Pet Feng Shui For Beginners

Whether you know it or not, you are already practicing good Feng Shui by just having a pet! Read on to find out why pets are good for your chi and how to fully integrate your pets into the popular practice of Feng Shui.Pet parents are practicing good Feng Shui--whether they know it or not!

"Pets themselves are Feng Shui," according to expert, Yvonne Phillips, author of the book Feng Shui ABC. "Pets emit a strong, positive form of energy in your home because they are constantly in motion. There is no better Feng Shui for your home than having an animal run around spreading positive chi."

Feng Shui (pronounced fung shwey) is an ancient Chinese practice dating back some 3,000 to 5,000 years. The words translate literally to "wind-water" in English and the practice is based upon the belief that careful study and use of the laws of astronomy and geography will result in positive Qi, or "Chi," improving one's life. Chi (pronounced "chee") literally means "air" but in feng shui, it means 'flow of energy.'

Critics consider it a pseudoscience, but followers are convinced of its powerful effect on achieving Chi. In the United States, Feng Shui has gained popularity as a thoughtful practice of arranging objects in our homes (such as furniture) to achieve harmony with our environment.

"Pets already possess upbeat, positive energy," she explains. "And best of all, they generally want to be in the same room you're in, which generates 'good energy' around you whenever you're at home."

Feng Shui is often referred to as a form of therapy, because of it's believed ability to enhance our spirit and wellbeing when practiced correctly. Phillips assures that feng Shui can be effective for pets too.

"Look at the area where your pet likes to hang out," encourages Phillips. "Our animals are drawn to the best energy in a room or a home."

She goes on to explain that if you generate positive energy in your home, you can enhance your pet's overall health and happiness--without having to rearrange or redecorate your home.

Though the study and practice of Feng Shui can seem complex for beginners, Phillips suggests that pet parents simply arm themselves with careful observation and common sense to create good Chi for our pets.

Clean and Simple

Sure, pets sometimes make a mess, but they prefer cleanliness, just like we do.

"Cleanliness is an important part of Feng Shui practice," explains Phillips. "A pet should feel safe, secure and clean in the areas where they eat or sleep."

Keep all the zones where your pet lives at home clean and tidy. Wash food and water bowls thoroughly and don't leave any soapy residue. Launder bedding when needed and clear away unnecessary clutter.

Pet Feng Shui with Color

Color is another simple, yet powerful tool that can enhance your pet's comfort.

"My cat is partial to red and green," says Phillips as she explained that pets often have favorite colors just like we do.

"If you're not sure of what that favorite color might be, do some experimenting with different colored blankets or bowls to see if your pet seems to have a preference."

Phillips recommends using plates, bowls, bedding and toys that are pretty and colorful, using a pet's favorite colors, if you know what they are. She also suggests using the color red to energize a pet's eating area, (for picky or finicky eaters).

"The eating area should also be a protected space -- a corner out of the path of humans. Cats especially appreciate privacy while they eat."

Phillips warns that plastic bowls are a Feng Shui "no-no." Chose a more organic option such as ceramic or glass instead.

A Treat For Your Pet's Senses

"Pets are attracted to natural light and warmth," says Phillips. "They'll tend to gravitate to a warm sunny spot near a window, if the sun is shining.

Or, on a cloudy day, you can create that same sense of comfort. "Salt lamps or candleholders (using unscented candles) are a good way to create that light and warmth when it's not naturally available to pets." Candles might be your first thought. But pets have very acute olfactory systems, so traditional, scented candles that we find delightful, might be offensive to your pet.

"Another benefit of salt lamps is that they release negative ions, known for enhancing your well-being, energizing the room and purifying the air." She recommends natural salt lamps for human and pet clients alike.

"A Feng Shui basket of salt crystals will also elevate and harmonize room energy," she adds.

Pet Feng Shui "101" is simple and easy to implement. Further study and practice might incorporate the laws of the Bagua map, a tool used to map a room or location, and see how the different sections correspond to different aspects in one's life.