On 20 February 2026, the Sagrada Família finally reached its full height, as the last section of the illuminated cross was placed atop the central Tower of Jesus Christ, bringing the basilica to around 172 metres and making it the tallest church in the world. This moment marked the symbolic completion of Gaudí’s vertical vision for Barcelona’s sacred skyline, a fusion of stone, light and geometry that has been rising for more than 140 years.

La Sagrada Familia and spiritual feng shui

You can get to Barcelona by bus and even train to Barcelona Sants train station (via France), but air travel is the most efficient. 7.5 million tourists visit Barcelona every year, creating a buzzing nightlife. Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, which has its own language and flag (where Chupa Chups was invented).

“To do things right, first you need love, then technique.” Gaudi

Energy flow in Barcelona

Barcelona is easy to navigate on foot, but you can also hire a mini taxi, a trixi pedi taxi for a tour, an electric bike, a scooter, or a regular bike. Also, regular black-yellow coloured taxis are very easy to catch on the street or on taxi ranks, so you can get anywhere very quickly and quite inexpensively. La Rambla, the main pedestrian street running through Barcelona, incorporates car traffic and the expansive, uplifting energy of trees, channels, and distributes chi/energy throughout the city.

Barcelona’s feng shui, flowing lines and curves of modernist architect Antoni Gaudí – good chi

Directionology

The Christopher Columbus monument is pointing in the wrong direction (it should face west, towards America). The Sagrada Familia has also incorporated compass directions for specific feng shui applications and usefulness (read below about the feng shui of The Sagrada Familia).

AVE high-speed trains from Barcelona to Madrid can travel at speeds of up to 193 mph (310 km/h), and the fastest journey time by train from Barcelona to Madrid is only 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Five Elements of Barcelona

Barcelona, one of the world’s most vibrant cities, is a grand display of the five elements of Feng Shui – water, wood, fire, earth, and metal, each representing a unique facet of the city’s essence.

Water is quintessential to Barcelona, represented by the Mediterranean Sea, which borders the city. Its beautiful beaches, such as Barceloneta and the bustling Port Vell, are focal points of city life. They bring a sense of fluidity and change, mirroring the ebb and flow of the tides and the lively energy of the city’s cultural landscape.

Wood is embodied by the city’s parks and green spaces, such as Park Güell, home to Gaudí’s creative brilliance. The lush vegetation and unique architecture form a dynamic symbiosis of nature and urban design. Moreover, the tree-lined streets, such as Las Ramblas, provide shade and respite, imbuing the city with life and vitality.

Fire, symbolising transformation and passion, is a central feature of Barcelona’s vibrant festivals and nightlife. The city is renowned for its fiery fiestas, like La Mercè, where the Correfoc, or “fire run,” features locals dressed as devils running through the streets with fireworks. Additionally, the warmth of the sun, which bathes Barcelona in a golden glow, is a testament to the element of fire.

Earth is present in the city’s rich history and its architectural masterpieces. Structures such as the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and the Gothic Quarter are rooted in history, showcasing Barcelona’s stability and cultural heritage. They anchor the city’s lively and evolving atmosphere in a sense of profound groundedness.

Finally, metal is reflected in the modern aspects of the city, including its innovative art, design, and technology sectors. Structures like the Torre Glòries, a high-tech office building, represent the city’s progression and innovation. Metal also symbolises the resilience of Barcelona, a city that has continually adapted and thrived throughout its history.

Together, the interplay of these five elements, water, tree, fire, earth and metal in Barcelona, creates a unique cityscape that is a living testament to the principles of feng shui, harmonising the city’s vibrant energy with its deep-rooted traditions.

La Noche de San Juan, or Saint John’s Night – 23 June – space clearing for Barcelona, Spain and the rest of the world

La Noche de San Juan, or Saint John’s Night, is a cherished tradition in Barcelona and throughout Spain, taking place on the night of June 23rd. Rooted in ancient customs, it is seen as a celebration of the summer solstice, the shortest night of the year, symbolising the victory of light over darkness. This festival can be viewed through the lens of feng shui as a powerful space-clearing ritual, a time for renewal and transformation.

The key elements of La Noche de San Juan align closely with feng shui principles. First, there’s fire (yang force), represented by bonfires lit throughout the city, particularly on beaches. These bonfires are believed to confer protective qualities and serve as a means of purification. In feng shui, fire is transformative, symbolising the burning away of old, stagnant energy and making way for the new. Many people write down what they want to get rid of in their lives and throw this into the fire, symbolically releasing these elements to create room for fresh energy. Nowadays, there are not many bonfires visible, but lots of fireworks on display.

Water, another primary feng shui yin element, plays a vital role in this festival. As part of the tradition, people bathe in the sea at midnight, believing it cleanses and rejuvenates their spirits. Water, in feng shui, is linked with wealth and prosperity, and its cleansing properties align with the idea of clearing away negativity and attracting abundance.

The celebration also includes earth elements, such as herbs. Traditional herbs of San Juan, including thyme, rosemary, and verbena, are believed to possess special properties on this night and are often used in rituals and home decorations. In feng shui, the earth element brings grounding and stability, nurturing balance and harmony.

Finally, the celebration concludes with the rising sun on the morning of Saint John’s Day, symbolising a new beginning, mirroring the renewing aspect of feng shui. On 24 June, the ‘Coque‘, the sole official food of Sant Joan, is a bread-like cake available in bakeries all over the city. Offering a range of options, these cakes come in both sweet and savoury variants, some of which are embedded with ingredients such as crackling, fruit, nuts, or cream. However, the defining commonality across all Coques is the inclusion of anise, which imparts a unique aniseed flavour to every cake.

La Noche de San Juan, therefore, can be seen as a powerful feng shui space-clearing ritual, offering a moment of cleansing, healing, and renewal. It brings together local communities and the global population (tourists) in a celebration that transcends the physical realm, impacting individuals’ spiritual and energetic levels and the city as a whole. It’s uncommon to spot a celebrity or two (Robert Lewandowski and his wife Anna Lewandowska) enjoying this special, once-in-a-year yin and yang celebration.

Key architectural landmarks

If the Gothic architecture of Santa Maria’s church, La Sagrada Familia, or Gaudí’s designs is not your cup of tea, you can opt for a museum of football, considered by some as the cathedral of the art of ball kicking, with the FC Barcelona Stadium (capacity 99K).

Miro Museum/gallery
Joan Miró i Ferrà, a Spanish painter, sculptor, and ceramicist, was born in Barcelona. The Fundació Joan Miró was established in Barcelona in 1975, and another, the Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró, was established in his adoptive city, Palma de Mallorca.

The Mercado de La Boqueria – Barcelona’s market – feng shui

La Rambla
Stroll through La Rambla to the Mercado de La Boqueria – Barcelona’s market, excellent for shopping for fresh food and eating as well. I would rank it one of the best markets in the world – 10/10. Markets are the heartbeats of any town or city and give us a sense of the place’s vibe. Valencia is famous for being Europe’s largest market.

La Sagrada Familia – modern spirituality
Probably the most amazing church in the world – and still a work in progress… I always start my visit to Barcelona at La Sagrada Familia, including a panoramic view of Barcelona from the top (book your tickets to avoid disappointment), and finish my stay there too. Despite all the tourists, it has the most uplifting vibe and atmosphere – and a very good feng shui indeed. The light, the scale, and the richness of detail will blow your mind and enlighten you.

Gaudí’s timeless advice: “To do things right, first you need love, then technique,” describes my feng shui approach and a general raison d’etre.

“To do things right, first you need love, then technique.” Antoni Gaudi

The timeline of the construction of La Sagrada Familia, 1882 – 2032:
1882 The first stone was laid, but a dispute between the architect and the developer, who was the bookseller Josep Maria Bacabella, resulted in the architect being fired. 1883 Bacabella hires Gaudí as the chief architect. In 1926, Gaudí had a tram accident and was sent to the wrong hospital because he was mistaken for being a vagabond, and died as a result. 1930 The Nativity scene is completed. In 1936, the Spanish Civil War began, resulting in the sacking of Gaudí’s studio. In 1953, a manifesto called for all the work to stop, but it didn’t. 1976 The Passion facade is finished. 1992 The Barcelona Olympics start an influx of tourism, which adds extra funds to energise the construction. In 2008, another manifesto talks about the manipulation of Gaudí’s vision, but the work continues. In 2010, the Pope visited the site to consecrate the church as a basilica. In 2011, an arson attack on the sacristy was contained. In 2016, the Mayor of Barcelona, Ada Colau, stated that the church lacked a municipal building permit. The 2017 Terrorist bomb plot was averted. 2019: A building permit is issued. 2022 is the year the central towers should be completed. 2026 On 20 February 2026, the Sagrada Família finally reached its full 172-metre height as the cross crowned the Tower of Jesus Christ, completing Gaudí’s soaring sacred skyline. The end of the construction of La Sagrada Familia is to coincide with the centenary of Gaudí’s death. 2032 Final decorations will be completed.

La Sagrada Familia, Feng shui, Light, Energy and Spirit

The yin and yang of The Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia, a famous basilica in Barcelona, beautifully embodies the ancient Chinese philosophy of yin and yang. The exterior of this renowned church represents the yang, personal aspect, brimming with personalised, intricate, and fascinating sculptures, each telling a different biblical story, forming a spiritual tapestry of stone. It is as if the chaotic and dynamic energy of life itself has been captured and frozen in time, reflecting the diversity and unpredictability of the human experience.

On the other hand, the interior of the Sagrada Familia symbolises the yin, spiritual energy. Upon entering, one is instantly enveloped in a serene sanctuary, the ethereal light pouring through the stunningly colourful stained-glass windows. These hues paint the stone walls and columns with a vibrant palette that changes throughout the day, echoing the ebb and flow of nature’s cycles. The interior’s form is uniquely Gaudí, drawing inspiration from the natural world and featuring hyperboloid structures and catenary arches, creating an organic flow that feels both rooted and divine. The emptiness within the vast space holds a profound spiritual quality, encouraging introspection and a connection to the divine.

Together, the yang of the exterior and the yin of the interior create a harmonious balance that echoes the universal principle of duality: yin and yang. This emblematic architecture, much like life, is a dance of the personal and the spiritual, the form and the formless, the dynamic and the serene. It is here, in the heart of Barcelona, that the Sagrada Familia beautifully manifests the yin and yang, captivating all who visit.

The Tower of Jesus Christ

The Five Elements of The Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia, an iconic basilica in Barcelona, can also be seen as a glorious embodiment of the Five Elements theory of water, wood, fire, earth, and metal. The exterior of the basilica, representing the element of earth, is studded with intricate, captivating sculptures that recount diverse biblical tales. These earthly figures, painstakingly sculpted from stone, symbolise the dynamic and unpredictable nature of life itself, akin to the robustness and stability of the earth.

