge you to look at the Feng Shui energy map (or Bagua). This outlines the different areas of the home and the energies they look after, so you can make intentional placements.

Secondly, consider the needs of your bonsai tree. Of course, there are lots of bonsai tree types to choose from, all with slightly differing requirements. However, for the most part, these trees do best in a room with bright light and average-high humidity to promote steady growth and retain leaves.

With this in mind, here are three of the best places for a bonsai tree, according to Feng Shui.

The East Corner – Health and Family

In reference to the Bagua, the east corner of the home (when standing at the front door and looking in) is the Health and Family area.

For Helen, this is where to place a bonsai tree for optimal results.

'Bonsai trees channel refined Wood energy, activating areas of your life that need nurturing attention and steady progress,' she says.

By placing it in the Health and Family area, bonsai's grounding energy can be harnessed and harmony can be encouraged.

The Southeast Corner – Wealth

'Southeast governs Wealth and Abundance, and Wood element plants like bonsai nourish this area,' says Helen.

The symbolism of discipline and the balance of bonsai can help bring good fortune, wealth, and growth in your life, making it a good choice for this productive area of the home.

The Home Office

In terms of a specific room, bonsai works well as an office plant.

This is, once again, thanks to its Wood energy, promoting upward growth and vitality, ideal for the room in which you work on your career and invest in the future.

Where to Never Place a Bonsai Tree – According to Feng Shui

Just like many other Feng Shui plants, bonsai does come with a warning:

'Bonsai trees are admired for their artistry and elegance, but from a Feng Shui perspective, they come with a caution label,' says Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui.

'Bonsai are deliberately designed to stay small. Energetically, they can represent limitation, restraint, and stunted growth.

'For this reason, I generally don’t recommend bonsai for areas connected to growth, like the living room,' Suzanne says.

Likewise, Helen suggests avoiding the bedroom: 'It has too much upward energy and can be disruptive here.'

It would also be a Feng Shui houseplant mistake to place a bonsai tree where it will struggle to grow, because an unhealthy plant is one that blocks energy, disrupts balance, and brings about a negative feeling.

This means you shouldn't place a bonsai tree somewhere that is dark, in the path of a draft, or in a room with particularly dry air. These conditions can lead to dropping leaves and a lack of new growth.

If you are struggling to keep humidity levels up, try methods to increase humidity for indoor plants. For example, you can place your bonsai tree on this pebble tray (from Amazon).

FAQs

What's the Best Type of Bonsai Tree for Positive Feng Shui?

There isn't necessarily a best type of bonsai for Feng Shui. 'The symbolism comes from the practice itself rather than the species,' explains Suzanne Butler, a Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui. Instead, you should focus on what suits your aesthetic and will grow happily in your home. One of the easiest bonsai trees for beginners includes a juniper bonsai tree (available on Amazon).

To get the most out of your bonsai, read up on bonsai tree mistakes to avoid. A happy houseplant is one that will be the most uplifting in your home.

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The heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is one of the best houseplants for encouraging positivity in the Feng Shui tradition. It represents love, emotional healing, and steady growth, though experts say this energy can only be unlocked by getting placement right: spaces of reflection and where loved ones gather.

The good news is caring for a philodendron is straightforward and you'll enjoy long vines of heart-shaped leaves if you grow it in a bright spot. As a Feng Shui plant, experts say it carries a 'soft, supportive energy' that will be optimized when the plant is growing healthily.

They warn, however, choosing the wrong location when deciding where to place a heartleaf philodendron will block its energy and may even bring about a negative feeling. Here's everything you need to know.

Where to Place a Heartleaf Philodendron – According to Feng Shui

The first thing to know about where to place a heartleaf philodendron is its required growing environment.

This tropical indoor plant can be found growing natively in Central and South American rainforests, as well as the Caribbean. It enjoys bright, yet indirect, sunlight, higher humidity, and consistent moisture.

Recreating this environment in the home as much as possible is key to encouraging vigorous growth.

Feng shui experts also urge you to turn to the Feng shui energy map (or Bagua) for placement insight.

'This plant embodies love, emotional healing, adaptability, and heart-centered living,' says Feng Shui practitioner Helen Plehn.

'Its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves energetically open the Heart Chakra, promoting self-love, compassion, and forgiveness,' she explains.

With this in mind, here are the best spots for a heartleaf philodendron and where to avoid placing it.

Best Places for a Heartleaf Philodendron

In reference to the Bagua, there are a few optimal spots the experts recommend for a heartleaf philodendron.

'In the Southwest of the home (the Love and Relationships corner), heartleaf philodendron enhances emotional healing and intimacy,' says Helen. 'It can also work well in the East of the home (the Family corner) to promote harmonious relationships and emotional security,' she adds.

In terms of specific rooms, consider making your heartleaf philodendron a living room plant or even a kitchen plant where loved ones gather.

'The heartleaf philodendron is a beautiful representation of connection,' says Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui. 'Its shape and movement bring a sense of ease and flow into a space. It’s nurturing without being overpowering,' she explains.

In particular, Suzanne recommends positioning a heartleaf philodendron near the front door in an entryway to create a welcoming feeling for visitors.

'It’s perfect for people who want growth energy in their home that feels kind rather than intense,' Suzanne notes. 'It supports relationships, communication, and a sense of being held by your environment,' she adds.

Where to Place a Heartleaf Philodendron for Healthy Growth

In terms of where to place a heartleaf philodendron to keep your houseplant happy and healthy, there are a few essential requirements to meet.

As mentioned, these indoor hanging plants naturally grow in rainforests.

There, they're exposed to bright but indirect light, so you should avoid a direct sun position. This may cause leaf scorch and turn your philodendron yellow or even red from stress.

They're also humidity-lovers, so would do well as a hanging bathroom plant, soaking up steam from the shower. Or, use methods to increase humidity for indoor plants by using a pebble humidity tray (from Amazon) or placing neighboring houseplants to create a microclimate.

Worst Places for a Heartleaf Philodendron

Getting the wrong placement for your heartleaf philodendron would be a Feng Shui houseplant mistake, especially if it results in improper conditions and hinders the health of your plant.

This means anywhere with too little light that stunts growth should be avoided. Likewise, sunny, dry rooms (like a conservatory) aren't favorable, nor are those with a cold draft and temperature fluctuations.

But, the good news is, there isn't necessarily a place that can bring about negative energy with a heartleaf philodendron. As long as it is happy, it's thought to support positive 'chi' energy throughout the home.

Just make sure it isn't somewhere cluttered and hidden – a position that that blocks and limits its ability to promote a positive feeling.

Heartleaf philodendron isn't the only plant to promote positive energy in the Love and Relationships corner of the home. You can also place a string of hearts carefully to bring harmony and strengthen emotional connections.

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In Feng Shui, placing a snake plant is about far more than decoration – it’s a way to harmonize your home and improve the flow of energy within it. Rooted in the mindful care of our surroundings, Feng Shui emphasizes the deep connection between nature and our wellbeing.

Valued for its air-purifying qualities and upright, sword-like leaves, snake plants symbolize protection, purification, strength and resilience in Feng Shui. By applying energy mapping principles, you can place a snake plant intentionally to amplify its positive effects – from encouraging prosperity to helping guard against negative energy.

Learning how to care for a snake plant goes hand in hand with understanding where it belongs. Snake plants offer their own distinct advantages for supporting positive energy in the home – something I explored further when speaking with Feng Shui experts about the best places to position them.

Why the Snake Plant is an Auspicious Choice in Feng Shui

In Feng Shui, snake plants symbolize several powerful qualities that align with their unique physical characteristics and energy.

According to Anjie Cho, holistic interior designer and Feng Shui expert at the Mindful Design Feng Shui School, 'In Feng Shui, snake plants have a protective quality because they resemble a sharp, fierce sword. Therefore, they can be beneficial when placed where one needs a bit of protection.'

She explains that while snake plants are not a traditional choice in Feng Shui, they are used in specific situations for their distinct characteristics. 'In general, Feng Shui advises using plants with soft, rounded leaves to promote gentle, nurturing energy.

'However, snake plants' tall, sharp leaves resemble swords, which lend them a protective energy.' This makes them particularly suitable for areas of your home that require an added sense of defense or strength.

Additionally, the sharp, linear shape of the leaves symbolizes clarity and determination, aligning with the qualities of focus and precision.

'As a Feng Shui plant, snake plants are quintessential representatives of the wood element in feng shui,' explains Dee Oujiri, Feng Shui strategist and biophilic design practitioner.

'Their strong, upward growth embodies the energy of expansion, vitality, and progress. In Feng Shui, the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal, and water – are used to create balance and harmony within a space. The wood element’s upward motion can help you focus on achieving goals, fostering personal growth, and attracting abundance into your life.'

With its air-purifying qualities, the snake plant also symbolizes renewal and freshness, contributing to a clean, vibrant atmosphere.

Where to Place a Snake Plant, According to Feng Shui

Caring for a snake plant is only part of the picture; where you place it is just as important. With its upright, sword-like leaves and well-documented air-purifying qualities, the snake plant is associated with protection, purification, strength and resilience in Feng Shui.

These qualities make it a powerful plant for improving the energy of a space, particularly in areas of the home that feel stagnant or in need of renewal.

By using Feng Shui energy mapping, you can position a snake plant with intention, allowing it to support specific goals within your home.

Whether you’re looking to encourage prosperity, create clearer boundaries, or reduce negative energy, thoughtful placement helps amplify the plant’s natural benefits, which is something many homeowners are increasingly mindful of as they look to create calmer, more balanced interiors.

While resources like a Beginner's Guide to the Ba Gua on Amazon can help you get started, we’ve outlined the key places where Feng Shui and plant experts recommend placing a snake plant.

The Entryway

'In Feng Shui, the entry is a portal for qi (life force energy) to enter your home and life from the outside world,' says Anjie Cho.

'A snake plant (or one flanking each side of the door) can be placed strategically following entryway Feng Shui to offer protection from unwanted energies entering the home.'

It can serve as a protective barrier, guarding against negative energy and welcoming positive chi into the home.

The Southeast Corner – Wealth Area

The snake plant is often placed in the southeast corner, otherwise known as the Feng Shui wealth corner of your home or room, which is associated with wealth and abundance in the Bagua map.

Its tall, vertical growth symbolizes the upward flow of energy, aligning with the intention of supporting and enhancing financial growth and prosperity.

The East Corner – Health and Family Area

The snake plant is also a good choice for the east side of your home or room, which corresponds to family, health, and vitality. This placement can promote overall well-being for the household.

To find the health and family Gua, use the Bagua map to identify the eastern section of your home or space, ensuring it aligns with your intentions for harmony and vitality.

The Workspace or Home Office

In office Feng Shui, your workspace represents your prosperity, success, and career. Feng Shui expert Anjie Cho explains, 'Your desk and workspace represent your career and directly influence your finances, abundance, and success.'

In a home office, a snake plant can be particularly beneficial if you need protection in your professional life.

'Placed in work areas, it can shield you from challenging energy, such as dealing with a difficult co-worker or client. The sword-like shape of the snake plant's leaves brings a fierce, protective energy to help keep you safe and focused,' Cho adds.

The Bedroom

'The bedroom is where you sleep and rest, so a snake plant can be placed here to support a more restful sleep,' explains Anjie Cho.

She elaborates, 'The bedroom is the room that represents you because it's where you spend a third of your life, it's the place you go to for rest and rejuvenation. It's also the most private space in your home. The bedroom represents you, and your inner child. A snake plant in this area can offer a sense of safety so you can sleep peacefully and with some protection, therefore, creating an environment for more restful sleep.'

However, some Feng Shui practitioners caution that this is a plant never to place in a bedroom. Its upright, sharp leaves are thought to symbolize cutting or harsh energy, which could disrupt the calming atmosphere needed for restful sleep.

So, if you choose to include a snake plant in your bedroom, consider placing it in a spot that feels balanced and doesn’t direct its energy toward the bed.

For example, you could position it in a corner far from the bed or on a low shelf or table near a window where it can still contribute to air purification without introducing overly assertive energy into your sleep space.

The South Corner – Fame Area

In Feng Shui, the fame area corresponds to the south section of your home or space on the Bagua map. This area, also known as the Li Gua, represents your reputation, recognition, and how you are perceived by others.

'If you’re looking to boost your reputation and cut through the gossip (because who has time for that?), place a snake plant in your home’s Fame and Reputation Gua,' recommends Dee Oujiri.

'This area is the back center of your home when using the Feng Shui Bagua map. The plant’s strong vertical energy supports your aspirations and helps you stand tall in the eyes of others'

Anjie Cho adds: 'If you are highly visible and need a bit of protection from prying eyes, or gossip, or all the fun things that go along with being seen, place a snake plant in your fame area.'

FAQs

How Many Snake Plants Should I Use in Feng Shui?

If you choose to use multiple snake plants, you should balance the number. Odd numbers are typically preferred in Feng Shui as they represent dynamic energy, while even numbers signify balance and calm.

As Anjie Cho advises, good Feng Shui begins with selecting plants mindfully. Choose plants that match your ability to care for them and suit your space’s light conditions.

Overloading your home with too many plants or struggling to care for them can create challenges – the opposite of the ease, health, and steady growth Feng Shui aims to promote. She advises, 'If you get plants that overwhelm you, or are sick, or are too hard for you to keep alive – that's not good Feng Shui.

'Also in general (along the lines of ease and smooth qi – life force energy) it's recommended to select plants with soft heart shaped leaves, rather than spiky plants - thought this is a generic guideline - not a rule!'

Lucky bamboo is a fantastic addition to any home – not only is it easy to care for, it holds deep symbolic meaning in Feng Shui, and is believed to influence various aspects of your life, including health, love, wealth, and general wellbeing.

The placement of this Feng Shui plant also plays a vital role in setting intentions and optimizing the energy flow in your home, a principle rooted in Feng Shui energy mapping. Thoughtfully positioning lucky bamboo can help foster harmony, positivity, and balance in your home, say experts, especially in 2026 which is the Year of the Fire Horse.

If you are growing lucky bamboo, we explore how aligning its placement with your intentions means you can maintain its vibrant energy and transform your home into a sanctuary of wellbeing.

What Lucky Bamboo Represents in Feng Shui

At its heart, Feng Shui is about creating harmony within the home, and aligning your surroundings to support balance, wellbeing, and positive energy.

Lucky bamboo fits naturally within this philosophy. Combining the Feng Shui elements of wood, water, and earth, it brings a sense of quiet equilibrium to a space, symbolising resilience, steady growth, and adaptability.

In 2026, a year shaped by the dynamic Fire Horse and the transformative energy of Feng Shui’s Period 9, these grounding qualities feel especially important, helping to temper intense fire energy and create a calmer, more balanced home environment.

Anjie Cho, holistic interior designer and Feng Shui expert at the Mindful Design Feng Shui School explains: 'When placed with intention, lucky bamboo can enhance the Feng Shui of your home by embodying the qualities of true bamboo.

'True bamboo, with its hollow center, symbolizes an open heart, as well as durability and flexibility, gracefully bending with the winds of change.

'Houseplants can be thoughtfully positioned in a home to align with Feng Shui principles, fostering kindness, a connection to the natural world, compassion, and support. These qualities, in turn, create a foundation for enhanced opportunities, bringing luck and prosperity into your life.'

Best Areas to Place Lucky Bamboo, According to Feng Shui

'The Bagua map, a foundational tool in Feng Shui, divides your home into nine sections, each reflecting different aspects of life,' explains Dee Oujiri, Feng Shui strategist and biophilic design practitioner.

'By thoughtfully positioning lucky bamboo in key Guas, you can invite balance, positivity, and growth into your home.'

If you want a guide to the Feng Shui energy map we have a dedicated feature, or you can find this Beginner's Guide to the Ba Gua on Amazon.

The Entryway – to Invite Positive Qi

'Positioning lucky bamboo flanking your entryway helps welcome fresh, prosperous qi (life force energy) into your home,' says Anjie Cho.

'The entry represents a portal for energy from the outside world.' This placement is a fundamental aspect of entryway Feng Shui, symbolizing openness to opportunity and good fortune.

The Kitchen or Center of your Home – to Enhance Health and Vitality

Incorporating lucky bamboo into kitchen Feng Shui is a thoughtful way to enhance health, vitality, and balance in the heart of your home. 'For those seeking to improve health and wellbeing, the center of your home – the Health Gua – is the perfect placement,' says Dee Oujiri.

The kitchen itself represents nourishment and self-care, making it an ideal location for lucky bamboo, explains Anjie Cho.

By tending to a healthy plant in this space, you reinforce the connection to wellness and vitality while inviting a sense of calm into a room that’s often bustling.

A well-placed bamboo plant in a bright but gently shaded spot can inspire mindful cooking and eating habits, encouraging a slower, more intentional rhythm to daily life.

For added benefit, consider pairing your bamboo with other subtle natural elements – such as a small herb pot or a wooden cutting board – to amplify the nurturing, health-focused energy of the kitchen.

The Southeast Corner – to Attract Wealth

In Feng Shui, the south-east corner is associated with the Wealth Gua, making it a prime spot to place your lucky bamboo to attract abundance.

To find the Feng Shui wealth corner of your home, locate the back left corner when standing at your front door.

Dee Oujiri explains, 'From a BTB Feng Shui perspective, placing lucky bamboo in the back left corner of your home, which represents the Wealth Gua, can naturally attract prosperity and abundance.

She advises: 'Ensure it receives bright, filtered light to thrive and energize this area.'

The Home Office – for Cultivating Career Growth

'Your workspace represents your prosperity, success, and career,' says Anjie Cho. 'When lucky bamboo is placed in the work areas it can invite flexibility and growth in regards to your career.'

The plant's adaptability makes lucky bamboo an ideal plant for fostering personal and professional growth.

Incorporating lucky bamboo into your office Feng Shui aligns with the principle of enhancing prosperity and focus in areas tied to productivity.

The Bathroom – for Balancing Water Energy

Bathrooms often contain an abundance of the water element, which in Feng Shui can sometimes drain prosperity if left unbalanced.

Lucky bamboo can help counteract this by absorbing excess water energy and transforming it into positive qi. 'It can be placed here to receive and transmute any excess water element that may drain your prosperity,' explains Anjie Cho.

For best effect bathroom Feng Shui, position the plant near the sink, bathtub, or even on a windowsill where it can catch indirect light. A decorative jar with pebbles not only stabilises the plant but also creates a spa-like, calming atmosphere, reinforcing relaxation and rejuvenation in the space.

In 2026, with the dynamic Fire Horse and transformative energy of Period 9, placing lucky bamboo in the bathroom can be particularly powerful; the plant’s grounding wood and water energy helps temper excess water influences while supporting prosperity and overall balance in the home.

For an extra Feng Shui boost, consider pairing the bamboo with subtle touches of earth or wood, such as a small wooden tray, natural stone, or woven accessories, to further stabilise energy and promote a harmonious environment.

Places a Lucky Bamboo might Disrupt Feng Shui

While lucky bamboo can bring positive energy to various areas of your home, placing it in the bedroom requires careful consideration.

Plants generally have active, Yang energy, which may disrupt the calm, restful environment needed for quality sleep; a key Feng Shui principle.

To avoid Feng Shui bedroom mistakes, follow these tips to avoid disrupting Feng Shui balance:

• Don't place your lucky bamboo directly under or beside the bed as this can create an imbalance of energy and potentially interfere with restful sleep.
• Choose a thoughtful location, placing it in a corner or on a bedside table that isn’t too close to your sleeping area.
• Use a balanced arrangement, being mindful in your interior design by pairing it with soothing decorating items that will bring calm to your home, such as soft lighting or grounding elements. Doing this will harmonize the space.

Additionally, Rana Kashiwabara, a San Francisco based, Feng Shui certified interior designer recommends keeping lucky bamboo away from spaces with a lot of 'clutter and dust' as these are believed to disrupt the natural balance and energy that lucky bamboo symbolizes, diminishing its effectiveness as a Feng Shui enhancer and blocking the flow of positive energy.

FAQs

What Pot Should I Put a Lucky Bamboo in, According to Feng Shui?

According to Feng Shui principles you can enhance your lucky bamboo's energy by choosing a container that aligns with your desired intention. Both the material and color play important roles in supporting the energy you wish to cultivate.

The material of the container should align with your intentions and the five Feng Shui elements. Anjie Cho outlines these:

• Wood: Use wooden containers, such as this Serene spaces pot from Amazon, to symbolize growth and vitality.
• Ceramic (Earth): Opt for ceramic pots for grounding, stability, and self-care.
• Metal: Metallic pots are ideal for precision, beauty, and joy.

However, Anjie explains that the color of the container is even more important and should reflect your specific goals:

• Wood element: Green or blue for growth and healing.
• Fire element: Red or fiery orange for inspiration and recognition.
• Earth element: Yellow or earthy tones for grounding and stability.
• Metal element: White or metallic shades for clarity and joy.
• Water element: Black or charcoal for wisdom and intuition.

The key to maximizing the Feng Shui benefits of lucky bamboo lies in being intentional with its placement. Consider the areas of your life you wish to enhance, whether wealth, relationships, or health, and choose a location that aligns with those goals.

You can find out even more about improving Feng Shui at the so-called 'mouth of chi' (the front door of your home) in our expert guide.

Rana Kashiwabara leaves us with one last tip: 'You should keep the plant clean by regularly changing its water and removing any dead or yellowing leaves. This helps prevent the plant from becoming unhealthy, which could attract negative energy.'

The white bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) is a lesser-known Feng Shui houseplant, but one that is thought to have a huge impact on your life and home if placed optimally. Experts say it's a houseplant that stands out, encouraging visibility and recognition.

The white variety of this beautiful South African native plant requires just the same bird of paradise care as its classic orange counterpart (Strelitzia reginae like this one from The Sill). Though the white bird of paradise is a larger plant than the orange variety, both have the iconic, unique bird-shaped flowers. Generally, they require straightforward care, but to encourage big and bright blooms, sunlight is key.

As a Feng Shui plant, experts say where to place a white bird of paradise shouldn't be based on sunlight alone. While the growing environment is important, choosing a spot that enhances this plant's ability to promote positive energy can unlock life-changing rewards.

Where to Place a White Bird of Paradise – According to Feng Shui

As mentioned, the bird of paradise is a tropical indoor plant native to South Africa. There, it soaks up direct sun and higher humidity, as well as tolerating short periods of drought.

In the home, it's key to offer similar conditions, especially if you want to see its iconic bird-shaped flowers.

But, Feng Shui experts also encourage turning to the Feng Shui energy map (Bagua) for some more insight to where to place a white bird of paradise.

'In Feng Shui, large upward-growing plants like this one lift chi, infuse a space with ambition, and signify vision, leadership, and ascension,' says Feng Shui practitioner Helen Plehn.

'The white flowers correspond to the crown chakra and white aura layer, which connect to spiritual insight, clarity, and divine guidance,' she continues.

With this in mind, this is where to place a white bird of paradise to harness the greatest impact for your home and life.

Best Places for a White Bird of Paradise

When looking at the Bagua, the experts have a few suggestions for where to place a white bird of paradise.

Towards the back of a home

'It’s a natural fit for the fame and recognition gua of the home, which is the back middle of the house if you’re standing at the front door,' says Feng Shui expert Hannah Yang.

Placed here, the recognition and visibility effects of white bird of paradise are enhanced.

'It carries strong yang energy. It represents visibility, ambition, leadership, and expansion. This is a powerful plant and should be treated as such,' says Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui.

The south area of a home

For this reason, this tall indoor plant should be given space, put on center stage, capturing the attention of individuals as soon as they enter the room.

'Consider the south of the home for reputation and north for career,' Suzanne continues. 'Large, light-filled living areas are a good option.'

In specific rooms

In terms of particular rooms, the home office is where a white bird of paradise will do the most work, says Hannah, but only if you can provide around six hours of sunlight daily here.

'The living room or a grand entryway are also good places,' says Helen Plehn. 'To make an empowering, high-vibrational statement, and elevate the entire home’s chi.

'This plant reminds us to take up space and stand tall in our truth. Its dramatic foliage and bright white blooms bring both grounding (through its sturdy stalks) and spiritual elevation (through its crown-like blossoms),' she adds.

