Feng Shui Tips for a Peaceful Winter

by Stephanie Dempsey

The winter months invite us to turn away from social pursuits and attend to our personal needs. Too often, the demands of modern life tempt us to forgo rest and relaxation. This can create a terrible imbalance. This winter, take your cue from nature and turn inward.

Slow down

Make more time for solitary pursuits like reading, writing and prayer. If you have a hard time switching gears, try integrating some of the following Feng Shui cures into your home. They'll help you savor all the benefits this wonderful season affords.

Make waves

If you're getting cabin fever, integrate wavy patterns into your decor. Cascading plants, swagged curtains and a hanging display of pots and pans will make it easier to go with the flow. That's because curved lines slow energy down, rather than speed it along.

Create a cozy corner

Have difficulty finding time for yourself? Position a single chair in the corner of your room. Position a footstool and table nearby, so you can relax there with books and a steaming hot drink. Shield this area from public view with a curtain or screen. It will be much easier to enjoy solitary pursuits when you create a space for them.

Block distractions

Nothing disrupts peace more than the insisting ringing of a telephone. Get into the habit of turning your phone off for two hours a day to promote calm. Never fear: whoever is calling can always leave a message.

Take a hot bath

Once you're in the bathtub, it's very difficult to get out. This is just the sort of activity that's perfect for winter, because it forces you to stay in one place. Stock up on bath salts, special soap and fluffy towels as a means to make this ritual even more tempting. Remember, winter is a time of self-pampering. Shop accordingly.

Paint it black

Once you're in the bathtub, it's very difficult to get out. This is just the sort of activity that's perfect for winter, because it forces you to stay in one place. Stock up on bath salts, special soap and fluffy towels as a means to make this ritual even more tempting. Remember, winter is a time of self-pampering. Shop accordingly.

Make time fly

Throw the clock out of the window. Well, not literally, but hiding timepieces from view is a great way to instill an air of calm to any room. Remember, winter is a season of quiet reflection. You can't cultivate a meditative state if you feel like you're on a deadline.

Out of sight, out of mind

Now that you're spending more time at home, you might as well feel comfortable. Take this opportunity to sort through any junk that accumulated during the busy autumn months. When you've cleared the area of trash, store necessary items neatly away in closed containers. This will prevent you from worrying about bills, doctor's appointments and social appointments when you should be relaxing with your nearest and dearest.

Round 'em up

Winter is a time of intimacy. Integrating more circles into your decor will draw everybody in your household into a circle of trust. Polka dotted fabrics, oval area rugs and circular mirrors can bring even the most fractured family together in a spirit of harmony.