Feng shui for the nursery

Use the principles of Feng Shui design to create a nursery that fosters health, harmony and success for baby.

Photo Credit: Erin Castillo

Changing tables, bassinets, highchairs and Feng Shui? You've got it, baby. The latest trends in decorating show today's parents are embracing the Chinese system of arrangement and placement to prepare for little one's arrival. The nursery is no longer a room of cartoon clichés and primary colors that don't flow with the rest of the house. It's now a cocoon of peacefulness where baby can grow in mind, body and spirit.

Because Feng Shui aims to promote harmony, health and success, the traditions and principles of the ancient art feel right at home in baby's room. All parents wish their children to thrive and prosper, to flourish with every advantage. And while some moms are playing Mozart to their babies in utero, others are busy creating a nursery that encourages the free flow of positive energy, or chi. You can too, by following a few simple Feng Shui guidelines.

Create A Clean Slate

According to Chinese tradition, the first step in preparing the nursery is to conduct an "energy cleansing." This means ridding the room of past energies to create a clean slate for the new baby. To do this, simply air out the space by opening windows on a sunny day. You can also clear the space by burning incense, ringing bells or clapping hands. Finish the cleansing ritual by tossing a pinch of sea salt in all corners of the room, including closets. This is believed to purify the room and minimize nightmares.

Select a Good Location

A new baby's room should be above something "solid," rather than above an empty space or garage. The room should be located away from street traffic, televisions or excessive noise that might keep the baby from sleeping. It is also preferable for the baby's room to be square or rectangular rather than irregularly shaped.

Place the Crib in a Favorable Position

Position the baby's crib so only the head of the crib is against a solid wall. According to Feng Shui principles, this will give the baby solid support in his or her life. Avoid placing the baby against a wall that is shared with a bathroom or storage-type room which are thought to contain negative energy.

Don't Point

Make sure there are no hard corners from dressers, changing tables or bookshelves pointing in the direction of the baby's head or body. Position or move furniture to where it doesn't point toward the baby's bed. Better yet, purchase furniture with rounded edges to encourage children to be creative and flexible.

Avoid Clutter

According to Feng Shui experts, clutter blocks positive energy. Keep toys in a chest or cupboard, or in the playroom. Do not use the space under the crib for storage. It is believed that children will fall sick frequently if energy is not able to flow freely underneath their beds.

Choose Soothing Colors

To induce serenity and rest, opt for soft "yin" colors such as pastel green tints of pistachio, mint, turquoise or teal. Green represents good health, family life, youth, spring and new beginnings. When it comes to bedding and curtains, incorporate fresh, airy cotton whites to let in purity and light.

Create Soft Movement and Sound

A room that is too still or stagnant is not beneficial for the growth of the child. Create good energy by hanging mobiles or wind chimes close to a window and keep soft easy listening or classical music playing in the room. It may take 18 years for you to know if you have the next Einstein or Mozart in your midst, but right now you know your baby feels calm, comfortable and loved.

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