When I think of feeling or being stuck, I imagine the following:
- Lack of movement
- Lethargy
- Not seeing a path ahead
- Feeling unsupported
Because our homes are a reflection of what we experience in life, if we look at our home with fresh eyes we can see where there is stagnation in our physical spaces.
Now, let’s think of the opposite of “stuck”. What comes to mind for me is:
- Openness and lightness
- Multiple pathways
- Energy and vibrancy
- Comfort and flexibility
If you’re a parent, this example may resonate.
As Mom to a very busy 17-year old, it was so interesting (and painful!) to observe the “state of her life” and how it exactly mirrored the “state of her room.”
There were many periods during the school year where she literally had zero time to just “be”. As she progressively felt overwhelmed, her room progressively became unsupportive for her. There were no open pathways, because they were covered with stuff. To get to her bed, desk, closet or bathroom, she would have to step over layers of clothes, books, instruments, and more. And because of all the stuff, she could never find what she needed and grew frustrated. I also noticed that every time she walked into her room she would slump over and let out a deep long sigh.
As a “Feng Shui Mom” she knew all too well what was coming from me! Before I could even open my mouth she would say, “I know, Mom, I know, I’ll get to my room.” I never forced her to keep it up, but all I would say is, “You know that taking a bit of a break to clear things up will help you feel better.” However, I get it! When you have little to no time, “the room” becomes your last priority. But, I’m here to tell you that it should be your first!
You see, those moments when she was overwhelmed and stuck in a rut and DID make her space her priority, the immediate shift to her thoughts, emotions, energy levels and ability to problem-solve effectively was un-matched. The more she experienced this, the more she prioritized the health of her space.
There are endless Feng Shui tips I can offer you to clear up the energy of stuckness, especially for specific areas of your life, but here are a few general and simple ones to try:
- Walk through your home with fresh eyes and look for the areas with the most clutter–where you can’t open or close a door, where you have to walk over or around things, or you have no idea “what’s in there!” Make a commitment to de-clutter and clear out that space immediately.
- Where isn’t there enough light in your home? Add a lamp or commit to opening the shades to bring the light in.
- Where is there a lack of color, vibrancy or life? Bring in a healthy plant in a colorful pot, add some fresh flowers, or change out dark and musty pillows and blankets for new colorful ones. Open a window or door occasionally and let fresh air in.
- Open your fridge. Do you have moldy, old food that you never look at? Clean it out and add some fresh fruits, veggies and other nourishing items, even if it’s only a few.
There you go! Try it out and let me know how it goes and how you feel making these quick and easy shifts. Start with the ONE that causes you to slump and sigh! That’s the sign you’re looking for.
Namaste, friends!
Monique
