Nursery Decoration - Feng Shui Style

[Edward Swanson]

Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese practice of decorating a room that
allows good, healthy flow of energy, is something that many people
consider before placing items in rooms of the home, schools and even
offices. The belief of luck entering though the good flow of energy is
highly regarded even in the West. Feng Shui experts have offices
sprouting out everywhere because Feng Shui has sparked popular
interest of late. For the flourish of success, energy or 'chi' must
flow freely. Where better to let a good stream of energy flow than a
baby's room? It is believed that with energy flowing freely, a baby
will have an adequate amount of sleep and be healthier and happier.
Location
Firstly, the location of the nursery is important. A room with quiet
surroundings as compared to one near the living room or kitchen would
ensure your baby of the rest he or she needs. Picking a room, that
echoes the noise of traffic or one that is situated next to the
sibling whose current pastime is screaming, is just going to disrupt
your baby's rest and cause many hours of sleep being lost.
Colour
Next the right colour of the room. Alright, so you know you're having
a boy. Instead of opting for the typical blue, why not a lovely shade
of sunny yellow or beautiful white that would make that fancy blue
crib stand out? Soothing colours are usually recommended. 'Clouded
Pearl' white, 'Salisbury Stone' yellow, 'Tuscan Glade 5' green and
'Mellow Heather' purple, are some calming colours that can be
considered for both - a girl's room and a boy's room. Bright colours
tend to stimulate the senses and work better for playrooms.
Bed
Bed placement is also important. The bed should not be against a
window or be directly in line with the door. Put the baby on a solid
wall with the head of the crib against the wall, rather than
lengthwise. Avoid placing the baby against a wall that is shared with
a bathroom, toilet, storage, or utility-type room.
When it comes to bedding, regardless of whether your baby is a girl or
boy, stay away from garish cartoon characters or action figures.
Instead opt for simple print sheets and bedding in soft colors of
yellow, green or salmon. Also use only 100% cotton bedding and stay
away from polyester! Change the sheets at least twice a week to keep
chi fresh.
Wind
There should be constant mild movement of wind at all times in the
room. A small fan or windows framed with soft, light curtains allow
just the right amount of wind that is not too much yet enough to keep
the 'chi' in constant movement. Wind chimes that produce a melodious
sound also help a baby to be more relaxed and calm. Instead of opting
for the regular metallic chimes, go for one that is softer and more
melodious as you do not want a loud sound waking the baby.
Kathryn Webber, a certified feng shui master practitioner, advises
parents to keep the light balanced in the room. She suggests
installing blinds to moderate the lighting level in the room.
According to Webber, a room that is too dim, would be too 'yin' or
negative, and could lead to the baby suffering from respiratory
problem
Do not buy too many items for the baby's room and cause it to be
cluttered. When the nursery is cluttered, 'chi' will not flow
independently and might even cease to exist after a while. By placing
sea salt in small containers in the corners of the room for about
three days, purifies the room. It is an old feng shui belief that by
placing your baby's crib against a wall, it provides your baby with
solid support throughout his/her life.
Cleaning up
When cleaning the nursery, hit the natural mode and opt for nature-
friendly products rather than harsh chemicals that would leave the
smell of perhaps the strong cleaning agent behind. Stay clear from
products that contain harsh chemicals as they are harsh to your baby's
inhalation too. For toys, remember to choose wood over plastic if the
option is available. Plastic contains mass chemicals that can lead to
harmful effects and even plastic baby bottles are not encouraged.
For Junior to lead a better, healthier and happier life, do make sure
the 'chi' flows properly and nothing hinders his/her sleep. After all,
a baby's happiness should always be our top priority right?