Where to Place a White Bird of Paradise for Healthy Growth

One of the biggest Feng Shui houseplant mistakes is not paying attention to the needs of the plant. If it starts to decline in health (due to improper care), it can effect the chi of your home and the effects it puts out.

That's why you should make sure to choose a room that gets a lot of sunlight. This is the best way to encourage white bird of paradise flowers (along with this bird of paradise fertilizer from Amazon, which should be applied during spring and summer).

Likewise, these tropical houseplants appreciate higher humidity (ideally between 60-70%). If you have a light bathroom with a big window, this is optimal. The extra moisture in the air from the shower will keep a white bird of paradise happy.

Worst Places for a White Bird of Paradise

When it comes to where to never place a white bird of paradise, Feng Shui experts share just a couple of notes:

'It’s likely too stimulating for the bedroom, so avoid placement there, even if your bedroom is in your fame gua,' says Hannah Yang.

Bedroom plants should be those that encourage unwinding and relaxation. The loudness of a white bird of paradise can interrupt this energy.

Likewise, Suzanne says to avoid anywhere that minimizes the white bird of paradise's impact.

'The white bird of paradise needs space to thrive. When it’s cramped, the energy shifts from expansion to frustration,' she says.

'Ensure that the pot has room for the plant to grow. A small pot that becomes overcrowded suggests career stagnation in both your job and reputation,' Suzanne adds.

Reaching a couple of meters tall as a houseplant, you should ensure your white bird of paradise has a large planter to grow in (like this ceramic planter from Wayfair). Make sure to repot your bird of paradise as it grows bigger, too.

You should also avoid cramped corners, narrow entryways and hallways for this reason, and low-light spots that don't provide the amount of sunlight these beautiful plants need.

Not only is it important to get placement right for your white bird of paradise, you should also take care to prune your bird of paradise to remove old growth and encourage new growth and more blooms.

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There are few Feng Shui plants more prosperous than the money tree (Pachira aquatica). As its name indicates, it's thought to bring wealth and financial growth. But, experts say you can only truly reap its rewards by knowing where to place a money tree correctly.

The good news is money tree care is extremely low-maintenance. Placed in bright light and somewhere with higher-than-average humidity, these indoor trees can thrive for decades in the home, bringing you many years of good fortune.

As a Feng Shui plant, experts say placement is key to unlocking the money tree's positive energy. At the same time, getting placement wrong can negatively impact you and your home. Here, they reveal all on where to place a money tree for the best outcome.

Where to Place a Money Tree – According to Feng Shui

When deciding where to place a money tree, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Firstly, the fact the money tree is native to swamps and wetlands of Central and South America means it prefers humid, moist conditions, and plenty of bright light. Recreating these conditions as much as possible in the home is fundamental to keeping the money tree healthy and happy.

Secondly, Feng Shui experts urge to look at the symbolism of the money tree and use the Feng Shui energy map (or Bagua) to find an optimal placement accordingly.

'In modern Feng Shui practice, braided money trees are often associated with multiple streams of income,' says Feng Shui expert Hannah Yang.

With these considerations in mind, Hannah and fellow Feng Shui practitioners share their insights on where to place a money tree.

Best Places For a Money Tree

In terms of the Bagua, Feng Shui experts say one spot stands out as the ideal position for the money tree.

'A money tree is best placed in the wealth gua of the home, which, from the front door, is the back left corner,' says Hannah.

Placed here, the money tree can best encourage good fortune and prosperity.

'They may also be particularly appreciated in the West (New Beginnings), North (Career), and East (Family),' says Feng Shui expert Suzanne Roynon.

As for where to place a money tree in terms of rooms of the house, there are a couple of areas the experts recommend.

'They are great in living rooms and as home office plants, but not as good as a bedroom plant where their energy may be too stimulating for sleep,' says Hannah. 'It's a bonus if you put a money tree in the wealth gua of your home office (standing in the doorway of the home office, the back left corner),' she adds.

In these places, the money tree can help encourage growth, movement, and progress.

Where to Place a Money Tree for Healthy Growth

The best place for a money tree in the home to encourage growth is one that is bright and humid. More specifically, money trees thrive in humidity levels above 50%, though they can tolerate lower.

This makes it a great bathroom plant, where it can soak up extra moisture from shower steam. Just make sure the bathroom has a window to provide plenty of light, otherwise you might spot your money tree dropping leaves.

You should, however, avoid a direct sun position, like a south-facing window. Money tree leaves can experience leaf scorch if overexposed to sunlight, turning money tree leaves yellow and brown.

'A healthy money tree reflects steady financial energy,' explains Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui. 'When it struggles, it often mirrors blocked or neglected money priorities in the home,' she adds.

For this reason, avoid Feng Shui houseplant mistakes by keeping on top of money tree care.

The Worst Places For a Money Tree

There isn't necessarily a place a money tree should never be placed.

'In Feng Shui terms they are supportive of increased energy, vitality and progress, so as long as they are heathy and well-maintained, they will boost positive energy in any part of the home,' says Suzanne Roynon.

The key places to avoid, therefore, are the spots where a money tree won't thrive.

This includes dark passages with limited daylight and bright conservatories with lots of sun and drier air.

Improper conditions will cause a money tree to decline, hindering the energy it puts out into the home.

FAQs

Is a Money Tree a Good Feng Shui Gift?

Yes, a money tree makes an excellent Feng Shui gift, especially for loved ones entering a new chapter, such as a new job or new home. It's believed to bring good fortune and luck, making it an ideal present to give during an era of new beginnings.

The money tree isn't the only 'money' plant. Jade plant (like this from The Sill) and Chinese money plant (like this from Amazon) are also given this name and are equally thought to be lucky houseplants in the practice of Feng Shui.

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String of hearts (Ceropegia woodii) is a Feng Shui plant thought to represent emotional connection. When placed in an optimal position in the home, it can bring softness and warmth to both interiors and relationships.

String of hearts care is also extremely straightforward. These semi-succulents are native to South Africa, enjoying bright sun and partial drought. Getting its position right in the home is not just about making the most of its qualities as a Feng Shui plant, but also ensuring it thrives for years to come.

I turned to Feng Shui experts to find out more about where to place a string of hearts and they had a lot to share. Here, they impart their wisdom on where you should (and shouldn't) position this charming heart-shaped houseplant in the home.

Where to Place a String of Hearts – According to Feng Shui

There are a few things to understand when choosing where to place a string of hearts in your home: its care requirements, the Feng Shui energy map (or Bagua), and what the plant represents.

'The string of hearts is a beautiful trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves that symbolize love, emotional connection, and the flow of gentle Yin (feminine) energy,' explains Feng Shui practitioner Helen Plehn.

'In Feng Shui, its cascading vines invite softness, grace, and an open heart. This plant resonates strongly with the green aura layer, powered by the heart chakra, which governs love, forgiveness, and compassion,' she adds.

Here, Helen, alongside other Feng Shui experts, share how this informs where to place a string of hearts.

Best Places For a String of Hearts

Looking at the Bagua, Feng Shui experts recommend a few specific spots for a string of hearts.

'The string of hearts carries a soft, gentle wood energy. Symbolically, it represents connection, emotional continuity, and affection,' says Suzanne Butler, Feng Shui expert from Harmonising Energies Feng Shui.

'So, the south-western (the Love and Relationships corner) and eastern (the Family and Community corner) areas of the home are good places for string of hearts to encourage strong relationships and harmonious family time,' she explains.

In terms of specific rooms, Suzanne encourages string of hearts to be placed where loved ones gather, making it a good living room and dining room plant.

'Placing a string of hearts here enhances romantic energy, deepens partnerships, and encourages emotional healing,' adds Helen.

'The string-like vines create a visual representation of connection and continuity, reminding us that love and kindness (toward self and other) flow endlessly when nurtured,' she says.

Where to Place a String of Hearts for Healthy Growth

In terms of where to place a string of hearts to keep it happy, keep in mind its care needs.

String of hearts does best in bright light, though direct sun may cause leaf scorch. This is especially important for variegated string of hearts, with bright light helping to maintaining its pink and cream colors.

Likewise, being native to semi-arid environments, the string of hearts doesn't enjoy high humidity levels, preferring between 40-50%. For this reason, it doesn't necessarily perform well as a bathroom plant.

Worst Places For a String of Hearts

It would be a Feng Shui houseplant mistake to get placement wrong, which is why it's key to know where not to place a string of hearts.

'You should mainly avoid placing a string of hearts in a bedroom or in cluttered areas,' says Suzanne.

'In Feng Shui, bedrooms are designed for rest and repair. Plants are living, active energy, and that movement can subtly interfere with sleep and emotional regulation,' she explains.

Hiding a string of hearts among clutter will also block its energy and amplify negative energy.

String of hearts is also a houseplant to never place in an entryway. This is because this is a transitional space and the downward vines of string of hearts can disrupt the intended 'upward' movement here.

FAQs

Why is my String of Hearts Shriveling?

If your string of hearts is shriveling, it likely means it's dehydrated. Trim away any damaged strands and leaves and give it a deep watering. Going forward, don't allow it to sit in dry soil for prolonged periods, though it should be allowed to dry out before watering again.

In Feng Shui terms, a shriveled string of hearts can indicate negative energy around emotional connection and relationships. Focus on improving growing conditions to restore this balance.

There are plenty of other houseplants with heart-shaped leaves that can also encourage harmony and positive emotional connection in the home, like this hoya heart succulent from Amazon.

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With its vibrant green foliage and serene white blooms, the peace lily is a highly valued plant in Feng Shui, acting as a living symbol of renewal and positive energy. Much more than a decorative accent, this plant is revered for its ability to filter indoor toxins and refresh the air. In the world of Feng Shui, clean air is synonymous with the smooth circulation of Chi, or life force energy, which is vital for creating a balanced and high-vibration home. It sounds like the perfect indoor plant for an intentional start to the new year.

According to Feng Shui principles, a thriving plant acts as an amplifier for prosperity and vitality. Conversely, a struggling or neglected plant can lead to stagnant or heavy energy. This makes consistent peace lily care not just an indoor gardening task, but a way to maintain the spiritual health of your environment.

By using energy mapping, such as the Bagua map, you can strategically position your Feng Shui plant to anchor specific intentions; whether that is inviting wealth, fostering family harmony, or clearing a path for new opportunities. To help you navigate these choices, we’ve consulted with Feng Shui experts to identify the best locations for your peace lily based on your personal goals for the year ahead.

Why Peace Lilies are Symbolic in Feng Shui

Anjie Cho, practising architect, Feng Shui and Dharma arts teacher, and author, explains: 'Having a plant that flowers well and thrives in most conditions builds confidence and reminds us of all the positive energy available to us. We don't always have to go for the hard path, sometimes the straightforward one brings tremendous growth and joy.'

Interiors therapist and Feng Shui expert Suzanne Roynon, adds: 'The practice of Feng Shui uses a lot of common sense, and naturally you’ll see flourishing peace lilies in many Feng Shui homes.'

Suzanne explains: 'By reputation the peace lily is something of a cure all. NASA has the peace lily in the top 10 of purifying plants thanks to its ability to filter polluted air through its leaves, refreshing the atmosphere in the process. Studies suggest it absorbs mold spores and pollutants like trichloroethylene, formaldehyde and benzene, found in cleaning products, furniture and paint.'

While you’d need hundreds of plants to significantly purify the air, their presence still contributes to a fresher, healthier home.

Suzanne continues: 'A vibrant plant will also increase humidity around it, and this is especially welcome where air conditioning leads to very dry conditions in a home.'

Their ability to increase humidity makes peace lilies especially valuable in Feng Shui, as they help maintain balance in environments affected by dryness. Their resilience and adaptability allow them to thrive in various conditions, symbolizing growth, renewal, and positive energy.

You can read more about gardening indoors and out with Feng Shui principles in mind in Plant Feng Shui by Amy Barnard, available from Amazon.

Best Locations for a Peace Lily in 2026, According to Feng Shui

To maximize the influence of a peace lily, placement should be a deliberate act of alignment with your personal goals. By using the Bagua map – the Feng Shui energy grid that divides your home into nine life sectors – you can position your plant to act as a functional enhancer for specific areas of your life.

As expert Suzanne Roynon notes, the ideal location for any plant depends on the unique energy of your specific home. While every floor plan differs, there are consistently auspicious zones where living plants thrive energetically.

In 2026, as we settle further into Period 9, (a 20-year cycle in classical Feng Shui that began in 2024) the vibrant 'Wood' energy of a peace lily is particularly valuable. Because Period 9 is associated with the Fire element, healthy green plants help to fuel positive growth while keeping the home's energy from becoming too combustive or restless.

For the most impactful results, look to the sectors associated with vitality and expansion. The 'Family' (east) and 'Wealth' (southeast) areas are traditionally the most harmonious homes for a peace lily.

In these zones, the plant’s natural cycle of renewal supports both physical well-being and the flow of abundance.

The Entryway

As the first place you and your guests enter when visiting your home, entryway Feng Shui is important, and therefore is an excellent location for a peace lily, as it welcomes fresh energy into the home.

Peace lilies symbolize tranquillity, harmony and abundance, which, according to Feng Shui, are especially important in the entryway.

Placing it near the front door or along a corridor will mean that revitalizing chi can flow freely through your space, creating a more inviting, positive atmosphere.

‘Peace lilies in Feng Shui embody yin-yang harmony,’ says Dee Oujiri, Feng Shui strategist and biophilic design practitioner. ‘The stems represent merging growth while the blooms are a representation of serene purification. Their blooms act as so-called chi bridges, dissolving emotional clutter, external stress, which makes them perfect guardians for any doorway.’

Also, if you have a narrow entryway or hallway that feels cramped or has sharp corners – which are known as 'poison arrows' in Feng Shui – the soft, round leaves of a peace lily can help to counter balance this energy, making the space feel more welcoming and less harsh.

The Living Room

Integrating a peace lily into your living room does more than brighten a corner; it acts as a soft, energetic buffer.

As expert Anjie Cho notes, placing this plant in a communal space based on living room Feng Shui can directly support family harmony and peace.

To maximize this effect, position your peace lily near a window where it can receive bright, indirect light. From a Feng Shui perspective, this allows the plant to act as a filter for the energy entering through the window, purifying it before it circulates through the rest of the room.

In 2026, the living room often serves as a multi-functional space filled with electronics; the peace lily's 'Wood' element helps to ground the 'Fire' energy emitted by screens and devices, preventing the room from feeling energetically over-stimulated.

The Kitchen

In kitchen Feng Shui, the peace lily plays a practical role in harmony by acting as a 'Wood' element mediator.

Kitchens are naturally dominated by the clash of 'Fire' (the stove) and 'Water' (the sink). A healthy, green plant introduces the 'Wood' element, which helps to bridge these two opposing forces, creating a more cohesive and peaceful atmosphere for meal preparation.

To keep the energy moving, ensure the plant has room to breathe. While it thrives on moisture, avoid placing it directly next to the stove, where excessive heat and steam can stress the plant and lead to 'burnt' energy.

Instead, let it sit where it can witness the activity of the room, perhaps near a breakfast nook, where its air-purifying qualities can keep the Chi fresh and vibrant during busy morning routines.

The Home Office

For home office Feng Shui, a peace lily can be a powerful addition when placed near your desk or in the wealth (southeast) or knowledge (northeast) areas.

In Feng Shui, plants with rounded leaves, like the peace lily, are said to enhance the wealth and abundance sector of your home, so when placing this plant with intention in your office, place it in the south west corner.

When placed in the northeast corner, its presence enhances focus, creativity, and productivity while maintaining a fresh and energized atmosphere.

The Bathroom

‘A peace lily could be wonderful for a Feng Shui placement in the bathroom to mitigate draining water element,’ says Anjie Cho.

In bathroom Feng Shui, a peace lily thrives in a spot away from direct water exposure. As one of the best plants to absorb moisture from the air while counterbalancing the excess water energy associated with this space.

To make the most of this placement, set your peace lily in a spot where it can benefit from the room's humidity without sitting in standing water. It acts as a natural sponge, absorbing excess moisture from the air, which is particularly beneficial in Period 9, where maintaining a balance of elements is key to a high-vibration home.

Where Not to Place a Peace Lily According to Feng Shui

While peace lilies can enhance positive energy in many areas of the home, there are certain locations to avoid placing them

Feng Shui does not typically encourage plants in bedrooms. While plants improve air quality, their active growth energy may lead to restless sleep or a sense of unease. 'By all means, experiment with having a peace lily in your bedroom, but if you find yourself feeling unsettled, it’s best to relocate it to another living area,' Feng Shui expert Suzanne Roynon advises.

In 2026, you may want to avoid placing large, water-loving plants like the peace lily in the center of the home. In many schools of Feng Shui, the center represents the heart, and excessive 'Earth' or 'Water' energy here can occasionally feel heavy.

Additionally, ensure the plant is never placed in a cramped, dark corner where its leaves might touch the walls; if a plant cannot breathe or expand, the energy in that sector can become stagnant rather than prosperous.

Feng Shui expert Hannah Yang adds a final note of advice: ‘If you want your peace lily to really thrive, send it some well wishes from time to time.

'Plants contribute positively to the energy around you, but also respond to the energy around them. If you have positive wishes for your peace lily, it's more likely to thrive.’

By thoughtfully placing your peace lily in the right areas of your home, you can maximize its ability to purify the air, uplift the energy, and bring balance and vitality into your living space.

You can make even more easy feng shui tweaks to your home office to help boost focus and productivity in 2026.

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Some years feel better than others, and if you have been left thinking that 2025 was the year of bad luck for you, there are five simple tweaks you can make to your doorway to harness the Feng Shui power of the 'Mouth of Chi', and bring good energy into your home and life this year.

As a Feng Shui consultant, the first thing I assess with clients is the condition of their front door, because it's the cornerstone of good luck and lifestyle, with this space setting the tone for everything that happens inside.

Make 2026 the year your luck changes by tweaking the main entrance to your home, known as the 'Mouth of Chi’, so that positivity, success, and abundance can pour in with ease.

There is much you can do with Feng Shui principles in your entryway to rejuvenate the energy, including picking the best Feng Shui color for the space and putting your mirror in the right spot, but here, I'm going to delve into the five practical elements to tweak when improving the flow for the Mouth of Chi.

Five Entryway Elements to Tweak for Positive Mouth of Chi

1. Don't Overlook the Importance of Curb Appeal

In homes where the front door has been treated as an afterthought and compromised by neglect, carelessness, or lack of use, this will reflect negative energy into the lives of the occupants. I've seen it cause personal issues, poor health, a lack of opportunity, and unpleasant delays.

When the Mouth of Chi is compromised in a home, the occupants can fail to thrive, as well as experience endless bad luck.

Here's my easy checklist to work through to bolster your Mouth of Chi:

• Ensure a clear sightline to the entrance of your home, and a name or number that is clearly visible from the street.
• Create symmetry in design with matching lamps or outdoor lanterns, or some of the best planters. Even a pair of terracotta hanging planters from Anthropologie can bring that symmetry that is missing.
• Healthy, living front yard plants are always preferable to artificial ones. Cut back bushes or foliage that prevent a clear pathway to the property. Several bushes need trimming back in January for example.

2. Keep the Door Safe, Well Maintained and Welcoming

Polish door furniture, restore brass, and spruce up your home's threshold, door frame, and door to grime-free splendor.

Cleaning your entryway won't take long, but do spend extra time maintaining wooden numerals as these will crack, split, or fade under the constant pressure of being in changing weather, year-round. Using a multi-surface sealant available from Amazon will improve the appearance and longevity of these items.

Fix frozen locks, quieten a rattling door or squeaky hinges as these are signs of awkwardness and hesitation. A dab of petroleum jelly will lessen the squeak in seconds.

Meanwhile, a non-functioning bell or intercom harms communication throughout your life. Take inventory of what needs to be done and do it as part of your New Year refresh. Investing in one of the best video doorbells will help with communication doorside, as well as increase home security.

Longer term, refresh your front door color ideas and stay on top of paint chips and scuffs. Gentle cleaners such as The Pink Stuff from Amazon work like magic on black marks from bags and shoes.

A door that looks fresh and loved, whilst providing security for the home, is well worth the effort.

3. Remove the Clutter Inside and Out

Remove weeds, take care of any cracked paving, and remove any trash outside your front door.

Then move inside and declutter your entryway, as internal clutter shows a lack of respect for self and home in the principles of Feng Shui, and minimizing it is essential for curating a calm home sanctuary. There are many easy tweaks you can make here to reduce clutter in this highly functional space. Create an entryway drop zone, remove the items that always make this area look cluttered, and get organizing.

Sometimes, all it takes to reduce the visual clutter in your entryway is a set of allocated, pretty hyacinth baskets from Amazon for each member of the household.

In homes where there is a messy and busy entryway, I've found it to be more likely that occupants won’t feel valued in their work or at home, and this filters down into the behavior of children and other family members.

Clutter in the form of carelessly discarded shoes, coats and bags, along with bikes, junk mail, dead plants and general detritus, causes confusion, stress and missed opportunities for all.

Even the busiest of homes can streamline the space with a cleverly designed wide hall tree with a bench and shoe storage built in, from Wayfair.

Using practical entryway storage solutions and setting proactive boundaries to keep the space clear and welcoming will go a long way toward improving the good chi, or positive energy, you invite into your home.

4. Don't Be 'Nose Blind' to Unpleasant Smells

There is such a thing as going 'nose blind', where you stop smelling odors that linger in your home.

Whilst it can be challenging, it is possible to keep a house with pets clean. Keeo a regular schedule of cleaning throughout the home to prevent smells from building and becoming the norm.

In entryways, the odor from sneakers and other shoes can be a challenge, but using natural odor busters such as activated charcoal, or baking soda in shoes will help.

Keep a clean entryway floor, and invest in one of the best vacuums to make sure pet hair, dirt, and outdoor debris that comes inside is cleared with ease, rather than pushed into carpets or mats.

Use shock ventilation daily to clear pungent air and reduce the risk of mold and mildew, as stagnation and damp are a barrier to uplifting Chi, while the energy that does seep in can be sticky and negative.

Air freshener sprays are not the solution as they usually mask smells and don’t resolve odors.

Instead, stick to a regular and achievable cleaning schedule, choose a bleach-free odor neutralizer from Amazon instead, vacuum floors regularly and layer home fragrance.

Stay on top of anything malodorous, solve damp issues, wash pet bedding regularly, and confine smelly shoes in a cabinet.

If you suspect you have become nose blind, ask a friend for an honest opinion. You can also step outside for 10 minutes and come back in, paying attention to smells. Usually, the fresh air serves as a reset button for your nose.

5. Make the Lighting by Your Door Welcoming

Hidden and poorly lit front doors and entrance halls make life more difficult for occupants, visitors, and guests.

Instead, invest in home lighting ideas that fit your style and serve the vital purpose of illuminating this key area of the home.

Add warmth to your entryway and avoid harsh lighting, as it is more welcoming. Be sure to replace spent bulbs immediately to avoid emotional and physical burnout.

Twinkling lights might be great at Christmas, but flickering bulbs suggest poor connection and lack of stability, neither of which is conducive to long-term happiness.

If an architectural quirk means your front door is hard to find, use signage and lighting to guide Chi and your visitors to your home.

Improving the Mouth of Chi in Apartments

Shared entrances, elevators, fire doors, and long, impersonal corridors within large buildings can dissipate Chi energy, and this makes it doubly important to encourage it into your home.

Classical compass Feng Shui mapping is superb in these situations as it enables a property to draw energy from additional sources.

Here are some easy ways to maximise the flow in communal areas:

• Regard your apartment door as the threshold to all that is good in your life. Follow the general guidance above to keep it fresh and welcoming. Even if space is at a premium, ensure the door can open fully and is not blocked by coats or clutter. Store bulky extra coats in vacuum pack bags from Walmart and only keep a couple of pairs of shoes by the entryway to hide shoe clutter.
• A quality washable mat from Amazon outside the door defines your space and is easy to keep clean.
• If permitted, a seasonal wreath or subtle personal feature marks the space as yours.
• Even if the building itself is shabby or somewhat unappealing, take steps to make your own entranceway feel special. If the outside must remain uniform, stepping into your home can be a delight for the senses by incorporating fresh flowers and beautiful art, and well-positioned mirrors. Add a new dimension with delicate aromas via one of the best reed diffusers.

