Feng Shui Tips: Mirrors, Colors Play Important Role

SAN FRANCISCO — Here are some do-it-yourself feng shui tips.

There are some basic rules. For example, mirrors play a prominent role because they can bring in good spirits and deflect bad ones. Ch’i is considered too powerful when it travels in a straight, uninterrupted path. A crystal is a good way of dispersing the energy.

* Place a mirror on the wall so that it brings in the reflection of a tree into the home. This brings vitality and life into the home.

* Place two mirrors so that they are facing each other. You can see yourself for infinity, which gives you a better sense of self.

* Mirrors can give a feeling of space in a cramped room.

* A mirror balances a crooked room.

* Place a mirror so that it brings in the reflection of an ocean. This can enhance financial stability because the ocean carries in wealth and money.

* In the kitchen, if the cook’s back is to the door when standing at the stove, place a mirror on the wall so the cook can see who enters the room. If the cook becomes startled when a person enters the kitchen, the bad feelings can be transferred into the food.

* In terms of color schemes, a balance of red, representing a rising ch’i, and yellow, the color of earth that keeps ch’i grounded, is important.

* Living things, such as plants or aquariums with the appropriate balance of fish, can help nurture positive ch’i.