Question: I am a single woman looking for a relationship. I heard that in Feng Shui it is better to have two bedside tables in the bedroom than one. Is that true? And do you suggest that I do that in my bedroom?

–Andrea from Madison, Wisconsin

Cheryl Janis: In my work as a Feng Shui Consultant, many of my single clients call me in with the intention of finding a romantic relationship.

After seeing some of their bedrooms (often with a one-night-stand next to their bed), it became clear that the symbology of objects and furniture in the room kept them locked in their single status. That coupled with images on the wall of a single person or a single object…well, you get my meaning. The inner reflects the outer and therefore, if the inner expression wants a partner, than the outer expression has to change.

Whenever a client is looking for a romantic partnership in their life I always suggest to start by thinking in the number two. And yes, that includes adding a second bedside table. The idea is to make room for your beloved in a physical and energetic way. Think of it as an invitation to the Universe to draw this special person to you. So yes, Andrea, add a second bedside table and try to match it to the one you already have. Think of it as equal sides to the relationship. While you’re at it, bring in matching lamps, candles and create romance in the bedroom with passionate colors, lush fabric and whatever else you love.

While your waiting for your partner to show up, why not get into loving yourself in your favorite new space.  Don’t you deserve it?

Question: I am a single 45 year old woman and want to bring love into my life. Are there any Feng Shui and design recommendations you can give me. I feel kind of lost.

–E.W. Los Angeles, CA

CJ: Thank-you for your question.

First of all, congratulations for paying attention to this very important area of the home. Not only is it the place where we connect to our partners, it is also the place where we rest, relax and reconnect to ourselves.

If you want to bring love into your life, start by thinking in the number two. For example, make sure to place two bedside tables of equal height on each side of the bed. The symbology is giving equal sides to the relationship that you intend to manifest. Include two of your favorite table lamps.

Also choose a color for the wall that is soothing and relaxing and evokes a sense of peace. Stay away from extreme colors on the walls like bright red or cold blue.

Make your bedroom romantic and inviting by adding some warm colors, for example, in your duvet, or in your pillows and/or draperies. Choose soft and luscious items (earth friendly please) like eco-silk and/or organic cotton.

Before you begin, sit down for 15 minutes and visualize your dream space. What would it look it? What would your future partner like? Feel into that and then begin to create it. Most importantly, have fun.

Got a Feng Shui or design question, ask me here.

Question: Is there something special that I should see when I open up my front door? A mirror or a flower vase or something else?

G.L. –Portland, Oregon

C.J.: Ah, I love this question. Thank-you for asking it.

Entryways serve as greeters each time we walk into our front door. It’s such an important area as it sets the tone for our experience inside.

If the area is cluttered and ugly…well you can imagine how that will affect how we feel and contribute to lower energy levels.

However, if the area is beautiful, for example set up with a beautiful vase of flowers on a special table or our favorite bold print is hanging on the wall, that will speak joy to our hearts, even on the most challenging of days.

For many of us, the entryway is an area where we leave our ’stuff’ like our purses, keys, umbrellas, etc. and can get cluttered. If this is the case, first get organized. Keep what you don’t need and get rid of the rest.

Think of this area as your personal welcoming station where you have that special bowl for your keys and a sweet mood light that draws you into the area.

Whatever you decide to place in your entryway, make it something you love, or a collection of things that bring peace and love into your heart. After all, our home is our sanctuary and is the one place where we can truly relax and be at peace.

Question: I would like to paint my front door a new color. Are there any colors that are a “no-no” in Feng Shui? Is shiny black O.K?

LS - Portland, OR

Cheryl: Here’s my answer. Traditionally, in Feng Shui, the door is painted red. Since the house in feng shui is sometimes seen as the body, the door is considered the tongue and when it sticks out, it’s like the red carpet at the Oscars; hot and fiery and where a lot of positive energy can find you. However, it’s not always pleasing to the eye to use red since it might not compliment the exterior palette. The door is the point of entry and in my opinion, it should be bright and happy, something that lifts your heart to the sky. Since I’m not a traditionalist and always consider how the heart feels, I would advise you to consider how a black door might feel to you. And if it feels right, go for it.

Question: I read somewhere that it is not good Feng Shui to place mirrors in the Love and Marriage area of a home or bedroom. Is this correct?

The reason I ask is because I want to purchase two matching bedside tables and it just so happens that these have antique mirror tops.

One of the tables would go into the Love & Marriage area of the bedroom. I don’t want to make a mistake that I’ll later regret.

Please advise.

–Deanna

Cheryl: Thank-you for your question. In Feng Shui, the Love and Marriage area of the Bagua reflect the earth element which translates in soft, nurturing, love and Mother Earth energy.

Mirrors in Feng Shui (depending on who you ask) represent the water element and therefore, when placed in the earth element of the Love and Marriage area will tend to water-log the element of earth and thus, decreasing its effect.

In this area, you would want to increase the element of earth and reflect love in your life with symbols that reflect your current or desired relationship. In addition, mirrors in the bedroom activate energy and have been known to cause disruptive sleep patterns.

I recommend going with another set of bedside tables without the mirrors. You can also purchase the bedside tables and simply remove the mirrors. Also, remember to check to see if your bedside tables have soft rounded corners (sharp corners cause agitation energy and can be harmful if you bump up against them) and most importantly, that you absolutely LOVE them.