Side Doors and Garage Entrances

These might be practical access points for daily use, but they can do the energy of your home a disservice, especially if the front door is seldom used.

These doors require some extra support, or you might start to feel life, luck, and opportunity are passing you by.

• Consciously open the front door for a few minutes each day to activate Chi so it circulates smoothly throughout the home.
• Always use the front door for important occasions, family events, and celebrations.
• If a fresh start is required, perhaps after a separation, divorce, or ill-health, be mindful of the need for change and the importance of a new beginning. Enter your home using the main door to set the intention of a brighter and more positive future.

The front door to your home doesn’t need to be grand, it simply needs to be loved and respected as the route to the good luck, success and happiness you desire.

Next, delve into making an entryway inviting and how to arrange furniture for good Feng Shui

The jade plant is a much-loved staple in Feng Shui, often referred to as a money plant or friendship tree. It is closely associated with wealth, prosperity, and steady growth, with its rounded, coin-shaped leaves believed to attract good fortune. Its evergreen nature also symbolizes resilience, vitality, and longevity, making it an ideal choice for encouraging abundance and positive energy within your home.

Beyond its symbolism, the jade plant’s easy-going nature makes it both a practical and powerful Feng Shui plant. Caring for a healthy jade plant is thought to support the smooth flow of beneficial energy, or chi, throughout a space. Correct placement is essential to unlocking the jade plant’s full potential and aligning it with your intentions.

By using Feng Shui energy mapping, you can position a jade plant in areas linked to wealth, vitality, and good fortune. Whether placed in the 'wealth gua', near the front door, or in a home office, choosing the right location can enhance its ability to invite prosperity, balance, and harmony into your life.

Why a Jade Plant is a Favorable Choice in Feng Shui

Feng Shui is all about creating a harmonious balance between individuals and their environment. This can be achieved by thoughtfully arranging spaces – and the plants within them – to optimize the flow of qi, or positive energy.

'Within this practice, a jade plant is regarded as the most auspicious plant for money luck,' explains Dee Oujiri, Feng Shui strategist and biophilic design practitioner.

As a Feng Shui plant, the jade introduces both the wood element, which represents vitality, growth, and expansion, and the earth element, or Kun Qi, which nurtures stable and harmonious energies. Together, these energies help foster steady success and upward momentum in both personal and professional life.

A jade plant's lush, vibrant appearance, rich green color, and succulent, rounded leaves are closely tied to growth, renewal, and abundance. As an evergreen plant, it symbolizes steady growth and longevity, while its ability to thrive with minimal care reflects resilience, persistence, and the idea of building wealth over time.

The jade plant’s coin-shaped leaves also resemble the precious gemstone for which it is named, further enhancing its connection to financial abundance and lasting fortune.

'This is a succulent plant that has juicy coin shaped leaves that call in wealth and prosperity. Placing it with intention can help bring slow and steady financial growth,' says Anjie Cho, holistic interior designer and Feng Shui expert at the Mindful Design Feng Shui School.

Best Locations to Place a Jade Plant According to Feng Shui

'In Feng Shui, it's not just about where you place your plants but also the intention behind it,' says Dee Oujiri.

This translates as positioning the plant in a way that aligns with the energy you want to attract or enhance in your life. It has to involve some intentional thought, as Dee explains:

'Placing a jade plant in your wealth corner without any thought is like expecting to win the lottery without buying a ticket,' she says. 'Take a moment to set your intention when placing your green friends. After all, your jade plant can't manifest that corner office for you if it doesn't know that's what you're after.'

You can use the Bagua map – otherwise known as the Feng Shui energy map – to strategically place your jade plant in specific areas, or 'Guas', that align with your intentions. The Bagua divides your home into nine sections, each representing a different aspect of life.

To learn more about the Bagua map, you can consult The Art of Feng Shui for Modern Living, available from Amazon.

Here is what our Feng Shui experts say about the best locations for your jade plants, to maximize their energy-boosting potential.

An Entryway or Front Door

Entryway Feng Shui is believed to welcome positive energy, good luck, opportunities, and abundance into your home.

Anjie Cho says: 'A jade plant near the entry can be placed with the intention to invite wealth and prosperity.'

Positioning the plant in the foyer, near the front door, helps attract these sentiments into your life, creating an inviting space filled with potential.

Southeast Corner – The Wealth and Prosperity Gua

In Feng Shui, the southeast sector of your home is thought to be the 'Wealth and Prosperity Gua'.

'Many people like to put a jade plant in the wealth area to cultivate and enhance the growth of financial income,' says Anjie Cho. Positioning a jade plant in the Feng Shui wealth corner of your home is believed to attract wealth, abundance, opportunities, and financial growth.

To locate the southeast corner, simply identify the area of your home that corresponds to the lower-left section when looking at a floor plan or layout.

Your Workspace

In office Feng Shui, placing a jade plant in a workspace is particularly beneficial, as it combines the plant’s natural association with growth and abundance with the flow of productive energy.

According to Feng Shui principles, positioning a jade plant in the southeast corner of your office or desk – an area traditionally linked to wealth and prosperity – can help attract financial opportunities and support career advancement.

A jade plant also works well on a desk or shelf where it is clearly visible, as this placement allows you to engage with its energy regularly. Keeping it healthy and vibrant signals a flourishing work environment and promotes a sense of calm, focus, and steady progress.

Feng Shui expert Anjie Cho explains, 'Place a jade plant in the office or work from home space to enhance the prosperity of your business, career, or work. Your workspace represents your prosperity, success, and career.'

For an extra Feng Shui boost, some practitioners recommend placing a small dish of coins or a crystal near the base of the plant to symbolically reinforce intentions for prosperity and growth.

Eastern Corner – Health and Family Gua

The east area of your home is linked to health and family harmony in Feng Shui. Placing a jade plant in this location is believed to promote vitality, and well-being, and strengthen family bonds.

To locate the health and family Gua, simply refer to the Bagua map, where the east corner corresponds to this important area of life.

The Living Room

In living room Feng Shui, this space is considered the heart of the home, where energy gathers and circulates.

Since a jade plant symbolizes growth, abundance, and harmony placing it in this room can help balance energy, creating a calm, inviting, and prosperous environment for family and guests.

For optimal Feng Shui, position the jade plant in the southeast or east corner of the living room. Its presence can enhance the flow of positive energy throughout the space, encouraging prosperity while fostering a sense of balance and wellbeing.

Even simple placement, like a jade plant on a coffee table, sideboard, or windowsill, can act as a reminder of growth and abundance, inviting steady prosperity and positive energy into your daily life.

The Dining Table

'A jade plant on your dining table symbolizes abundance and nourishment in all forms, be it financial, emotional, and physical,' explains Dee Oujiri.

'For an added boost, position it where it reflects in a mirror, this is believed to double its energy and amplify abundance.'

Where You Should Not Place a Jade Plant, According to Feng Shui

It’s important to avoid placing the plant in areas of negative energy, such as near cluttered spaces, electronics that emit strong heat, or directly under harsh artificial lighting, which can disrupt its beneficial qi.

Instead, pairing the jade plant with natural light and clean, organized surroundings amplifies its positive influence, helping to foster both creativity and financial stability.

The bathroom and the laundry room are considered unlucky locations for a jade plant. Symbols of wealth and abundance are discouraged in these rooms, as the wastewater energy can send your money luck right down the drain.

Dee Oujiri elaborates on Feng Shui in the bathroom: 'Placing money plants like jade in the bathroom is like trying to fill a leaky bucket with dollar bills. The draining energy associated with bathrooms can metaphorically wash away the prosperity these plants symbolize.

'Keep your wealth-attracting plants far from the toilet unless you're aiming for a very expensive way to clean your finances'

She also warns that the bedroom should also be avoided: 'Jade plants and other vigorous growers have a bit too much yang (active) energy for a space dedicated to rest. Instead of promoting peaceful slumber, they might keep you planning your next big adventure.'

FAQs

Is a Jade Plant a Good Gift According to Feng Shui?

The gifting of a jade plant is a traditional Feng Shui practice, especially in business relationships. This gift is believed to be very auspicious for a new business or venture.

Being mindful in your interior design is also important when it comes to harnessing the positive qi (energy) of Feng Shui plants.

Remember to keep the space around the plant clean and uncluttered to allow for a free flow of energy.

After all the fun and revelry of Christmas and New Year's, it's no surprise that the majority of us might need a little help getting focused and realigned when it comes to going back to work for the New Year, none more so than those of us who work from home.

We've spoken to our Feng Shui expert for her top three tips on tweaking your home office space to boost focus and head into the new working year with a clear head and uncluttered space that maximizes motivation and productivity.

Here, she shares how to perfect your office Feng Shui.

3 Easy Feng Shui Tweaks for Your Home Office

1. Declutter

As Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui consultant and interiors therapist, points out, 'It's important to use the time between Christmas and New Year to reclaim your space by decluttering – out with the old to make space for the new. This is as relevant for the home office as it is for your wardrobe.

'Clutter creates stagnation, not to mention bringing you down emotionally and contributing to those 'out of control' feelings,' which can, in turn, affect your home office productivity.

For this, Suzanne recommends decluttering your home office as an essential.

'Start with the desk and work your way through drawers, storage, and files,' she advises, paying particular attention to getting rid of paper clutter. 'Be ruthless. You’ll find you can discard much more than you imagine, and then archive anything that is now complete.

'Keep old tax records, invoices you have paid, and anything to do with financial outlay in the East, preferably in blue or black files or folders. The East represents the past, and blue mutes the spending energy.'

The Amazon Basics Classification Folder available at Amazon will keep everything neat when organizing paperwork at home. And, if you're unsure how long to wait before getting rid of important paperwork, our dedicated guide details everything you need to know.

'For new projects and income generation, use files in fiery colours or greens to represent positive energy and growth,' continues Suzanne. 'Put these in the North (Career), West (New Beginnings), or Southeast (Wealth) area of the room.'

2. Move Your Desk

'If your desk position means you face a wall with your back to a door, you’re impeding the ability to see the bigger perspective and likely experiencing obstacles in your work, as well as feeling a touch insecure,' advises Suzanne,' which is why it's crucial to consider Feng Shui furniture placement and, in particular, desk Feng Shui.

'Reorganise the space so you face out into the room with your back to a solid wall, so you can see the door directly or in your peripheral vision – this is known as the ‘control position’ and gives a greater sense of focus and purpose while supporting wellbeing,' she continues. 'If your desk is wobbly or not big enough, a firm, spacious replacement is going to help.'

We suggest the Caidence Computer Desk available at Wayfair as a worthy replacement, which is available in four colors.

3. Keep the Desk Top Clean and Fresh

It may seem obvious, but as Suzanne highlights, dusty paper-logged desks covered with coffee rings and a trail of biscuit crumbs will not inspire you to great things.

'They just feel tired and unloved, and it’s easy for that to become your daily experience,' she warns. 'Be sure to take everything off the desk and spritz it with an antibacterial spray [such as the all-natural Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray available at Walmart] at least once a week to keep you healthy and enthusiastic about your work.

'Generate good vibes with products that cleanse and uplift the energy within a space. Choose one which works for you or make your own DIY cleaning solution with a spray bottle and some energising aromatherapy oil.'

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All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

As with any space, it's just as important to avoid any Feng Shui design mistakes in your home office as in any other space. You can also start the New Year with a new habit, including writing morning pages.

Pothos isn’t just a favorite for plant lovers who admire its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and easygoing care – it’s also prized for the positive energy it can bring into a home.

In Feng Shui, where the placement of plants influences the flow of chi, a thoughtfully positioned pothos does more than brighten a corner: it can promote wellbeing, create balance, and infuse any space with a sense of calm and vitality.

As one of the most effective Feng Shui plants, pothos allows you to welcome positive energy into your home while also enjoying the natural beauty, texture, and life these living accessories provide.

What Makes Pothos Beneficial in Feng Shui?

In Feng Shui, greenery represents the wood element, symbolizing growth, vitality, and life energy. Most pothos varieties are especially well-suited to this role thanks to their soft, heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines, which are believed to promote gentle, nurturing energy – perfect for fostering a harmonious and uplifting home environment.

‘Pothos is one of my favorite indoor plants because they are hardy, low-maintenance plants that even a beginner can care for,’ says Anjie Cho, New York–based interior architect, feng shui advisor, and author of Holistic Spaces: 108 Ways to Create a Mindful and Peaceful Home.

‘Beyond their ease of care, they create a sense of abundance and generosity, as they are so easy to propagate. Just as a fruit tree offers more than one family can consume, houseplants can teach us about sharing, generosity, and the quiet abundance that nature brings into our homes. A thriving pothos is not just a decorative touch – it’s a reminder of the energy, care, and positivity we can cultivate in our living spaces.’

Healthy, vibrant plants are considered carriers of good chi, while wilted or neglected foliage can contribute to stagnant energy. That’s why thoughtful placement and attentive care are essential – not just to help your pothos thrive physically, but to ensure it enhances the flow of positive energy throughout your home. I’ve placed mine in self-watering planters from Amazon, so I rarely have to worry, making it effortless to enjoy both their beauty and their uplifting presence.

Best Places to Put Pothos According to Feng Shui

Where you place your pothos can make all the difference in promoting positive energy throughout your home. Feng Shui suggests strategic spots that encourage the flow of chi, enhance wellbeing, and bring harmony to your living spaces.

The Entryway

The entryway is where chi enters your home, so it is an ideal place for lucky houseplants. Positioning a pothos near the front door helps draw positive energy from the very moment you step inside. A trailing pothos on a console table or in a hanging planter, such as this sleek hanging planter design from Wayfair, adds a welcoming, refreshing vibe while softening the space and inviting a sense of calm.

This is exactly where I have placed mine, and it immediately creates a warm, balanced atmosphere, setting the tone for the rest of the home and offering a subtle reminder of life, growth, and vitality with every entrance.

The Living Room

The living room, especially corners that feel ‘heavy’ or stagnant. Pothos thrives in soft, indirect light, and its cascading vines naturally soften corners where energy tends to pool or feel static. Positioned on a shelf, side table, or mantel, it encourages chi to circulate more freely, helping to balance the room’s energy.

Beyond its Feng Shui benefits, the plant adds texture and life, creating a calming, inviting atmosphere that makes the living room feel brighter, fresher, and more harmonious for both everyday living and entertaining guests.

The Home Office

In spaces dedicated to work or creativity, pothos introduces a calming, focused energy that can help restore balance during busy days. Placed on a bookcase, desk shelf, or suspended near a window, we love this rustic rope pot hanger from Amazon, its cascading vines bring a sense of life and movement while subtly clearing stagnant energy.

Not only does it offer Feng Shui benefits, but it also supports mental clarity, reduces stress, and creates a visually uplifting environment – perfect for fostering concentration, inspiration, and a more harmonious workspace.

The Bathroom or Kitchen

Rooms with higher humidity, such as kitchens and bathrooms, are ideal for pothos, which thrives in moisture-rich environments. These spaces can sometimes feel energetically heavy or stagnant, but a healthy pothos helps restore balance while naturally purifying the air. Its trailing vines and vibrant greenery add texture and life, making these often-overlooked corners feel fresher, calmer, and more inviting – perfect for this resilient, low-maintenance plant.

This timeless wooden stool from Wayfair is ideal for placing in a cozy corner of a bathroom with a pretty pothos placed atop.

Placement Tips to Promote Good Energy

Avoid cluttered corners: Feng Shui encourages open, flowing spaces. Make sure your pothos isn’t hidden behind objects or crowded into a dark corner – instead, place it where light and air can reach it easily.

Use elevated spots: An elevated position – such as on a shelf or hanging planter – allows the vines to trail freely, symbolizing abundance and ongoing growth.

Pair with other plants for balance: Combining pothos with other lush, rounded-leaf plants (like peace lilies or philodendrons) enhances nurturing energy and creates a more harmonious plant grouping.

Rotate your plant: Occasionally turning your pothos allows all sides to receive light evenly, keeping the foliage healthy and vibrant.

Keep leaves clean: Wiping down leaves regularly helps the plant breathe and ensures energy continues to flow freely in your home.

Caring for Your Pothos Matters for Good Feng Shui

A thriving plant is integral to positive chi. Keep your pothos looking its best with bright, indirect light (it tolerates lower light but flourishes with gentle brightness), regular but moderate watering, and occasional pruning to remove yellowing leaves. Healthy foliage not only improves your home’s aesthetic but also supports the flow of vibrant, uplifting energy throughout your space.

Other Ways to Boost Positive Energy

Complement with crystals or decorative elements: Placing a small clear quartz crystal or polished stone near your pothos can help amplify the plant’s positive energy. For convenience, clear quartz crystal wands are widely available online, including on Amazon, making it easy to add this subtle, uplifting touch to your space.

Group multiple plants together: Feng Shui suggests arranging plants in groups of three or five to encourage growth and vitality in the room.

Mind the pot choice: Rounded or ceramic pots are preferred over sharp, angular ones, as soft curves encourage gentle, harmonious energy flow.

A well-placed pothos is a simple yet powerful way to brighten a room, uplift the mood, and support good feng shui throughout your home. With just a few thoughtful placements and a little care, this resilient vine can transform everyday spaces into havens of energy, balance, and natural beauty.

For more guidance on optimizing plant energy, explore our feng shui placement guides for where to place a monstera or where to place a snake plant.

It's well-known that in the ancient Chinese practice of Feng Shui, plants hold a lot of power in promoting positive energy in the home. What you may not realize, however, is that variegated foliage often deepens the meaning of particular houseplants.

Many Feng Shui plants have variegation, i.e. a multitude of colors and patterns on their leaves, which enhances their energy-boosting qualities. In fact, many of the best variegated indoor plants are popular in Feng Shui, so you may even have one in your home already.

While different Feng Shui variegated houseplants have slightly different meanings, variegation in general tends to represent balance and harmony, with the different colors effortlessly coming together. Here, a Feng Shui plant expert shares three of the best variegated plants to bring positive energy to your interiors.

3 Feng Shui Variegated Houseplants

Before adding these Feng Shui variegated houseplants to your home, read up on Feng Shui houseplant mistakes to ensure success in your efforts.

1. 'Thai Constellation' Monstera

'Thai Constellation' is one of the most beautiful monsteras you can choose. It has a beautiful mix of cream and green variegation, with splatters that are reminiscent of star constellations.

'Variegated foliage is often a representation of the movement of 'chi energy' flowing through the plant rather than feeling static or heavy,' explains Feng Shui plant expert and interior plant designer, Shane Pliska.

Chi energy is at the core of Feng Shui principles. It's an energy force that runs through the home to promote harmony and positive wellbeing.

'Thai Constellation' is thought to represent this, radiating balance in the home, as well as prosperity.

As for growing this Feng Shui variegated houseplant, it's much the same as monstera care. Most importantly, you should provide it with bright light to maintain its variegation, as too little light could see new leaves emerge as solid green.

Don't forget to also train your monstera (with this moss pole from Amazon) to grow upwards and support it as it gets bigger.

You can find a 'Thai Constellation' monstera at Walmart.

2. 'Tricolor' Aglonema

Another of the Feng Shui variegation houseplants Shane recommends is 'Tricolor' aglaonema, a Chinese evergreen with a mottled pattern on its foliage.

'It has gentle structure with visual movement, making it especially effective in spaces meant to feel grounded, calm, and intentional,' explains Shane.

It's also a plant thought to bring good luck, making it a good plant for the southeast 'wealth' corner of the home (according to the 'bagua' or Feng Shui energy map).

As for care, follow the same advice as Chinese evergreen care. Most notably, don't allow your 'Tricolor' aglaonema to dry out, maintaining consistent moisture.

You can use a soil moisture meter (from Amazon) to check the water level in your soil and then top up when the top two inches have dried out.

'Tricolor' aglaonema is available at Walmart.

3. 'Tineke' Rubber Plant

The last of the Feng Shui variegated houseplants on our list is 'Tineke' rubber plant, a gorgeous variegated rubber plant with cream, pink, and green foliage.

In Feng Shui, these plants are thought to align with happiness, good fortune, and abundance. The colors blending together once again offer a visual representation of balance and yin-yang energy.

Its ability to radiate harmony makes it good for the central square on the bagua. Placing it in places where loved ones gather, like a living room, is particularly beneficial.

To ensure your variegated rubber plant thrives, make sure to provide bright light. This will encourage new growth and keep the variegation vivid.

If your variegated rubber plant starts dropping leaves, it might be that it's experiencing oversaturated soil and cold temperatures. You may find a seedling heat mat (from Amazon) is useful in keeping your rubber plant warm during the coldest seasons.

Find 'Tineke' rubber plant for sale at The Sill.

FAQs

What Does it Mean in Feng Shui if Houseplants Lose Their Variegation?

Variegated houseplants represent harmony and movement in Feng Shui. So, when they lose their variegation it can indicate a stagnant, heavy energy in the home. The best way to improve this is by repositioning your houseplant to somewhere bright, encouraging brighter variegation and healthier growth.

If you're interested in optimizing the effects of Feng Shui plants, you will also want to read up on houseplants you should never place in your bedroom that can disturb the energy there and make it a less peaceful space.

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The primary intention of Feng Shui is to activate a flow of uplifting, supportive, positive energy into the home all year-round. A home blessed with good Feng Shui gains a head start on the fresh energy of the New Year, and festive guests will notice the feel-good sensation the moment they walk through your door.

When it comes to entertaining, the hosting secret my VIP clients practise is to establish an intentional anchor point, situated in alignment with the main entrance to the room. This tempts guests and positive energy into the space and into every part of the room.

Want to replicate their success? Here's how to avoid common living room feng shui mistakes and create a sociable living space perfect for holiday hosting.

Why Your Hosting Space Needs Anchor Points

An anchor point, put simply, is the commanding position in a room. It is a focal point that grounds energy and draws guests in.

Chi lifeforce energy routinely circulates within a room, but there can be ‘stagnant areas’, often found in corners or overly cluttered spaces. Here, guests clump awkwardly, and hosts fear to tread. To be candid, the energy is as flat as a pancake, making deluttering methods a must before hosting.

Anchor points are a useful entertaining tip for any time of year, and at Christmas, we’re blessed with an obvious decorative choice, the Christmas tree. The combination of light, height, and beauty is an enticement to all. During other seasons, a tall, elegant lamp, a vibrant feng shui plant on a pedestal, or a piece of enticing art will have the same effect.

In homes with large, open-plan areas, a classic layout encompasses the natural circulation of people and energy. You’re almost spoilt for choice when it comes to hospitality options. Situate your anchor point in the furthest third of the great room so people gravitate towards it.

Traditional homes and those with more bijou entertaining spaces work just as well by focusing the guest experience on the sitting room. Aim for the far end of the room, maintaining a clear view of the door.

While you’re planning your event, use the guest scanning method to look at the space with fresh eyes and identify anything blocking the flow of people within the room and your anchor point. If there’s a single entrance, is it possible to do a circuit of the room, or does furniture placed against a wall mean there’s only one viable route?

In more intimate spaces, look for ways to create volume. This might mean rearranging furniture before hosting a crowd, repositioning a sofa, relocating very large coffee tables, or generally repurposing the room specifically for your event.

How to Try It Yourself

By activating your living room's secret anchor point, you draw your guests effortlessly into a warm, relaxed, and beautifully seasonal space. Spending time with family, friends, and neighbors should never be a chore.