The interior, meanwhile, captures the ethereal element of water with its tranquil, sanctuary-like ambience. The vast openness, akin to an expansive ocean, and the flow of light pouring in through the colourful stained-glass windows mimic the gentle movement of water, while the vibrancy of the colours reflects the variety and depth of aquatic life.

Wood is represented in the naturalistic forms of interior architecture. Drawing inspiration from the woods, Gaudí’s hyperboloid structures and catenary arches, much like trees in a forest, reach towards the heavens, creating a connection between the terrestrial and the celestial.

The element of fire is depicted in the transformative play of light and colour within the interior. As the day progresses, the sunlight, filtered through the stained-glass windows, dances across the walls and columns, creating an ever-changing spectacle of warmth and vibrancy.

Finally, the metal element comes into play in the construction’s careful detailing and strength. As the ancient theory dictates, metal brings structure and rigidity, mirroring the steadfastness of the Sagrada Familia itself.

In this majestic basilica, the Five Elements theory finds a harmonious balance. This architectural masterpiece is more than a testament to human creativity; it is a reflection of the innate connection between humanity and the fundamental elements of existence: water, trees, fire, earth, and metal.

Nighttime illumination of the Jesus Tower and the Mary Tower

Feng shui compass directions for The Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia, the magnum opus of Antoni Gaudí, is not just an architectural marvel but also a testament to the genius of its creator in harmonising the basilica with the natural elements, including the sun’s movement. Located in the heart of Barcelona, the basilica’s orientation was carefully planned in relation to the cardinal directions, integrating the building with the daily and yearly solar cycles.

As positioned for the sun rises in the north-east, the first rays of dawn illuminate the Nativity Façade, which represents the birth of Christ. This façade, facing the sunrise, is adorned with scenes and symbols of joy, innocence, and new beginnings, an embodiment of the energy and promise that come with each new day. The intricate carvings are gradually brought to life by the soft morning light, reflecting the world’s awakening.

As the day progresses, the sun moves southward, illuminating the Glory Façade, the basilica’s principal façade. This façade symbolises the journey of human life, from birth through death to final salvation, under the radiant, noonday sun. The light and shadows create a dynamic interplay on the elaborately decorated façade, symbolising the joys and tribulations of life’s journey.

Towards sunset, the sun in the west bathes the Passion Façade in a warm, golden glow. This façade, depicting the suffering, death, and resurrection of Christ, stands in stark contrast to the Nativity Façade. The sculptures are austere and angular, mirroring the harsher light of the setting sun, and imbuing the scenes with a sense of solemnity and sacrifice.

Through the night, the moon and stars provide a serene illumination over the basilica, maintaining a subtle connection to the celestial sphere until dawn. The Sagrada Familia, therefore, in the grandeur of its architecture and its interplay with the sun’s journey, becomes a terrestrial clock, marking the passage of time in a daily celebration of human spirituality.

Golden beaches in Barcelona

Barcelona has several golden beaches (Llevant, Nove Mar Bella, Mar Bella, Bogatell, Nova Icaria, Barcenoleta, and St. Sebastia). One fun way to get to the beach is to take a cable car (octagonal-shaped) to Barcenoleta.

Food and drink

Catalonia is famous for its cava, a Spanish equivalent of Champagne that uses the same sparkling wine-making techniques but with different grape varieties.

New branded residences in Barcelona

Barcelona is perceived as hip and traditional. There are lots of new developments for people who want to make it home. Depending on your vibe, you can choose apartments near Passeig de Gracia, a prime boulevard in Eixample, Barcelona’s most sophisticated area, which was laid out on a grid system (similar to Manhattan) in the early 20th century. Most buildings are no more than six stories, with stylish apartments featuring high ceilings and tall windows (good feng shui). Or you can go further towards the sea, south in the Gothic Quarters, which is Barcelona’s oldest area, where you can find contemporary apartments with loft-style windows, high ceilings and of course air conditioning – all within walking distance to Las Ramblas and Barcelona beach. Mandarin Oriental Residences is opening in 2020 with 34 apartments and views of La Sagrada Familia and curves of modernist architect Antoni Gaudí on Passeig de Gràcia, and hopefully with good feng shui inside.

Map of Barcelona and top feng shui locations

FC Barcelona

Founded in 1899, FC Barcelona is one of the oldest and most celebrated football clubs in the world. Hailing from Barcelona, Spain, the club has a rich tradition of excellence, known for its distinctive playing style, often referred to as ‘tiki-taka’, an approach characterised by short passing and movement. FC Barcelona has won numerous domestic and international titles, including the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey. The club has also been home to many of the sport’s biggest stars, including Lionel Messi, Johan Cruyff, Ronaldinho, and Robert Lewandowski. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, FC Barcelona remains a symbol of Catalan culture and Catalanism, boasting the motto “Més que un club” (More than a club).

Famous people who lived and live in Barcelona

Many famous people have lived in Barcelona and still live there. Picasso lived in Barcelona. Guadi, without whom Barcelona wouldn’t be what it is now, lived and worked in Barcelona. Lionel Messi, a footballer, lived here while playing for FC Barcelona (he now plays for Paris). Joan Miró, Antoni Tàpies and Salvador Dalí live here. Shakira lived in Barcelona while married to FC Barcelona player Gerard Piqué. George Orwell lived in Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War, and his experiences inspired his book “Homage to Catalonia.” Robert Lewandowski, who plays for FC Barcelona, and his wife, Anna Lewandowska, and their children live here. They also have a home in Majorca. Anna, the wife of Robert Lewandowski, once said that she had always dreamt of living in Barcelona and running a lifestyle, health and training business. Lewandowski holds the record as Poland’s all-time leading scorer with 79 international goals, additionally ranking third on the list of Europe’s all-time top scorers in men’s international football. Robert’s astrocartography lines running via Spain and near Barcelona are very positive. Anna Lewandowska’s astrocartography lines are also very positive: her Sun line runs very close to Barcelona, which might explain why she dreamt of living here. Also, the same Sun line runs through Majorca, where they have their second home.

Feng shui consultants in Barcelona, Spain

A quick Google search revealed that there aren’t many feng shui consultants in Barcelona. But if you live in Barcelona and are looking for a feng shui consultant near you, with 45+ years of experience in feng shui and environmental psychology, PhD research in feng shui, feel free to call/text me on +447956 288574 for a quote for a feng shui consultation for your home or workplace. Although I live in London, I do remote feng shui consultations. Email me

Check my blogs about the feng shui of cities

The post Feng Shui Consultant in Barcelona, Spain. Feng Shui of Barcelona and Spain appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

History of Valencia
Valencia was founded in 138 BC and is one of the oldest cities in Spain.

Map of the old, original Valencia

Five elements of Valencia: water, wood, fire, earth and metal
Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, exemplifies a compelling illustration of feng shui, an ancient Chinese philosophy that seeks to harmonise individuals with their surroundings. The city’s unique layout and features align well with the five elemental aspects of feng shui: water, wood, fire, earth, and metal. Valencia has all five elements or energies in a state of great balance. Valencia is conveniently located by the sea, with Europe’s fifth-largest port and a long stretch of the seafront, including Las Arenas, Malvarrosa, and El Saler beaches. You can also have a go at waterball (zorbing) at the City of Arts and Sciences, which has the largest aquarium in Europe. Valencia has one of the largest urban parks in Europe – Jardín del Turia. You can see the park (9km and 13 bridges) by hiring a quadricycle. You can visit Parc Gulliver (free admission) for a fun walk and a slide ride. The weather in Valencia is its fire element. The earth element is represented by historic architecture, for example, La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange) and the Cathedral with its octagonal tower (great feng shui, and you can climb the 207 steps up to the top for great views of the city). The City of the Arts and Sciences is the metal element.

Feng shui Valencia – Zorbing

Water, symbolising prosperity and abundance in feng shui, is a dominant characteristic in Valencia. The city is situated on Spain’s southeastern coast, where the Turia River meets the Mediterranean Sea. The City of Arts and Sciences, a stunning architectural complex, also prominently features water, with pools surrounding the buildings that reflect their avant-garde designs.

The wood element, representing growth and vitality in feng shui, manifests in Valencia’s lush green spaces. The Turia Gardens, one of Spain’s largest urban parks, was created in the former riverbed of the Turia River and breathes life into the city’s heart with its expansive greenery and tree-lined paths.

Fire, an element denoting transformation and passion, is evident in Valencia’s fervent festivals, such as Las Fallas. In this world-renowned celebration, large artistic monuments (fallas) are burned, symbolising the purging of the old and the welcoming of new beginnings. The city’s warm, sunny climate also reflects this fiery aspect.

Earth, signifying stability and groundedness, is reflected in Valencia’s rich historical heritage. The charming Old Town, with landmarks such as the Valencia Cathedral and the Silk Exchange, anchors the city in a deep sense of history and provides a grounding counterpoint to the city’s dynamic growth.

Valencia

The metal element, associated with clarity and precision, is showcased in the city’s innovative architecture and infrastructure. Structures like the Arts and Sciences City and the futuristic Agora, with their sleek lines and modernist designs, speak to Valencia’s progressive spirit and its capacity for continual renewal.

In essence, Valencia, with its blend of ancient history and modern vitality, perfectly balances the elements of feng shui, creating a city that is both deeply rooted and dynamically forward-looking.

Feng shui consultants in Valencia, Spain
Feel free to call/text me on +447956 288574 for a quote for feng shui consultation for your home or workplace. Although I live in London, I do travel and remote feng shui consultations. Email me

Spiritual feng shui of Valencia
Valencia’s 13th-century Cathedral is a must-see for connecting with the city’s spiritual side. If you’re a fan of Dan Brown, you’ll be especially interested in the holy grail (carbon-dated to 300BC to 100AD, with base and handles added in the Middle Ages), which is on display there, as the Vatican only recognised its potential.

Feng shui Valencia Cathedral

The energy of food and drinks
Visit La Bella De Cadiz to try their famous cocktail, Agua de Valencia which was invented in 1959 (and is composed of sugar, vodka, gin, fresh Valencian orange juice, and Cava as well as Cointreau can be added), as well as Paella School – Valencia, is the birthplace of paella and the dish is celebrated in March every year (all ingredients that go into paella are local, from the rice grown in fields north and south of the city and the saffron that flavours the rice).

