Apr 16 2008
Sensual Feng Shui
Do you notice all the ways you use your senses as you move through your day? Do you notice the subtle ways that your physical body interacts with the world?
The depth of connection to the world we experience comes largely through our five senses - touch, smell, sight, hearing and taste. Everything we do can be a sensual experience: Smelling the freshness of the grass that you just cut. Feeling the soft, fluffy texture envelope your fingers as you knead warm bread dough. Enjoying the rich, chocolaty aroma of your coffee as it is brewing. Or just noticing the touch of the wind on your skin as you walk outdoors.
When I was in New Mexico recently, one thing that amazed me was the luminous quality of the sunlight and the brilliant color of the sky. The shade and depth of blue was startlingly beautiful - I loved how it enhanced the delicate yellows and reds of the rock, and the way the smallest, puffy cloud was highlighted against it. After a few days, I understood why artists like Georgia O’Keefe were inspired to create there. I was aware that my senses were all on fire and my own creative spirit was “juiced”.
Sensuality is also key in Feng Shui and Sacred Space design. It is at the heart of how we make adjustments to environments. And, as Interior Alignment™ practitioners, we often suggest changes that are meant to activate and please the senses.
You can do this as well. Simply start by observing your sensory experiences for a few days. You might even want to jounal your observations.
What are the things you notice as you first enter a space? Are you more drawn to textures, colors, fragrances, fabrics, light or sound? Discover which of your senses are most keen, which ones you rely on most. And, then reward those senses by making changes to your surroundings that excite those senses. Experiment with new foods or spices. Add new colors or intensify hues. Use more texture and layer in new fabrics. Decorate with expressive paintings, photos or sculptures that speak to your heart and delight your eyes. Use essential oils and experiment with a variety of scents. And, taking this a step further, find ways to continually develop and expand your senses. Consider, for example, taking up a craft that requires a high degree of tactile work, like weaving or pottery.
Delight all of your senses and create more joy, creativity and passion in your life!
Copyright 2008, Deb Swingholm. All rights reserved.
Tags: creativity, Deb Swingholm, enhancements, Feng Shui Colors, Sacred Space
Mmmm…Sensuality…Yes! I couldn’t agree more! Instinctive Feng Shui is so about sensuality, isn’t it? This is surely one of the top reasons why I love it dearly. It is a powerful way to learn what delights your own instincts and senses and then create a home and a life that continually nourishes these things for you.
For me, the most powerful sensory stimulus is usually color. Texture and aroma are close seconds.
Mmmm…yum! Thanks, Deb.
Love, Donna
For me the thing that attracts me is wood. I love the feel, the smell, and the appearance of a smooth wood grain. Even the well worn handle on my mattock (upright garden spade) gives me pleasure each time I get hold of it. Why?
I’ve really no idea why. I just enjoy these things.
Hi Donna,
As an artist, I can see why you love color! In my last home, my preference was always to have fairly neutral walls and accent in BIG ways with rich, strong hits of color. Yes, Interior Alignment really is all about nourishing our senses and our soul! Thanks for the note!
Hello Dave,
I understand! Wood is also a passion of mine! The grain, the color, the polish, the energy of the tree it came from, the way it develops that lovely patina over time… If I had a garage, I’m sure i would have a little woodworking area to putter in.
It is wonderful that you tuned in so quickly to the ways that wood delights you. Focus on the joy and the attraction. And, then let this lead you to other things that attract and delight you. In Interior Alignment, one of the goals is to have a home where everything you see and touch brings a feeling of “ah! look how much I love that!” An environment that gives you joy at every turn.
love,
Deb