Feng Shui and the Patio

Feng Shui and the Patio

by: Linda Burhans

Your patio serves as the link between nature and your home. It doesn’t matter whether you have a large one or a small one, the point is to be able to be out in nature but from the comfort of your home. If you put Feng Shui principles into practice you will be able to enjoy your patio even more because it will exude positive energy, creating that feel of relaxation.

Here are some tips to follow to create a Feng Shui patio:

1. Make sure that you remove any clutter. Clutter prevents energy from flowing freely. Actually clutter is visual noise. Discard any dead flowers, plants, foliage, etc. Use proper storage bins for gardening tools, hoses and other things you use outside and may store on your patio. Also, be sure to keep your walkways clear.

2. The main principle of Feng Shui is the layout of your furniture. It’s not different on your patio than in the living room. Be sure that any person sitting has a clear view of the entrance and that their back is not to it.

3. Lighting and Sound. You can incorporate sound in a few different ways – a waterfall or playing your favorite soft, soothing music. You can also hang wind chimes if you enjoy the sound of them (some people don’t).  Lighting is another important element too. During the day, lighting probably won’t be an issue unless the location of your patio gets too much sunlight. In that case hanging a blind can take care of the issue. If you plan on entertaining after dark, make sure to have some soft lighting or candles available.

4. Statues. A great way to add décor to your patio is by purchasing some garden statues. Another thing you can use is umbrellas. Not only can this be decorative but it can help block the sunlight from those sitting out there.

5. Plants. If you’re good at keeping plants alive, these are a great way to add some of your own personality into the Feng Shui of your patio. They can also give off a warm feel, making the environment welcoming.

6. Rugs. It can be expensive to purchase what is known as an ‘area rug’ but if you can swing it, it’s a great way to add a little extra wow to your patio.

7. Curves. Your patio is a place for relaxation. This means that according to Feng Shui principles you should keep straight lines to a minimum. You can use seating
objects like chairs with rounded or curved backs. This will introduce curves
into your space. Another way is to use hanging plants with tendrils that hang
down. 

These seven tips should be a good starting point for you to start implementing some Feng Shui principles into your patio space. 

Linda Burhans is a keynote speaker and the best selling author of “Good Night and God Bless”                        www.LindaBurhans.com