Feng Shui (pronounced FUNG-schway) is an ancient Chinese art that promotes well-being through design. Feng Shui practitioners say that, when a space is properly designed and the objects and furniture properly arranged, your feelings of safety and comfort affect your attitude and even your level of success. When Feng Shui principles are implemented, they say, the natural life force (or ch'i) can flow through a space unimpeded, which creates calm, peacefulness, and productivity.



While some Feng Shui principles are a bit far out, others make logical and intuitive sense. Here are some simple Feng Shui design principles that you can implement in your home office today. Try them and see if they boost your productivity and prosperity.

1. Take care of clutter. The very first thing you'll want to do is to eliminate excess clutter. Clutter, especially that which represents an unfinished, nagging project, will block the natural flow of life force and energy through your workspace. Find a place for the clutter and store unnecessary items outside the room that you are using for a home office.

2. Separate your family life from your business life. If you are using a part of a room in your home that is also used for something else, you'll need to, at the very least, separate these areas with a screen or other partition so your energy and attention isn't divided while you are working.

3. Furniture placement. Place your desk in such a way that you are sitting in the corner that is the farthest away from the entranceway. Ideally, your desk will sit diagonally and your back will be to the corner. You can also set your desk so that you have the wall behind you. Avoid sitting with your back against a window, unless the window reveals a tall structure for support behind you. If you have no choice but to sit at your desk with your back to the door, put a mirror in front of you that allows you to see the entrance to the room. You want to be able to see who is coming in through the doorway, but you do not want your desk directly in line with the hallway because you don't want to look out directly into other rooms, bathrooms, storage spaces or clutter. The Southeast quadrant of the room is thought to be the area that represents and generates abundance and prosperity, so place a thriving plant in this corner.

4. Go Natural. Feng Shui practitioners emphasize that natural elements (natural materials, natural light and natural air) bring more energy and have a more calming effect than those things that are artificial. Opt for living plants instead of silk flowers, for example, and incorporate a variety of natural textures in your furniture, flooring, and window coverings. Use natural and handmade items where possible. Bring in natural light and fresh air, and use full spectrum lighting instead of fluorescent bulbs.

When implementing Feng Shui principles, give thought to your own mood and positive energy when you are in your workspace and remove any items from the space that detract from your energy. Try these simple techniques today and see if the ancient art of Feng Shui can make you feel more peaceful, productive, and prosperous when working from home.