To really tap into this method, I suggest the following:

• Welcome Chi, and guests will follow: As with good entryway feng shui, remove items that block the door from opening to its fullest extent. This is a simple rule and very effective. Declutter anything that doesn’t belong, and the room will instantly feel lighter.
• Furniture and flow: Take the focal point away from the TV, follow good feng shui furniture placement, and position seating for interaction. Where possible, allow circulation space behind furniture to encourage socializing. It’s much easier to engage with shy guests when they don’t feel trapped in one spot. If you anticipate saying a few words, have a popular raconteur on the guest list, or need visibility for charades, use your anchor point for the purpose.
• Let there be light: Harsh lighting is a no-no. Instead, add twinkling light in warm tones, and if space allows, make use of lamps pooling their illumination at a variety of heights to uplift energy and add depth.
• Beat bottlenecks: Locate drinks and nibbles in opposite parts of the room to prevent the ‘queuing for the buffet vibe’ and keep people moving. It’s a great way to keep energy fizzing.
• Tap into the Feng Shui: If you have already activated the specific feng shui remedy the room needs, there’s no need to add more. However, for those new to the practice, balance is everything. Add in aspects of the five elements for the evening. You likely already have them in the home. Wood is represented by living plants; Earth by crystals or ceramics; Metal by metallic objects and finishes; Fire by reds, and hot colours; finally, Water in a vase will do the job for one night only. One thing to remember, if something doesn’t feel comfortable, go with your gut instinct and remove it. When the feng shui is right, it takes the room to a new level.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t position a chair too close to your anchor point: Legs are both a distraction and a trip hazard when you’re holding the room.
• Secure decorations and garlands: This will stop a passing elbow from bringing the whole show crashing down. Sharp holly is best displayed above head height to avoid scratches and peril to party outfits. These reusable zip ties from Walmart are ideal for this purpose.
• Protect candles: The warm glow of candles is deliciously opulent. Protect from mishap by putting them out of range of flammable apparel and extravagant gesticulations. If in doubt, use artificial candles, such as these LED pillar candles from Amazon.
• Set boundaries: A great party can overflow into every available space. If rooms need to remain out of bounds for privacy, close doors and place a console or chair in front of the door to deter prying eyes.
• Create a stain station: Spills are inevitable in a crowded space. Have a cleanup kit easily to hand and resolve the mess quietly, reassuring your embarrassed guest that everything is fine. Tide To Go Pens, from Walmart, are ideal for this. If you’re anxiously monitoring every glass of red poured by that tipsy uncle, it’s probably best to offer only white and rosé wine options.

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Stressed hosts and miscommunication can be a real damper on an evening. Share the load by splitting decorating duties with family, and split chores with a partner to ensure you all enjoy this special time of year. After all, it’s your night in the spotlight, and you deserve to shine.

There are few houseplants more synonymous with Christmas than poinsettias. But, these holiday plants are notorious for being tricky to keep alive. Temperature fluctuations, incorrect watering, and too little light will see them fade quickly. However, there's one trick to keeping them happy for longer: knowing where to place a poinsettia.

To look after a poinsettia successfully, you need to meet a few essential requirements. This includes providing a bright, warm spot, but it isn't the only consideration. Poinsettias also have a place in promoting positive Feng Shui. They're representative of generosity, warmth, and celebration, making them ideal for central placement during the festive season.

Not getting poinsettia placement right can therefore be a big poinsettia mistake, both for the health of the plant and for the impact on the energy in your home. Here, a Feng Shui expert imparts her wisdom on where to place a poinsettia to reap its rewards this holiday season.

Where to Place a Poinsettia

It's no secret that poinsettias are hard to look after, having dramatic reactions to changes in their environment.

They're native to Mexico and Central America, found in tropical rainforests. There, they soak up partial sun beneath the canopies of trees, allowing their vibrant bracts (modified leaves often mistaken for flowers) to maintain their color.

They also experience high humidity in this natural environment, thriving best in levels between 40-75%.

In the home, you want to attempt to recreate these conditions as much as possible.

This includes using methods to increase humidity levels for your poinsettia, from using a humidity tray (from Amazon) to placing it in a bathroom.

As for light, don't be hesitant to place your poinsettia somewhere bright, but make sure it's away from direct sun which may cause leaf scorch.

You should also maintain a room temperature of 60-72°F for your poinsettia. Sudden drops in temperature can cause your poinsettia to drop leaves, so avoid paths of drafts and cold windows.

It's also worth noting you'll need to put your poinsettia in the dark for about 12-14 hours each day for around six to eight weeks before the festive season.

This will trigger 'flowering' when the plant is placed somewhere bright and the poinsettia will put out new bright red leaves.

What Feng Shui Says About Poinsettia Placement

Many holiday houseplants are Feng Shui plants and can enhance the festive feeling in your home.

For poinsettias, Feng Shui Expert Hannah Yang says, 'They are a symbol of joy, vitality, and life force energy, especially during winter. They also have a strong association with generosity and gifting.'

For this reason, Hannah says where to place a poinsettia is much like where to place a Christmas cactus.

'Their red leaves represent warmth, love, and celebration rather than aggression (sometimes red is associated with anger and aggression, but this is not the case with poinsettias),' Hannah describes.

'Similar to the Christmas cactus, poinsettias do well in more active, social places of the home such as living, family, and dining rooms. They also do well greeting occupants of the home and guests in a foyer or entryway,' she adds.

You can also look at the Feng Shui energy map to decide where to place a poinsettia.

'As far as placement goes, according to the bagua where the map lines up with the front door of the home, any of the back three guas of the home are great for a poinsettia placement,' says Hannah.

'In the back center, we have the fame and reputation gua, and red happens to be the predominant color of this gua so poinsettias are a natural match to support confidence and visibility.

'In the back right of the home is the relationships gua, with themes of love, generosity, and emotional warmth. Placement of a poinsettia here is especially fitting during the holiday season.

'And the back left, the wealth corner, is also great for placement. During the holidays it represents flourishing resources and festive abundance
A healthy plant here reinforces growth and enjoyment of prosperity,' Hannah advises.

It's also a Feng Shui houseplant mistake to ignore the needs of your plant. 'The health of the plant is key for what you’d like it to represent,' says Hannah.

For this reason, you should keep on top of poinsettia care, providing sufficient light and warmth, and making sure to water your poinsettia only when the top two inches of soil have dried out.

You can use this soil moisture meter (from Amazon) to check your poinsettia's soil before watering.

FAQs

Why Has My Poinsettia Turned Green?

The main reason for your poinsettia turning green is that it hasn't received a sufficient period of darkness. This essential period (around 12-14 hours daily for six to eight weeks) triggers new, colorful growth in the festive season. It's vital these hours of darkness are uninterrupted to ensure the bracts turn out bright.

After enjoying your poinsettia's display this festive season, follow our guide to keep your poinsettia alive for next Christmas.

Poinsettia Care Essentials

The placement of your Christmas tree is always a topic for debate, whether you opt for putting it by a window to twinkle out on the street, a cozy corner, or at the bottom of a sweeping staircase.

But as our Feng Shui pros reveal, there's one very specific place you should be placing your tree for wealth in 2026 – whether you're yet to buy, or will need to move yours. Here, they explain why this Feng Shui Christmas tree placement is so important.

Where to Put Your Christmas Tree for Wealth and Wellbeing in 2026

As Suzanne Butler from Harmonizing Energies Feng Shui explains, 'When people think Christmas tree placement, they’re usually worried about aesthetics, power points, or where the dog or cat can’t knock it over.'

But, in terms of Feng Shui, the tree isn't just about decorations. Instead, she highlights, 'It's an activation device for the festive season and the year ahead. Where you place that symbol of the season can either pour luck into your home, or quietly siphon it away.'

For that reason, the very best place to put your Christmas tree in 2025 is in the South and Southeast areas of your living room ideas, 'to pack a double punch going into 2026,' says Suzanne. But why, exactly?

Well, while this may seem unnecessary, or even a little extra, with a little know-how, it makes perfect sense. Most specifically, it's because in Feng Shui, the Southeast governs Wealth and Prosperity, which is why Feng Shui wealth corners exist.

'A Christmas tree is a powerful Wood element feature, and in this sector, Wood is the star of the show,' advises Suzanne. 'When you place your tree here, you’re essentially feeding the area that governs financial flow. Think of it as fertilising the “money corner” with sparkle, intention, and upward Wood energy.

'Bring more green and blue colours into this area to support the space, and keep the traditional red to a minimum,' when thinking up your Christmas tree ideas. 'It’s the ultimate sign of abundance with all the gifts you place below.'

It's not just wealth, either, as the South also relates to fame and reputation, meaning how visible you are in the world and the recognition you receive for your work, which you may know if you're clued up on Feng Shui energy mapping.

Max McKenzie, a double-qualified Feng Shui practitioner, member of the International Feng Shui Guild, and home healer at Yinteriors, adds, 'This area aligns with the Fire element, and Wood naturally feeds Fire. A tree placed here can help “fuel” that sense of being seen, appreciated, and rewarded – all of which can positively influence finances.'

As Suzanne says, 'Imagine being offered a new opportunity over the festive season, just because of where you placed your tree!' Here, she advises, you can also go mad with all the red decorations you may like, sticking to Feng Shui Christmas decorating rules, as it will support the area.

'Put simply: Placing your tree in the South or Southeast is like setting your home’s money engine to “turbo” while giving your reputation the equivalent of a red-carpet spotlight,' she continues.

Why You Should Avoid the North (No Matter How Cute It Looks There)

Feng Shui consultant Suzanne also has strong feelings about placing the tree in the North of your home. 'The North sector of a home is connected to the Water element, which governs career and life path,' she says. 'Water is powerful, but it’s picky about what you mix into it.

'Your Christmas tree is a strong Wood element. In the elemental cycle, Wood drains Water. Place your tree in the North, and you tip the balance into a conflict that can show up as:

• Money leaking instead of growing: 'This could look like the oven ceasing to work whilst you are cooking the duck fat potatoes' for your Christmas party recipes.
• Career setbacks or stagnation: 'A retrenchment on Christmas Eve is not ideal.'
• Feeling directionless or overwhelmed: 'A lack of desire to head back to the office on December 27.'

Essentially, warns Suzanne, 'It’s basically the Feng Shui equivalent of pouring soil into your swimming pool. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.'

And, more generally, adds Max, when it comes to keeping Feng Shui energy flowing in winter and creating good Feng Shui in your home, a large tree placed in the North of your living room can create a symbolic imbalance, potentially disrupting the smooth flow of career energy.

'In short, the North benefits from openness and movement,' she explains. 'Introducing a dense, heavy object like a Christmas tree can create a sense of obstruction in a place where flow is important.'

Why a Blocked Tree Makes for a Difficult Christmas

Even in the perfect gua, a poorly placed tree can change or sabotage the energy of your home, leaving you needing to fix your home's traffic flow, which becomes even more of an issue if your tree blocks walkways or doorways, and disrupts Qi.

This blocked Qi, Suzanne advises, can cause stress, irritability, stagnation, and unexpected delays or obstacles in life.

'Your tree should feel like an invitation, not an obstacle course,' she says. 'If you’re having to sidestep it like you’re dodging a startled reindeer, the Qi is definitely struggling, and no one wants to sit in the doorway to open their gifts.

'In essence, your tree will go where there is space, but there are plenty of things you can do to enhance your prosperity and luck for the season by way of decorating to support your home's natural energetic blueprint.'

It's also important to keep in mind, reassures Max, that a Christmas tree is only in place for a few weeks each year, so it's important not to worry if space limitations make it difficult, or impossible, to swerve the places you should always avoid putting a Christmas tree and position it perfectly.

'Enjoy your tree wherever it fits best, and simply restore balance once it comes down,' she says. 'If you want to intentionally boost good fortune for 2026, try a jade plant or three pieces of lucky bamboo in the Southeast to support prosperity, or red flowers in the South to strengthen confidence, recognition, and positive visibility.'

These, explains Max, are small touches that can help refresh the energy of your home long after the decorations are packed away come January.

Feng Shui Christmas Tree Essentials

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

For a little inspiration, Kourtney Kardashian's Christmas tree placement is approved by Feng Shui experts.

While we're not quite in 2026 just yet, it's never too early to start putting new practices in place. And, there's no better place to start at home than with Feng Shui.

More specifically, there's one practice that you should be implementing right now for success and happiness in the New Year, says our Feng Shui expert, and it's all about understanding where each of the Feng Shui 'guas' sit in your home.

Here, she explains why this knowledge is essential for creating good Feng Shui in your home and, more importantly, just how to unlock its power yourself.

The One Feng Shui Practice To Start Before January 1st

As international Feng Shui consultant Suzanne Roynon explains, 'The one Feng Shui practice which will help every home before the first of January is to understand where each of the Feng Shui guas – or areas of life – sit in the individual property.

'By locating the health, wealth, travel areas and more, you can take immediate steps to activate the positive flow of energy, or Chi, into those parts of the home and identify anything which might be creating obstacles to success and happiness in your life.'

In turn, this Feng Shui energy mapping will also help you avoid any Feng Shui design mistakes, and make it easier to implement ways to use Feng Shui in the Year of the Horse, too.

How to Identify the Feng Shui Guas in Your Home

Trying this in your own home is easy.

Suzanne explains, 'Use a smartphone compass and stand in the centre of the property,' she says. 'Note each of the compass directions in relation to the rooms or parts of the home, then compare them with this list:

• North: Career
• Northeast: Knowledge / Spirituality
• East: Family
• Southeast: Wealth
• South: Fame/ Reputation
• Southwest: Relationships
• West: New beginnings/ Children
• Northwest: Travel/ Helpful People
• Centre: Health/ Wellbeing

For this, you can also use a handheld compass, such as the Sportneer Compass available at Amazon. Make sure you note each finding down in a notepad, such as the bestselling Mintgreen Spiral Top Writing Pad available at Walmart – you'll need them for the next part.

What Will It Bring?

'Once you know which parts of the home correspond to challenging aspects of life, it’s easy to see how clutter and even aspects of décor can work against your desired lifestyle,' says Suzanne, interestingly highlighting how, according to Feng Shui, your very home decorating ideas can be influenced by external forces, and vice versa.

'For example, if adult children are a source of worry or concern, have a good look around the East of the home which relates to Family,' she explains. 'Bring any photos of the children up to date, as having childhood photos of adult offspring on display can regress their subconscious and generate tantrums in kids of all ages.' These can be displayed in beautiful frames, like this Striped Resin Frame from Anthropologie.

'Deal with any maintenance concerns or broken items in the space,' continues Suzanne, and call in a pro if necessary to help. 'Tidy and spruce up with a good clean, then sit back and watch Family relationships improve.

'You can use the same process for each area of the home, and remember the areas are the same on each floor of the property, so hidden clutter in your basement is potentially draining your wealth, health, and joy.'

The same applies to all that stuff in your attic, too.

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Do you know the meaning of Feng Shui? Though a common term, you might not be aware that it actually refers to 'wind,' or 'Feng,' and 'water,' 'Shui,' and is based on the idea of the connection between humans and their relationship to the world around them.

Flying Star Feng Shui is one of the most intricate and personal branches of Feng Shui, with its practices changing along with the fluctuating energies in your home. So how do you implement its seemingly complex rules to bolster your luck, finances, health, and energy without feeling overwhelmed?

According to experts, the secret isn’t to master every detail, but to focus on the few principles that have the greatest energetic impact, and purposefully ignore the rest.

Here’s how to use Flying Star practices to create good Feng Shui in your home, without feeling stressed.

How to Use Flying Star Feng Shui at Home

In terms of the meanings of Feng Shui, the Flying Star is a far more personal approach to refreshing the energy of your home. As such, it can quickly become overwhelming when starting from scratch.

'Flying Stars' is an alternative Feng Shui energy mapping technique. Each star represents nine different types of luck, each of which is mapped onto your home to help analyze positive and negative auras in your space. It is a more advanced version of the typical Feng Shui energy map.

According to Suzanne Roynon, interior therapy expert, Flying Star practitioner, author of Welcome Home (available at Amazon) and member of the International Feng Shui Guild, 'the practice is precise to every home, unlike the simple, generic, and much less effective DIY Western form of Feng Shui which uses the front door as its basis.

'So, for example, the flying stars of the home you are living in might be completely different from those of the house next door, or the apartment downstairs, depending on when it was built, whether it's been remodeled, and a load of other intricacies.

When working in a home, Suzanne follows three rules closely to create a harmonious home.

1. Determine the House Type

Flying Star Feng Shui is not as simple as working out which bad energy items to avoid and removing them from your home. According to Suzanne, you have to establish your home's type to then map out the 'Stars'.

She explains, 'A Flying Stars assessment is unique to a property and will boost the energy of positivity and success throughout the home. It can identify potential problems that may befall the residents of an unremedied house, and will define which areas of the home are particularly auspicious.

'To assess the flying stars, we use the age of the property, the precise compass directions, geographic location, and any particular geographic features nearby, as well as the history of the property (what it was used for in the past) and the life experience of the people living in it. It's a complex process that can take several hours to complete.'

They may also use a Luo Pan, available at Etsy. This is a Feng Shui compass to help you measure your property's facing before moving on to plotting the chart.

Because of this personalized approach, you can then fine-tune the energy in a space to amplify abundance and opportunity in line with your personal goals. Practitioners like Suzanne train for many years to help determine which of the four home types a property falls into:

1. Good for People and Money: A very lucky house.
2. Bad for People and Money: High risk of divorce, illness, and money troubles.
3. Good for People/Bad for Money: Happy, healthy, home, but never enough money.
4. Bad for People/Good for Money: Risk of divorce and health problems, but always plenty of money when required.

For this step, it is wise to call the pros. Suzanne explains, 'An essential tip here is that Flying Stars Feng Shui isn’t generic or something to guess at. Like flying a plane, it’s best to have someone who knows what they are doing. Qualified Practitioners are accredited to the International Feng Shui Guild.'

2. Don't Do Things by Halves

When you have established the Flying Stars of your home, you should invest fully in the remedies, Suzanne urges. 'There is no point in having a report prepared and then not activating the Feng Shui areas with the appropriate cure,' she says.

The remedy will depend on the problems for your type of home, but can include adding weighted metal (depending on the square footage of your home), adding flowing water features, introducing the best plants for Feng Shui, or adding the fire element through color, Suzanne explains.

It may also mean removing items from your home and decluttering for good Feng Shui, she adds. 'Clutter will diminish the ability of Feng Shui to improve your good fortune. Clear the clutter first and then activate Feng Shui.

'Similarly, regardless of the feng shui you practice, always keep the front door and the area around it clean and welcoming, removing the items that make an entryway look cluttered. The ability of Chi (lifeforce energy) to enter your home and flow smoothly throughout the space is essential to maximize the impact of the process.'

3. Pay Attention to Your Energy

Just because you have made some changes, does not mean that the will be perfect for your home the first time around.

Flying Star Feng Shui is a continuous process, and you should pay attention to how you feel as you use your home. 'Strong colours, too much grey, and dark rooms can cause overwhelm, irritation, stress and emotional burnout,' Suzanne explains. 'If you’re struggling with any of these things, it’s well worth having a practitioner do a video walkabout of your home to see what’s going on.'

What to Forget

A common Flying Star Feng Shui mistake is relying too heavily on 'traditional' advice for boosting the energy of your home. There are three key things Suzanne always avoids:

1. Windchimes, kitsch froggy ornaments, and knick-knacks aren’t used in Flying Stars Feng Shui. A well-Feng Shui’d home will feel wonderful to spend time in and be considerably luckier, but a guest won’t be aware of the remedies because they can be very discreet.
2. Don’t fall into the trap of adding a water remedy unless you know you need it. Lots of generic sites suggest putting it in the north (career) or southeast (wealth), but this could be a disaster because adding water in the wrong place can cause financial loss and health problems with the lungs and breathing.
3. You can use crystals at home for positive energy; however, too many crystals will slow you down and create obstacles in the life you want for yourself. Use them wisely and don’t be tempted to overdo Feng Shui crystal placement. You can find a set of small Feng Shui crystals at Etsy for balanced energy.

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Meet the Expert

Flying Star Feng Shui is just one of the many changes to re-energize your space. If you need something a little simpler to get started, consider cleansing a home with sage or sound cleansing.

As the season begins to transition into deeper winter weather, and dark evenings continue to get longer, optimizing Feng Shui lighting tips is one of the best ways to make your home feel instantly cozy this November.

Our Feng Shui expert practitioners explain that as the rooms that felt bright, light, and airy in summer suddenly feel heavy and dark in the colder months, a stagnant Qi, or Chi, can be created. This can bring fatigue, poor health, and leave us uninspired.

For that reason, it's more important than ever to set the mood with layered lighting, to bring comforting rest and reflection energy, and it will instantly become a fall Feng Shui essential for a cozier home.

How to Use Feng Shui Lighting

Lighting is often used in Feng Shui to create good energy in your home.

Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui consultant and Interiors Therapist, explains, 'Layering is used in a multitude of ways to add depth, and support the Feng Shui energy required in any particular part of the home, so taking advantage of light to add a more inviting ambiance for a positive flow of chi – or lifeforce – energy makes total sense.

'Ensure the shades of lighting are mutually supportive, and avoid crossing cool tones with warm ones as this creates a clash, which can be difficult to relax in.'

To use Feng Shui lighting in your home:

1. Think About How a Room is Used

First things first, says Suzanne, avoid any Feng Shui design mistakes by thinking about how the room is most often used before getting started on additional lighting ideas.

'If the room is occupied during the day, you’ll need to amplify or simulate natural daylight wherever possible to support mood-regulating hormones,' she explains. 'Feng Shui is all about making the best use of positive energy, so consider daylight bulbs, such as the TJOY LED Light Bulbs available at Amazon for task lighting, and to offset SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) and the winter blues.

'Some SAD lamps, like the Light Therapy Lamp from Amazon, can switch from daylight level lumens to warm white at the flick of a switch, making them the perfect choice for rooms which double as work from home spaces during the day, to sitting rooms at night.'

Task lighting, adds Ivana Nady, Feng Shui consultant and the founder of Zen-Interiors, is purposeful, adding directional light for specific tasks, such as reading lamps.

'Depending on the lightbulb used, it can bring in yin or yang Qi,' she explains. This is something to consider when it comes to your home office lighting ideas, for example.

2. Use Accent Lighting

Next, layer lighting with accent lights to make your home cozy in November and beyond.

'The easiest way to activate the Qi and bring back the warmth to our home is to layer the lighting,' says Ivana. 'As our homes are multi-dimensional, we have to design the lighting with this in mind.

'Ambient lighting is usually the main source of the lighting in the room: a ceiling fixture, suspended lighting, or wall-mounted lighting. This type of lighting carries yang Qi, and encourages action and clarity, but can feel too harsh and clinical for cozy autumn evenings.

'Accent lights are the real mood setter. They bring depth and character to the room. They are soft and diffused, and carry calming and restorative Qi. A little lamp that you bought on your last trip to Egypt can be placed in dark corners to wake up the sluggish Qi.

'Or, add a sparkle of fairy lights playfully spread over the walls. These touches will turn a house into a home – without them, a room can feel impersonal. With layers, the rooms will feel textured and alive.

Importantly, adds Suzanne, accent lighting will define without being overpowering, which is why it's preferable to the downward puddle of brightness from central light fittings or a sea of ceiling LED spots.

'Choose dimmable options wherever possible to fine-tune the room to your own requirements.' For example, Suzanne recommends the LDOPTO Under Cabinet Lights available in a pack of four at Amazon for this.

3. Illuminate Dark Corners

Finally, says Suzanne, speaking of dark corners with sluggish Qi, 'Illuminate the dark corners where stagnant Chi might skulk,' which is essential for Feng Shui energy mapping.

'Unused or cluttered spaces will not support your Feng Shui in any way, and this is as relevant to a multitude of light sources as to a pile of unsorted stuff. Think of the space in 3D and pool light in layers from floor to mid-height.

'Lift a low ceiling with uplighting to manage any suggestion of downward pressure, and lower a high one for a cozy feel in a double-height great room or lobby. Be creative with your options to bring the room alive.'

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Meet the Experts

'Layered lighting brings harmony, and the essence of Feng Shui to your room, allowing you to adjust the yin and yang Qi as you need it,' concludes Ivana.

As you focus on your lighting, don't forget to consider these Feng Shui living room mistakes, too.

With fall here and colder, wetter weather on the way, our attention is turning to making seasonal changes to our homes for a warm and welcoming feel, with minimal effort. And where better to start than with Feng Shui?

As our Feng Shui experts explain, it's crucial to make a home feel more supportive in the fall and winter, as we crave solace and relaxation indoors, with less time spent outdoors.

Here, they share how to use Feng Shui to inspire a feeling of cozy comfort.

