Feng Shui Tips to Fight the Winter Blahs

“Ugh! When will winter be over?”

This is what I was saying to myself as I returned home from sunny Arizona last week.
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Winter weather can take a toll on us far beyond dry skin and colds.  Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD is often referred to as the “winter blues” but can be depression during winter months.

I’ve personally struggled with this when living in locations with long winters and limited sunshine.  Of course, it feels like it just gets worse as the gray days hang on, so I began to utilize Feng Shui to assist with combating this feeling.

Feng Shui can be very influential in fighting the winter blahs.  While shifting and balancing the five elements in a space, we can shift them to alter these blahs.  We invite the elements into our space that we are craving such as the Fire Element and Earth Element.
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Fire Element - No, you do not need to start painting your walls red but introducing some fire elements into your space may be beneficial.  Start with a few candles, maybe some red accent décor or animal print.  The room above has a few red pillows, a pop of red in the rug, lampshade and a touch of red in the art.  Nothing overpowering but enough to make a difference. 
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Earth Element - Add some earth elements such as beige, tan and browns colors and decorate with earth products such as rocks and crystals.  Salt lamp are also a wonderful way to blend the earth and fire elements!

Beyond Feng Shui in your space I deeply believe in altering the energy of your personal body if you struggle with SAD. Here’s how I do this; On days when I feel particularly affected by the weather, I wear clothing in the color of reds, pink, fuchsia and orange (more fire elements). I use these color in tops, scarves and other accessories. I’ve even gone as far as wearing these colors of undergarments!

I also schedule time in a sauna, hot yoga as well as general exercise. Anything to get your body heated!
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A light therapy box that emits light similar to sunlight can be helpful. I have used the Happy Light brand for many years and have the light on for a few minutes each morning. This is especially great on those extra gray days.

Lastly, don’t forget symbolism and influencing the subconscious mind. Decorating with positive quotes and thoughts like this “Smile” pillow can be helpful to keep your chin up.