QUESTION OF THE WEEK: My husband and I have been having more arguments than usual, and it started when we moved into our new apartment. Are there things feng shui-wise that could be causing this recent discord?
Possibly, although even the best relationships go through an adjustment period when moving into a new space. However, it’s wise to look out for any energetic stressors. These checkpoints below apply not only to romantic partners, but also to anyone with whom you might live.
Look at the home’s heart area
If you were to divide your home into nine equal areas (like a tic-tac-toe grid), the center square would be your home’s heart or most influential area. If this area is cluttered, clear it out. The “negative” energy of clutter in the center area easily seeps into other areas, affecting everyone living there.
If the center area of your home is your kitchen (fire), you can tone down the tendency toward heated arguments and disagreements by avoiding fire colors, like red, and instead calming the energy with cooling colors, like blues, or grounding earth tones.
A home whose heart area is the bathroom will drain health and relationship energy. To avoid this, use plants or plant motifs to balance the energy.
Look at privacy or lack thereof
Make certain that everyone has his or her own “space.” If one person lacks private space, it will show up as either a silent buildup of internal resentment, or complaints and expressions of unfairness. Sometimes what looks like selfishness is really about a lack of private space.
In any relationship, in addition to setting up your environment, remember to listen to and be present with your partner or those with whom you live.
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, where you’ll find inspiring classes geared toward personal growth and self development. www.YourHappinessU.com.