Window Of Opportunities

DOORS and windows in a building are the main channels for energy, or qi, to flow into it.
It has been found that most forms of energy enter through the ­windows, and, to some ­degree, the doors, with a smaller ­percentage through the walls.
The environment within the ­building is ­predominantly decided by the quality of the energy flow, which can affect the ­building's ­occupants.
To ensure qi flows ­unhindered through the ­building – and also to ­create the right balance of energy within for its occupants – ­elements such as window drapes, curtains and door ­positioning have to be taken into account.
The fundamental rule of feng shui is that energy flows through any space.  
However, if the space is too open, then energy passes through the room too quickly to be of benefit. 
On the other hand, if it is too constricted, the energy risks becoming ­stagnant.
In the science of feng shui, windows are referred to as the 'eyes of the home'.
It's ­important that the windows of the house are kept clean and clear, allowing for plenty of light during the day.
In addition, the fabrics and colour of the ­curtains for the windows should be ­carefully selected in order to help p­romote the flow of qi around the house.
Controlling the flow of ­energy through windows can be achieved by installing blinds or curtains.
You can even match the curtains with the seasons.
Choose green in spring; red, orange and pink for ­summer; white, grey and metallic ­colours for autumn; and blue for winter.
Experimenting with ­different colours of window curtains can transform the energy level of the room ­significantly.
For example, green is a calming colour, that is ideal for living rooms. ­
Purple ­signifies richness and ­transformation, which makes it ideal for areas or rooms involved in spiritual pursuits.
Here are some feng shui tips on promoting qi flow through windows:
Keep your curtains and windows clean, in order to ­allow qi to come inside fresh and clean.
Curtains that hang limply on each side of a window are considered bad feng shui, as they impede the flow of qi.
Pull the curtains back ­during daytime to allow s­unlight to lighten your house and give the area positive energy.
Change the colours of your blinds as the seasons of the year change, in order to enjoy the most advantageous effects.

Curtains can be used to shield unpleasant views outside the home, or to even counter the ill effects of ­electric pylons or electrical panels located outside or close to the window.
On the question of ­skylights, they are useful to bringing in extra light. ­
However, there are some situations where they are best avoided.
Do not put your bed ­beneath one, as your qi can be dispersed through the skylight.
Definitely avoid it over the bed of a small child. It can leave them tired and drained, and subconsciously ­feeling as though they are being watched.
Skylights are, however, fine in the kitchen, provided they are not placed above the cooker.
S.BS.Surendran is accredited master feng shui consultant, bioenergetician and traditional vaastu practitioner. Readers can contact him at lifestyle.fengshui@thesundaily.com.