The Central Market in Valencia

My favourite feng shui place is as always a local market and Valencia has one to remember, the Central Market – the largest market in Europe! Built from 1910 to 1928 with a 30m high dome and over 1000 stalls. It’s probably the first market to have computerised scales (1996). If you’re a vegan, you might like to miss some departments in this huge market. I was a bit disappointed with this market, because they only sell produce there, and there was only one tiny place to eat inside. I was hoping to eat in, as you can in the markets in Barcelona, Lisbon, and some other cities.

Also, Colón Market is a great place to visit. All Spanish delicacies, such as chorizo, jamón ibérico, manchego cheese, and more, can be found there. What not to love?

Feng shui of Valencia Market Central

You must try Horchata drink (made of tiger nuts, water, cinnamon, and sugar and apparently helps with reduction of cholesterol) accompanied by Farton (created in the 1960s), a cake-like sponge to be dunked in the drink.

Las Fallas is Valencia’s fiesta, celebration and marking of the beginning of spring, and it takes place on the 19th of March – a perfect time to visit this amazing city.

Valencia Pace De La Reina

Mallorca and Ibiza are very close and have very good feng shui, too.

Feng shui consultants in Valencia, Spain

A quick Google search revealed that there aren’t many feng shui consultants in Valencia. But if you live in Valencia and are looking for a feng shui consultant near you, with 45+ years of experience in feng shui, PhD research, and environmental psychology, feel free to call/text me at +447956 288574 for a quote for feng shui consultation for your home or workplace. Although I live in London, I do remote feng shui consultations. Email me

Check my blogs about the feng shui of cities

The post Feng Shui Consultant in Valencia, Spain. Feng Shui of Valencia, Spain. appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

It’s now more possible and desirable in a digitally fluent office to work from home. But can feng shui give any insights or tips on how to optimise your home office?

Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese art, is often viewed as a mystical and complex practice. However, when we strip it down to its essence, it becomes a profound and insightful approach to creating harmonious and productive environments. In modern workplaces, Feng Shui can be wonderfully integrated with principles from Environmental Psychology to enhance well-being and efficiency. Here are the top Feng Shui tips that blend tradition with science for your workplace:

44% of all work-related ill-health cases in the UK are due to stress, depression or anxiety, according to Health and Safety Executive (2019). Another survey of 1015 UK adults in employment suggests that 48% of British workers do little or nothing to relieve work-related stress.

Top feng shui tips for workplaces

1. Clutter-Free Zen: Declutter Your Space
The fundamental principle of Feng Shui is the flow of Qi (energy). A cluttered desk or office impedes this flow, leading to stagnation and reduced productivity. Environmental Psychology supports this, showing that clutter can increase stress and diminish focus. Organize your workspace, ensuring everything has its place. This not only clears the physical space but also your mental space.

2. Strategic Seating: Position Your Desk Wisely
In Feng Shui, the position of your desk is critical. It should ideally face the door (known as the command position) but not be in direct line with it. This position subconsciously empowers you, as you can see who’s entering without being startled. From a psychological standpoint, this reduces stress and increases feelings of control and security.
Sit next to a window: Work by a window because, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in 214, people who sat next to a window slept on average for 46 minutes longer each night, as opposed to workers who sat in offices without window access. Simple exposure to natural daylight helps the body clock work better.

Natural light and views are good feng shui

3. Natural Elements: Incorporate Plants and Water
Incorporating elements of nature into your workplace aligns with Feng Shui’s emphasis on balance and harmony. Plants are not just aesthetically pleasing; they improve air quality and have been shown to enhance mood and productivity. Similarly, a small fountain or water element can introduce soothing sounds, reducing stress and promoting a calming atmosphere.

4. Light the Way: Optimal Lighting Conditions
Light is a vital energy source in Feng Shui. Natural light is preferred, as it boosts mood and energy levels. If natural light is limited, ensure your space is well-lit with warm, soft artificial lighting. Avoid harsh, fluorescent lights as they can cause eye strain and discomfort, hindering productivity.

5. Color Therapy: Choose Your Palette Wisely
Colours play a significant role in Feng Shui, with each colour having specific properties and influences. For instance, blue and green are calming and can enhance concentration, while yellows can stimulate clarity and creativity. Match your color choices to the type of work you do, but ensure they are not overpowering.

6. Personal Touch: Add Personal Items Mindfully
Personal items like photos or mementos can uplift your mood and make your workspace feel more ‘yours.’ However, in Feng Shui, it’s essential to choose these items mindfully. Too many personal items can clutter your space, and some items might subconsciously trigger stress or distraction. Choose items that inspire and motivate you.

7. Ergonomic Harmony: Comfort in Design
Your physical comfort in your workspace is crucial. Ergonomic furniture in line with Feng Shui principles not only enhances comfort but also improves energy flow. An ergonomic chair and desk can reduce physical strain, which in turn can increase your focus and productivity.

8. Soundscapes: Incorporating Soothing Sounds
Feng Shui acknowledges the importance of sound in creating a balanced environment. Gentle, soothing sounds can enhance concentration and reduce stress levels. Consider soft background music, nature sounds, or even a small desk fountain to create a serene auditory environment.

9. Symmetry and Balance: Organize for Harmony
Feng Shui is all about balance and symmetry, reflecting the natural world. Arrange your office furniture and accessories symmetrically to create a sense of balance and harmony. This not only pleases the eye but also creates a more organized and efficient workspace.

10. Mindful Technology: Manage Electronic Distractions
In modern workspaces, technology is unavoidable, but it can be managed Feng Shui-wise. Keep electronic devices like phones and computers in designated areas and minimize wires and clutter. This helps maintain the energy flow and reduces electromagnetic stress, allowing for a more focused and efficient work environment.

Conclusion Embracing Feng Shui in your workplace is about creating a balanced, harmonious environment that nurtures productivity and well-being. By blending these ancient practices with modern environmental psychology, you can transform your workspace into a sanctuary of efficiency and peace. Remember, the key to successful Feng Shui is mindfulness and intentionality in your environment. Happy harmonizing!

Prime and anchor your workplace with positivity

Priming your environment with positivity is a powerful strategy to enhance your mood, productivity, and overall sense of well-being. The idea is to surround yourself with visual and physical cues that evoke positive emotions and thoughts. Here’s how you can do this effectively:

1. Positive Imagery and Artwork: Decorate your workspace or living area with images that inspire and uplift you. These could be beautiful landscapes, artwork that resonates with you, or photographs of happy memories. Visual stimuli have a direct impact on our mood, and surrounding yourself with images that evoke peace, joy, or inspiration can significantly influence your mindset.
2. Inspirational Quotes: Place motivational quotes in visible places around your environment. Choose quotes that resonate with your goals and values, and that give you a boost of motivation and positivity. You could write them on sticky notes and place them on your mirror, computer monitor, or fridge. Reading these quotes regularly can reinforce a positive mindset and keep you focused on your aspirations.
3. Vision Boards: Create a vision board that represents your goals, dreams, and what brings you joy. This could include pictures, drawings, or any other items that symbolize your aspirations and what you love. Regularly seeing this board can remind you of where you’re headed and why, keeping you motivated and positive.
4. Personal Mementos: Display personal items that have sentimental value or remind you of happy times. This could be anything from a family photo, a souvenir from a memorable trip, to a gift from a loved one. These items can serve as reminders of happy experiences and the love and support you have in your life.
5. Colour Psychology: Utilize the power of colours. Different colours can evoke different emotions and moods. For example, blues and greens are often calming and restorative, yellows can be energizing and uplifting, and reds can stimulate and excite. Choose colours for your space that align with the feelings you want to cultivate.
6. Nature Elements: Incorporating elements of nature into your environment can have a calming and rejuvenating effect. This can include indoor plants, a small fountain, or natural materials like wood and stone. Nature has a soothing effect on the mind and can help reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being.
7. Aromatherapy: Scents can have a powerful effect on our mood. Consider using essential oils or scented candles that you find uplifting or relaxing. For example, lavender is known for its calming properties, while citrus scents can be energizing and uplifting.
8. Music and Sounds: Background music or nature sounds that you find pleasant can also help create a positive atmosphere. Music has the power to change our mood quickly, and listening to tunes that you love can boost your happiness and productivity.
9. Lighting: Good lighting is crucial. Natural light is the best option, but if that’s not possible, ensure your environment is well-lit with warm, gentle lighting. Poor lighting can lead to eye strain and mood dips, while a well-lit space can help keep you alert and positive.
10. Books: Have lots of books around, everywhere. Studies suggest that the more books you have around, the more intelligent you’ll be. The claim that having lots of books around can make you more intelligent is supported by a study conducted by researchers at the Australian National University and the University of Nevada. Their study, published in the journal “Social Science Research” in 2018, found that growing up in a home with many books enhances skills in adulthood. The study involved participants from 31 countries and assessed their literacy, numeracy, and technological problem-solving skills. The findings suggested that individuals who had around 80 books in their childhood homes had significantly higher literacy levels compared to those with fewer books. This effect plateaued after about 350 books, but the benefits of having a book-rich environment during childhood were evident well into adulthood. The study highlights the importance of access to books and the role of a book-rich environment in long-term skill development.

The more books the better

By carefully curating your environment with these elements, you can create a space that not only looks good but also actively contributes to a positive mindset, helping you to be more productive, creative, and happy in your daily life.

The post Feng Shui for Your Home Office. How to Feng Shui Your Home Office. Top Tips for Home Office. appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

The Feng Shui Perspective on Straight Lines: In the practice of feng shui, straight lines are often advised against, as they are believed to channel ‘shar chi’ or negative energy. This principle stems from the observation that straight lines are rarely found in nature. When examined closely, even the straightest of lines reveal irregularities. For instance, a laser beam, though appearing straight, is actually slightly curved due to Earth’s gravitational field. This deviation from natural forms is thought to disrupt the harmonious flow of energy, or ‘qi’, in our surroundings.

Nature’s Efficiency with Curved Lines: Nature tends toward efficiency in its designs, often employing curved lines. The shortest distance between two points may be a straight line, but nature optimizes this principle with curves. Consider the sphere – it’s the shape that encloses the greatest volume with the smallest surface area. This efficiency is mirrored in the roundness of the Earth and the spherical nature of galaxies.

Curvilinearity and Angularity: The Impact of Shapes in Design and Perception

In the realm of design and perception, two fundamental concepts play a pivotal role: curvilinearity and angularity. These principles are not just elements of aesthetic appeal but are deeply ingrained in our cognitive and emotional responses to the environment around us.

Curvilinearity: The Flow of Nature and Comfort
Curvilinearity refers to the use of curved lines and forms. This design element is often associated with naturalness, fluidity, and comfort. Curved lines evoke a sense of movement and continuity, mirroring the organic forms found in nature, such as the gentle curve of a river or the rounded shape of stones smoothed over time. In architecture and product design, curvilinear forms are often perceived as welcoming and soothing. They can create a sense of flow and openness in spaces, encouraging movement and interaction.