How to Feel Cozier at Home Using Fall Feng Shui

1. Pool Light

As Suzanne Roynon, interiors therapist and Feng Shui consultant, says, the easiest and simplest way to switch up the energy in your home for fall is by using Feng Shui lighting, and more specifically, 'warm white bulbs to pool light in darker corners.'

'The shade is soft and welcoming,' she explains. 'Choose a pair of matching lamps to support balance and strengthen couple energy in relationships,' such as the Luvkczc Ceramic Table Lamps available at Amazon, which Suzanne recommends.

Importantly, she continues, blue-tinted lights can be used during the day, but in the evening and at night they will keep the brain in active mode, and prevent it from winding down for sleep, leading to insomnia and headaches.

Instead, adds Lisa Morton, certified master teacher of Interior Alignment® Feng Shui, member of the International Feng Shui Guild, and founder of Pure Living with Lisa Morton, you can use some of your best candles to 'offer a relaxing glow and inspire a feeling of coziness,' or use a Himalayan salt lamp.

'These are one of my favorite products for fall,' she says. 'They bring in both the fire and earth elements of Feng Shui, and introduce not only healthier air, but cozy vibes.'

This Himalayan Salt Lamp, available at Amazon, is Lisa's favorite.

2. Use Mirrors

'Mirrors are important in Feng Shui because they effectively double what they reflect,' explains Suzanne.

For this reason, she advises that it's always wise to consider the Feng Shui mirror rules, and check what they show in their reflection.

'Choose something you like; fresh flowers, delightful art, beautiful décor. Never photos of a couple – that's an invitation to infidelity – bathroom doors, which is where we release the unwanted, or the front door, or you bounce positive energy back out of the house.'

As you should hang mirrors over your fireplace for good Feng Shui, Suzanne recommends this Wooden Round Wall Mirror available at Amazon.

Just make sure it's never cracked or damaged, which is a bad energy item that's among the unluckiest items to have in your home.

3. Turn Your Back on Summer Clutter

Finally, says Suzanne, consider the things minimalists throw out every summer, and the things professional organizers never keep in their homes after summer.

'Put away outdoor cushions and hobby equipment, and replace with snuggly throws, organic candles, clear surfaces, and an inviting space for you and the people you love,' she advises. 'By consciously clearing and shifting the energy of your home into the new season, you allow it to relax and embrace the darker months of the year.'

Lisa agrees, adding, 'A thick textural blanket in a soft beige, tan, or brown [such as the Tweed Knitted Throw Blanket available at Wayfair] can bring in the earth element of Feng Shui.

'It helps us feel grounded and stable, while also cozy and comforted.'

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You can also use Feng Shui for cold and flu season, by cleaning, shaking up the stagnant energy, and setting positive intentions.

As the lively, bright energy of summer gives way to the grounded rhythms of fall, it's the perfect time to realign your home for the seasons ahead.

By refreshing your wealth, career, and health corners, you can create space for new opportunities and prosperity as you head into the final stretch of the year.

Here's how holistic designers and Feng Shui experts are using the principles of Feng Shui to tweak their homes this season to inspire some change in your own.

How to tweak your wealth, career, and health corners for fall

While it is easy to make some quick cozy decor swaps to transition a home for fall, being intentional with the Feng Shui energy map can make these seasonal changes more impactful, having a potential knock-on effect for your luck and wellness in the cold seasons.

Gala Magriñá, certified Feng Shui consultant, holistic interior designer, and principal at Gala Magriñá Design, begins, 'Seasonal resets matter, especially in Fall and Winter, because they shift our internal rhythms in unique ways.

'Seasonal tweaks invite fresh energy into the home, supporting mental clarity and emotional well-being when external light and warmth are scarce.

'Aligning these corners with the season helps boost prosperity, stability, and motivation during times when mood and energy often dip.'

1. Wealth

In the fall, the Feng Shui wealth corner should be altered to help introduce new opportunities into your home.

For Max McKenzie, Feng Shui consultant and home healer at Yinteriors, this means making an entryway look more beautiful for fall, and tackling the things that make an entryway look cluttered.

She says, 'In feng shui, your front door is the 'mouth of chi' where fresh energy and opportunity enter. Clean it, sweep the steps, polish the letterbox, replace tired mats or dead plants with seasonal evergreens.

'You can also dust cinnamon powder from the front door or wipe the door frame with cinnamon oil [available at Walmart]. Cinnamon is said to invite abundance and clear stale energy, and the scent is seasonally spot-on.' Then, move through to the prosperous far-left corner of your home (as viewed from the front door), Max urges. 'If this area is overloaded, clear a drawer or cupboard with micro-resets. This is not just tidying: In Feng Shui, full cupboards signal there’s no room for more. Clear some space to invite abundance.'

For a truly personalized approach to Feng Shui, consider trying Flying Star Feng Shui, and working with an expert to work with the existing energy of your property.

2. Career

As our energy and motivation dip, it is easy to feel stagnant.

To combat this, Gala suggests incorporating the water element into the career corner of your home to invite in opportunity. This is the front center area of your home.

'Adding a small water feature, image of water, or even a black or deep blue accent in the career corner encourages movement and growth in professional life,' Gala explains. 'Pair it with an object tied to your career intention, like a meaningful book or award, to reinforce focus and resilience in the months ahead.'

Don't neglect your home office space, Max adds, 'If you work from home, your desk setup has a real impact on how you feel, especially during the darker months.

'Invest in a desk lamp with a wellness spectrum, add one of the best Feng Shui plants for growth, and place something inspiring in your eye line, such as a photo, quote, or symbol of past achievements,' which are easy Feng Shui tweaks that boost focus in your home office.

We love the Philips Hue Smart Bulbs, from Amazon, as you can adjust the tone, color, and brightness of your lighting as needed, all from your phone or via a voice home assistant.

3. Health

Organizing a home with health and well-being in mind is vital in fall and winter as bugs and germs spread like wildfire.

Besides practising good target hygiene and following the disinfecting golden rules, consider altering and decluttering the health center of your home to boost wellness, Gala says.

'Clearing surfaces and refreshing bedding or rugs in warm earth tones helps restore balance. This reduces stress, grounds your energy, and creates stability, which is especially important for countering SAD.'

For Max, this also involves taking steps to improve sleep, with fall Feng Shui essentials for a cozier home. She says, 'Pay special attention to your bedroom. We spend a third of our time here, and in winter, it matters even more. A circadian lamp [such as the Hatch Restore 3, from Amazon] helps with dark mornings and supports sleep.

'Swap crisp white cottons for warmer brushed cotton [such as the Brooklinen bedsheet sets] or linen in skin-toned or earthy shades.'

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With the spiritual side of things taken care of, turn your attention to the practical ways to prepare a home for fall, before the easy Feng Shui habit to start before January for success and happiness.

I always find that September is a transitional month. The burning heat of summer is fading, but it’s still not quite cold enough to curl up with a blanket and a pumpkin spice latte.

There's a name for this in-between season, explains leading expert on creating good Feng Shui in your home, Cliff Tan. 'What the West calls the Indian Summer is the fifth season, late summer or early autumn [in Feng Shui], representing Earth. This is the equinox between the yang and yin seasons; a moment to pause and recharge.'

'Without Earth’s stability, we risk entering fall feeling scattered or depleted,' continues Feng Shui practitioner Helen Ye Plehn. 'By anchoring your home and body now, you step into the next season nourished, centered, and supported.'

6 ways to Feng Shui your kitchen & dining space for the Fifth Season

The experts shared a few simple tips to help me bring grounding ‘Earth’ energy into my home this September, with a focus on the kitchen and dining room, which are the key areas to harmonize during this transitional period.

1. Create a tablescape with color and texture

When it comes to fall table decor ideas, 'colors should draw from the Earth palette,' advises Cliff Tan. 'Soft yellows, pale oranges, and warm earthen tones, echoing the green leaves of summer slowly yellowing and drying out. Complement these with tactile, warm textures such as clay, ceramics, or natural linens, so the table feels inviting, nourishing, and perfectly in tune with the grounding energy of the season.'

I've been inspired by the earthy tones featured in Crate & Barrel's latest fall tableware collection, which naturally celebrates colorful stoneware and table linens.

2. Add nourishing centrepieces

'It’s a time to keep your tables full and abundant think bowls of seasonal fruit, fresh bread, or other simple symbols of nourishment and a good harvest,' continues Cliff Tan. 'These elements don’t just decorate your space; they make the dining table the heart of the home, a place that invites gathering, sharing, and celebration.'

Feng Shui practitioner, Helen Ye Plehn, advises placing your seasonal fruits and farmers market staples into tactile clay, ceramic, stone, or porcelain bowls. I've chosen a simple, accessible terracotta fruit bowl from Pottery Barn, filled with figs for my family and friends to take from.

3. Choose sturdy, square shapes

To frame this energy, Cliff advises leaning into 'stable, grounding shapes like squares or wide horizontal rectangles.' You may want to choose these shapes for your tablescapes. 'Think a sturdy wooden block, a low, generous bowl, or anything that feels solid and anchored,' explains Cliff.

Cliff's advice reminded me of my favorite Dutch oven alternatives: the rectangular casserole dish. As a kitchen appliances editor, I've seen this shape re-emerge as a trend recently, with stylish picks like Joanna Gaines' new Hand & Hearth Dutch oven. I love the low, angular shape and gorgeous deep burgundy color, bringing ripening harvest colors that are so celebrated in the Fifth Season straight to your stovetop or dining table.

4. Declutter your kitchen countertops and cupboards

In Feng Shui, clutter in the kitchen reflects stagnation in digestion. Helen Ye Plehn urged me to perform a Feng Shui energy cleanse by clearing my countertops and pantry to make 'space' in my physical and emotional digestive system. 'Keep only what is nourishing and functional,' she says.

I am a kitchen appliance tester, constantly testing the best non-toxic cookware, so you can imagine that my kitchen is jam-packed with pots, pans, and boxes. I am slowly but surely organizing my kitchen cabinets – donating items I no longer use, disposing of old herbs and spices at the back of my pantry, and refreshing my kitchen with fresh, seasonal herbs to create a more Feng Shui kitchen that aligns with Earth’s rhythm instead.

5. Gather around nourishing, one-pot dinners

Acupuncturist, Chinese Medicine and Feng Shui practitioner, Tsao-Lin Moy, tells me that the Earth element also relates to the stomach and digestion. 'Focus on eating foods that are in season, and are nourishing, and vegetables that are cooked well,' she explains. 'Avoid fried foods, or meat-heavy meals, or too many raw vegetables; they can be harder to digest.'

The experts suggest one-pot, warming dishes: think: fennel and bean soup, stews, and sides of roasted vegetables. For slow-simmered recipes, I either turn to my favorite slow cooker ideas or my trusty Le Creuset Dutch Oven. It has an enamel-coated cast iron surface that gives food those golden, caramelized edges, while the tight-fitting lid locks in steam for tender vegetables.

Tsao-Lin Moy suggests choosing a red or orange dish, explaining, 'You can create a 'campfire' effect by placing the Fire Element as a center piece, drawing people around the table.' If you don’t already have a Dutch oven, you might want to choose a Le Creuset's 100-year anniversary 'Flame Doree' colorway to bring that ‘campfire energy’ into your kitchen. Helen Ye Plehn also suggests lighting a candle for a more grounding, mindful dining experience.

My picks for a nourishing fifth season

As a kitchen appliances editor, I'm constantly on the lookout for high-quality tableware and cookware. I think these pieces are not only gorgeous and grounding, but timeless classics you can turn to time and time again.

I hope these tips help you to integrate the busy days of summer into a calmer, nourishing space for your fall routine. If you are interested in bringing more balance into the rest of your home, you can follow Feng Shui energy mapping, strategically position a plants and furniture in your areas of your home associated with wealth, vitality, and luck.

Growing houseplants is a lot more work than you might initially expect. It isn't as simple as choosing any plant and putting it in any spot of your home - different plants thrive in different conditions, so you need to think carefully about which rooms to house which plants in.

Not only this, you also need to consider which plants aid the feelings you wish to evoke in specific rooms. For example, the best bedroom plants are often those that help create a calming sanctuary - this is especially true in Feng Shui practices. On the flip side of this, there are a number of houseplants you should never place in your bedroom.

Whether it's because they're Feng Shui plants to avoid or they simply don't grow well in a bedroom environment, Feng Shui and interior design experts warn against using these plants in this part of the home. Here, we explore further and take a look at alternative bedroom plants to choose instead.

5 houseplants you should never place in your bedroom

If you're trying to be better plant parent, taking into consideration the best growing environment for your houseplants is key. Not only this, you'll get the most of your plants by choosing the right ones for the right spaces in your home.

That's why Feng Shui and interior design experts say it's a mistake to choose one of these five houseplants you should never place in your bedroom:

1. Snake plant

It may surprise you to see snake plants at the top of the list, especially because they're considered one of the best air-cleaning indoor plants. However, experts say there are a few reasons to avoid placing them in the room where you seek rest:

'I don't recommend snake plants because they have sword-like, spiky leaves which cut into the energy,' says Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui expert. 'This can cause exhaustion, tension, stress, prickly conversations, and sharp words. None of which are really conducive to a harmonious, balanced environment,' she explains.

Even though many believe snake plants aid better sleep, you may find they are a bad energy item. On top of this, it's also a toxic plant, presenting an unwelcoming energy.

An alternative plant with less intrusive foliage is an aspidistra, or the cast-iron plant (available at Walmart). It has slender, non-toxic foliage, reminiscent of snake plants, but with softer appearance. These indoor low light plants also adapt well to shade, so won't complain when you have an occasional lazy morning and don't open your bedroom curtains for a few hours.

2. Cacti

Just like snake plants, cacti have spiky foliage that isn't ideal for creating a relaxing environment in a bedroom. Of course, there a wide range of cacti and indoor succulent types or all different shapes, but those with sharper foliage are the ones to avoid.

'Be careful with anything that is spiky or looks dangerous, like cacti,' says Hannah Yang, Psy.D, licensed psychologist and Feng Shui Expert. 'Spiky leaves can send out a threatening energy,' she adds.

When relocating your cacti, take care not to choose them as bathroom plants, either. Cacti are native to dry environments and won't grow well in the moist, humid environment of a bathroom.

Instead of cacti, choose succulents for your bedroom. Hannah notes rounder foliage is best and there are plenty of succulents with softer shapes available - like this succulent assortment from Walmart.

3. Euphorbia trigona

It's not just about avoiding plants that hinder the energy in our bedrooms, as it's also wise to not choose any toxic or irritant plants.

Euphorbia trigona (African milk tree), for example, is a popular plant for its tall spikes, but it does have an irritant sap and is toxic if ingested by humans or pets.

'As an interior designer and florist, I’ve worked with houseplants in many spaces, including bedrooms, where the choice of plants can greatly impact comfort and energy,' says Magda Callery.

'Bedrooms are a space for relaxation, and the risk of accidental contact with irritant euphorbia houseplants makes them less ideal for this area,' she explains.

For a pet-safe indoor plant alternative to African milk tree, try growing mother of millions kalanchoe. It's a succulent that has a similar skeletal look, and you'll also spot its pups hanging off the foliage which you can propagate.

4. Peace lily

You may have heard some houseplants absorb moisture, which occurs through foliar uptake, but there are also certain houseplants that transpire more than others, creating a humid environment. Peace lilies are included in this list, along with other indoor flowering plants.

Transpiration is the process of plants losing water through evaporation, like sweating. Flowering plants tend to have a higher transpiration rate than others due to having pores in their foliage and stomata.

The benefit of this is peace lilies are great at helping to increase humidity for other houseplants. However, as Magda notes: 'If you live in a climate that is already humid or you like a dry, comfortable sleeping environment, this isn't ideal.'

Instead, opt for variegated indoor plants that give you the same pop of color as flowering plants. For example, Monstera deliciosa 'Thai constellation' (from The Sill).

5. Calathea

Calatheas are notorious for being tricky. They'll quickly have a dramatic reaction to improper care, which is why it's essential to avoid calathea mistakes and find the optimal spot for these plants in your home - including providing sufficient light.

To care for calatheas correctly, they need plenty of exposure to light and will benefit from this in the early morning. For this reason, prevent keeping one in your bedroom where curtains may remain shut for some hours in daylight.

A lack of light may stunt growth of your calathea, cause calathea leaves to curl, or even lose their beautiful variegation that makes them so popular. You're also less likely to see your calathea move its leaves up and down (earning these plants the common name of 'prayer plant') if it isn't growing in plenty of bright light.

Alternative options to calatheas to still give you unique foliage in your bedroom include Anthurium clarinervium and the best begonia varieties.

FAQs

Can any houseplants help you sleep?

There are a range of houseplants thought to aid better sleep in different ways. For example, plants to make a living room smell nice can be used to bring relaxing aromas to your bedroom. Meanwhile, some plants are considered air-cleaning, like spider plants and ivy, which might leave your bedroom feeling more fresh for sleeping.

Of course, everyone has different preferences over houseplants and you may find one of these plants actually works well for the overall aesthetic and feel you are trying to create in your bedroom. Just don't forget to keep in mind whether a plant can thrive in your bedroom before selecting it - this goes for the houseplants you should never place in your entryway, too.

When considering which houseplants to place in your bedroom, you might want to also take a look at our expert guide on houseplants that reduce stress and can bring a feeling of calm to your space.

Wednesday 29 January will mark the start of the Lunar New Year, an event celebrated by millions of people round the world who will welcome the year of the Wood Snake.

Rooted in ancient tradition, this period symbolizes a time of renewal and preparation, and an opportunity to cleanse and refresh the home. In particular, the Snake, a symbol of intelligence, charm, and creativity, when paired with the element of wood, encourages transformation and renewal.

Here, our experts share how to create good Feng Shui in your home this new Lunar year to invite prosperity, growth, and harmony into your life.

What does the year of the Wood Snake bring?

Our Feng Shui consultant and home expert at Interiors Therapy, Suzanne Roynon, has been studying the predictions for a year which is poised to bring considerable change.

She shares, 'The Wood Snake Year is a time for rapid growth and great transformation, so it's important to be flexible and open to change, rather than fighting it. Be ready to start afresh.'

In particular, the year of the Wood Snake invites a 'less is more' focus, with decluttering and releasing, both emotionally and physically, the things which no longer serve us.

'Recognize that having fewer things which really matter, rather than a home bursting with unappreciated stuff, will make life much easier,' continues Roynon. 'Focus on quality over quantity and simplicity over excess in all aspects of life.'

It's the perfect time to get into the under-consumption trend.

1. Declutter and let go

Putting decluttering methods to use at the start of the year is always a good idea, particularly in years like this when the energy encourages us to let go of what no longer serves us. As Anjie Cho, Feng Shui expert, architect, and co-author of Mindful Living, available at Amazon, says, 'Shed, like the snake.'

She explains, 'Just like the snake sheds its skin that is has outgrown, you can declutter, donate, and let go of what you've outgrown.' This includes clothing, and broken or unused items.

Laili Kafi Gonzalez, Feng Shui expert at The Meazured Life, recommends paying particular attention to decluttering the bedroom, the center of your home, and, if you are familiar with the directions of your home, the East, Northwest, and Southeast areas.

'Be thorough in letting go of any items that do not have a clear purpose or spark joy in your life,' she says. 'And let go of things connecting you to past versions of yourself.'

The aim of this is to remove stale, stagnant home energy and make space for new, better things. As Feng Shui and Chinese astrology expert Vicki Iskandar says, 'This ritual reflects our intention for a harmonious, prosperous year ahead.'

2. Replace your bedding

When was the last time you changed your bed sheets, or replaced your bedding in general?

Meena Jagpal-Parè, classic Feng Shui master at Momentum Feng Shui, says, 'This is important as we spend one third of our lives in our beds. Opt for earth-toned sheets to promote calm and peaceful sleep.I If you're looking for inspiration, Mocha is the color of the year and a soothing, cozy color that goes with almost everything.

'Ensure pillows are matched and items in the bedroom are arranged in pairs to enhance relationship energy and harmony.' This is particularly important in the bedroom for promoting healthy relationships, so do away with any singular items.

If you're looking to invest in new bedding, our resident sleep expert Emilia Hitching has put together a detailed and handy guide on the best bed sheets, so you can shop with confidence.

3. Clean for fresh energy

To use Feng Shui this year, Feng Shui master Jagpal-Parè suggests cleaning your kitchen. 'The kitchen is considered the heart of the home,' she says. 'As such, ensure that the stove is spotless, and the pantry is stocked with food.'

It's also a good time to make use of pantry organization ideas, with pantry organizing tricks and products, such as the Everything Organizer Medium Shelf Depth Pantry Bin w/ Divider Clear available at The Container Store, to keep yours calm and clutter-free.

Also, Feng Shui expert Cho recommends taking the time to clean all your windows, with a dish-soap solution for for streak-free windows, or the best homemade window cleaner, made with castille soap and distilled water.

'As a bonus, open them up for nine minutes to let fresh energy into the home,' she advises. 'Nine is a lucky Feng Shui number of completion.'

Sprucing things up ahead of the Chinese New Year precedes cleaning before the Feng Shui New Year but may share areas of focus such as on top of doors and behind furniture.

All prices correct at time of publication.

4. Create areas of calm

There are many ways to make your bedroom more relaxing, and Feng Shui expert Kafi Gonzalez recommends making this an area of complete calm this year.

'This is where we go to recharge, and the only purpose of the room should be rest and romance,' she explains. 'Be sure to remove any clutter, items, or photos related to past relationships, family members or friends – basically, if it's not you and your partner, it shouldn't be in the room!'

You should also pay attention to the Feng Shui death position in a bedroom, and rearrange your bed in accordance. Luckily, even if you're tight on space, there are plenty of tiny bedroom Feng Shui tips to incorporate and embrace.

5. Repair and renew

You should also ensure everything in your home is in good working order, says Feng Shui expert, Jagpal-Parè, who advises paying special attention to your front door.

'This is the "mouth" of your home where prosperity enters,' she says. 'Repair loose handles, cracked pathways, or any visible damage, as these issues symbolize cracks in relationship energy entering the new year.'

Wooden door numbers need cleaning and care too.

To perfect your entryway Feng Shui, set a good first impression by fixing drafty doors with window insulation tape and weatherstripping, such as the Weather Stripping Door Seal Strip available at Amazon, and using caulk to seal gaps and cracks. You might also wish to add a Maneki Neko, or beckoning cat, to futher welcome good fortune and prosperity in, too.

6. Update family areas

According to Feng Shui expert Kafi Gonzalez, 'This is a year where enhancing family connections will be important.' For this reason, she suggests giving areas of your home meant for family gatherings, like your living room or kitchen, a good update.

'Clear out the things that don't belong, and focus on making spaces that foster greater connection,' she says. For example, keep kitchen counters clear, declutter your dining room table, and reduce visual clutter in your living room.

'Think comfortable seating, open layouts, and inviting spaces that are free of clutter and well cared for,' she adds.

7. Separate work spaces

This can often be easier said than done, but keeping your work space separate, particularly from where you sleep, will foster a more prosperous year, says Feng Shui expert Kafi Gonzalez.

'If possible, keep your work and sleep spaces separate,' she advises. 'Remove anything like files, excess books (especially those with activating topics like politics, business, etc.), and get rid of paper clutter for good office Feng Shui.

'This is a great year for focusing on learning and growth. If you have a dedicated home office space, or even just a place where you like to work, focus on making it as supportive as possible.'

This can be as simple as choosing a supportive and well-made chair to sit on, and ensuring your back is not to the door when you're seated. One of our writers asked sleep experts to help her organized her cluttered bedroom and found adding a laptop storage solution helped immensely. It meant when she finished with her work day, her work items were no longer in her line of sight in the bedroom and she found it helped reduce stress and help her sleep better.

For an added bonus, Gala Magriñá, holistic design expert and founder of Gala Magriñá Design, suggests a small ritual, to set your intentions for the working year ahead. She explains, 'Sit quietly and clear your mind for a couple of minutes, and then say to yourself, or out loud, an affirmation of what you're intending.

FAQs

What are the lucky colors for the year of the Snake?

Red, green, and gold are all lucky colors to consider this year, whether that's in the clothes you wear, or the interior design ideas you use. In particular, for people born in the year of the Snake, green is the most auspicious color for life. If that sounds like it might be of interest to you, our green decor ideas may be of interest.

