Thriving in a Feng Shui Kitchen

Kitchens represent the health and wellness of a family. It's where you are nourished through the food prepared there and through the nurturing of family connections. According to Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese philosophy of creating balance to improve wellbeing, the kitchen also represents a family's prosperity. The Chinese relate the nourishing power of the stove to the ability of family members to earn money. So, it's not far off to say that it's probably the most important room in a house.

Maximize the Energy Flow
Since kitchens have predominantly angular lines (from cabinetry to appliances) bringing in softer shapes and textures help to create balance. A round kitchen table creates more harmonious family interactions and allows the ch'i (or energy) to flow more freely throughout the room. Curtains, area rugs, and other fabric also add softness to the space.

Avoid Rushing and Stagnant Ch'i
Rushing ch'i occurs when the kitchen door and back door are aligned. If possible, move furniture or a large object, such as a plant, to force the ch'i to flow around the room. Stagnant ch'i - even more detrimental to a kitchen - occurs in dark corners and areas with dirt, piles of clutter, and stale odors. Fix these areas to keep the energy flowing in your family.

Maintain Cleanliness
For obvious reasons, it is important to keep your kitchen clean. Leftover food, crumbs and dirty dishes attract bugs, while spills can create a physical hazard. However, on a symbolic level, the dirt is attracting poor health and finances. So keeping your kitchen clean has a greater impact than you would think.

Incorporate the Color Green
Plants bring the message of vitality and life to a kitchen. Also consider incorporating the color green, as green - representing Wood energy - complements the Fire and Water elements, which are present in a kitchen.

Whatever you can do to improve the Feng Shui of your kitchen, the more your family will benefit in all areas of life.

http://www.luminous-spaces.com

Maureen K. Calamia is founder of Luminous Spaces, a Feng Shui consulting firm based in Saint James, New York. From simple recommendations, to renovation and building projects, Maureen works with her clients to create spaces that promote physical and psychological health. Incorporating nature into the built environment, Maureen provides guidance on the use of layout, the five Chinese elements, objects, colors, materials, shapes and textures. Through the ancient principles of Feng Shui, Maureen restores balance and harmony. How an environment feels is just as important as how it looks.
Maureen offers a unique perspective in her work. By balancing her twenty years in a traditional corporate marketing career with her passion for studying Eastern philosophies and esoteric thought, Maureen has integrated her ideology into a thriving business. As a certified Feng Shui consultant, writer and a speaker at workshops and business meetings, Maureen works with corporations, non-profit organizations, small businesses and individuals who want their buildings to emanate positive energy for its clients, employees and inhabitants. Maureen teaches lectures and workshops on Feng Shui all over Long Island, including the New York College of Health Professions. She is a regular guest speaker at SUNY at Old Westbury, Long Island, NY. She authors a monthly Feng Shui column in Canvas LI Magazine (http://www.canvasli.com) and suite101.com. Maureen continues her study of Feng Shui, Space Clearing, eco-friendly products and systems, and related topics.

Don Miguel Ruiz