Angularity: Precision and Modernism
In contrast, angularity is characterized by sharp lines and geometric forms. Angular designs are often associated with modernism, precision, and efficiency. They convey a sense of stability, strength, and durability. In architecture, angular structures can make a bold statement, standing out with their defined edges and clear lines. However, they can also be perceived as imposing or aggressive, lacking the natural softness of curvilinear forms.

Psychological Implications
The impact of these shapes goes beyond mere visual appeal; they can significantly influence our psychological responses. Research in environmental psychology suggests that people generally find curvilinear forms more relaxing and comforting. This preference could be linked to our evolutionary predisposition towards natural environments, which are replete with soft curves and smooth contours.

Conversely, angular shapes, while often seen as sleek and modern, can sometimes evoke feelings of unease or discomfort due to their sharpness and association with man-made environments. However, they can also be perceived as more dynamic and exciting, suggesting a balance between comfort and stimulation in design choices.

Application in Various Fields

Architecture and Urban Planning: Curvilinear designs in architecture can make buildings and spaces feel more integrated with the natural world, whereas angular designs can give a sense of modernity and progress. Urban planners often use a mix of these elements to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Interior Design: The choice between curvilinear and angular furniture can drastically change the ambience of a room. Curved sofas and rounded tables often create a more informal and relaxed setting, while angular furniture can lend a room a more structured and formal air.
Product Design: The application of curvilinear and angular designs in products can influence user experience. For example, a curvilinear design in a smartphone can make it more comfortable to hold, while an angular design can give it a sleek, modern look.
Balancing the Two
In practice, the most successful designs often find a balance between curvilinearity and angularity, leveraging the strengths of each to create environments and products that are both functional and emotionally resonant. This balance can cater to diverse preferences and needs, creating spaces and objects that are not only efficient and practical but also comforting and aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion
Curvilinearity and angularity are more than just design choices; they are reflections of our interaction with the world around us. Understanding the psychological and emotional impacts of these design principles can lead to more thoughtful and human-centric architecture, urban planning, and product design, ultimately enhancing our daily experiences and interactions with our environment.

Human Preferences for Round Shapes: Vincent van Gogh once mused, “Life is probably round,” a sentiment that aligns with findings in environmental psychology. Research, including my dissertation, reveals a human preference for oval and round shapes over squares. This preference could stem from the inherent nature of circular shapes, which, as psychiatrist and author Iain McGilchrist noted, accommodate the convergence of opposites in a way that straight lines do not.

The Psychological Impact of Shapes: Circular shapes and curved lines are often perceived as more welcoming and harmonious compared to the rigidness of straight lines. This preference can influence everything from architectural design to product development. The roundness suggests a sense of completeness and continuity, which might explain why circular motifs are prevalent in various cultural and spiritual symbols.

Applying These Principles in Design and Architecture: Understanding the psychological impact of shapes can be invaluable in design and architecture. Incorporating curved lines and circular forms can create spaces that feel more natural and harmonious. In urban design, for instance, the integration of roundabouts and curved pathways can make environments feel more organic and less imposing than grid-like street layouts.

Conclusion: The shapes and lines that make up our built environment have a subtle yet significant influence on our psyche. From the feng shui philosophy’s avoidance of straight lines to the human preference for round shapes uncovered in environmental psychology, it’s clear that our surroundings shape our experiences and perceptions. As we continue to design and build our world, it’s crucial to remember Churchill’s words and consider how our creations, in turn, shape us. Whether it’s the roundness of a building or the curve of a street, these forms resonate with our innate preferences and impact our daily lives.

The post Curvilinearity and Angularity: The Influence of Shapes and Lines in Our Lives: From Feng Shui to Environmental Psychology appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

The orientation of living rooms
The best places compass-wise are south, south-west and west facing. West direction has a relaxing quality of energy.

Layouts
The layout of your living room will depend on the shape of the room. Work with the function first and see how it looks and how the energy will flow.

Strong focal points
A strong focal point or points are essential for establishing the context and ensuring that you can relax and orient yourself in relation to key features. The focal point can be organised around anything when done well and with thought. The TV set is no longer a focal point in many living rooms.

Furniture
The choice of furniture will depend on your style preference. For example, the Moroso modular seating system consists of chairs, sofas and coffee tables in different shapes and sizes that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle.

Feng shui of the living room

Strong tables
Strong tables will have a grounding and stabilising effect.

HiFi
If you have a wifi router somewhere in the living room, make sure it’s far away from any seating areas. Wifi routers are a source of electro-smog and shouldn’t be placed near people. Obviously, you should switch off wifi router for the night to ensure a good, healthy sleep.

TV set
TV sets have come a long way, and for the better. The latest versions are roll-up TVs that can be easily stored, so the TV is not a huge focal point. If you’re a great TV fanatic, then a centrally placed TV is fine. For ages, the TV set was a focal point in any living room – these times are gone, and the television is now going incognito. There is a growing trend for redesigning the living rooms where the box is hidden or concealed or not there at all since more and more people watch media on their tablets or mobile phones. After all, the living room doesn’t have to be organised around the TV set as a focal point. With micro-living trends, homeowners are looking for new ways to maximise their space and hide the sets and use the space for other things. And since the TV sets are no longer focal points, people are moving away from traditional setups where the TV is a focal point. LG Electronics produced the first roll-up 65in Oled TV, made of an ultra-thin material that rolls into a thin box that doubles as a speaker. If you can’t afford this high-end TV, you can paint the wall on which the TV is positioned with dark colours similar to the television, so the set doesn’t dominate the wall so much. Also, placing the TV off-centre, not as a focal point, will help. Another popular and quite inexpensive way is to use mirror frames over flat-screen TV to hide it when it’s not used. You can obscure the view of the TV set with art and screens or hide it in built-in cupboards, etc. Mini projectors are another way, as long as you have a clear wall to project the movies.
(In bedrooms, people use bed frames to hide the TV sets. I personally don’t recommend it unless you unplug the TV after use to minimise the electro-smog at the foot of your bed. The off-grid bedroom with minimal electro-smog and electronic distractions is the best option for healthy sleep.)

LG roll-up TV in the living room

Lighting
Living rooms need a variety of lighting, i.e. ceiling, table, low level, and wall lighting, to give full flexibility for the lighting mood you want to create.

Photos of the family and friends
Surrounding yourself with photos of family and friends creates a wonderful sense of family, friendship and community. The more, the better.

Pastel colours, yellow (gathering)
When it comes to the colour scheme for the living room, again, it’s up to your preference for the style. A major influence might be the compass orientation and the amount of light the living room receives.

Bookshelves/library
In spite, of the Kindle revolution, bookshelves and libraries are having a great time. The more books you have, the better. Research suggests that people who have books on display are happier than those who don’t.

Plants, fresh, cut flowers
Plants, flowers and cut flowers add that extra fresh live energy. Avoid dry or plastic plants or flowers – no matter how great they look, they don’t have any energy (chi/qi).

Oval, round shapes (tables, avoid glass)
Research (and my own) suggests that relaxing shapes are round, oval and with flowing lines. It’s best to avoid glass tables since they can make people a bit self-conscious when placing objects on them.

Fun things for joy and play
Play is an essential requirement for relaxation. Make your living room playful and fun. Have lots of games, puzzles, magic tricks, and fun things to do. Research suggests that play is an antidote for uncertainty. Also, researchers found out that joy is key to a happy and contented life. Read more about the importance of joy and happiness

Balancing the feng shui five elements in your living room

Water: Flowing Serenity
The water element in feng shui represents wealth and prosperity. To incorporate this element into your living room, consider adding a small water feature or aquarium. Wall art featuring seascapes or rivers can also evoke the water element. Blue and black accents, through cushions or rugs, can subtly bring in the water element, fostering a sense of calm and tranquility.

Wood: Vibrant Growth
Wood, the element representing growth and vitality in feng shui, is best introduced via plants. Houseplants, wooden furniture, or green décor items can instil a sense of life and renewal in your living room. Even artwork featuring forests or trees can echo the wood element’s energies. However, ensure your plants are healthy and well cared for, as dying plants can lead to stagnant energy.

Fire: Sparking Passion
Fire, signifying transformation and passion, can be brought into your living room through the use of warm colours such as red, orange, and pink. Candles in safe holders can also represent the fire element (actual candles are not recommended since they create air pollution – use lighting or Himalayan salt lamps). An elegant fireplace can be a focal point for the room, creating a warm and welcoming ambience. Even images of sunsets or bright lights can invoke this fiery element.

Earth: Grounded Stability
Earth, symbolising stability and nourishment, can be introduced through the use of earth-toned colours, such as browns and beiges. Heavier furniture pieces and square or rectangular shapes can further echo this earthy energy. Ceramic vases or pottery, landscape art, and crystals like agate or quartz can also help in bringing the grounding earth element into your living room.

Metal element with a bit of wood/tree. Generally, it’s best to avoid too much of one element unless it’s designed for a specific feng shui effect or as a remedy.

Metal: Clear Precision
Metal, representing clarity and precision, can be incorporated into your living room through the use of metal furniture or décor items. Shades of white, grey, and pastels also symbolize the metal element. Round or oval shapes, mirrors, and metal art can further enhance this element, promoting a sense of sharpness and clarity in the room.

In conclusion, balancing the feng shui five elements in your living room is about more than aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that nurtures your well-being and supports positive energy flow. Whether you’re redesigning your living room or making minor adjustments, these feng shui principles can guide you towards a harmonious, balanced living space.

To sum up
1) Make the living room a relaxing place.
2) Make it fun and enjoyable as well as playful.
3) Define different areas clearly if it has other functions.
4) Create clear focal points that don’t compete with each other.
5) Balance five elements: water, wood/tree, fire, earth a

The post Top Feng Shui Tips for Living Rooms. Feng shui living room do’s and don’ts. appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

Feng Shui: The Chinese Art of Harmony
Feng shui is an ancient Chinese art that focuses on harmonizing individuals with their surrounding environment. It is grounded in Taoist principles and the concept of ‘qi’ or ‘chi’ – the life force or energy flow. feng shui practitioners use various tools and principles, like the Bagua map and the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water), to optimize the flow of this energy in living and working spaces.

Vastu Shastra: India’s Science of Architecture
Vastu Shastra, often termed the ‘science of architecture’, is an ancient Indian system of design based on directional alignments. It is rooted in the Vedas, the comprehensive scriptures of Hinduism, and focuses on integrating architecture with nature, using geometric patterns (yantras), symmetry, and directional alignments. Vastu aims to create spaces that align with the fundamental forces of nature.

