We live in a society where sleep problems are all too common. It is reported that the average adult needs seven to nine hours of sleep to help maintain a healthy body. Unfortunately, only 35% of folks are achieving this.

Today, most children have computers and TVs in their rooms. Consequently, they are not getting adequate sleep, and performing at low energy levels equates to not functioning at peak performance in school.

Stress is considered the most common cause of sleep disturbance. Filled with anxiety, thousands of people suffer from insomnia. Either they can’t fall asleep, wake up several times during the night only to have trouble falling back to sleep, or wake up too early in the morning without feeling rested.

Irregular sleeping patterns cause irritability, mood swings, or poor decision-making. Worse yet, they can lead to severe medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Feng Shui Tips for Relaxation

Bedrooms should be private havens for rest and rejuvenation. An uncomfortable sleeping environment, such as one that is noisy, too hot or too cold, can cause nighttime distress. Applying principles of feng shui will help to create a space that supports and nourishes, allowing you to feel relaxed as soon as you enter the room.

Considered a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), feng shui is grounded in the premise that our physical environment impacts our physical, emotional and mental health. According to TCM, insomnia is an imbalance of chi (energy), and yin (female/passive) energy is needed. See the following tips to create a restful, yin-like space in your bedroom:

  • Add soft and low lighting for a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Inventory your artwork, selecting pieces that are restful, serene or inspirational.
  • Remove computers, electronics, paperwork and exercise equipment to alleviate subconscious stress.
  • If you must have a TV, keep it in a closed cabinet or cover it with a piece of fabric when sleeping. Studies indicate that the electromagnetic fields they emit can cause stress on immune systems.
  • Clutter in your space means clutter in your mind! De-clutter and de-stress.
  • Find a new home for the laundry basket and rid the room of stale chi.
  • For grounding and tranquility, use less stimulating colors like tan, beige, soft green, or aqua.
  • Minimize blacks and dark blues. An excess of these water element colors can lead to breathing problems.
  • Mirrors are discouraged due to their distracting yang (male/active) energy.
  • Not having a view of the door can make one feel off-guard. Placing the bed so you can see the door (without being directly in line with it) will keep the nervous system calm.
  • Don’t place the bed in front of a window. Chi can dissipate during the night and make you tired. If you have no choice, keep blinds/curtains closed when sleeping.
  • Always keep the door of an adjourning bathroom closed.

    • Engage Your Sense of Smell
    Aromatherapy can mitigate the effects of sleeplessness. It is said that introducing an aroma into a space can alter a mood within ten seconds! Serving as central nervous system depressants, essential oils can help you to feel calm and relaxed, making it easier not only fall asleep but to stay asleep. Suggestions: Ylang Ylang, Marjoram, Valerian, Lavendar, Clary Sage.

    Evening Rituals
    Your body needs to know that your bed is for sleeping, and the power of a bedtime ritual should not be underestimated. Create an evening routine of quiet activities such as journal writing, yoga, or meditation. Playing relaxation music for about an hour before you go to bed lowers the energy of the space and makes it more suitable for sleep. Avoid TV in bed.

    Unwind with a cup of tea. Chamomile, lavender, lemon balm and passion flower have calming effects. Valerian is recommended for insomnia, but you may find that the taste is not the most appealing.

    Sleep is a necessary biological function; without it the body experiences stress. Don’t let un-refreshing sleep affect the quality of your life. Use feng shui to get in touch with your space and enhance your physical and emotional wellness.

    Sweet dreams…

    Author's Bio: 

    Susan Tartaglino is a Red Ribbon Professional member of the International Feng Shui Guild.

    After training with feng shui master Nancilee Wydra, founder of the Pyramid School of Feng Shui, Susan received her certification through the Feng Shui Institute of America, an international organization founded under the Pyramid School philosophy.

    It was during Susan’s residency in Hong Kong in the 1980's that she was first introduced to the concepts of feng shui. Susan has combined her years of feng shui study with her passion for interior and exterior design to help others achieve balance, comfort and inspiration in their environment and in their life.

    Other interests include a dedicated yoga practice and spending healing time with nature in her garden.