
I love being the mom of a little toddler girl! But as we all know, kids can be very energetic and, well, tire you out! So, I believe that feng shui is very necessary when you have kids. Feng shui has helped me so much when it comes to arranging our home and making it more functional, enjoyable, and, most importantly, peaceful. If there were only three feng shui tips that I could give moms and dads that would help make their living environment feel more harmonious, these would be it:
Tip #1: Crib/Child’s Bed Placement
Just like your bed placement is important, so is your child’s. Let’s face it, if your child is not sleeping well, then neither are you! So, here is what you need to remember. Just like you, it is best for the child’s feet to be facing the door (but NOT in line with the door). Also, it is preferable that the crib is NOT under a window. Windows drain your energy when you sleep, and you need to “recharge” your energy when you sleep, not lose it. If you cannot avoid putting the bed under a window, I would recommend getting thick curtains that you can draw at night. Finally, just like your bed, it is best that your child’s is not pushed up against a wall. If the bed can be accessed on both sides it is ideal; this way, the energy can circulate around the bed throughout the night, providing a rejuvenating rest.
Tip #2: De-clutter
Your home is a reflection of your life. Even your closets tell a story about what is going on inside of you. So, even though it is tempting just to throw the toys under the bed, and toss the outgrown clothes into garbage bags that pile up in the closets and garage (guilty!), you and your family will feel so much better if you organize. “Everything has a place.” (And please don’t let that place be under the bed! Remember the energy needs to circulate around the bed. See Tip #1). If you can’t find a place for something, then donate it to Good Will or have a little garage sale. Don’t let “things” take over your home. You might not realize it, but the energy of clutter drags you down. Clutter attracts more clutter and it becomes overwhelming and stressful. Start with one room at a time, or one closet at a time. Take out 9 items everyday to organize, throw away, or donate. If you do a little each day, you will feel better little by little. I feel like I am ALWAYS de-cluttering. In a way it is never-ending, but that is how feng shui works. Since life is always changing, we always need to take some time to improve our environment.
Tip #3: Display Artwork Thoughtfully
The third and final tip is one of my favorite! In feng shui your home is divided into 9 guas, or areas, that represent your life. One area is designated to “children and creativity.” It is located all the way to the right and center when you enter your home. This area is best activated when you decorate using the metal element, circular shapes, colors of grey, white, and pastels. In addition, since it represents children & creativity, it is an ideal location for a play table and to display artwork and pictures of your children. My daughter goes to daycare while I teach, and she does at least one art project daily. There is no way I could display ALL of her artwork (and if I did, it would be covering at least five walls by now). I recommend selecting a few pieces and rotating them throughout the school year. Your children feel so much pride when their work is on display, and if placed with intention, you are sure to attract more creative ways of thinking and expression. And if you want more kids— you can always decorate this area with that intention too!

As always, I hope these quick tips help you to feel better in your space!
Until next time, namaste!
Kristina Hollinger