Similarities Between feng shui and Vastu Shastra

Holistic Approach: Both systems take a holistic approach to design, emphasising the importance of living in harmony with the environment.
Energy Flow: Each practice focuses on the flow of energy – ‘qi’ in feng shui and ‘Prana’ in Vastu Shastra – and its influence on well-being.
Five Elements: Both incorporate the concept of the five elements, although they are defined differently in each system.
Spiritual Foundations: Each is deeply rooted in its respective spiritual and cultural traditions, offering more than just aesthetic guidelines – they provide a way of living.

Key Differences Between feng shui and Vastu Shastra

Cultural Origins: feng shui originates from China and is influenced by Taoist philosophies, while Vastu Shastra is derived from ancient Indian Vedic traditions.
Guiding Principles: feng shui uses the Bagua map to analyse and correct the flow of energy, focusing on the layout and orientation of spaces. Vastu Shastra relies more on cardinal directions and specific measurements for design and layout.
Flexibility vs. Rigidity: feng shui is generally more flexible, offering remedies and cures to adjust existing structures, while Vastu Shastra is often more rigid, emphasising specific dimensions and orientations from the beginning of a design.
Application Scope: While both can be applied to homes, offices, and gardens, Vastu Shastra also extends to town planning and larger architectural projects.

Conclusion
feng shui and Vastu Shastra, despite their differences, share a common goal: to enhance the quality of life through harmonious design. By understanding and respecting the principles of both, one can appreciate the depth and wisdom they bring to the spaces we inhabit. Whether through the flexible adaptation of feng shui or the precise guidelines of Vastu Shastra, both systems offer invaluable insights into the art of creating balanced and prosperous environments.

Book a vastu consultation

Integrating Both Practices in Modern Living

The Role of Compass Directions
A fundamental distinction lies in how each system views compass directions. In Vastu Shastra, each direction is ruled by a specific deity and planet, with the main entrance ideally facing north, east, or northeast for maximum benefit. feng shui, while also considering directions, uses the Bagua map to divide a space into specific areas that correspond to different aspects of life, such as wealth, health, or love.

The Concept of Time
Another interesting difference is the incorporation of time. feng shui includes the dimension of time in its analysis, with certain remedies and arrangements changing with the lunar year. Vastu Shastra, on the other hand, is more static, with principles that remain constant over time.

Interior and Exterior Elements
Both systems emphasise the importance of interior and exterior harmony, but they approach it differently. feng shui places significant emphasis on the arrangement of objects within a space, like furniture placement and colour choices. Vastu Shastra focuses more on the structural aspects, such as the location of doors, windows, and rooms.

Energy Correction Techniques
In feng shui, remedies such as mirrors, crystals, or water features are used to correct the energy flow. Vastu Shastra may suggest structural changes, like the addition or removal of rooms or changing the orientation of the house.

Integration in Contemporary Design
Modern architects and interior designers often integrate principles from both feng shui and Vastu Shastra, acknowledging their benefits in creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also harmonious and energising. For instance, the use of natural light, open spaces, and the incorporation of natural elements can be seen as an amalgamation of both practices.

Personal and Cultural Interpretations
While both systems have their traditional roots, modern adaptations have seen a blending of these principles with personal and cultural interpretations. In the West, feng shui has been adapted to suit contemporary lifestyles, just as Vastu principles have been modified in modern Indian architecture.

The Universal Appeal of Harmonious Living
The growing interest in feng shui and Vastu Shastra worldwide is a testament to the universal human quest for balance, harmony, and connection with our environment. By understanding the underlying principles of these ancient wisdoms, we can create spaces that nurture and support us, both physically and spiritually.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while feng shui and Vastu Shastra have distinct origins and methodologies, their convergence lies in the shared goal of enhancing human well-being through environmental harmony. By appreciating both, we open ourselves to a world where space, energy, and design interplay gracefully, fostering environments that uplift and inspire. Whether one follows the flexible path of feng shui or the structured approach of Vastu Shastra, the journey towards creating more harmonious spaces is a rewarding one, filled with insights into the ancient wisdom that continues to guide us in the modern world.

Book a vastu consultation

The post Similarities and Differencese Between Feng Shui and Vastu Shastra. Exploring the Parallels and Contrasts: Feng Shui and Vastu Shastra appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

Updated April 2026, with FAQ, references, and earthquake safety guidance.

Two major fault lines in London

The feng shui of London is very good. However, in 2018, researchers at Imperial College London found two fault lines running under London that could potentially cause a magnitude 5 earthquake. These fault lines move between 1mm and 2mm every year. The faults run directly under central London and under Canary Wharf. The researchers were using Persistent Scatterer Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (PSInSAR) and believe that London is overdue for a quake but suggest that there is a one-in-a-thousand-year chance of a tremor. “The faults were initially inferred from geomorphology – drainage patterns, etc. – [along with] borehole records, and site visits,” Ghail told IFLScience. He noted, though, that they “detected their motion using satellite Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) radar data,” a technique that tracks even small changes in displacement over time.

An earthquake has not struck London since the 1700s
The last large earthquake in London happened on the 6th of April 1580, and it had a comparably large magnitude 5.5. A magnitude 5 earthquake is comparable to shaking, similar to standing on a platform between two passing trains. However, a magnitude 6 earthquake could cause damage to buildings. New buildings in London will be made so they can withstand a quake registering 6.5 on the Richter Scale. Dr Ghail, a researcher at Imperial College London, said the greatest risk to Londoners is not the earthquake itself but the knock-on effects (disruption to infrastructure, economic impact, secondary hazards, building damage, long-term recovery challenges, etc).

This West-East distribution shows the movement over an eight-year period from 1992 – 2000. Red implies the land moved westwards, whilst blue shows an eastward shift. If a magnitude 5 earthquake hit, the shaking would be similar to standing on a platform between two passing trains.

Geopathic stress and fault lines

Research in geopathics and geobiology suggests that geopathic stress can be caused by fault lines. Traditionally, in many cultures, people tried to avoid building or living over fault lines for obvious reasons. Having said that, some of the most famous sacred places and temples are built over fault lines because people believe that the energy released through fault lines and quakes could be beneficial but in small doses, according to the hormesis theory. Igor V Florinsky (2010) looked at 104 monasteries and almost all of them were located along fault lines and intersections of them. Another researcher Farmaki (2013), identified that the majority of the temples in Greece were on fault lines or near one. Lydia Giannoulopoulou, who did her PhD on this subject, suggests that “most basic characteristic of ancient monuments and temples is the concentration of natural geomagnetic and electric fluctuations.” The theory of hormesis states that the same external agent can cause low-dose stimulation and high-dose suppression on living organisms; hence a bit of geopathic stress can be beneficial, but too much over a long time can be harmful. Learn more about geopathic stress

This image shows ground movement in London between October and December 2005, with known faults shown by the black lines.

London earthquake risk. Where are the fault lines in London? 

In geology, a fault line is a crack or discontinuity in the Earth’s surface, along which movement and displacement that take place there. The energy released by the movement on the active fault lines is what causes most earthquakes. Faults don’t usually consist of a single fracture, so the term ‘fault zone’ refers to the area where deformation is correlated with the fault plane. In many parts of the world, it is prohibited to build near faults (California, Japan), where earthquakes are a regular hazard and can damage the infrastructure and lead to injuries and death. The researchers at Imperial College London revealed that the subterranean fault lines shift between 1 and 2 mm every year. Dr Ghail, a civil engineering specialist at Imperial College, talking about the chances of a magnitude five earthquake, said it’s ““enough to be scary but not fundamentally a problem”.

London’s two major fault lines go through central London and under Canary Wharf.

London fault lines and possible earthquake areas: central London and under Canary Wharf

Earthquakes in the UK

The UK is not known for earthquakes, but the British Geological Survey (BGS) reminds us that they do occur – hundreds of small ones take place each year, but mainly on the western side of the British mainland. The largest occurred in 1931, some distance offshore, registering as a 6.1M tremor.

Earthquakes in the UK, from 1956 to now, at varying magnitudes. BGS

In the week of 27-30 June 2018, there were two earthquakes of a magnitude of 2.4 and 2.6 in Surrey for the first time in 40 years. There is a “constant stream” of small earthquakes all over the UK on regular bases, says Richard Luckett, a BGS seismologist. There are concerns that fracking can cause the quakes, and Mr Luckett said, “It is plausible, as fracking can cause earthquakes.”

What are the long-term consequences for property values in earthquake-prone areas

Lower Property Values
Properties in high-risk earthquake zones typically experience lower market values due to the potential for damage or destruction. This depreciation can be prolonged, especially in areas known for frequent seismic activity. Buyers are often wary of investing in regions where the risk of significant damage is high, leading to a sustained decrease in property values.

Higher Insurance Costs
Insurance premiums in earthquake-prone regions are generally higher, adding to the overall cost of property ownership and potentially deterring buyers. In some instances, earthquake insurance may be unavailable or prohibitively expensive, further depressing property values. The added financial burden of high insurance premiums can make properties less attractive to prospective buyers.

Increased Maintenance and Retrofitting Costs
Property owners in high-risk areas often need to invest in seismic retrofitting and ongoing maintenance to ensure their buildings can withstand earthquakes. These additional costs can significantly impact the overall value of the property, as buyers may factor in the expense of maintaining seismic resilience.

Fluctuating Demand
The perception of earthquake risk can lead to fluctuating demand for properties in affected areas. Decreased demand typically drives down prices, but this effect can vary over time depending on recent seismic activity and public awareness of the risks. For example, after a major earthquake, demand may temporarily plummet before gradually stabilising.

Long-Term Economic Impact
Earthquakes can cause economic downturns in affected areas, leading to prolonged depression in property values. Reduced employment opportunities and overall economic activity contribute to a less vibrant real estate market. The economic repercussions of a significant earthquake can resonate for years, further diminishing property values.

Changes in Risk Perception
Major earthquake events, even in other regions, can alter the perceived risk in earthquake-prone areas. For instance, the real estate market in Istanbul was affected by earthquakes in other parts of Turkey, leading to a shift in perception and subsequent impact on property values. This change in perception can have lasting effects, as potential buyers reassess the risks associated with purchasing property in such areas.

Spatial Variations in Impact
The effect of earthquake risk on property values is not uniform across an area. Certain locations within earthquake-prone regions may experience more significant price impacts than others, depending on factors such as soil conditions, proximity to fault lines, and local building standards. Areas with poor soil conditions or those closer to active fault lines may see more substantial declines in property values.

