***The Way Up: A Feng Shui Approach to Depression

Depression isn’t the typical reason people want a Feng Shui appointment, but it can be a factor in the big picture. An appointment may be made for another more obvious reason only to discover that depression is playing a part. That said, sometimes depression is the only reason someone would ...Depression isn’t the typical reason people want a Feng Shui appointment, but it can be a factor in the big picture. An appointment may be made for another more obvious reason only to discover that depression is playing a part. That said, sometimes depression is the only reason someone would inquire about the impact of Feng Shui. When I anticipate an appointment with someone who is depressed, whether clinically diagnosed or not, I can predict that one of the issues I'll find in their space is clutter. Sometimes the clutter has occurred because their depression has caused them to be dysfunctional; however, I usually discover that the clutter was there pre-depression and has now exacerbated a tough situation.

Anybody will experience frustration, anxiety, and overwhelm from the amount of personal possessions that they have accumulated. These personal possessions can take the form of trinkets, photographs, books, newspapers, piles of mail, clothes and remnants of projects yet to be completed. Nevertheless, every little memento, every photograph, every knick-knack requires energy. One by one, it’s an insignificant drain, but cumulatively, this drain becomes considerable and, if someone is susceptible to depression, it can fast forward them into a downward spiral.

Taking the first step toward de-cluttering is the hardest, especially if someone is already suffering from depression. However, knowing that the client can experience some relief once they get going, I encourage them to give it a try by helping them break it down into small segments. Since the number “9" (or its increment) is considered lucky in Feng Shui, I suggest spending nine minutes a day de-cluttering. The cumulative effect of taking these small steps can add up after two weeks, three weeks or a month. If the task appears overwhelming, the de-cluttering will never happen. Thinking about cleaning out the basement may seem overwhelming, but thinking about cleaning a shelf under the steps isn't so bad. The next day another shelf; and the next day another one, etc. Start small.

Here are some suggestions for addressing clutter:

• Make sure there’s appropriate and adequate storage for the items that need to be kept, like holiday decorations, out of season clothes, etc.
• Any “just in case” items take up precious space and zap energy.
• Remove everything from the front and sides of the refrigerator to calm down the kitchen.
• Take nine items of clothing out of the closet that are no longer being worn to make room for new possibilities.
• Remove the clutter from under the bed so dreams can be clear and focused.
• Eliminate clutter near the front door to invite in more opportunities.
• Remove everything from the top of the dresser to give your vision a broader scope.
• Thank the items before you release them.
• Did I mention to start small?

Although clutter is a big issue for someone who is depressed, there are other Feng Shui actions a person can take to lift these feelings. The bedroom is a critical room for those who are experiencing depression. The location of the bedroom is important as it should not be in the basement or over a garage. If at all possible, move to another bedroom, even if temporarily. Having a bedroom in the basement by its very nature brings about feelings of oppression and heaviness, while being over a garage leaves a person feeling unsupported and alone.

A headboard on the bed is crucial in order to signify support at a time when a person may be feeling like they have none. The head board should be solid, sturdy, and reliable in order to resonate those same principles back to the person who sleeps in the bed. Hanging inspirational, creative, and soothing artwork in the bedroom will give a sense of purpose during dream-time and upon awakening each morning.

Finally, eliminating any reflection of downward movement follows the Feng Shui premise of your space reflects your life. Removing vines or plants that hang low can help reverse a heavy downward spiral that accompanies depression and anxiety. While someone is experiencing a time of depression, the surroundings should have only upward growing plants, influencing the client’s energy to likewise take that upward flow. Using silk plants doesn’t eliminate this consideration, but instead they should be treated as though they’re alive-----silk ivy still has the same downward pull as real. On this same vein, using torchiere lights that shine toward the ceiling can draw the eyes upward rather than down towards the floor.

Whether dealing with clutter or issues in the bedroom, it is important to make these Feng Shui adjustments in manageable increments. Give them each a chance to integrate and uplift in gentle, even subtle ways. Remember start small and maintain that momentum.