Feng Shui and fragrance are also closely related, so you might want to consider overhauling your home's signature scent to symbolize change and renewal. Layering fragrance can also amplify your favorite scents for more impact.

What are the lucky flowers for year of the Snake?

When it comes to Feng Shui plants for this year, orchids and cacti for good fortune, strength and adaptability. These also make lovely, thoughtful gifts for bringing good luck to family and friends.

Another way to engage your home around the Lunar New Year is by displaying nine fresh oranges in a bowl, says Feng Shui expert Cho, which is a recommended way to use Feng Shui at home in the Year of the Horse.

'Oranges represent wealth and abundance, so you can place the bowl of oranges in your kitchen or living areas to welcome more prosperity,' she explains. 'And yes, you can eat them.'

Have you heard of the Feng Shui energy map? Our experts explain what it is, how to apply it in your own home, and why it could benefit you this year.

I never considered that the placement of my bed was going to be one of the biggest challenges I'd come up against during our home remodel.

But after months of tossing and turning and the room just feeling "off", I turned to the ancient art of Feng Shui (and Google) for help. And what I learned about bedroom Feng Shui completely transformed both my bedroom layout and my night's sleep.

As it turns out, the placement of your bed and the energy flow you create in your room play a crucial role in creating a sense of calm and balance. So to learn more, I've spoken with Homes & Gardens' contributing Feng Shui expert Suzanne Roynon of Interiors Therapy to get the low-down on how to create a relaxing bedroom with her very best Feng Shui bedroom layout tips.

Is Feng Shui the secret to a better night's sleep?

I've been fortunate that the remodel of my bedroom is on somewhat of a slow renovating trajectory. I say this because it has given me that age-old benefit of time to truly live in a room and see how it works and feels.

This means that while it can be rather frustrating to not yet have a finished bedroom, by moving in with a camp bed and no carpet for a few months, I was able to realize that the wall I'd been planning to put my bed against just didn't feel right.

And the laws of Feng Shui furniture placement agreed. After plenty of Googling "best bed placement for sleep", I realized that the orientation of the bed was what left me feeling uneasy in the room. This is when I learned about the command position.

The command position is a Feng Shui concept that suggests you should always place your bed so you can see the door. Then, when your bed is in the right position, it should foster a better sense of security and relaxation.

'First and foremost, you need to feel secure in the bedroom and this means positioning the bed in what’s known as the ‘command position’,' Suzanne, who is a member of the International Feng Shui Guild, explained to me.

'This means that when you are in bed you can see the door and are immediately aware if it opens. Psychologically, this gives you reassurance that you are safe and this makes it easier to achieve quality sleep.'

The key, however, is not to have your bed (and head) along the same wall – and therefore in line with – the bedroom door. Which was where I was getting it all wrong, leading to a bedroom renovation I regretted.

'All that said, it is preferable not to have the door opening in direct line facing the foot of the bed,' Suzanne adds. 'This is known as the ‘corpse’ or ‘coffin’ position and it’s said to drain your energy away as you sleep. If there’s no option other than to have a bed in this position, place a tall piece of furniture at the end of the bed, or a round rug between the bed and the door to deflect some of the energy.'

Which, if you're following, means it doesn't leave you with too many options as to the best bed position to follow. You want to be facing (but not directly facing) the door, not have it opening along the same wall as your head, and according to Suzanne not beneath a window either.

'Locate the bed on a solid wall and always factor in a tall, comfortable headboard,' she continues. 'This has a variety of purposes, not least a comfortable cup of coffee on Sunday morning, but as with everything Feng Shui, there is more to it.'

'The headboard protects the head and neck from drafts, knocks, and bumps, and in Feng Shui terms, attack from behind! Again it’s about feeling secure,' Suzanne adds. 'This is why we never recommend placing a bed under a window – your subconscious will always be on alert and quality sleep will be hard to achieve.'

Inspired by these insights, I got my husband on board with the idea and rearranged our bedroom, plug sockets and all, to align with these principles – and the results were surprisingly immediate.

After just a few nights I noticed a significant difference in how well I slept and how I felt upon waking up by just simply repositioning our bed. Now, we have it along a solid wall (no windows or doors), with a clear view of the door adjacent to us, and are instead facing the fireplace. A happy accident that gives us a much nicer view and more room to maneuver around the room.

It almost instantly felt more restful, inviting, and well-balanced. Whether you're a Feng Shui expert or a novice who fell down a TikTok hole like me, there's no denying that putting a little more thought into your bed position can enhance the overall ambiance of your sleep space.

Feng Shui Bedroom Tips From An Expert

Here, Suzanne shares her tried-and-tested tips for arranging your bedroom in line with the principles of Feng Shui – and some of them might surprise you.

1. Keep clear of clutter

'Always make sure the bedroom is clear of clutter,' says Suzanne.

'Clutter brings both chaotic thoughts and lifestyle so try to keep the bedroom clean, and fresh and have a specific place for makeup and products (and make sure they are returned to it after use),' she suggests. 'A floordrobe is never a good look and it’s far from romantic to step into a room where you have to pick your way between piles of stuff. If you’re remodeling a bedroom, be sure to include lots of efficient storage and then use it.'

Suzanne also warns against underbed storage ideas. 'Under the bed should be a no-go area, however, if space is at a premium and you’ve chosen a storage bed, limit the contents to out-of-season clothing, bed linen, and towels – and nothing else!'

2. Remove anything from above the bed

'Don’t hang pictures, mirrors, or cupboards above the bed,' Suzanne advises. 'This will interfere with sleep and increase the risk of headaches, neck, shoulder, and back pain. The downward pressure can be very destructive.'

This is a rule that shocked me, as I had been planning to source a lovely large piece of art or a tapestry to fill the wall above my headboard.

Additionally, Suzanne suggests that mirrored wardrobes are always best avoided. 'If you’re stuck with them, either change the doors or invest in adhesive frosting,' she suggests. 'Mirrors are said to do several unfortunate things – when they reflect the bed, they invite in the energy of a third person... and they also drain the energy of the person who sleeps reflected in them.'

3. Choose your nightstands wisely

I also asked Suzanne if, according to Feng Shui, bedside tables should match. The answer was a resounding yes.

'On either side of the bed, you’ll want matching nightstands and a lamp – and be sure to use nightstands in proportion with the bed,' Suzanne suggests. 'Too high and they will feel overpowering, too low or too small and they are too insignificant to provide the element of balance and harmony you deserve.'

'I always suggest having a nightstand with a drawer to tuck all the bedside gubbins into - this means you can keep the top clear of detritus, eye masks, tissues, etc., and enjoy the clarity a clear surface brings.'

'In addition, if feng shui is fully implemented the energy of the room may change slightly each year, and it’s much easier to uplift the energy when a space is easily adaptable.'

Finally, Suzanne recommends you treat the bedroom as a sanctuary from the big wide world. 'You don’t need a library at the bedside, or pet toys, tech, projects, or indeed anything which does not relate to sleep and intimacy. Plants are not helpful, and please don’t display photos of anyone you wouldn’t want to see you naked. This is not the time and place for your Mother-in-law to be gazing upon you!'

If you're also struggling with restless nights, it might be time to consider whether your bedroom is working for or against you too with these expert tips on finding your zen with Feng Shui.

In Feng Shui, houseplants play a very important role. There are some indoor plants considered ideal for promoting positive energy in your home and others that can cause the opposite effect.

But, it isn't just a case of selecting Feng Shui plants and placing them in your home without a second thought. Bringing good fortune to your home with Feng Shui plants takes a lot of careful consideration: 'Houseplants can actually be used as a Feng Shui remedy to bring balance to the home and inspire a supportive and harmonious environment,' says Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui expert.

Of course, this means there are a few errors you can make with Feng Shui houseplants. But don't worry, making Feng Shui houseplant mistakes is just part of the learning process. Plus, they're easy to fix. To help set you on the right path, I've spoken to Feng Shui experts to find out more about the common indoor plant mistakes to avoid to bring good fortune for the year ahead.

5 Feng Shui houseplant mistakes to avoid

If you're new to Feng Shui, it can be hard to take on all the principles in one go. Instead, try working through a specific area at a time - like Feng Shui houseplants. Below, experts explain some Feng Shui houseplant mistakes to avoid to ensure you use plants in your home effectively to promote positive energy and good fortune.

1. Placing too many houseplants together

'Plants are regarded as ‘wood remedy’ in Feng Shui and when used in the right place, can enhance growth and flexibility within the home,' says Suzanne. 'They also support ‘fire remedy’ and as most homes will have three or more areas in need of a fiery boost, it does give lots of flexibility in plant placement,' she explains.

For this reason, it's helpful to Feng Shui energy map your home to figure out which areas will benefit from plants. One mistake in placement, however, is putting too many houseplants together. Even though it's an effective method to increase humidity for indoor plants, it can create an over-abundance of wood or fire energy and throw things off-balance in your home.

'For example, too many plants in the bedroom can be too activating for sleeping and cause some sleep disruptions,' notes Hannah Yang, Psy.D, licensed psychologist and Feng Shui Expert.

To avoid this blocking of positive energy, don't overcrowd your home with the best indoor plants, and rather place them more intentionally: 'Every home has unique energy, and it’s definitely worth knowing which parts of a specific home are particularly conducive to positioning houseplants for good fortune,' says Suzanne.

2. Choosing sword-shaped leaves for your home

The shape of the houseplants you bring in your home also plays a role in the kind of energy they support. That's why it isn't surprising Feng Shui experts advise steering clear of sharper foliage.

'Anything with sharp sword or dagger-like leaves, anything prickly, with thorns, claws or barbs, and anything poisonous for humans or pets should be avoided,' says Suzanne.

This includes snake plants, cacti, some succulents, and rubber trees which are toxic to cats, among others.

'Spiky plants like aloe vera are going to cut into the energy of the home and the people in it, causing tension, irritability, frustration, and exhaustion,' Suzanne explains. 'If you actually use aloe vera for your skin, keep one plant in the place you will use it, provided that’s not a bedroom,' she advises.

'Plants with the best energy have rounded or softer leaves,' Hannah adds. Luckily, there are plenty of houseplants with softer, more welcoming foliage to choose from.

This includes the best ferns to grow indoors and even some of the best indoor trees, like a money tree. Make sure to also browse pet-safe indoor plants to extend the good fortune to the furrier members of your household.

3. Growing plants of the wrong size for your home

Every houseplant-lover knows one of the greatest joys of indoor plants is the fact they come in all shapes and sizes. In Feng Shui, whether you opt for tall indoor plants or small indoor plants is particularly important.

If you have a home with lower ceilings but you choose large plants that don't quite fit, leaving the top foliage squished, it can bring a restricted energy, for example. Likewise, tiny plants growing in a large open space can feel lost and displaced.

Therefore, take some time to consider where plants will live in your home and how you can style houseplants so they grow comfortably before purchasing them. If you aren't able to offer this, it's wise to not bring the plant home with you.

On a similar note, using multiple plants of different sizes to fill a space can work well to create both a harmonious balance and attractive display.

4. Not correctly caring for your plants

Bringing Feng Shui plants into your space and placing them with careful consideration is just one element of using plants as a remedy in your home - you then need to maintain the positive energy by keeping on top of plant care.

'A sick, dying, or dead plant will diminish the quality of the energy around it and that in turn will impact on the people in the home,' Suzanne says. 'Keep the soil in good condition, water appropriately and don’t allow a plant to become restricted or pot bound – this constriction will reflect back in other parts of your life,' she explains.

Of course, there are some houseplants that like being root-bound more so than others, but for the most part you shouldn't let your plants grow to this state. As Suzanne notes, letting your houseplants live in a negative environment will only reflect in your own home and life.

'If a plant isn't doing well, see what you can do to attend to it and get it looking better. If it doesn't seem like it's going to make it, you're better off getting rid of it,' Hannah advises.

There are lots of things in your plant care kit that can help you be a better plant parent and reduce the number of plant fatalities in your home. This soil moisture meter from Amazon, for example, identifies when it's time to water your houseplants. Likewise, use grow lights for houseplants (like this grow light from Walmart) to boost lighting during darker days - failing to do so is not only a Feng Shui houseplant mistake, but also a winter houseplant care mistake.

5. Pairing the wrong plants together

An imbalance can easily be caused by accidentally placing the wrong plants together. While some will grow harmoniously in the same position, others will struggle to share space and thrive together.

This is largely due to different plants having different needs. For example, placing the best indoor succulents, which don't need watering very frequently, next to a fern, which doesn't like to dry out, can cause conflict in your watering regime.

Above all, it makes it tricky to keep on top of houseplant care, in turn leading to declining houseplant health. It may also bring common houseplant pests to a specific area of your home, or a spread of houseplant diseases.

For this reason, pair houseplants with similar care requirements together to make it easier to maintain health and positive energy around them.

If you have a large houseplant collection, you might find it useful to use a houseplant journal (from Amazon) to keep track of when your plants have been fertilized and watered.

FAQs

Which houseplants are considered the luckiest in Feng Shui?

There are many plants considered to bring good fortune, all influenced by a range of cultures and practices. In Feng Shui, lucky houseplants include money trees, jade plants, anthuriums, peace lilies, and more. Generally speaking, it's the plants that have soft, round foliage, rather than spikey, structural foliage.

How can you improve the energy of your houseplants?

In Feng Shui principles, there are a few ways to improve the energy your houseplants are contributing to your space.

'The key is understanding what your plant needs in terms of light, water, and food,' says Hannah Yang, Psy.D, licensed psychologist and Feng Shui Expert. 'You can also tap into your intuition, adjust the guidelines and monitor to see how it does when you do,' she adds.

You might also consider trying Feng Shui energy mapping: 'Have the unique Feng Shui report prepared for your home and put plants where they will bring maximum benefit to you and your environment,' advises Suzanne Roynon, Feng Shui expert.

As well as avoiding these Feng Shui houseplant mistakes, take note of Feng Shui plants to avoid that will automatically hinder the energy in your home for different reasons. You can also use your gut feeling about plants when deciding if they are benefitting your space or causing problems: If a plant isn't bringing you a good feeling, it's one you likely shouldn't keep in your home.

You may wonder why you’re experiencing an increasing sense of anticipation as the end of January comes into view. I’ll let you into a secret – the energy of your home is responding to the impending Feng Shui New Year on February 4, and rather like a child in the run up to a birthday, it’s getting ready for the excitement of an upgrade in Chi (life force energy) and a fresh, new beginning.

If you’re new to Feng Shui, it might surprise you to learn the Feng Shui New Year doesn’t coincide with the Chinese New Year (January 29). That’s because the Chinese festivities use the Lunar New Year, and the exact date moves in accordance with the phases of the moon between mid-January to mid-February.

Feng Shui, however, is more precise. The ancient masters used the Solar New Year as the beginning of their new year. This always occurs during the first week of February. If you feel restless from the impending energy change, this is the perfect time to spring clean your home. Here's exactly where to focus your efforts.

The Feng Shui New Year

In the world of traditional Feng shui, February 4 is a day of joy, rebirth and delight.

I'm a Feng Shui consultant and as owner of Interiors Therapy, this is a remarkably busy time. In the run up to the Feng Shui New Year, I'm guiding clients to prepare their homes and therefore make the most of the good fortune available to them, and you can benefit by decluttering and targeted cleaning, too.

Before you commence cleaning, it's crucial to deal with any clutter you've lost control of and remove it from your home permanently. By that I don’t mean store it in the garage and forget it’s there. This is definitely a time for ‘goodbye’, as you donate, sell gift, or trash anything you don’t use need or love permanently. This will lift the associated weight it carries from your home.

Then, I recommend a super deep clean, which I always do this in my own apartment. That said, I pace myself and begin well ahead of Feng Shui New Year to show my home an even greater level of love and appreciation than my regular housework routine allows.

Essentially, this is the most crucial time for an intentional reset of energy in the home, and harnessing it to tackle the things to clean in January before the Feng Shui new year will turbocharge your good fortune.

1. Get behind the furniture and go top to bottom

This is all about locating and dissipating stagnant energy. When you take into account the nine essential Feng Shui areas of a home, which include wealth, health, work, and relationships, it’s important to make sure each and every one of them is working effectively.

This can’t happen if these area are clogged with cobwebs and dust. Move furniture to clean behind and under it, and don't forget to go top to bottom when cleaning. This microfiber extendable dusting combo from Amazon will make short work of high ceilings, and tight spaces.

By taking the time to move things around, you’ll also notice where maintenance may be required, and spots where new damp is accumulating, and the black mold you need to get rid of. This way you catch problems early so they can be resolved with minimal expenditure.

2. Windows and doors

These are the eyes and energy access points for the home, and we always want positive vibes to feel welcome. This is not the time to hide your light.

Make sure to clean your front door, internal doors and their frames, as grime and dust can settle unnoticed around hinges and fixtures. For me, Windex, available at Target, has always been a go-to. It’s simple, readily available, and does a brilliant job.

You can also easily make your own DIY cleaning solution. Mix a 1:1 ratio of tap water and vinegar. Adding a tiny dot of dish soap, such as Dawn available at Walmart, will acts as surfactant, helping your mix grip the dirt and surface.

3. Cabinets and closets

Your home is a mirror of your experience, so when spaces which are used for storage are barely opened from one year to the next, this is likely to cause obstacles and difficulties in a variety of ways.

If you live, like Monica from ‘Friends’, in a pristine home with secretly overflowing closets, you’ll find yourself constantly challenged and stressed, hidden chaos is still bringing chaotic situations straight at you.

Unfortunately, visual clutter and hidden clutter is always going to impact your well being and your Feng Shui energy, so clear any backlog in your home, and you’ll reap the benefits in other parts of your existence too.

If you don't know where to begin, pick a particularly troublesome area and go from there. Here are some of Homes & Gardens key decluttering guides to help:

• How to declutter kitchen cabinets
• How to declutter your bedroom
• How to declutter your closet
• Small living room decluttering checklist
• How to declutter a garage
• How to declutter the attic
• How to declutter sentimental items
• How to declutter when feeling overwhelmed
• Decluttering golden rules

4. Clean the kitchen

Regardless of its location in your Feng Shui bagua (the energy map of your home), it’s vital to keep the kitchen fresh, clean and unburdened by anything which doesn’t need to be there. How can you create healthy, nourishing meals if you can’t find the countertop or the stove?

I recently used Interiors Therapy to relieve the pressure on an elderly client’s home and therefore her health. She’s tiny, and the upper shelves in her cabinets were inaccessible without climbing on a stool.

By taking absolutely everything out of the cabinets, (which is recommend in the Chaos decluttering method), ditching out of date products and unwanted appliances, we reclaimed so much space that she can now reach everything safely and is enjoying making meals again.

If you find cooking a real chore, reboot your kitchen to bring back the pleasure in creating good food. Our professional chefs have tips for organizing a kitchen for optimum functionality.

5. Soft furnishings

Sad to say, furry throws, blankets and those delicious decorative pillows and cushion covers may not be as clean as you’d like them to be. Comforters and hygge essentials have absorbed dust, sneezes, bugs and viruses during colder winter months and it’s time to give everything a refresh with spring on the horizon. You might also find a treasure trove of missing objects and loose change hidden under the cushions on the couch. Feng shui-wise, keeping all surfaces, including soft-furnished areas of your home healthy is a significant boost for energy.

Other areas of the home worth a clean ahead of Feng Shui New Year

You may not have time for them all, but if these areas are possible to freshn up, it will be helpful for the flow of energy too at this crucial point in the year.

Where we have them, our expert-led cleaning guides are linked below:

• Walls and ceilings
• Lamp shades
• Doors and frames
• Pelmets, coving, skirting and baseboards
• Pull everything out from corners
• Behind and under furniture. Move it wherever safe to do so
• Under beds
• Inside and outside of cabinets, bedroom drawers, kitchen drawers, and closets
• Curtains and drapes
• Wash couch cushion covers, outdoor cushion covers, throw pillows, blankets
• Vacuum under sofa cushions
• Windows, the eyes of your home
• Front door
• Kitchen cabinets inside and out
• Fridge and freezer
• Bathroom, organize your medicine cabinet
• Tops of wall mounted pictures and photos
• Shelves
• behind radiators and vents
• Remember to empty the vacuum afterwards!

FAQs

What if I already have Feng Shui remedies in place?

You should have received an update from your consultant to explain how the unique energy will shift in your home and which remedies are required in 2025.

Remember, before you relocate anything, it needs to be revitalized. Cleanse all metal, water and earth remedies in warm, soapy water. Make sure plants are super-healthy and replace any which are past their best. Refresh fire remedies as appropriate. A stopped clock will cause problems, so keep an eye on them and replace spent batteries immediately.

If you are intrigued by Feng Shui and the positive impacts it can have, I've covered in detail the things you can do to alter your home's energy and support your new year resolutions. These can be applied to your life goals at any point in the year, including love, work and health.

As a Feng Shui expert, to put it bluntly, you will reach your goals more quickly when you remove clutter from everywhere in the home. This is relevant for weight loss, love, a new job, improved health, and every other goal you have for 2025. Let me explain why.

Your home has a flow of positive energy called ‘Chi’ or ‘Life Force’ moving through and around it. Clutter, and mess of any kind, blocks the passage of this energy and creates pockets of stagnation. This contributes to creating the obstacles in your life that prevent you reaching your goals, and a heaviness which can manifest in weight gain and more.

Even using decluttering tips will mean you move your body differently. This is always a good thing and it upgrades your physical energy too. You’ll generate ‘feel good’ endorphins as you create more space in your home and lift the pressure of being surrounded by things you don’t use, need or love.

What to Feng Shui in your home to help your New Year resolutions

1. For weight loss

Weight loss is always high on the post-holiday goal-setting list, perhaps a couple of pounds, or as a longer-term health and self-esteem boost.

It’s not unusual for people who combine using Feng Shui with Interiors Therapy to lose weight without even trying.

As an extra layer of support, clear the high sugar and empty calorie products like cookies and wine from your kitchen, exchanging them for healthier options, and remove everything but essential appliances from the countertops to encourage cooking nourishing, balanced meals. Learn more about the things you shouldn't keep on kitchen counters.

2. For love

With Valentines already on the horizon, January can feel like the loneliest time of the year, especially after a Christmas break-up, or if you’ve been single for a while.

Start by looking at your home's Feng Shui energy map, especially in the southwest of your home. This is the Feng Shui area for love and relationships. Remove any ‘single’ items, pictures depicting a single subject matter, odd candles, ornaments and take a look at the furniture. Is there room for two in your home?

View your bedroom with fresh eyes. Is the bed made each day? That's a habit of highly organized people and a good one to start or keep.

Does your bedroom invite love? From over 30 years of experience, I can say that the bedrooms of single women and men can leave a lot to be desired. If you are still sleeping in the bed you shared with an ex, just be aware their DNA will always be with you, so as soon as finances allow, replace the bed and invest in bedding – ideally before you meet someone new. If you don't know where to start, we have guides for the best luxury bedding and the best places to buy bedding.

A brutal way of assessing a room is to ask yourself how a stranger would see it. If it doesn’t measure up, then it’s not welcoming to love.

Show your sanctuary some love by cleaning your bedroom, use the closets for clothes instead of the floor and empty a couple of hangers, a drawer and the nightstand on ‘their’ side of the bed, so your home knows you are ready to find a love worthy of you.

Finally, use the ‘Manifesto for Love’ process in ‘Welcome Home, How Stuff Makes or Breaks your Relationship’. It’s an easy way to define the qualities and values of the person you would choose to share your life with, specifically designed to draw the energy of the right love to you, whilst pushing the ghosts, players and losers out of your orbit. Invest a little time in this and it will pay off.

3. Prosperity

Prosperity goals are focused on the southeast which is the Feng Shui area for wealth, abundance and blessings.

Remove anything from this space relating to debt or financial outgoings and relocate them to the east. Instead keep details of your investments, savings and assets in the southeast. If that’s not an option right now, create a money pot for pocket change and place it on a small mirror so the coins overflow, symbolically creating money pouring into your life.

