What does your entry say about you? Is it welcoming? Is it cluttered? How you feel when you enter your home can make the difference between a bad day or a good one. Our lives are so stressful, but we can reduce that stress with just a few easy Feng Shui steps.
In Feng shui, we say the front door is the mouth or entry place of chi (energy or life force). So it's important that chi (or visitors) can easily find the front door and that the pathway is clear and pleasant. Once inside, there are small enhancements that can be made that make a big impact.
The entry is the place that you and your guests are first greeted. It sets the tone for the rest of the house. When you come home, if there are obstacles in your entry, you may find yourself "blocked" in some area of your life. If you see a desk with paperwork, or a blinking answer machine, you will immediately be reminded of all the work you have to do. If you see your kitchen when entering, you may be tempted to eat more than you should.
Inside the front door is a great place to put your favorite piece of art. Seeing a calming landscape will make visitors feel welcomed and relaxed. It can even lower your blood pressure and help you to decompress from a difficult day. A mirror might be added to extend a small area or reflect light in a dark space. Make sure the mirror is not directly opposite the door because that might startle someone walking in. It also has the effect of bouncing the chi right out the door. The goal is to give the chi a place to rest when entering. An area rug is good for this purpose and also adds color, texture and pattern.
A small table or shelf is a nice touch to a foyer when space permits. It's a place for outgoing mail, keys, etc. Just make sure it doesn't get too cluttered. A table also provides space for some flowers, a lovely bowl, or a sculputre. Paired with a mirror, it makes a nice vignette. Whatever is on the table, it should be something you love. Remember to edit; less is more.
Placing a healthy plant inside the entry is a nice way to welcome you and your guests when you walk in. Your goal is to feel peaceful and safe, rather than cramped or swamped.
Take a fresh look at your entryway. What do you see? How do you feel? If you smile or breathe a sigh of relief when you enter your home, you're on the right track. If you feel overwhelmed, small and inexpensive changes can change your perspective, welcome you home, and reduce stress.
