Do you believe in feng-shui, or the art of placement? What about when it comes to your dining room furniture? In the west, it comprises of interior design techniques used to promote health, growth, and stability in one’s life. According to these principles, by surrounding yourself with the right items, you can create a sense of balance and clarity in your daily routine and keep daily rigors from depleting you of your energy. Perhaps what feng-shui is trying to convey is that the furniture you own and the belongings you surround yourself with have an extreme effect on your mood and mental well-being. In other words, the type and arrangement of your furniture may be depriving you and your family of some serious Zen!
The dining room is a place of peace and enjoyment, as it is known for bringing families together. While this is true, it is often neglected, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas of course. Rarely do we have time to sit down to a meal as a family anymore. While this is true, perhaps the furniture is not as inviting as it can be either. For instance, old, dark, heavy furniture can bring on similar feelings — dark and heavy — which can also create a sense of lethargy in the room. Cramped space can have the same effect. Always make sure there is an equal amount table space for everyone and that there is ample room to move about. Clear all clutter and junk and old items so as not to distract diners. If you do intend to keep items like pictures and portraits out, make sure they are current, as this will enhance conversation — good conversation if your family has had a lot of issues in the past. A mirror is also another way to create more space, or at least an illusion of it. Make sure it reflects something attractive, like a nice piece of furniture or a window.
Earth tones are preferred for keeping things light and peaceful. Dining furniture with white, maple, or natural finishes is a good idea. Try to keep it simple, but attractive. Modern-type dining furniture is a good example of this — it is light and utilitarian, yet subtly elegant. You do not want your furniture to speak louder than the people around the table. Big, gaudy, furniture and accessories looming around you can intimidate and promote a stuffy atmosphere. Make the dining experience fun and enjoyable; put an exotic plant in the corner, find bamboo placemats to go on your glass top dining room table. Hang your favorite painting for all to admire. But don’t overdo it, remember, the saying “less is more” applies to more than just makeup.
At least once a week it’s good to turn off the TV and allow yourself to enjoy this room without any distractions other than conversation with your family. Treating dinnertime as a time for relaxation is a good feng shui practice, and being comfortable during this time amongst your dining room furniture will help both your mood and your digestion.
By Kelley Caner
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Amish Dining Room Furniture - Heirloom Quality Solid Oak Dining Room Tables and Chairs