Objective vs. Perceived Risk
Research indicates that objective long-term earthquake probabilities have a statistically significant negative impact on property prices. However, the market’s reaction to short-term earthquake risks may differ. Both long-term probabilities and recent seismic events play a role in determining property values, with buyers considering both the statistical likelihood of an earthquake and the memory of recent events.

Conclusion
These long-term consequences underscore the complex relationship between earthquake risk and property values. The interplay of lower property values, higher insurance and maintenance costs, fluctuating demand, long-term economic impacts, changes in risk perception, spatial variations in impact, and the distinction between objective and perceived risk all contribute to this intricate dynamic. Understanding these factors emphasises the need for comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation strategies in earthquake-prone areas to better manage and mitigate the financial and societal impacts of seismic activity.

“Prevention is better than cure.”
Educate yourself if your home or workplace is on a fault line. The full list of geological faults in England. For people living outside the UK, check your local lists of fault lines.

A map showing where earthquakes have occurred in the UK and the size of each one ( Image: Wales Online)

Earthquakes and volcanos in the world

Other countries have more seismic activity as well as volcanic activity. For example, Iceland is a very volcanic country, and earthquakes accompany volcanic eruptions. When I visited the country as a feng shui consultant and environmental psychologist to evaluate feng shui of Reykjavik and Iceland, researchers were very clear that there would be more volcanic activity there because the glaciers are melting, and this activates the volcanos.

The post Fault Lines Discovered in London. An Earthquake in London is Overdue According to Researchers. appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

What is cutting chi?
In classical feng shui, sha chi/qi (煞气) refers to a negative type of chi/qi or negative environmental influence. Objects or environments that have cutting/killing chi are usually characterised by sharp corners and pointy, sharp, shard-like shapes. There are also other environmental factors that have knife chi, or bad vibe or disharmonious energy if you like, such as electrosmog, geopathic stress, clutter, T-junctions, telephone poles or trees that block light or the flow of energy in front of your home/business, tall building with corners pointing at your property, mirrored tiles or mirrors that dissect your body, beams above your bed and so on. In short, anything that is not harmonious and drains your energy can be called sha chi or, as the translation suggests, killing/cutting/knife chi.

Negative energy (sha qi or shar chi) is considered inauspicious in feng shui practice. Different types of cutting chi are usually straight lines, sharp, angularity shapes and corners or ‘secret/poison arrows’ as they’re sometimes called, which are best to be avoided, deflected or moderated and mitigated with different feng shui interventions (Collins, 1996; Webster, 1997) to allow for harmonious ‘flux of chi energy’ (Bonaiuto et al., 2020). There are studies on preference for shapes (including my MSc Environmental Psychology dissertation on this topic) which suggest that people don’t like sharp, angular shapes because they find them uncomfortable and threatening and prefer round, oval, and curvilinear shapes. Ultimately, it’s the relationship and perceptions/beliefs that people have in relation to such negative influences that matter.

A table with sha chi, i.e. sharp glass corners ‘projecting’ negative influence

Solutions to sha / cutting chi
In spite of all the strong words describing the negative environmental effects, there are several solutions to cutting / knife chi, which fall into main categories:
1) avoidance
2) reflection/deflection/blocking or moderation/mitigation/removal (with mirrors, windchimes, shiny round objects, etc.)
3) space clearing (especially clutter)

What are oxalates, and what do they do?
Oxalates are tiny molecules that bind minerals like calcium and form shart crystals. Oxalates are plants’ defence mechanisms. Oxalates also cause inflammation and interfere with the natural healing and repair mechanism that happens while you sleep.

Toxic superfoods Oxylates Sally K Norton

Toxic Superfoods: How Oxalate Overload Is Making You Sick and How to Feel Better – published in 2022 by Sally K. Norton, is one of the top books on health I read last year. Although Sally Norton received her bachelor’s degree in nutritional science from Cornell University and her master’s degree in public health from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, she – like most people – didn’t know about the impact oxalates can make on her own health which was quite poorly at the time, even though she tried to lead a very healthy diet and lifestyle. Once she sorted out her oxalate overload, her health improved dramatically, and the result is this comprehensive book.

In her words, oxalates are weapons for plants to shun a host of predictors. She writes, “When oxalic acid molecules bind to minerals (such as calcium), the resulting oxalates tend to form crystals. Plants deliberately construct a variety of shapes of calcium oxalate crystals by first erecting scaffolding made from proteins that have a strong affinity for calcium. The shapes of these creations include rough sand, diamonds or pyramids, rectangular blocks, spiky “disco balls,” and long fine needles with barbed tips. The needle shapes are called raphides (see Figures 2.1 and 2.2 below).” These raphides can be described as sha chi, and most people eat foods high in oxalates which contain these sharp molecules.

Raphides & Kiwi

The top three ‘superfoods’ that are very high in oxalate:
• spinach,
• Swiss chard and
• beet greens. 

Examples of foods high in oxalates:
beans, grains, bran, sesame and other seeds, peanuts, almonds, and other nuts, swiss chard, spinach, beets, potatoes, chocolate, rhubarb, figs, kiwi, blackberries, black pepper, cumin, turmeric.

Examples of foods low in oxalates:
meats, dairy, eggs, fats and oils, and other non-plant foods, arugula, avocado, Bok Choy, cabbage, cauliflower, cilantro, cucumber, garlic, kohlrabi, lettuce, mustard greens, mushrooms, green peas, watercress.

Solutions to oxalate
Similar to solutions to cutting chi, solutions to oxalates are:
1) avoid (Toxic Superfoods: How Oxalate Overload Is Making You Sick and How to Feel Better has the full list of most foods that have oxalates)
2) reduce (goodbye dark chocolate and almond milk…)
3) detox (Sally K. Norton’s book on oxalates has a section on how to deal with the overload) and take an antidote to oxalate

For more info, visit Sally K. Norton website and Q&A on oxalates.

The post Are you exposing your body to sha chi / cutting / knife energy (with oxalates)? appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

Read the key lesson that rabbits have to offer us in 2023 below: have a bigger view of life and be vigilant (something to do with rabbits’ eyes).

Top feng shui tips to make 2023 your year.

1. Identify your feng shui (gua) star – there are different ways, but the easiest is to look at this chart below. If you’re running a business, look for the feng shui star of your business when it was set up.

9 STAR KI Calendar

2. Then see where your feng shui star is located for 2023 (below) to get a general idea about what this year might be about. For example, if you were born in 2000, then your feng shui star is 9 (fire), and in 2023 is in the house of work/career/life path, or if you were born in 1977, then your star is 5 (earth) and in 2023 is in the house of friends, travel and philanthropy.

Bagua for 2023

3. And then do something to activate the positive energies that will help you manifest your dreams, intentions, purposes, goals and needs.

One idea is to use water element (since it’s a water rabbit year), i.e. add water features, images of water or feng shui prosperity fish such as koi carp or the colour blue or black, which is the water element colour, for all feng shui interventions.

If water element is not your thing, you can use other colours (remember: feng shui = intention + ritual or, in other words, feng shui = priming). For example, the Pantone colour of 2023 is Viva Magenta. Get a towel in this colour or use it as your mobile phone wallpaper to get the benefit of the “vibration”/”energy” of this colour. Magenta is a very interesting colour. Magenta is an extra-spectral colour because it is not found in the visible spectrum of actual light – it actually doesn’t have its own wavelength (our brains perceive different colours as different wavelengths of light). It is, therefore, physiologically and psychologically perceived as the mixture of red and violet/blue light, with the absence of green. So is magenta a real colour? It seems that our minds/brains construct magenta to bridge the gap between red and violet.

Viva magenta 2023 Pantone colour

Symbolically speaking, magenta conveys universal harmony and emotional balance because it contains the passionate and energetic red, and the restrained, introspected and quiet energy of violet. It is said to project compassion, kindness, and cooperation. Magenta is an optimistic colour associated with cheerfulness, happiness, contentment, and appreciation.

Viva magenta 2023 Pantone colour

The top feng shui remedies to activate bagua are:

1. Lighting (fire element)
2. Mirrors (metal element)
3. Crystals and minerals (earth element)
4. Light-reflecting and sparkling objects
5. Plants (wood element)
6. Water features (water element)
7. Windchimes, mobiles and sound (wood element)
8. Electrical devices (fire element)
9. Heavy objects, sculptures (earth element)
10. Symbols, posters, photos, images (different elements) and colours
11. Animals, including bird feeders and bird baths
12. Energising objects (fire element) and

13. celebrations such as parties, housewarmings, or other occasions that bring people’s chi to enhance the feng shui of your home or workplace. So, celebrate the New Year on the 1st of January 2023 and Chinese New Year’s Eve on January 21st, 2023, Chinese New Year’s Day on January 22nd, 2023, and the Lantern Festival on February 5th, 2023.

14. Space-clearing is always recommended to clear past energies, blocks and problems from the past to open up space for new. There are many ways of doing space clearing to clear, cleanse and get rid of any stagnant energies, especially clutter, which is considered as sha chi/qi or negative energy. For example, you can use sound and music (bells, drums, singing bowls, cymbals, harmony balls, tuning forks or just clap), fire element i.e. burn things such as sage, incense, or candles – although I don’t recommend personally burning things because these will create air pollution – use space clearing mists instead e.g. Space Clearing Australian Bush Flower Essence or Findhorn Flower Essence Sacred Space Clearing Room Mist or place salt in bowls in four corners of the room for 2 days and then discard it or placing some water with a few drops of essential oils such as lavender, sage, etc.

15. Do something new, which is one of my favourite feng shui rituals. I always wear something new or do something new on the day – to boost my dopamine levels and help me to mark and shift into the new vibration of 2023 for whatever goal, purpose or dream or intention (feng shui = intention + ritual… read below). For 2023, I’m getting new socks and a towel in Viva Magenta’s colour, and we’re going to experience Battersea Power Station’s lift 109 on the day at noon and a new exhibition at the Tate Modern. I’m also going to set Viva Magenta as my mobile phone’s background.

16. Also, I’m going to do MOT of my home and workplace for 2023 (clear some stuff, activate bagua, get some plants, rearrange my books, and write my goals for 2023 because research suggests that people who do that usually achieve them, etc.), which I strongly recommend you do too. Call your feng shui expert or me :).

