Are you someone that likes rules? Chances are that you dont. Very few people do. Most everyone appreciates a few guidelines here and there, but usually appreciates being able to have some room for free expression and latitude.

This is one reason that many people enjoy practicing feng shui. While it has a number of important principles and guidelines, there aren't any hard and fast rules of feng shui.

So if there arent any hard and fast rules of feng shui, how can one go about applying it to your life?

There Are No Rules of Feng Shui, But There Are Principles

A rule is a harsh, rigid institution that doesn't allow for a lot of personal flexibility or freedom. A lot of the time, you have to follow a rule, whether you want to or not - for instance, stop signs aren't just a suggestion.

On the other hand, a principle is more of a guiding thought which allows for a great deal of latitude for someone to make up their own minds about things. Principles are like a ceiling under which there is a great deal of movement.

If you were thinking that feng shui is a set list of strict rules which have to be adhered to, you will be pleased to know that it is not like that at all. Feng shui is about making your home and work environments work for you personally. The personal factors that you can enjoy and appreciate the renewed energy and vitality they bring into your life are not the same factors that work for every person. Saying that there are feng shui rules is actually counterproductive to the entire feng shui science.

Of course, that doesn't mean that there are no guidelines to follow. There are plenty of strong principles to feng shui. For instance, feng shui (as well as many professional designers), teaches that using bright colors will lend a feeling of vitality, warmth, and energy to a space. You may want to use shades of orange or yellow in any space that you want to have feel lively and energetic. Breakfast nooks and kitchens are a popular way to do this.

However, the way you apply this principle and to what degree is up to you and your own individual taste. Imagine if the rules of feng shui demanded that you paint your kitchen orange, and it was your most hated color! Many have also found that what works for them is to introduce these elements in small doses, in accent items, artwork, and so on, rather than coloring a room completely in one particular color.

Creating Your Own Feng Shui Rules

Applying feng shui in your home is up to your personal preference. Everything needs to function for you as an individual, or you won't be at peace in your home. If you're thinking about getting the advice of someone who's an expert in feng shui, don't allow them to insist that there are hard rules of feng shui. There's no such thing, and all principles need to be comfortable to work for you.