Chi is an important element in the practice of Feng Shui. The flow of chi is the focal point for the application of this ancient Chinese practice. It is the energy that objects give off.
The flow of chi is determined by many natural factors. Some objects will evoke more chi than others and some objects will block the chi instead of helping it to pass by and flow. Figuring out what these objects are and placing them in areas where they will help the flowing of the room is crucial. One of the best ways that the flow can help to be determined is by how well any one person can move throughout the room.
If the objects in a room are so arranged that you need to maneuver to get around, it is not conducive to good chi. This prevents the room from getting fresh chi or fresh energy anytime that you are in the room, you will begin to feel aggravated and blocked. This goes from every source from the arrangement of the furniture to the clutter which may be situated around the room. The more clutter that is in the path, the more maneuvering you will have to do to move around and the more the flow of the chi will be blocked.
Chi is also affected by the textures and shapes existent in the room. But as chi is determined by factors like the arrangement of objects, it can also be relieved by some things. A good point is the function of area rugs. A cold, uncomfortable floor can affect the smooth flow of chi. However, opposing this not so good feeling with an area rug as a floor cover can give the chi a push to flow better.
A coffee table and side table are living room decorating staples. People who aren't particular with the concept of energy, or those not exactly bothered or interested with Feng Shui may arrange these furniture that are bad for chi. Blocked energy Feng Shui masters believe has an effect on the occupants. Tension, irritability, temper and uneasiness can result from chi that is not flowing right. Some Feng Shui practices indicate effects of poor health, wasted money, conflict in personal relationships and sadness from the imbalance of energy flow.
Observe how you and others feel while in a room. Do you feel at ease or ill at ease? Do you feel tired most of the time or energized when in that room? A keen observation will make you aware of the energy, albeit a subtle one. There's nothing to lose by doing all you can to make sure that chi is flowing to creating a positive living space.