By Traci Rush, B.A.

Feng Shui, pronounced “fung shway,” is the Chinese art of placement. Its common sense principles and touch of mysticism have made it increasingly popular in businesses. It is believed that the proper placement of items such as furniture, appliances and decorations will help to achieve good health, prosperity and other positive things in life. Objects of specific colors, materials and numbers placed in designated areas create balance and control in life.

At the heart of Feng Shui is the belief that life energy, called chi (“chee”) can be channeled through work environments. Free-flowing chi results in harmony, while blocked chi can prompt misfortune. The following are some common Feng Shui remedies for the office:

• Water symbolizes wealth. Any form works well, but moving water is especially effective.
• Plants and flowers bring life to the office and encourage positive chi. Round leaves are better.
• Mirrors increase the sense of space and deflect negative chi.
• Crystals direct the flow of energy. A crystal hung over a cluttered area will improve chi.
• Wind chimes attract positive chi.
• Fish, both real and symbolic, are lucky creatures, especially in odd numbers. They attract wealth and abundance.
• Light symbolizes fire and energy. Candles or lamps that produce soft light create harmony.

Feng Shui may be regarded as hocus pocus, but the principles do make sense. If Feng Shui does nothing more than make the office a more pleasant environment, then it has done its job.

For additional information please contact NIFS at 317.274.3432.