There’s a big difference between reading about Feng Shui and practicing it on a daily basis. But when I’ve tried it, even in a very small way, the system makes for a much more serene and joyful environment.

Last spring, I switched apartments in the same building and knew I had the perfect opportunity to practice the ancient science by getting rid of some of the clutter I’d been lugging around for years. The difference was amazing.

Two weeks ago, I realized I was headed straight back in the wrong direction. So I spent an entire weekend, focusing on getting rid of unneeded stuff in my bedroom. At first it was pure drudgery, but by the end of the first day, I was feeling energized and hopeful in regard to more than just how neat and tidy my closet looked.

What is Feng Shui?

Here’s what author Terah Kathryn Collins says about the practice in her book “The Western Guide to Feng Shui”:

“When asked to define Feng Shui, I often begin by saying that it is ‘the study of how to arrange your environment to enhance the quality of you life.’ But the most accurate definition of Feng Shui isn’t in a line. It’s in a circle that is constantly turning, each rotation building upon the one before it to achieve perfect harmony.”

Karen Kingston says that when people discover how much their home can affect them, for better or for worse, they are usually fascinated to learn more.

In her book, “Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui,” Karen writes:

“Whenever I come across clutter, its energy field is unmistakable. It presents an obstacle to the flow of energy and has an unpleasant, sticky, unclean feel to it, as if I’m moving my hands through unseen cobwebs.”

Although you can get as detailed as you wish, starting to practice Feng Shui can be as easy as finding the strength to throw out that silk flower arrangement that is not only gathering dust, but reminds you of the hopes and dreams you had when you bought it – and the subsequent heartbreak when those dreams didn’t come true.

How about that old picture frame that you keep because it cost so much when you bought it? But, if every time you look at it, the thing makes your spirits drop, it could be because the first photograph you put in there was of a romantic partner who has long since flown the coop.

Take the time to read a little more about Feng Shui, either with the two books recommended above or on one of the Web sites below. Then, take the plunge and clear the clutter and let the positive energy flow into your life.

Here are some sites we found by searching for “Feng Shui” at www.wwwriot.com:

http://www.eastmeetswestfengshui.com  promotes a Feng Shui service, but it also has some interesting tidbits about the belief:

“Feng Shui (pronounced FUNG SCHWAY) is an ancient Chinese art and science that evolved about 5,000 years ago through discerning observation and object placement experimentation. It literally translates to wind/water. It is based on the study of place, people, time and how ch’i (life force energy) interacts with these elements.”

You’ll find some interesting reading at http://www.way2fengshui.com/home.html including the history and practice of Fung Shui, as well as some old-fashion folklore. Points it presents for us to ponder include:

“A place for everything, and everything in its place.” - Old Folk Proverb

“Ever wonder why you feel godawful in some places, and great in others?” - Herbert Wright

“God is in the details.” - Mies van der Rohe

Check out http://www.centaineconsultants.com.au/cgi-bin/fengshui/index.html and you’ll find all kinds of useful information on Feng Shui, including:

“If your main priority is a restful night of sleep, then you should consider decorating your bedroom with soft, pastel, ‘yin’ colours. Avoid having a TV or computer located in the bedroom as these electrical devices emit electro magnetic frequencies (EMF) which can have a gradual weakening effect on your immune system, as well as adding active (yang) chi to the room. Make sure there is a solid wall behind the headboard (not a window, mirror or doorway) and avoid having your feet pointing directly towards a doorway when lying in bed.  If you can’t avoid having a window behind the headboard, then close the blinds or curtain at night to add more support for your head (crown chakra) as you sleep."

* Have you ever tried Feng Shui? What did you think about it? If you have a book or Web site to recommend on the subject, send us a message.