3 of 15

Write now Article Tools

The ancient Oriental art of Feng Shui can be used to create a space "that reflects your own values and aesthetics, that supports your personal ambitions, or that simply reminds you of your dreams." (Feng Shui Revealed by R. D. Chin, page 2) How appropriate for the bedroom!

Bed Location & Ch'i

Chin tells us that "major pieces of furniture should be positioned in a room so that someone using them will face the room's entrance" (page 8). Ideally, that will place the head of the bed against the most protected wall - protected, that is, from the flow of ch'i, "the universal force or cosmic breath that all things are thought to possess" (page 2), into the room.

"To place a door on a side wall where it is even with the bed would mean that the door, the mouth of ch'i, would blast the sleeper with a broadside of energy that would likely disturb sleep. However, the worst place for a door would be in the wall behind the headboard. . . . Energy should not flow into a room from behind the sleeper since he would be vulnerable to unexpected intrusions." (page 114) I agree; I like to be able to see into the hallway when I'm reading in bed.

"However," according to author Chin, "it is thought to be bad luck to have the bed placed so that your feet point directly toward the door, as that is the position associated with dying: the position in which the body is carried from the room." (page 9)

All the however's could make this a bit complicated, but the various conditions do tend to support each other. To meet all the other requirements, I ended up with the headboard against a full wall of windows, which would contradict the "mouth of ch'i" rule except that there are big spruce trees just outside the window so that it feels sheltered rather than exposed, and I love having the bed there. When the window's open, it's like sleeping in a spruce forest.

"Of more importance," says Chin, "is the space on either side of the bed. If a couple sleeps in the bed, then an equal amount of space on both sides connotes equal standing of the partners. If one side is against the wall, it is a sign of a one-sided or unequal relationship because of the extra effort required to enter or leave the far side." (page 10) This can "create resentment or add to any tensions that already exist." (page 81) No kidding! Having shared a small bedroom, I can vouch for that. No matter what else I have to give up, I want enough space on my side of the bed to be able to walk there so I don't have to clamber over my

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Feng shui tips for the bedroom?
We want to hear your view. Write now!