Question: What Feng Shui principles can I apply to really maximize the creative energy in a room or a whole house? I am a visual artist and I have a smallish room set aside as a creative space. I’m inspired by visuals like the photography of Frederick Somers and films like Koyyanisquatsi. I’d like a room that helps me “switch gears” from the precision and deadline-driven computer work I do to pay my bills to a more fluid, creative frame of experience for my creative work. In other words, I’d like to create an outer space that evokes an inner experience of calm but fervent creative flow.

P.M –OR

Cheryl: Here’s my answer. In Feng Shui and in my life experience, the outer expression reflects the inner state of being. For example, if we live with physical clutter, our minds will most likely be filled with chaos and as we purge, inner space tends to open up. In creative space making, it is important that we get in touch with what really makes us happy (creatively) and reflect that in the designated room or area. You mentioned feeling inspired by Frederick Somers. Well, why not place some of his visual on your walls?…for example. Think about your favorite colors. Are there any that make you feel relaxed and inspired? For example, something in the blue family might be a good choice to shift out of the stressful fire energy of your daily life. Think about what activities you would like to do in your ideal creative space and set it up accordingly. Maybe a table where you can look at all your photos might work. Or how about a beautiful and comfortable chair where you can sit and read your favorite photography book without being disturbed. A nice comfortable rug under the chair might be a nice addition adding a soft touch to your bare feet. As a practice, sit down in a quiet space for five minutes a day, take some deep breaths, relax your shoulders and let yourself visualize your dream creative space. That is where your inspiration lives. Go from there.