Schools Out-Feng Shui's In

With school out, longer days and the adjustment to summer schedules, this season brings its own joys, and stresses. Keeping things balanced and harmonized in your home might be a challenge, especially those with children and company visiting, as the well oiled routines of the school year are tossed out the window.

The wisdom of a Feng Shui can be applied to all surroundings, in all seasons and any situation or occasion. Its application helps establish a flow of calm, positive energy in the environment. For indoors and the outdoor yard and patio, here are some considerations to keep organized and maintain equilibrium on the home front with this summer season.

• Pack into storage any winter clothes, coats, boots, shovels and other clutter that are lying around the house and yard. Clear out old school papers and supplies that are piling up on the countertops, fridge and corners. The key here is to simplify the space with less stuff lying around the rooms, causing congested and depleted energy flow.

• With more people coming in and out of the house from the yard, keep all the entrances clear of clutter to trip on. Shoe racks tucked neatly to the side and non-slip mats are ideal.

• Use un-breakable dishes for outdoor meals and snacks.

• Keep tripping hazards to a minimum by always folding up the hose, hanging up the dog leash, and clearing the yard of debris.

• Clean out and rearrange the fridge to allow easy access to snacks for hungry kids. Easier grab-and-go snacks and drinks will mean less spills and breaks from knocking over items from the fridge.

• Dispose of old and broken down garden equipment or toys, such as old swing sets, retired lawn mowers and outgrown bicycles.

• Inspect fences and outdoor furniture for nails or splinters which could cause injury, and check the lawn or patio daily for sharp objects on bare feet.

• Stock up on healthy snacks and drinks, such as home-made popsicles and fruit to cool you down from the heat.

• Establish clear rules and boundaries for children playing in the yard and house, such as not leaving the area unattended, no shoes in the house, or food and drink in the living room.

All of these changes will help ensure a better energy in the home and less chaos. If you are proactive, the days will flow much easier for adults and children, and bringing a Feng Shui balance to your surroundings will help you make the most of summer.