QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Can you tell me about kitchen symbolism? I heard that there is meaning behind what your kitchen looks like.
The kitchen is considered the most vital and important part of the house — the so-called heart of the home — as it nourishes us and sustains life. What does the state of your kitchen say about you?
The Stove
Considered “male energy” and the “wealth generator,” the stove is the single most important symbolic factor when using feng shui to analyze the ease with which you financially prosper. The stove represents the fueling of the physical energy that is needed to be productive.
Stove symbolism
Burnt-out burner: An inoperable burner means your ability to manifest new avenues of abundance and opportunity is limited. To regain your energy, replace any burnt-out burners.
Unused burner(s): Not using all your burners is symbolic of being in a rut, lacking vitality and limiting your ability to benefit from financial resources. Consciously using burners that you haven’t used for awhile will energize you and help you break free of old patterns.
Grimy burners: Dirty burners suggest unnecessary expenses and a lack of clarity about where your money is going. Cleaning off the grime energetically opens your eyes to new strategies to manage your finances and optimize your personal energy.
Blocked burners: Blocked burners represent blocked opportunities. Use the top of the stove to cook, not to store food, empty pots and pans or boxes. A clear stovetop suggests that you are open to opportunities coming into your life.
The Refrigerator
The refrigerator, considered “female energy,” represents our feminine side and has a nurturing quality, “hugging and holding” our food. Maintain the health of your refrigerator, especially if you are feeling drained by others’ needs and wants.
Refrigerator symbolism
Cluttered face: Many refrigerators resemble billboards or photo albums with items attached by magnets, which have “sucking” energy. What on the door can symbolically show who or what is draining your energy. Removing all paraphernalia from the door will help restore energy.
What you place on your refrigerdoor should be energetically supportive.
Clutter on top: The top of your refrigerator should not be used for open storage. Anything placed in that area that is not decorative or beautifying represents burdens you may be carrying and cannot let go of. Clear the top of the refrigerator and energetically remove heaviness in your life.
Expired food: Storing expired food energetically holds you in the past and drains you of the energy needed to live an inspired life. Keep the contents of your refrigerator current.
Honor the Yin and the Yang
Take some time to “honor” both the male and female elements in your kitchen to create a greater sense of balance in your life.
Do you have a question for Alice? If so, send it to alice@yourhappinessu.com. Alice Inoue is the founder and Chief Happiness Officer at Happiness U, a friendly educational establishment. Visit YourHappinessU.com.