The average person has trouble pronouncing Feng Shui (FENG-SH-WEE) without snickering, let alone putting its ancient principles to good use. But Julie Anna Alvarez, a Harvard Law School graduate turned Feng Shui consultant, and author of the Happy Chi e-newsletter (happychi
solutions.com), assures us that “You don’t have to turn your life upside down in order to right your chi.”

So why apply this philosophy to your yoga space? Feng Shui is the Chinese practice of positioning objects, especially graves, buildings, and furniture, based on a belief in patterns of yin and yang and the flow of energy (called “chi”). Sounds a lot like yoga’s principle that when prana (breath or life force) is blocked you aren’t likely to be as energized, motivated, or fit.

Even though we were a little skeptical, we asked Alvarez to explain how Feng Shui can help us spend an extra 15 minutes on the mat. Turns out ditching the mat that’s in need of repair and placing a plant near a new mat inspired this writer to stick to her regular practice. For small changes that can help get that good energy flowing, read on.

1. Clean up the clutter:  “Excessive clutter within your space, including hidden clutter in closets and drawers—and yes, under the bed counts—stagnates the energy around you, and can cause health issues while also blocking new opportunities from coming your way,” Alvarez says. When you put your mat down, survey the nearest entryway. Removing scattered sneakers invites new possibilities. Meditate on that.

2. Pick the right spot: Don’t base your practice on the prettiest room. According to Black Hat Feng Shui, which is the funky younger sis of the Shui tradition, every room has a grid, and the center of every room is associated with health—so the center is the ideal place to put your mat. And next time you practice in public class, welcome being stuck in the middle. Any mirrors in view? They promote good karma and improve chi.

3. Look down not out: Okay, so maybe you spend more time looking at your mat or belly button than the door, but when you’re facing forward, keep the exit in your peripheral vision. “Not being able to see the door brings on stress, anxiety, and a weakened nervous system,” Alvarez says.

4. Fix it before yoga: Items that are in a state of disrepair are said to transmit negative energy and can bring you down when you’re near them. If that’s not incentive to keep everything in your space in good condition, what is? Can’t fix that faulty hinge before your Hero pose? Move to the center of another room.

5. Do DVD and TV right: For many people yoga at home means following the televised lead of the teacher on the tube. But you need to find a healthy way to coexist with the EMFs (electromagnetic frequencies) emanating from the TV. Alvarez suggests checking out the various EMF-blocking devices on the market. We suggest deferring to Mom: Just remember not to sit too close, sugar.

6. Add real live props:  Technically called “life forces,” healthy plants, tabletop fountains, and goldfish encourage active energy and good health. No green thumb or affinity for your very own Nemo? Color, background music, soft lighting, and even a fresh breeze will do. All-white sounds nice, but it does not encourage the vibrations of these other choices.