Summer’s end is a natural time of transition–not only for kids, but also for many adults who are off to new experiences. If you’re college bound, you may be moving into a dorm room or another type of shared space. Either way, you’ll probably either share a room with another student or have a small room to yourself and share common space. Tips to Assure a Stable & Successful College Experience
• Storage will be at a minimum, so curb the impulse to bring clothing and items that that won’t fit comfortably in the available space. (Guys are usually better at this than gals!) Pack like you would for a trip. Choose basic, versatile clothing in two or three harmonious colors that can be layered and worn for several activities. Then, limit yourself to a few outfits. If you have the luxury of going home during the school year, you can always exchange some of this clothing for favorites that you left behind.
• It’s a Feng Shui “no-no” to store clothing or shoes under your bed. Bedding, pajamas, and other things related to sleep are the only acceptable items to store there.
• To free your mind and open up space for you to expand your horizons and absorb new information, make it a priority to purge anything you’re not using. Put away items after you use them. Clutter causes confusion. It can affect your ability to learn and retain knowledge, your health, and your general well-being. Invest in baskets and attractive storage containers to hold loose items. And, if your space permits, place a small shoe rack near the door.
• Furniture in a dorm room is often preplaced (and may be bolted down), so you may not have a choice as to how you arrange your room. However, keep the following in mind:
If your desk is facing a window, hang a small, leaded crystal in the window. This will help you to hold your focus inward. Also, place a mirror either on or beside your desk to reflect the door. If the foot of your bed is across from the door, hang a round, multifaceted, leaded crystal between the foot of your bed and the door. An important Feng Shui principle is that you should always be able to see the door from your bed. If you’re not in a position to see the door, place a mirror so it allows you to do this.
• Choose cool colors–such as blues and soft greens—for your bedspread and the décor closest to your bed. These colors are restful and will contribute to your wellbeing. The addition of a small amount of bright pink, red, yellow, or orange to the area around or on your desk can brighten your room and help to energize your thinking.
• For a good night’s sleep find a way to cover or conceal your desk at night.
• If your space is large enough, place a small plant on your desk or next to your bed.
• Finally, space clearing and cleaning are essential. Usually there is residual energy from the students who previously lived there. Even if the room looks clean, clean it again. Dirt and dust hold energy from previous occupants. Then, sage the room or use another method of space clearing to make sure you’re off to a good start. (Saging is not a traditional Feng Shui remedy. However, it works for temporary clearing.)
May all your transitions be successful!
Suzanne
© 2013 • Suzanne Metzger • Feng Shui Consulting Services