To some, it may simply be common design sense, but aficionados know it as feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice that aims to create positive vibes and upkeep optimal energy flow through interior design.

A direct translation of “wind and water” in Mandarin, feng shui is the curation of space through interior design so as to create an environment of healthy energy flow that results in harmony for occupants of that space.

Feng shui master Joey Yap shares with NSMAN some tips for your home.

Declutter

Declutter physical space inside your home and keep the flow of qi or energy unobstructed. Ensure that there are no obstructions to the front door from within, as qi enters through the doorway, he explains. At the same time, there should not be obstructions outside the entrance, such as tall trees or plant foliage, which can disrupt the flow of positive energy.

Location of kitchen stove

Make sure it is strategically positioned. For example, if your stove is located on a kitchen island, it is believed to create unfavourable feng shui, which can lead to poor health for the occupants of the house, according to Joey. “A favourable location would be against a wall, as this represents stability,” he says. Close proximity to the sink is also believed to lead to a clash between the fire (stove) and water (sink) elements. If both have to be placed next to each other, install a console or island in between to mitigate the clash.

Bed position

The bed is a key element affecting one’s quality of sleep – in particular its position. “Sleeping and having a good night’s rest impact our health greatly,” he says. “Having a bed placed next to a window can create poor feng shui, resulting in poor sleep and potential health issues.” Another no-no is positioning it against a corner of a wall, as the qi which is hemmed in the corner might create an energy block.