Benefits of Feng Shui for You & Your Dog

Imagine it: The relief after clearing piles of mail from the kitchen counter. The boosted mood from opening the blinds and letting the natural light pour inside. The happiness of having a dog around.

If these feelings are familiar, then you've experienced the benefits of Feng Shui on some level.

What is Feng Shui?

Feng Shui—pronounced "fung shway"—is an ancient Chinese discipline that believes our environment can positively or negatively affect different aspects of our lives. Today, basic Feng Shui practices can elevate our home life. And if you're a dog parent, many enthusiasts not only believe our pups can influence Feng Shui, but the practice can have a positive effect on our furry friends' lives, too!

Feng Shui involves five elements: earth, fire, metal, water, and wood. Each element corresponds to:

• A life element – Relationships, creativity, career growth, health, and more
• Symbols and colors – Home items and décor such as mirrors, fish tanks, and shades of colors
• A direction – Where household items face: north, south, east, west, and everything in between

Use a compass to determine which rooms within your home correspond to each element.

Placing the elements accordingly will encourage a harmonious flow of chi, which is the spiritual energy that flows around and within us. Ultimately, your living space should support you—and your dog—rather than overwhelm or drain your energy.

Dogs and Feng Shui: How to Create Positive Energy for Your Pup

Dogs benefit from your loving energy and home—and they return the favor with their unconditional love! A simple way to start improving your home's Feng Shui is to focus on belongings.

Dog parents naturally encounter dog toys, accessories, and messes. However, to maximize your dog's positive influence, reduce pet-related clutter that attracts negative energy:

• Wash dirty toys and toss the tattered ones.
• Ensure your dog has access to chew toys to discourage them from chewing household items.
• Clean up pet messes right away and make sure your space always smells fresh.

Similarly, let go of your own belongings that are no longer useful. Conceal items you use daily such as clothing, books, and gadgets in places like storage containers, drawers, baskets, and cabinets.

Furniture placement is another popular aspect of Feng Shui. For example, your bed should be placed as far away from the door as possible, but you should always be able to see the door from your bed. This positioning gives you a sense of safety and calm as you sleep.

Dogs spend much of the day sleeping, so the Feng Shui of their sleeping spot is essential. Dedicate a clean, safe spot in your home for your dog, and consider these Feng Shui tips:

• Place your dog's bed against a solid wall away from any doors that could swing open and disturb them.
• Find bedding that has earth tones like brown, gray, and yellow; this will help stabilize an energetic dog.
• Make their bed cave-like and cozy.
• Place area rugs and welcome mats if you have hardwood floors so your dog has a firm grip on the floor.
• Keep your floor space clear so your dog has enough room to roam comfortably.
• Incorporate subtle lavender and rosemary scents in your home to promote relaxation.
• Put their bed away from their water bowl, the bathroom, or the kitchen—the water energy in these areas can disturb their sleep.
• Avoid placing any heavy objects above or behind your dog's sleeping area.

Understanding and applying the basics of Feng Shui will keep your home safe and balanced for all its occupants—furry and otherwise.

Resources: www.fengshuisociety.org.uk