Feng shui = intention + ritual
A new year offers a whole new beginning as well as a time to reflect on your past and consider your future. It’s a well-recognised phenomenon that maintaining new resolutions proves difficult for people. In feng shui, we often work with intention instead of goals, which are new year resolutions. Intentions are quite often impulses of consciousness that contain the forms of what you want to create. Intentions are force fields/vibrations that shape and guide the little steps you need to take towards bigger goals. Your inner intentions, through feng shui rituals, will take a form that is intended. In one study, a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled experiment investigated whether chocolate exposed to “good intentions” would enhance mood more than unexposed chocolate and proved that the mood-elevating properties of chocolate can be enhanced with intention. This study suggests that how you do your feng shui ritual, with what intentions, can potentially influence the outcome. The study confirms that “Most cultures have maintained the belief that spells, prayers, or intentions can be mentally imprinted into substances, which, if ingested, would help bring about those intentions. The act of blessing water, wine, and bread still plays a central role in many religious rituals, and even in secular contexts, the practice of toasting or offering special salutes with food or drink is universal. Occasionally, consuming blessed food or water is said to result in remarkable healings. The conventional explanation for such reports is that belief becomes biology, that is, that any such healings are due to the placebo effect.”

The characteristics and lessons of the Yin Water Rabbit year: keep seeing the big picture and stay vigilant

Rabbits are small, vegetarian mammals with fluffy, short tails, whiskers and distinctive long ears (there are 29 species around the world). Fortunately, the rabbit’s eyes (on the side of their head, placed up high) allow them to see almost 360 degrees around them and above them with their divergent (yin) vision, which keeps rabbits safe from predators. Unfortunately, this placement of rabbits’ eyes gives them a small blind spot directly in front, which limits their convergent (yang) narrow vision/focus. Also, rabbits have great senses of smell and hearing (they can rotate their ears 270 degrees), which are other helpful characteristics for defending themselves from danger. When they sense predators, they freeze to blend into their surroundings.
My reading of this fact is that in 2023, we need to be vigilant and keep both types of attention working well:
1. narrow/focus and
2. broad/vigilant/open/peripheral.
Obviously, a broad/peripheral vision is more important than a narrow one, since the little bunny wouldn’t get near any food before it was eaten by a fox or a wolf, as the Chinese story goes.
In short, see the big picture of what’s going on and the fundamentals of the underlying trend; stay vigilant, and focus your practical and mental efforts on your surroundings and the situation at hand.

Be vigilant and cultivate a broad vision and a narrow focus, too

Research suggests that rabbits are clever animals and easily learn cues that might indicate a future positive event, e.g. sensing that when a bell rings, a treat will be forthcoming. They learn to solve puzzles to reach their desired treats.

About 2% of adults own a rabbit, with an estimated 1 million pet rabbits in the UK.

Rabbits and good luck
Many people. including Franklin D. Roosevelt, who carried a rabbit’s foot as a good-luck charm during his presidential campaign.

The Year of the Cat (Rabbit). The cat is the fourth animal symbol in the 12-year cycle of the Vietnamese zodiac and Gurung zodiac, similar to the rabbit zodiac sign in the Chinese zodiac. The characteristics correlated with the rabbit are attributed to the cat. The legend is that the cat was excluded from the twelve animal signs because it was tricked by the rat into missing the banquet with the Jade Emperor and was not given a year, which has since fostered hostility between cats and rats. It is believed that the Vietnamese use the cat rather than the rabbit as the zodiac animal because the ancient word for rabbit (mao) sounds like the word for cat (meo). The year of the cat was popularised by a song with the same title, ‘The Year of the Cat’ by Al Stewart, which was recorded in London’s Abby Road Studios in January 1976 – still the year of the cat (but released in July 1976, which is the year of the yang fire dragon). “The Year of the Cat” is probably the only song about the animal zodiac signs, and it’s probably the most famous song by Al Stewart (yang wood rooster), so it definitely worked for him.

How to wish someone a happy New Year in Chinese
Cantonese: Gung Hay Fat Choy! (May prosperity be with you)
Mandarin: Xin Nian Kuai Le! (Happy New Year)

The post Top feng shui tips for 2023 – the Year of the Water Rabbit. Your feng shui of 2023. appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

Albert Einstein asked this very potent and as always current question:
“I think the most important question facing humanity is, ‘Is the universe a friendly place?’ This is the first and most basic question all people must answer for themselves.

Is the universe a friendly place? Albert Einstein

For if we decide that the universe is an unfriendly place, then we will use our technology, our scientific discoveries and our natural resources to achieve safety and power by creating bigger walls to keep out the unfriendliness and bigger weapons to destroy all that which is unfriendly and I believe that we are getting to a place where technology is powerful enough that we may either completely isolate or destroy ourselves as well in this process.

If we decide that the universe is neither friendly nor unfriendly and that God is essentially ‘playing dice with the universe’, then we are simply victims to the random toss of the dice and our lives have no real purpose or meaning.

But if we decide that the universe is a friendly place, then we will use our technology, our scientific discoveries and our natural resources to create tools and models for understanding that universe. Because power and safety will come through understanding its workings and its motives.

God does not play dice with the universe.”

On the other hand, in the Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu suggests that the universe is not inherently benevolent. This idea is expressed in Chapter 5, where he states: “Heaven and Earth are not benevolent; they treat the myriad creatures as straw dogs”  This metaphor of “straw dogs” refers to ceremonial objects used in ancient Chinese rituals, which were discarded after their use. The passage implies that nature or the universe operates impartially and without personal concern for individual beings, treating all of creation with the same indifference. This Taoist concept aligns with the observation that misfortune can befall anyone, regardless of their moral character or actions. It promotes a worldview that emphasises adapting to life’s circumstances rather than expecting the universe to be inherently fair or benevolent.

Optimism: a key to unlocking resilience in feng shui

In the philosophy of feng shui, balance and harmony are fundamental in creating an environment that nurtures well-being. Interestingly, one of the most powerful contributors to a harmonious life is not found solely in our external surroundings, but within ourselves: optimism. This internal state, much like well-arranged furniture or flowing qi, plays a vital role in fostering resilience and maintaining a positive flow of energy.

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology (2022) defines optimism as “a cognitive variable reflecting one’s favourable view about their future” (Front Psychol, 2022). Optimistic individuals naturally cultivate positive expectations and are better able to keep stress at bay, even during difficult times. This idea resonates deeply with feng shui principles, where the objective is to enhance the energy of both our physical and emotional environments to improve quality of life.

Neuroscientist Kalisch also emphasises the importance of optimism in building resilience. He states that optimism seems intrinsically linked to the belief that one can cope with adversity—that things will likely work out in the end. Such a belief contributes to resilience, enabling individuals to overcome challenges with greater ease. In the same way that feng shui encourages the practice of aligning spaces to support one’s well-being, cultivating a mindset of optimism involves aligning one’s thoughts towards a favourable outlook. Kalisch suggests that those who develop this positive assessment style are less susceptible to the detrimental effects of stress.

Reducing stress is not only beneficial for emotional health but also contributes significantly to physical well-being. A 2022 study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society examined data from over 159,000 participants in the Women’s Health Initiative and found that greater optimism was associated with a longer lifespan, including exceptional longevity (J Am Geriatr Soc, 2022). This finding aligns beautifully with the concept of feng shui, where a life infused with positivity—one that is energetically balanced—enhances vitality and longevity.

In feng shui practice, the energy of a space is understood to influence our internal states, and vice versa. By nurturing optimism, we cultivate an inner environment that reflects positively outward, contributing to an overall sense of balance and resilience. Much like enhancing the flow of energy in a living space, fostering optimism can help you face life’s uncertainties with grace and perseverance. Let your thoughts be an extension of your carefully harmonised space—aligned with positive energy, hopeful for what lies ahead, and resilient to the challenges that come your way.

Feng shui for feeling secure and safe

The aim of feng shui is to optimise your home and workplaces, so they work for you and feel safe and secure. Feeling safe and secure is of paramount importance to our wellness and performance. To thrive, grow, learn and develop we need to feel safe. Unfortunately, in the times of radical uncertainty, doomsday bunkers and underground shelters are trending again among preppers/survivalists and unless you have lots of cash, these luxury bunkers are unaffordable for most people. But there are a lot of things you can do in your existing home to feel safe and secure.

Feeling out of control – do something
A sense of control is essential to our survival. In times of uncertainty, it’s useful to remember that the opposite of fear is love (as suggested by the Course in Miracles) so anything that you do in your home, with love and gratitude and that empowers you and adds a sense of control will make it worthwhile. Get a new plant and bring some fresh foliage inside will reconnect you with nature. If you have a large collection of books you can rearrange them from time to time in different ways. For example, stack some books horizontally and some vertically which will stop the bookshelves look rigid and overthought. Some people colour code their bookshelves by arranging them into sets of colours (the rainbow set for example as JK Rowling below).

Another simple way to refresh your home is to rearrange your artwork and pictures which will breathe new life into your home and also bring new meaning and context to your artwork.

Completing unfinished, small tasks such as fixing things that you’ve been avoiding or neglecting for ages will give you a sense of completion and achievement. Just do one little thing now.

Change and healing
Change is constant. Things will pass. Nature is a great reminder of things changing, growing and thriving. Nature is healing. Florance Nightingale was very much aware of the healing power of nature. In 1859, she wrote that when she was ill, her healing was quickened after she got ” a nosegay of wild flowers”. She noticed that “most acute suffering when the patient can’t see out of the window”. Since then many studies confirmed the same findings of the importance of nature, especially in hospital settings for a speedy recovery and also in prisons where access to grass and trees reduces violent outbreaks and crime (source: The Well-Gardened Mind: Rediscovering Nature in The Modern World By Sue Stuart-Smith). Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of Central Park in New York and the American doctor George Miller Beard coined the term “neurasthenia” as a “disease of civilisation”. Looking at nature does many positive things: we connect, we take notice, we give, we keep learning and we stay active. A big predictor of home satisfaction is the view from your windows and connection to the world outside. If you have a great view, reflect it inside with large mirrors or bounce light with reflective paint. If you don’t have that, invest in a full photographic wallpaper with your favourite landscape or view to create the same nourishing feelings.

How to boost oxytocin and endorphins
Research done by Sonja Lyubomirsky at the University of California, suggests that our happiness and wellness is determined by our circumstances (10%), our thoughts, mindsets and actions which include healthy lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, mediation and good sleep (40%) and our genetic makeup and environment (50%). So changing how you feel and think, as well as your environment is a powerful way forward to control your wellbeing.

Oxytocin is a hormone that is released when we feel safe and secure. Oxytocin is also known as a bonding and love hormone which allows us to trust and learn as we grow up. Oxytocin is an evolutionary antidote for stress hormone cortisol. Optimising your furniture positioning and arrangement can help to boost oxytocin release and reduce stress.

Naturally, oxytocin is released with touching and hugging. If you have a pet, physical contact will up your oxytocin. If you don’t have pets, looking after plants will do the same according to biophilia hypothesis. If that’s not possible, photographs of family and friends can boost oxytocin levels. Social media actually can boost oxytocin (of course, too much social media can work against you as well).