This is a good place for Citrine, Jade and Aventurine crystals if you are a collector, but please don’t buy them if you are not, because they just become more clutter. Remember to cleanse crystals monthly to keep them working.

Generally throughout the property fix leaks, dripping faucets and blockages as these all represent money draining away.

4. Improved health

The center of the home is all about well-being, prioritizing physical, emotional and mental health.

Ironically in many homes, this is where the trash, guest bathroom, and overstocked pantry can be found, and these impact vitality. Get into the habit of emptying bins, keeping the toilet lid closed and discarding out of date and unwanted food. If it’s still in date, please donate it to help others.

Everything in this space should be supportive. Fresh fruit and flowers, living, vibrant plants (no sick ones). Learn more about keep flowers fresh in a vase. Exercise in the center of your home where possible, but don’t block the flow of energy by leaving kit laying around.

5. A new job

If a change of employment or promotion is high on your list for 2025, two areas facilitate this. The west represents new beginnings and a fresh start, while the north motivates career.

Update your resume and researching potential new opportunities in the west. Write a description of the role you are looking for, essentially a manifesto for the job you want including salary, location and all other important aspects and situate in the north to attract the energy of a position coming which fits your aspirations.

Try not to restrict yourself to one company, but if there are some you are particularly interested in, put their logos in the north too. A client has just been headhunted into a high-status business, having done just this.

6. Travel

When spreading your horizons is high on the agenda, target the northwest with a beautiful globe. I like the stunning MOVA Globe, available on Amazon. Place images of the places you’d like to visit, and details of your vacation itineraries. Store suitcases and passports here too if there is space.

Since activating her travel Feng Shui in September, my client has been on five vacations and is heading out on a sixth as you read this. She’s astonished by her good fortune and looking forward to a sensational 2025.

Feng shui can work very fast when it is implemented properly. Sometimes overnight, although expecting a wait of up to two months for the impact of the Feng Shui, and a happier lifestyle, is more realistic.

Next, lean into the power of Feng Shui with the things experts like me wish you would know, and the easy Feng Shui habit to start before January for success and happiness.

An ancient Chinese art, Feng Shui is about creating balance and harmony within our surroundings. And, while it's often referred to in interior design, the philosophy can help influence our outdoor spaces, too.

Garden Feng Shui incorporates elements such as water features, curved shapes, and certain color palettes. Plant choice is also important for a peaceful and positive space, and a patio – which tends to be the hub of a backyard – is the perfect place to utilize well-suited options.

I asked gardening experts for their recommended plants to Feng Shui a patio. Below, you'll find five beautiful picks, as well as tips on how to care for them.

1. Ferns

Nikki regards ferns as the ultimate choice for tranquility – and easy to care for, too. 'Their size stays smaller, so they are a great choice for patios,' she says.

She recommends the 'Autumn Brilliance' fern, an evergreen plant available from Perfect Plants Nursery which showcases shades of red and orange. 'Keep it happy with indirect sunlight and make sure the soil is always moist.'

Other pretty examples include the marginal wood fern, available from Nature Hills, which is neat and compact. Most ferns are good shade plants, bringing life to gloomy corners, but always check the label when choosing the best planting position.

Ferns are also a great Feng Shui plant for indoors.

2. Red Mandevilla

'The color red is said to be a powerful color in Feng Shui, so a splash of red from a tropical mandevilla plant can help activate positive energy,' says Justin Hancock of Costa Farms.

'Vining varieties can climb to 10 feet or so and need a trellis, fence, or other support,' Justin continues. 'Because of their vertical nature, these mandevilla varieties can be a great way to add more color to a small space.'

Mounding varieties, on the other hand, grow to about 18 inches tall and wide. 'They don’t need support and can be used as landscape accents (such as lining a meandering path to guide positive energy), or in container gardens,' he says.

In terms of care, Justin says mandevilla grows and blooms best in all-day sun or afternoon sun and morning shade. It’s somewhat drought tolerant, he adds.

3. Star Jasmine

Fragrant plants are perfect for a calming, sensory garden, and star jasmine (available at Perfect Plants Nursery) is one of the best. Plus, in Feng Shui, it's said to attract prosperity.

It's also a climbing plant, so it can add vertical interest to your patio, notes Nikki. 'Train jasmine to grow on a pergola or trellis to create a tranquil nook or provide privacy.

'It likes direct sunlight but can tolerate a bit of shade. Keep it mildly moist,' she adds. 'Give it a little trim after it blooms to keep it bushy and happy.'

4. Lavender

Another well-loved fragrant plant, lavender is said to attract wealth and good luck in Feng Shui, and is recommended by Anna Ohler of Bright Lane Gardens for a patio. It's also a good plant for pollinators, enticing butterflies and bees.

'Try putting it in pretty pots along sunny edges or use it to frame your patio for a welcoming vibe,' Anna says. 'It loves full sun and well-drained soil, so water it deeply but only when the soil is dry. A quick trim after it flowers keeps it looking neat and encourages new blooms.'

At Homes & Gardens, we like the look of the 'Sensational!®' lavender from Nature Hills, a sturdy, silver-leaved variety with large blooms.

5. Tropical hibiscus

Also known as Chinese hibiscus, this flowering shrub is believed to symbolize creativity and passion.

While it comes in a range of hot hues, Justin recommends opting for a yellow variety. Yellow can be an uplifting color, he explains, so a splash of it strategically placed on your patio can help improve your space’s Feng Shui.

'This plant can bloom practically non-stop from spring to fall (and all year long in frost-free climates),' he says. It appreciates a sunny spot (at least a half day of sun), he adds, as well as abundant water.

Top tip: 'Newer varieties, such as "HibisQs®", can produce more flowers over the course of the season than older varieties,' Justin adds.

FAQs

What patio plants are bad for Feng Shui?

Whether indoors or out, dying plants are no good for positive vibes, so be sure you know how to water plants properly and site them in suitable locations. It's also said that spiky plants are bad for Feng Shui, so consider giving cacti in your landscaping a miss.

What else should you consider when choosing plants for Feng Shui?

You may also wish to consider plant placement, as well as pot color and shape, to create a well-balanced environment.

If you're looking for more ways to harmonize your home, consider these Feng Shui front door colors, too.

December is an incredibly busy time and as a Feng Shui consultant, I support many clients to make sure their homes are set up for success, good health and happiness in the hosting season.

As Christmas holidays draw near, these principles will help manage the energy of your home so your planned festivities are relaxed and enjoyable for everyone – including you.

Here, I share how to tap into the benefits of good Feng Shui to add sparkle to your holidays and make Christmas less overwhelming, whether you're doing it as a team, or hosting falls squarely to you.

1. Boost your productivity

The most important aspect of Feng Shui is that it boosts positive energy and neutralizes anything difficult or un-supportive in a building.

If you can’t function effectively in your home, the positive ‘chi’ or life-force energy won’t circulate either, and that’s when you’ll feel stuck, grouchy, and things become harder and more irritating than they need to be.

So treat yourself to some pre-holiday house decluttering to make space for the love and happiness you want your guests to feel.

Declutter closets, organize kitchen drawers, and delve in to organize your pantry for Christmas. Cherish the good stuff and ditch the bad without second-guessing yourself. It’s incredibly liberating.

Every bauble, trinket and ornament should bring a sense of joy when it’s hung. If holiday decorations are past their best or carry unhappy memories (this often happens after a divorce), there is no obligation to keep them.

Believe me, they will always make you sad when you see them, so why do it to yourself? If you aren’t quite ready to send them on their way, put them back in their storage bag, a protective bauble holder like this from Amazon is handy and don’t display them this year.

You can make a decision next time around, although I bet, when you realize the pain they cause, they won’t make it past next January.

An important concept in Feng Shui terms is that once you’ve decided to let something go, don’t procrastinate about passing it on, and certainly don’t allow it to create stagnant energy in the basement, garage or by the front door.

In Feng Shui, every part of your home energy map impacts on one important part of your life or another. There is no ‘safe space’ to store clutter. Instead, remove it straight away. Your home will thank you for it. You could even take a leaf out of the book of minimalists, who avoid these storage essentials and work to clear as much as possible from their homes to avoid needing storage solutions.

The great thing about doing this now is there is still time for charities to re-sell your unwanted stuff ahead of Christmas, boosting their coffers and ensuring you make a difference with minimal effort and maximum effect

2. Increase pleasure with Feng Shui Christmas colors

Here’s a fun way to use basic Feng Shui color energies in different areas of your home to help you and your guests channel their wishes and desires.

You can use it area if you are decorating or sprucing up ahead of Christmas hosting. For example, making use of the best Feng Shui color for entryways if you want peace is green, so you can add some accessories in this space to bring this energy for guests

To do this ahead of Christmas hosting, all you need is a smartphone compass, or a regular compass, available at Amazon, to identify the direction of your home accurately, and make use of the important energy mapping centers (called guas) of your living space.

• Use blues and blacks in the north area of your home to support career and life paths. Perhaps you have teenagers or young adults coming to stay and they are making some important life decisions. Your home's energy can intersect with their lives during their festive stay.
• Use earth colors in the Southwest of your home for good energy for relationships. In the northeast – earthy colors will bring good energy for family, community and the past. Placing soft and fresh earthy-colored throws, such as this taupe blanket from Walmart will keep guests cozy and reverberate good energy for interactions.
• Use greens in the east for building feelings of family, community, and for dealing with the past. Greens in in the southeast will bring wealth and abundance.
• Use metallic like gold, silver and white in the northwest to inspire and channel opportunities for travel and encourage helpfulness from friends. Using metallics in the West will channel energy for new beginnings and children.
• Use reds, hot pinks and fiery colours in the south to bolster Fame and Reputation.

Remember, you’re only decorating for a couple of weeks, so if you’ve already decked your tree in your crimson traditional Christmas decor ideas and it happens to be in an area which thrives on metal colors, please just relax and relish it precisely as it is.

3. Positivity

Acts of kindness are such beautiful things, whether truly random or adding to the lives of others with absolutely no expectation of receiving anything back.

On Christmas Eve, each apartment in our building receives a small gift, quietly left on the doorstep when everyone is safely home. No one knows where they come from, but for some of the residents, it might be the only gift they get.

One year it was a tiny Poinsettia, another homemade jam or cookies. The neighbors love their friendly festive mystery and the clandestine gifter believes in sharing the magic of Christmas with everyone around them.

Try this for yourself. You’ll be astonished at how good it feels.

4. Permission for peace

If everything has changed this year, there is no requirement to stick to past customs. Give yourself Christmas your way. Take a holiday; invite someone new; eat in the evening rather than the middle of the day. It’s your holiday, so spend it the way you choose. It's actually one of the things as a Feng Shui expert I wish everybody knew.

I can honestly say my most memorable and happy Christmases are the ones where tradition was turned on its head and we went with the flow. Just thinking about those wonderful years is guaranteed to make my eyes shine with happiness.

Let’s be real too about the belief that someone has to be up at the crack of dawn to cook the turkey and spend all morning red-faced in the kitchen whilst everyone else hits the sherry. Take shortcuts. Your home is not Downton Abbey, and when it comes down to it, it’s just a roast dinner with a few more sides.

Prepare all you can in advance, don’t cook veggies no one will eat, and clear up as you go along, which will help you clean when you are busy.

Create drop zones with stair case baskets, available at Amazon, and baskets with handles so if things get messy with guests piled in, you can scoop them into one space and reduce visual clutter till you're ready to handle it.

5. Mindful giving

Now you have your own house in order, let’s talk about the minefield of hostess gifts and how to stand out as a considerate guest. The traditional chocolates and a bottle of wine still work well in most homes, but what are the alternatives if your hosts are teetotal, vegan, or have special dietary needs?

I always use the principles of Feng shui to help me, and that means only gifting something I know will be appreciated, and definitely a gift that won’t become clutter.

• Welcome new beginnings with a beautiful white orchid, available at Walmart.
• Harmonize relationships by choosing gifts which come in a pair rather than a solo item, such as a pair of rustic candle holders from Target.
• Invite healthy energy with vegan wines, chocolates, soy candles from Amazon or one of the best diffusers. I love Spry Scents which don’t leave a sooty residue and smell divine. By layering in an additional sensory experience, a home feels more alive.
• Wish abundance on your friends and family, or if invited anywhere, on your host. Fresh flowers always enhance a space. Avoid anything spikey which can provoke bad tempered outbursts, but rather a bouquet or display.

Wherever and however you decide to celebrate the holidays this year, find joy in the simple things, notice the beauty, love and enchantment of the season, and above all, be kind.

Next, delve into how to get your home guest ready for Christmas.

As a feng shui consultant, I often get asked how energy mapping works and why it’s so important. Energy mapping is essentially the foundation of Feng Shui – it allows us to assess each area of a home and understand how it connects to different aspects of life.

Whether you’re aiming to enhance your career, relationships, health, or overall harmony, energy mapping can help you intentionally align your space with your goals.

Energy mapping is deeply personal – no two spaces are the same, and each one reflects the people who live there in different ways. For those just beginning to explore the meaning of Feng Shui, understanding energy mapping is a great step toward creating a home that supports every aspect of life.

How to use Feng Shui energy mapping

Picture the scene, a young couple moving into their ‘dream cottage’. Within weeks things start to go downhill, irritating little things at first, the washing machine floods the kitchen, he breaks a bone, then she does too… pets suffer, then the miscarriages, the ectopic, his mental health struggles, her job loss, and recession sends them spiraling into financial trauma.

It was a time of sleepless nights and total desperation.

Looking back, as the anti-heroine of the piece, I’m so grateful I found Feng Shui energy mapping before the whole thing turned into a horror movie you wish you’d never started watching.

Now, with years of experience, I could explain that we had bought a property with energy that was ‘bad for money and people’. A ‘reverse energy’ house where everything that could go wrong did so, full of Feng Shui house features to avoid. If we had thought it through, the fact that the previous owners were divorcing and lost money on the place should have raised a red flag, but no one really thought about negativity lurking around in everyday homes back then. The place had me at ‘roses round the door'.

This was the early nineties when Feng Shui was leaping into the public consciousness and people would discuss their ‘Feng Shui wealth area’ or how to improve their romantic situation by energy mapping their home for positive vibes. Reading a magazine article led to experimenting with a little DIY Feng Shui and avoiding common Feng Shui mistakes.

Things improved marginally, he got a pay rise, I got a better job, and emboldened, we took things a little further with the energy mapping and were blessed with a healthy pregnancy and a beautiful baby girl. A result beyond our wildest hopes after such a torrid time.

We had used ‘Western’ feng shui to define our energy map based on the position of our front door, although as I’ve since discovered, it was very limited in comparison to the traditional methods.

Back then, this was no easy feat. Today, however, the magic of Google Earth and the ability to access data for the complex calculations required to define Feng Shui for specific properties, means the process of creating good Feng Shui in your home and using Feng Shui in the year of the Wood Snake can be done remotely and is infinitely more accessible for real people living in real homes. The great news is that I can even give you some very basic energy mapping information for your own home.

So where to start? Most people come to Feng Shui with the desire to improve their personal Love, Health, or Money situation – and find they enjoy the benefits in other areas of their lives along the way.

1. Start with a floorplan

It doesn’t matter if you live in a house or apartment, the process is the same. If you have a floor plan of the property, that’s great. If not, then create your own. There is a useful app called Magicplan which will do the hard work for you.

Once you have a floor plan, draw a three-by-three grid (imagine a tic-tac-toe grid) with equally sized squares or rectangles laid over your property. Each area represents a part of the energy map of your home.

Write ‘center’ in the middle box.

2. Work out the compass directions

Next, stand in the center of the home and open the compass on your smartphone. You’ll notice the eight main directions of your compass correspond with the remaining boxes on your grid. Add those directions to your floorplan and the energy map of your home will start to come alive.

Once you understand how the areas of your energy map are connected to what’s happening in your life and home, they often reveal the root of some of the challenges or delights you may be experiencing, and also highlight the best way to improve them, realigning the energy in your home to work with, rather than against you.

North – Career and/or Life Path

North represents your career and/or life path. It’s all about what you want to do with your life, how you earn money, and how you spend your days.

For us, activating the North in our new apartment included tucking the name and logo of a company my daughter wanted to work for in an envelope in the North. It took just over a year for her to be invited to a role at that very same company.

It can also be a good area to relocate your home office ideas and work on office Feng Shui.

Northwest – Travel and Helpful Friends

Northwest activates the travel and helpful friends area. Travel does what it says on the tin. However, ‘Helpful friends’ are those people who turn up out of the blue when you need them. A plumber or electrician; or a snatch of conversation that gives you precisely the information you need.

We keep a gorgeous globe of the world in our northwest to inspire us. When we needed a tree surgeon fast, we printed a picture of a lumberjack and received a flyer for a new company the same day and the job was done.

West – New Beginnings

West represents new beginnings, projects, creativity, opportunities, and children.

Essentially anything new you would like to draw into your life. It’s the first place to activate if you’d like to start a family, or when a fresh start, new opportunity, or perspective is required.

This is a great place to work on new ideas and plans for the future. If you’re planning to redecorate, this is the perfect place for making your mood board.

Southwest – Love and Romance

Southwest is all about love, romance, and your relationship with yourself

If this area is unsettled, you may find disharmony in significant relationships, and it is difficult to connect with others. Even if you choose to be single, having ‘pair energy’ in the Southwest supports emotional balance and self-love. This means avoiding solo items and selecting matching pieces in twos – lamps, cushions, décor, etc. to add symmetry to your home or ace your Feng Shui bedroom layout.

We consciously use pair energy for the whole southwest area with photos, Feng Shui plants, and interlinked hearts to ensure there’s always stability in love, and our emotional equilibrium is supported.

South – Fame and Reputation

South defines fame, reputation, recognition, and the way others see you.

If you’re feeling invisible or unrewarded in your work or community, take a closer look at what’s happening in the south area of your home to see why your skills and talents are going unnoticed.

It might be as simple as replacing the unluckiest items to have in your home for Feng Shui, such as a blown lightbulb or polishing a smeared mirror to turn the positive spotlight in your direction.

Southeast – Money and Wealth

Heading southeast will help you find and activate the Feng Shui wealth corner, helping with money, abundance, and blessings

This is an area that can always be improved upon, perhaps by decorating with art that makes you feel abundant, or creating an overflowing pot of money to symbolize increasing wealth. It’s definitely not the place to keep credit card bills or loan paperwork (there are far better ways to organize paperwork at home). Instead, make this the location for savings and investment accounts, along with anything that contributes to your feelings of financial prosperity.

Remember, abundance can come in many ways, so be actively grateful however it manifests. Currently, we have a plentiful supply of apples which we are cooking, gifting, and sharing to share the abundance we have received.

East – Family and the Past

East represents the family, community, and the past.

This is the perfect place for family photos, mementos, and things you would like to keep firmly in the past. This might include home storage for utility bills, divorce papers, and tax documents. It’s also ideal for information on memberships, community groups, and organizations you are part of.

We keep the family tree, diaries, and organize family photos in this area, along with details of financial outgoings. Using a blue or black file is said to mute energy, while a red or green folder will help things grow.

Northeast – Knowledge and Spirituality

Northeast combines knowledge, learning, and spirituality.

This area is superb for homework (especially when organizing a kid's room for back-to-school success), study materials, or a shrine. It supports concentration and will also enhance yoga practice.

This is a space where relaxing and meditation come easily in our apartment. We deliberately made a cozy corner to keep the area calm and peaceful, whether for reading, learning, or contemplation.

How to recharge your energy map

By being aware and activating the energy map within your home, you will feel supported and protected. You’ll gain clarity and motivation to enjoy life and cherish the space you live in.

1. Deal with clutter – I know you hear this all the time, but clutter creates stagnation and chaos in your life. If you have clutter in any part of your energy map, you may struggle in the corresponding area of your life. Why not test out some decluttering tips and see?
2. Upgrade your thinking – Steer clear of negativity, and doomscrolling social media, and avoid having TV or radio tuned to channels focused on news or fear/anxiety-inducing programs. Even in the background, they are impacting your subconscious mind. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of life to welcome happiness and joy into your home and family. This will do more to enhance your well-being and state of mind than you can imagine.
3. See the bigger picture – Choose art, décor, and reading materials that inspire you. Don’t be afraid to part with anything that feels bleak, lonely, or no longer suits your mindset.
4. Always do as you would be done by – Use the Interiors Therapy process to deal with your clutter and that of younger children, but respect that partners, other adults, and teens are responsible for their possessions, even if it makes your fingers itch. Trust that when they see the benefits of your actions, it will encourage family to declutter and they will probably ask you to help them too.
5. Replace blown lamps and broken items – They contribute to general discord in your energy map.
6. Fix dripping faucets and leaking pipes – as these represent money flowing away from your home wherever they are situated.

Of all the things Feng Shui experts wish you knew, the energy map is the number one most important. It can really set the foundations for every aspect of your life.

If you would like help to create the energy map of your home, book an inspiration video call with me to find out how you can enhance your environment and feel the benefits of a happier, healthier home.

As an Interiors Therapist and Feng Shui expert, I’m a huge fan of the circular economy and encourage people I work with to make use of thrift and charity stores, which can come into play positively when activating Feng Shui.

It’s often easier, and considerably more cost effective, to find a quick fix for unstable energy with a thrift store find. Buying pre-loved is a wise and efficient way to upgrade the energy of a home at an optimal price.

That said, there are certain pre-owned pieces I absolutely do not recommend buying from a thrift store as it may have come from a home with bad Feng Shui. Here I share what to avoid, and how to circumvent potential problems if you find something irresistible.

6 items Feng Shui pros never buy in a thrift store

Avoiding items including mattresses, mirrors, and deity statues can save you from job loss, relationship troubles, and even depression. It's especially relevant when creating good Feng Shui in your home for the first time.

I'm author of award-winning book, Welcome Home – How Stuff Makes or Breaks your Relationship and Feng Shui Consultant at Interiors Therapy, and have seen people be skeptical of the process until they see the changes in their own lives from practicing it.

Thrifting seems like it should be the ultimate feel-good energy bringer and interior designers have a list of things you should always thrift. After all, why buy new, when you can find something entirely suitable second-hand, whilst saving money, being more sustainable at home, and helping the planet?

In a world with finite resources, it makes sense to thrift, but I would avoid the following six items at all costs.

1. Mirrors

Energetically, even the best mirrors can be a challenge if thrifted. In Feng Shui, we carefully position mirrors for a specific purpose, but they are one of the few things we prefer to be purchased pristine and new.

This is because in some circumstances, a mirror seems to retain the energy of situations it has reflected. Where these are traumatic, stressful or emotionally painful reflections, that energy appears to seep out into the lives of the new owners.

I accept this may initially sound like total mumbo-jumbo, but two instances of mirror issues come immediately to mind. Everything was going downhill for a client of mine, Natasha. Normally a bright, confident woman with a career in modeling, she had become anxious and low in mood. Her relationship had ended, work had dried up and she couldn’t see a way forward in her life.

This had all happened over a couple of months, so understandably she needed answers fast. On a video walk-through of her home, a glamorous mirror raised a red flag. Although it was beautiful and had been a $10 second-hand bargain, there was something about it that just didn’t feel right.

In the bright cheery room, the corner where it stood was dark and seemed to absorb light rather than working to naturally increase the light, which was odd in itself.

When Natasha explained it came from a yard sale at the home of a suicide victim, the penny dropped. She recalled buying the mirror a matter of days before her relationship ended. It appeared the mirror had absorbed a very depressing energy from the previous owner which was being exuded into her bedroom and her life. She followed the Feng Shui mirror rules and removed it from her home straight away.

As a result, Natasha’s luck took a significant upturn, and now she has a supportive partner and a gorgeous little boy. She glows with happiness in a way she never thought possible.

All prices correct at time of publication.

The second negative thrifted mirror story relates to a home where many renovation ideas were carried out after purchase. When the family moved in, they placed an extravagant mirror in their vast lobby. This had been the only item left behind by the previous owner and originally hung over the fireplace.

Things weren’t going smoothly in the marriage since the move, and recent behavioral issues with the sons, resulted in the mother asking for a review of her home's Feng Shui to see if it was bad. As far as I was aware, everything was new, but there was something peculiar about that mirror.

