As many of you know, I’ve have had an interest in neuroscience for quiet some time and taught Brain Gym® (among other things) for several years before moving to Colorado Springs 19 years ago.
Current research on the brain got me to thinking about how we can apply this information to Feng Shui. One thing that comes up over and over again is that it is healthy to challenge ourselves to do new things, and make changes periodically.
If you have subscribed to this newsletter for a while, you know that I have often suggested that you breakup stagnant energy by moving 9 or 27 things. This is not only a tried-and-true Feng Shui cure, it’s also good for your brain—especially if you find it challenging to move your stuff or, heaven forbid get rid of some of it.
This simple well-known Feng Shui remedy for moving stuck energy requires that you take action and move out of your comfort zone. Each time you make a positive change or do something new, you are building new neural pathways. And, if you continue the process, you will strengthen those pathways.
Personally, I think my furniture, except for a few small pieces, really fits where I’ve placed it, so I rarely move furniture—except to clean. (Speaking of cleaning, you are definitely moving energy each time you dust and vacuum.) However, I do move accessories, plants, and fairly portable items regularly. After awhile, I may even move them back to their original place, because in my mind that’s where they belong. :~)
Also, this is the perfect time to try something new in your garden. Although the landscape is always subtly changing due to the activity of weather, birds, animals, insects, etc., you can consciously empower brain changes by adding different decorations and colorful annuals—perhaps in a few colors that you wouldn’t normally plant. The brain responds to each individual color in a unique way
If you’re feeling hopelessly stuck, notice the emotions and feelings that you’re now experiencing. Then place an affirmation addressing how you wish to feel in the Knowledge area of your home’s Bagua. No matter how you phrase it, make sure that it’s positive and in present time.
The Helpful People area relates directly to the brain. Make sure that this area is as clean and clutterfree as possible. Clutter here can create confusion and lack of clarity.
Many folks have all or part of their garage in either Knowledge or Helpful People. If this is true for you, make it a priority to clean, clear out, and organize this area as much as possible.
For optimum brain function, the bedroom is another area of concern. The latest research indicates that the brain needs a good night’s sleep in order to function well and that it actually shrinks when your sleep is disturbed over a long period of time.
In 2013 I wrote three articles on Feng Shui and sleep. (Check the links below this article, if you’re interested.)
Other suggestions to support your brainpower:
- Take a chance and playfully try a new activity like painting, learning to play a musical instrument, or cooking and eating a new food.
- If you don’t already practice mindfulness or meditation, give them a try. Much has been written lately about their benefit to brain function.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Get plenty of exercise. Exercise improves and increases blood flow to your brain It can help with memory improvement and aid in the production of new brain cells.
- Clean or reorganize a cabinet or storage space. Each time you do, you are making a subtle shift in your neural pathways—plus it’s good Feng Shui.
Finally, this doesn’t have to be difficult. The brain thrives on healthy change and doing new things–or old things in a new way. Ask yourself “What can I change or do differently today?” and pay attention to the suggestions above as you’re able to integrate them into your life
May you be clear & free from confusion!
Suzanne
© 5/24/15 • Suzanne Metzger • Feng Shui Consulting Services
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