“I love you” releases oxytocin

Oxytocin is sometimes called the love molecule so tell friends and family around you that you love them. Think about the things you love and represent them around your home or workplace. The priming effect is a key scientific principle of how feng shui works. Have things you love around and that make you feel good and happy. Anything that you like or love can also boost your endorphine effect (happy hormones) which has been researched extensively for its positive benefits. Place things that will remind and make you smile. “Hearty laughter is a good way to jog internally without having to go outdoors.” said Norman Cousins, author of Anatomy of an Illness where he described how he cured himself of a crippling illness with laughter (and high doses of vitamin C). Positive thinking or placebos can work miracles, even if you know that they’re placebos and the placebo effect can get stronger over time, as research suggests.

Having a bath is another way to boost your oxytocin. It will also have a grounding/earthing effect.

Oxytocin studies show that receiving gifts raises oxytocin. Surprise somebody with a simple gift. It doesn’t have to be anything big or even physical. A compliment will do. Read more how you can “hormonise your home”

Having a bath has a grounding and earthing effect as well as it boosts oxytocin

Make your home physically secure
Our homes must feel secure on the physical level and meet our basic needs for shelter, safety and stability. Whether you own or rent, physical security is important for home satisfaction. Ask the property seller, builder or landlord for a copy of the building control certificate to ensure that your home is safe.

A sense of connection
As social animals, we thrive in tribes and groups. Isolation and loneliness kill, as plenty of research, suggests. A 2009 study reviled that loneliness had the same adverse impact on lifespan as smoking 15 cigarettes a day (and loneliness fosters addictions as well). GPs in the UK report that one in five patients come to them “primarily because of loneliness”. Loneliness is defined as “the subjective feeling that you’re lacking the social connections you need.”  A sense of connection can be enhanced by actively working with your home or workplace. Humans project intent and emotions on to anything from dolphins to plants to paper clips to homes by anthropomorphising everything. Children believe that “objects have rights”. Most cultures have beliefs that things and homes have souls. Since it’s a subjective feeling, visual cues can remind you about the connections you’ve had in the past or you have now with friends and family as well as the larger life. Enhance your social connection by having lots of pictures of friends and family and anything that is meaningful to you and you care about.

“We anthropomorphise everything”
Eleanor Sandry, Curtin University, Perth

Staircase
Functionally speaking, a staircase is a mode of transport from A to B or change and offer a way of instilling stability in transition – a kind of spine of our homes. Thanks to advances in technology and engineering, you can have any type of staircase. A quick look at Instagram and you can see true creativity and ingenuity when it comes to staircases. Examples of types of staircases are helical, colourful, transparent or see-through, staircase-cum-fireplace, circular, art installations, stairs hiding storage or cupboards, glass (cantilevered), wow factor, and so on. The most important aspect of any staircase is security and stability, ideally with risers (no empty gaps, spaces between the steps).

How to feng shui staircases

In feng shui, front door facing staircases don’t have a great reputation, because facing them is no fun and implies an effort of climbing them. Ideally, in perfect feng shui, you shouldn’t see the staircase when entering the house. To remedy this, make the staircase a feature staircase that you or others see to add an instant wow factor with drama, fun, interest. For quick ideas, just visit Instagram. Note, that UK building regulations are much more restrictive than overseas so not everything will be allowed. The rules for staircases require to have at least 2m headroom above, a pitch no steeper than 42 degrees and gaps no wider than 10cm so kids don’t fall through threads or balustrades. Ideally, handrails and balustrades should feel nice to touch so you can curve down the staircase without lifting your hand once (not like the one above which is broken up into segments).

Modern, open-plan layouts are making possible to make stairways focal points and timeless, unique statements. There are many ways to work with staircases: 1) match the original stairs, 2) use stone in small places, 3) treat it as a sculpture, 4) vary the shape and style and finally, 5) build it off-site as a customised, bespoke one.

Display sentimental or nostalgic items – to mirror yourself
80% of people who are the happiest at home say that their homes reflect who they are. Nostalgia has been defined as sentimentality for the past and is unique to different people. Research shows that nostalgia can be used to combat loneliness and improve resilience. It can also boost creativity (think of all those nostalgic songs). A 2015 study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology linked nostalgia to openness to new experience and creativity. There is a kind of cooperative activity between memory and reward systems in your brain that plays a very specific role in how we experience nostalgia. Nostalgia is context-dependent and is heavily influenced by environmental cues. Our memories are tied to and triggered by sights, sounds and smell.
Top tips to imbed more nostalgia in your home or workplace are:
• Displaying a cover of the CD or single that reminds you of a specific time when the song was released.
• Photos from an old high school yearbook or photos of friends remembering all the people you knew when you were a teenager.
• Having a particular food or drink that reminds you of a special place you once lived or visited.
• Books that remind us about a happy time can boost our resilience. During difficult times, reading complex works of classic literature can boost brain power (and memory into old age) and quality life, research from the University of Liverpool and Professor Philip Davis suggests.
• Round, curvier things, designs and shapes are more comfortable to the eye and body. We like to be embraced and comforted by cushions, armed chairs and soft sofas.

How to feng shui your wall gallery
Any wall can be transformed into a gallery wall with a collection of artwork, paintings, prints, photos, maps and typography. Framing and grouping them offers a feng shui opportunity to boost different domains of your life according to the bagua model. Any image no matter how small has some significance to you and your life’s passions. Define your style: formal, eclectic, regular, ordered, symmetrical, random, rhizomatic. When planning the layout, start with large pieces and then compose the rest around them. Make sure you’ve planned everything and then start hammering holes. It’s not a good idea to hang artwork too high and when hanging glass-fronted pictures take any reflection from lights and windows into account and how they will bounce light around and potentially illuminate dark corners. When it comes to frames, anything goes and whatever works. One novel idea I’ve picked on Instagram is placing printed photographs in old or vintage jars or bottles, with the photos facing outwards.

So, how to reference the images according to the bagua model? Any image will fall into one of the nine areas of bagua and represent: your career/vocation/life path, relationships, family and friends, luck/blessings/wealth, health, travels, creativity/new projects and children, knowledge and wisdom and finally your successes/achievements, enlightenment and art. When hanging anything on the wall, think what does it mean to you, what does it represent and just appreciate it as value.

Home sweet home – your material comforts
The main function of your home is to feel safe and at ease. If you want to broadcast your tastes and status through your home interior deco, it’s up to you. Gaston Bachelard in The Poetics of Space (probably the most exquisite philosophical treaty on homes) said, “…the house shelters day-dreaming, the house protects the dreamer, the house allows one to dream in peace.” And the peace of mind is in the present state, not in the future or past. So make small, simple material adjustments to your home and workplace to feel at ease and comfortable, now.

Summary

One of the fundamental functions of feng shui is to help you to stay and feel safe and secure in your immediate environment, so you’re free to focus on what you want to do. And create a home where you like to spend time and relax. Environmental stressors are a huge drain on your energy. In feng shui, the management of your energy is the most important principle. Energy is a charge (in physics terms), and when you take charge of your home or workplace, you take charge of your life and your business. Do something, simple, practical and positive to make your home more loveable, comfortable, resilient, cosy and safe.

Home sweet home

Top feng shui tips how to make your home and workplace feel safe and secure

1. Arrange your furniture in such a way, so you’re sitting in the command, power position which is furthermost from the door and with the support of a wall.
2. Make your home secure. Make sure that your front and back doors are strong, secure and doorbells work.
3. Minimise any dangerous aspects of your interior design, especially around doors and staircases, so you don’t trip or hurt yourself. Fix things.
4. Check the layout of your home and the energy flow as well as the traffic, ie how you move from one space to another. Is it all ergonomically arranged?
5. Sleep in a safe space, free from geopathic stress and electromagnetic pollution (switch off wifi for the night and put your mobile on the airplane mode) as well as air pollution. Position your bed in the power position of your bedroom. Make your home resilient and immune to negative internal and external stressors.
6. Have a solid headboard and footboard. You need to feel safe to have a good sleep which is critical for your health and wellness.
7. Place protection or spiritual symbols around the front door to make yourself feel safe and secure. If that’s not your thing, security cameras work well as an additional security measure. Remember, the ancient, common-sense adage “Pray for protection, AND lock your bike.”
8. Make your home positive by hanging up positive imagery. Surround yourself with photos of friends and family as well as pictures of well-loved places and things you care about. Social networks make us feel safe, resilient and boost oxytocin levels. Also, seeing the photos of family and friends, stimulate the vagus nerve. If the current virus shows us anything, it’s that we’re all connected (as Charles Dickens wrote in his book Bleak House) and we’re co-creating life around us.
9. Practice gratitude mindset by displaying things that you’re grateful for as positive visual reminders, primers and symbols. Various studies suggest that people who practise gratitude on a daily bases (by writing 3-5 things that they’re grateful for) are happier and healthier with a stranger immune system, reduced inflammation, improved performance and experience other scientifically-proven benefits. In one study, people were asked to write down at the end of the day, just three things that they were grateful that day, for only seven days. Their happiness and overall health increased by almost 30% and lasted up to six months. Gratitude is about the present moment and future aspiration – we get more of we’re grateful for. Make sure that when you get up, you see something positive and uplifting and the same applies when you go to sleep. What you see at the beginning and the end of the day will prime you and affect your mood. Dr. Robert Emmons who is known as the “world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude.” says that “It’s an affirmation of goodness. We affirm that there are good things in the world, gifts, and the benefits that we’ve received. We recognize that the sources of this goodness are outside of ourselves and we acknowledge that other people – even higher powers, if you’re of a spiritual mindset – give us many gifts, big and small, to help us achieve the goodness we have in our lives.”
10. Get a ‘sweet home’ sign as a representation of your good relationship with your home.
11. Take a hot bath. The water element is important in feng shui. Researchers at the University of Freiburg in Germany found out that taking 30-minutes bath improves mental wellness. Also, taking a bath before bed has been found to boost the production of serotonin, the sleep hormone which will improve the quality of your sleep. Read more about how to feng shui your bathroom
12. Be creative and playful. Add joy – learn how to enhance joy in your home and workplace. “We do not stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing.” reminds us, George Bernard Shaw. Also, “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.” said Albert Einstein. Einstein also understood yin and yang principle of change when he said, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” Friedrich Fröbel, the 19-century German educator and pioneer of the kindergarten said, “play is the highest expression of human development in childhood.”
    

    “Play is the antidote for uncertainty.”
    Beau Lotto, neuroscientist, author of Deviate: The Science of Seeing Differently

The post How Feng Shui Can Help You Stay and Feel Safe and Secure. Why Home Matters? appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.