Although it’s cold and snow is falling and blowing as I write this, like many of you, my thoughts are drawn to the warmth and brightness of spring. W
If you’re planning a new garden or refreshing an old one, although there are several points to consider from a Feng Shui point of view, pathways, big and small, are one of the most important.
Design your space to go with the flow of nature. Whenever possible incorporate soft curvy lines–and breakup long straight ones with flowers and other items of interest. This is not only in harmony with nature, but it is relaxing for our eyes and visual system.
Our culture has trained us to move quickly and efficiently in straight lines. This gets us to our destination quickly, but it’s not particularly relaxing—and definitely not in harmony with nature.
The path leading to your front door sets the tone for both your guests and your own experience. It should be soft and gently lead to the desired destination.
If a straight path leading to your front door already exists, arrange flowerpots and other decorative pieces along the sides to encourage your eyes to move from point to point naturally.
However, if you’re remodeling or putting in new landscaping, consider using flagstone, patterned steppingstones, round pavers or even creating a curvy new walkway leading to your home’s entry. Then, planr plants and shrubs along the sides that will spill softly onto your walkway as they grow.
Think of the area around your front door as a small garden space (even if you don’t display plants or flowers here). It should always be clean, uncluttered, and fresh. Decorate it with wreathes, plants, or artwork to reflect the seasons as they change.
If your front door is looking shabby or worn, clean or paint it. Also, make sure that hardware and other accessories around your door look new and are in good working order. For example, oil the hinges, if needed. The front door is the main mouth of ch’i. This is where opportunities enter your home and life, so, regardless of the season, keep it vibrant at all times.
Other doors and doorways are also important. They should be clean and inviting, even though their benefit is less direct. If you have an attached garage, this includes the door into your home and the garage door itself.
Pathways also apply to small patio gardens and decks. Even if your space is extremely small, create subtle pathways throughout the space for your eye to travel between the different elements–such as plants, statuary, small gazing balls, seating, and perhaps even a small water feature.
Include splashes of color among plants and the various items on your patio to create a visual path for your eyes.
Hanging baskets and window boxes can be installed along the deck railing to give you more room for seating and are often the solution to not enough space. Plus, they may also provide some privacy.
May your pathway into spring be joyful & brght!
Suzanne © 4/3/14 Suzanne Metzger • Feng Shui Consulting Services