The best way to describe it was the sensation of something malevolent or creepy, just out of sight. The mother said she never felt comfortable in the lobby and arguments always began there.

A brief chat with the neighbors revealed a twenty-year history of domestic violence in the property, much of which took place in the room with the fireplace. Although the essential energy of the house itself had been changed by the remodeling, the mirror had likely retained some very malign vibes which felt more threatening to women and girls. Needless to say, it was quickly replaced.

But what if you’ve fallen in love with a thrift store mirror and can’t resist the purchase? My suggestion is to take it to a glazier and have the mirror glass replaced. Then give the frame and mirror a thorough clean front and back before mounting it on your wall. That should cleanse any lingering negative energy and give the mirror a new lease of life.

2. Mattresses

I know the best mattresses can be expensive, and it may be tempting to buy second-hand to save money, but this is one time when pre-loved can really work against you.

A mattress is permeated with the energetic imprint and DNA of everyone who has slept in it. Skin particles and sweat find their way into the fabric of the mattress, even with a protector in place. It's why at the end of a relationship, I always recommend replacing the marital bed, or as a minimum, the mattress and bedding.

It’s difficult, verging on impossible to come to terms with, forgive, or move on into a new and fulfilling love, if you’re still sleeping with the energy of an ex-lover every night. That's why I warn my clients against picking up a mattress second hand.

On a practical level, bed bugs are an increasing problem. These vile critters like nothing more than to snack on unsuspecting sleepers and it can be incredibly difficult to get rid of bed bugs. They also spread easily, hitching a lift in suitcases as the souvenir no one wanted to bring home.

3. Buddhas

It’s fashionable to find statues of the Buddha and other spiritual images in homeware stores and frequently in thrift stores too. I’m suggest that unless you practice the doctrine or religion concerned, you don’t bring these deities into your home.

Firstly, it’s not appropriate to regard religious iconography as a decor item, and secondly, it’s highly inappropriate to position them in bathrooms, bedrooms, and spa areas. As a rule of thumb, if it’s somewhere you are naked or intimate, it’s not the place for a spiritual leader to be gazing down at you.

From many years of observation, in the homes of people I work with, and comparing situations in the lives of celebrities with revealing photo shoots of their homes, trust me when I say, it’s not a good plan to use a statue or artwork of a God, Goddess or other spiritual images as interior design, unless of course, it’s your long term desire to be celibate, financially challenged or lonely, even in a relationship which outwardly appears to be so much more – as that is the energy you will be bringing into your home with this move.

4. Artwork

This one isn't a blanket ban, but be careful when choosing art for your home in a thrift store.

Avoid scenes of stormy seas, fights of any kind including air and sea battles, ‘angry’ abstracts, or scary scenes. Similarly, pictures of becalmed, beached or wrecked boats are not going to add anything positive to the energy of your home or subconscious thoughts.

Instead, you are likely to experience an upturn in irritability, arguments or feeling stuck in your life. Meanwhile, solo images in a home reinforce the solitude and single status of people who would prefer a loving connection. You’d be astonished how a home can describe exactly what’s going on in the life of its occupants, and art is a big part of that.

Rather than buying something because it matches your color scheme, or for a space that needs filling, look at it closely to see how it makes you feel and ask yourself how a child would describe it. This is a simple method to assess how your subconscious mind will respond to the content and colors.

5. Beware furniture

While wooden, metal or other solid furniture will absorb the energy of a previous location, it is easier to re-energize. As a bare minimum, deep clean all pre-loved items before bringing them into a space, including the insides, back and underneath, and don’t stint on the process to release the energy of previous owners. Learn more about our cleaning tips.

There are practical, sanitary concerns here too if you do decide to go for it with a find you love or desperately need. Inspect upholstered items closely for signs of pet hair as this may indicate the presence of flea eggs and an unpleasant surprise when the weather warms up.

For sofas, chairs and cushions, always do a sniff test before purchase. Cigarette smoke and some other aromas can be next to impossible to shift. Residual dust also traps airborne particles, including pollution and dormant viruses, so take this into account if purchasing pre-owned rugs, drapes, curtains and soft furnishings.

There are many items you can steam clean at home, and this method is an excellent solution, but always do a patch test first to prevent damage.

6. Damaged, chipped or cracked items

These are never good value as a thrift store purchase, for your home’s energy, or for your own self-esteem. It’s important to feel ‘whole’ and supported in life, and unfortunately, battered and broken items can reflect fragmented energy in a way that won’t ultimately be helpful.

There are many amazing treasures to be found in thrift stores, so choose mindfully and consider the long-term impact on you and your home. If your initial gut feeling is ‘no’ then put it back on the shelf and move on.

These Feng Shui mistakes to avoid at home should always be followed if you want to keep your home's energy positive.

There's no denying that selling your home can be a stressful process, particularly if you are having trouble finding a buyer.

While this could be down to a number of factors, such as location and price, there is one small mistake that feng shui experts consider could be ruining your chances – excessive family photographs throughout your home.

Luckily, fixing it is a simple, easy and free. So, I spoke to the experts for their advice on how to use Feng shui to sell a house, and turn a 'for sale' sign to 'sold' in no time.

Why do family photographs make your home harder to sell?

While it's attractive for prospective buyers to see the family environment that a home has fostered, you don't want them to feel unable to make it their own. This is not only off-putting, it may be a factor they're unable to overlook.

'From a Feng shui perspective, when you're selling your home, it's essential that the potential buyer be able to see themselves in the space,' says Anjie Cho, Feng shui educator at Mindful Design School, architect, author of Holistic Spaces and Mindful Homes, and co-author of Mindful Living, based in New York City.

Excessive family photos can create an imbalance in the energy of your home, according to Feng shui, due to the deeply personal emotional energy they carry, which is magnified when multiple are displayed on the wall – it's a thing Feng shui experts wish you knew.

'This kind of energy, while comforting to you, can make the space feel overwhelming or even "closed off" to potential buyers,' says Inbaal Honigman, astrology expert, celebrity psychic and tarot reader at Tarotoo. 'When buyers walk in, they need to feel a sense of harmony and flow, not the intense personal energy that comes with family photos everywhere.'

This is important as one of the main principles of Feng shui is making a home feel balanced, allowing energy, also know as chi, to flow freely. 'Excessive personal photos can disrupt that flow, making a space feel crowded, emotionally heavy, or too specific to the current inhabitants,' adds Honigman. 'A home that's too "personalized" blocks the buyer from connecting with the energy of the space on their own terms.'

How should family photos be displayed instead?

If you are selling your home, it may not be necessary to immediately take down all photographs, and instead think about how and where they are displayed, explains Suzanne Roynon, consultant interiors therapist, member of the International Feng Shui Guild and Feng shui practitioner at Interiors Therapy.

'In Feng shui, we recommend that family photos of older members of the family; parents, grandparents, siblings etc. are only displayed in the East of the home, the area which represents community and the past,' following the rules of the Feng shui energy map. In contrast, photos of young children are best positioned in the West, representing new beginnings and the future, symbolizing the new era the home is entering.

'Meanwhile in the master bedroom, only hang photos of the couple themselves – not the children, in-laws or anyone else,' continues Roynon. 'The master bedroom should look and feel like a sanctuary for rest, romance and relaxation – that is what your intended buyers are looking for.'

Before you market your property, Roynon recommends curating the family photos you would like to display, selecting only a few which represent the aspirational nature of your home. 'Be sure anyone featured looks happy and at ease,' she continues. 'This isn't the time to show 'funny' memories of crying kids or uncomfortable graduation shots. Instead, prioritize the beautiful images which make your heart sing.'

For those that you choose to display, placing them in stylish frames which compliment the decor of your home can make your space feel more polished to potential buyers. I love the Whitney Frames available at Anthropologie for a bright pop of color.

In contrast, Cho recommends packing up all personal items before inviting interested buyers into your home. 'Packing them up will also help you and your family move on and let go of any attachments to the current home,' she explains. 'Better yet, move those photos to a garage, or close to the front door so the energy knows it's time to move out and go to the new home.

'If the seller is resistant to take down family photos, it can also indicate their hesitation to really say goodbye to the home, which impacts the ability for a home to sell. So, instead of keeping the photos up, pack them away, and move them towards the front door or even out of the house and into the new home if possible,' perfect for making your new Feng shui house happy.

FAQs

How can you tell if a house has bad feng shui?

While the emery of a home is affected by multiple factors, there are some ways to tell if a home has bad Feng shui before purchasing.

For example, a direct front and back door alignment is often considered to reflect negative energy in a home, as is a staircase facing the front door, a bathroom in the center of a home and a long, narrow hallway.

Armed with these expert tips, you can use Feng shui to sell your home at a great price and speed up the sale.

And, if you're a prospective buyer yourself, there are multiple ways to tell if a house has bad Feng shui before purchasing, which go beyond photographs.

With the property market stabilizing after a protracted period of high interest rates, we’re noticing house prices starting to creep up again. Thanks to this increase in confidence, more homes are finding they way into a competitive market, so what can you do to achieve the maximum return on your investment, and avoid tricky potential buyers who can make the process so stressful?

Once a property listing goes live, your lifestyle and possessions are visible in online searches, and hundreds, even thousands of people will consider requesting a viewing. The next few months of your life are in the hands of others. Your realtor, estate agent, lawyers, and of course your prospective buyers.

I am an interiors therapist and Feng Shui consultant and have some brilliant tips to help you enhance the positive energy within your home, and make sure those motivated buyers are scrambling to buy your home.

How to use Feng Shui principles to bolster your house sale

Feng Shui is all about creating an auspicious and favorable environment within the home. You’ve probably visited locations which give you goosebumps in a bad way, while others are so welcoming and relaxing, you’d love to move right in. With a little awareness, it’s easy to sense a home with a bad vibe, but people living 24/7 with prickly, negative energy often become so used to it, they don’t realize it’s a deterrent to buyers. This is especially relevant in situations of relationship breakdown, high stress levels or long illness.

With Feng Shui we’re able to balance and harmonize the energy in a home so it has visitors at their ease. You want potential purchasers to feel ‘at home’ and visualizing how good it will be to live there. This is an essential part of the decision-making process when it comes to buying a new home, and it won’t matter how perfect a property is on paper, because unless it’s going to be vastly remodeled, if it doesn’t ‘feel right’ then the answer will be ‘no’.

How Feng Shui can bolster your sale price

As an expert in Feng Shui and Interiors Therapy, I see both sides of the property market. Some clients want to prepare their home so it achieves the optimal price to the ‘right’ buyer, while others deliberately seek out a property which has excellent Feng Shui or can be upgraded to suit their requirements. Homes with optimal Feng Shui sell for significantly over the asking price in some parts of the world, with a property in East Killara, Australia leaving the press breathless after a bidding war resulted in an extraordinary sale $800,000 above asking-price.

Whichever way you look at it, bringing a property to market, which looks and feels great and is priced to attract the perfect buyer, is going to make a positive difference to the experience.

When to start applying Feng Shui principles in your home sale

There are two distinct camps on the best time to start the process. My personal preference as a Feng Shui consultant and interiors therapist is to prepare a home before inviting a realtor or estate agent to value it.

Once you’ve selected the person you want to sell your property, it can feel as though you’re clinging to an express train at top speed. The commission structure is an incentive to start the marketing process, get photos and video taken, promote your property online and have viewers through the door as quickly as possible.

Sometimes the pressure to conform to their timescale overtakes the practicalities of preparing an older property to be seen at its best for example, not to mention managing the emotional impact on the people who already live in it. This can mean that silly things are missed which ultimately slow or scupper the sale process.

Estate agents and realtors may tiptoe around the hard facts instead of telling you because let’s be honest: they want your business and have learned to be diplomatic in a highly competitive world. They know every trick to stroke your ego to have you sign up with them, but only the best will give you straightforward, no nonsense advice or be blunt about improving the presentation of a home.

In contrast, when a client asks me for help before they begin the marketing process or selling their home fast, I assess the home; recommend some simple actions and guide them to notice the things prospective purchasers are likely to spot in time to resolve them. I also discuss their reasons for selling, and confirm everyone is on-board with the process, because believe me, your home will betray a divorce situation or anything untoward going on.

If someone isn’t emotionally invested in the process of moving-on it shows. This and a myriad of other issues can, and will, be used against you by a cut-throat buyer, so it pays to be secure in your plan, confident in your home and ready to energetically attract a sale to someone who loves your property and respects you throughout the sale process.

It’s also important to be clear in your mind whether you are bringing a property to market which ‘needs work’ or is in prime condition. A healthy dose of realism about the condition of your home will make a difference from the start.

Forewarned is forearmed, so when my clients invite their agent to market the home, they do so with their eyes open and the property photo-ready. One client had the agent visit at 2 pm, he took photos, did the write up and the two-bed house was on the market by 5 pm the same day. An open house three days later saw offers 20% above asking and it sold immediately. The legal process ran so smoothly, it completed in just under six weeks.

This was a great example of pricing wisely, rather than falling into an ego trap. It’s better to find yourself with a bidding-war and the opportunity to cherry pick the perfect buyer. Well-prepared properties with positive energy tend to sell quickly above asking price to buyers who are invested in a stress-free sale.

Feng Shui basics for selling your home

What are the basics in Feng Shui and interiors therapy terms? This isn’t about home staging, because although some homes, especially in the US, are staged, this isn’t standard practice elsewhere. Instead, we are focused on getting the energy right in a home, so it will keep working for you right through the sale process. Here's where to start:

• Deal with the clutter: No one imagines a dream home crammed with other people’s stuff, and your purchaser needs to see your home at its best. Assess everything which will not be moving with you into your new home. Don’t waste time and money storing it – donate, sell or gift it straight away. You’ll be astonished just how many of your possessions you don’t use, need or love. Moving house is the best incentive you can get to deal with the surplus in your life, and by doing so, create so much space that your home feels brighter, larger, airy and infinitely more tempting for a buyer.
• Dust and cobwebs are a red flag for potential buyers: Ironically, this is one thing which often gets forgotten. It goes without saying that to attract a buyer that will fall in love with your home, the bare minimum is for it to be spotlessly clean.
• Visible neglect can often be a sign of hidden issues: People will judge your home from the first online image through to the way it looks and feels on a viewing so deal with any issues you need to before inviting a realtor around. More serious neglect will likely show up on surveys and potentially hamper the process down the line so learn what you should and shouldn't fix before selling.

Activating good vibes

Using Feng Shui can activate good vibes for the home. Generic articles about Feng Shui may recommend certain colors, or elements like wood, metal, water, and earth to boost the energy in different parts of the home. I’m going to suggest being a little more circumspect, because every home is unique. Please don’t assume that it’s a good idea to put red throw pillows in your south, just because an Instagram influencer says so. Unfortunately, it’s easy to get carried away and I spend quite a bit of time helping clients ‘unlearn’ misinformation gained from unreliable sources.

Here are my suggestions to improve the vibe in any home:

Start on the street and walk into your property as though you’ve never been there before. Look out for places where you have to divert around furniture, or where there are sharp objects protruding, doors which won’t open properly, or a room feels stagnant. These are all areas which are not ‘in flow’ and need some extra TLC to get the positive energy circulating more dynamically.

Use a smart phone compass to compare the home with the traditional Feng Shui Bagua (energy grid of the home). You are likely to find unloved areas of your home reflect the challenges in your life, so if your health is suffering, take a good hard look at the center of your home. If something very major is going on, do consider having a professional Feng Shui assessment done to support you.

However, if you want to take a ‘Feng Shui Lite’ approach, consider using symbolism and intention to give the vibes in your home a boost, and treat yourself to the physical and emotional benefits which come with it.

• Center (Health): Choose images which feel vibrant and express well-being. If you have space, add an abundant bowl of fresh fruit.
• North (Career): Place items here which make you feel successful in whatever life path you have chosen.
• South (Reputation): The location for awards and anything which enhances your visibility. If you have photos of yourself with someone you admire, this is the place to display them.
• East (Family): An excess of family photos are effectively marking your territory. Instead, as part of your preparation, choose a few special pictures and put them in the East. Box the rest to move safely to your new home.
• West (New Beginnings): Choose vibrant white flowers for this area, and if you already have a picture of your new home in mind, this is the perfect place to keep it. You can use an affirmation to yourself to amplify the energy around your sale. Word it something like this: “I am grateful my home has sold quickly and easily at a price in excess of $XX,XXX.”
• Southwest (Relationships): I can’t stress how important it is to use ‘pair energy’ here and in the master bedroom. Matching lamps and other decor items emphasize a balanced relationship. Even if you are separating, don’t allow your home to betray a change in relationship status because it can cost you dearly. Buyers are wary of purchasing a ‘divorce’ home because they don’t want their own relationship to fail. Fortunately ‘bad for people’ energy is fixable with Feng Shui, but don’t give someone leverage to get the divorce done.
• Southeast (Wealth): Choose art and items for this area which represent financial stability and blessings in your life. Avoid anything bleak, or which expresses poverty because this will deter buyers at a subconscious level. I have a client who had award-winning pictures of street children in his office. Despite the house being beautiful, no one offered until he took them down and replaced them with something more aspirational.
• Northeast (Knowledge): This is the spot for books or a meditation area. Curate everything, and only display items which portray the lifestyle your buyers expect from buying your home.
• Northwest (Travel/Helpful Friends): If you love to travel, this is definitely the location for a globe and images of the places you want to visit. However, there’s something more exciting you can activate here to smooth the passage of your sale, and that’s to encourage the ‘Helpful Friends’ energy by using affirmations to trigger Feng Shui and the Law of Attraction to work for you. These might include:Everyone we need to achieve a smooth sale is on hand and ready to support us, My Realtor/Estate Agent attracted the ideal buyer with ease and our house sale completed in perfect timing. You can come up with lots more statements to encourage good vibes around your move, just keep the statements in the present or past tense (as though it’s already happened exactly as you want) and keep the language positive. It’s also a perfect spot to keep a copy of the property brochure and your realtor’s business card.

What to do when facing delays or difficult buyers

If your home has already been on the market for a while, or a buyer is being difficult, it's never too late to improve the energy in a home and enjoy the benefits in all areas of your life, including speeding up the house sale. Take an honest look around your property and ask yourself whether you would choose to buy it and how it measures up to the competition. In an active market it’s definitely time to suspend the marketing, take some external advice, and show your home the love it deserves if it hasn’t sold in six weeks. Then request new promotional photos and a relaunch.

If a buyer is being awkward, they are probably showing their true colors. Set clear boundaries and don’t be afraid to cut them loose if alarm bells are ringing. Better to wait a little longer for a quality buyer than deal with a rogue who may compromise your sale at the last minute.

Finally, it’s important to say there are many more tips and tweaks an experienced Feng Shui practitioner might recommend based specifically on what they observe in the home they are assessing.

Although having a Feng Shui assessment is an investment, Feng Shui can transform the way a home feels for potential buyers, and inevitably for the people who already live there. If there have been financial, relationship or health challenges, it’s worthwhile revitalizing the energy before it goes on the market for more immediate guidance on anything which may be compromising a home, sale, or happiness.

Wherever you are in the moving process, nurture your home and treat it as the asset it is. Feel gratitude for the stability and security you are receiving right now, and for the unveiling of your new life. Next, learn about the house features buyers really want.

Cynthia Nixon may be best known for playing the tightly-wound but fun-loving lawyer, Miranda Hobbes, in Sex and the City, but her interior decor has a much calmer ambiance – though it may not look it at first glance.

The actor recently shared a photo of her home library to her Instagram page, and though her filled-bookshelves are impressive, it is the orange sofa that is on our minds. It is playful yet refined thanks to its slightly rusted-hue, making us think that orange really is the new black.

A warm and rejuvenating color, decorating with orange is gaining popularity as part of trends such as dopamine decor, which favors mood-boosting shades. It turns out that the kitchen is a prime space for this color, though experts say it looks great in any communal area in the home.

'Orange is expressive, vivid and can elicit a sense of enthusiasm in people,' says Jason Low, the design business manager at Blackberry Farm Design. 'It also is said to help stimulate the appetite.'

Not only does orange fuel feel-good energy, but it extends to the practice of Feng Shui, which emphasizes harmony through arrangements and color.

'In Feng Shui, orange represents the Fire element and can bring big, bold energy to a space,' says Abby L Magill Henry, Feng Shui expert at Holistic Homes. 'Orange symbolizes happiness and has a very playful side. An orange front door welcomes energy and says a home is fun and ready for anything.'

While a door is certainly a bold statement for a color as bright as orange, Magill Henry says that there are lots of other methods to implement pops of this sunny shade into the home.

'A couple simple ways to incorporate orange into a home is with flowers, adding a bouquet to any room can bring that pop of energy without making any large changes,' she says. 'A bowl of oranges on a kitchen table or island can do the same and also speak to living 'the sweet life.''

Nixon's version of placing a cozy furnishing into an otherwise neutral space makes just as much of a statement as a front door, but other options include orange rugs or even coffee table decor.

Below, find a selection of orange living room decor that is sure to boost the mood of any space, while simultaneously providing it with a sense of warmth and positive energy.

I’m hoping, wherever you are, the sun is filling these long summer days with its warmth and providing those delicious endless days we remember from childhood.

Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of harmonizing and bringing success and balance to our home environment, offers some insightful suggestions to embrace this season.

By implementing some simple solutions to align living spaces with the principles of Feng Shui, we can enhance the flow of positive energy, (also known as chi or lifeforce energy), to make the most of the summer months.

Summer Feng Shui Secrets

Consider these options to invigorate your home and life with Feng Shui this summer.

1. Embrace the Fire Element within the home

Summer is dominated by the fire element in Feng Shui and it symbolizes passion, energy, and warmth. It’s an element I particularly love to work with because it’s just so easy to use, and as we moved into a new energetic cycle back in February, many more homes will benefit from a little more well-positioned fire energy than we’ve been used to in the last 20 years:

• Colors: Decorate with shades of red, orange, deep pink, hot yellow, and pink-based purple in your home through cushions, throws, rugs, or artwork. Just as a word of caution, however, don’t rush to paint walls in these powerful shades, as it may result in feeling stressed and lead to burnout.
• Lighting: Ensure your home is well-lit. Make the most of the abundance of natural light as much as possible during the day, and in the evening, opt for soft, warm white and mellow shades of lighting to maintain a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
• Candles: When candles are lit they support the fire element. I’d always encourage using candles which don’t leave a sooty residue and if you choose from the glorious array of scented candles, opt for those with natural rather than synthetic fragrance to add a layer of sensory delight.

2. Declutter and Refresh

One of the reasons some people struggle to see the benefits of Feng Shui if they are trying to work out the process on their own is that they haven’t regained control of their home by ejecting anything they don’t use, need or love. Decluttering your home is essential to allow chi to flow freely, and warmer days are an ideal opportunity to declutter and refresh your spaces.

• Spring Summer Cleaning: Although you took advantage of the vibrancy of spring to zhuzh away the winter blues, a couple of months on you might be seeing evidence of dust and pollen on surfaces.  At any time of year, a thorough cleaning will refresh the energy in your home, and this is the perfect time to get to all those nooks and crannies, and clean windows inside and out to let in maximum light and oxygen.
• Organize your home: Review belongings, including clothes, furniture, kitchenware, and appliances, and remove items that no longer serve a purpose. This process is incredibly liberating and allows positive energy to filter into every newly available space.

3. Celebrate with Plants and Flowers

Plants are a powerful way to bring life chi into your home, but don’t overdo it or they can absorb valuable oxygen during the night which might cause snoring, a dry mouth, or headaches. For this reason, we don’t encourage plants in the bedroom and in 2024, for much deeper Feng Shui reasons than we have space for in this article, please relocate plants away from the West part of your home.

• Indoor Plants: Jade plants (aka Money plant), peace lilies, and bamboo are believed to bring good fortune. Feng Shui practitioners will avoid cactus, snake plant, devils’ ivy and other plants which are spikey or have thorns or swordlike leaves as these cut into the energy in a home and can cause arguments and irritability.  We love smooth, round-leaved plants provided they are healthy and well maintained as this really adds to the positive vibe.
• Fresh Flowers: The beauty and fragrance of fresh flowers are guaranteed to uplift the mood and boost the Feng Shui energy around them.  Always keep the water fresh and remove any limp blooms immediately.