feng shui your gym space

The art of Feng Shui has been used for centuries to maximize the energy flow of our architectural spaces. Having originated more than 3000 years ago in China, Feng Shui literally translates as ‘wind’ (Feng) and ‘water’ (Shui), which are related to good health in Chinese culture. And so the notion of ‘good Feng Shui’ came to be associated with good fortune. The actual science is based on the Taoist understanding of nature, which is based in the idea that everything is comprised of energy, or ‘Chi.’

Feng Shui Expert Elana Kilkenny, who trained with the BTB Feng Shui School Masters Program, explains how to apply this ancient science to creating a home exercise space or when choosing a public studio or gym.

First impressions are everything

Just making your workout happen is often an act of perseverance, so it’s important that the entrance area of your studio or gym feels uplifting, engaging and inspiring. Fresh plants and flowers are always welcoming as they connote vitality and growth.

Location, location, location

Not everyone has enough space for a dedicated workout room, but ideally you should be working out in a space that has good airflow, is well lit and faces something that’s inspiring for you.

Your personal inspiration station
Think about how you can bring inspirational words or quotes into the gym with you, or even artwork that connotes your core fitness desires (such as vitality, freedom, strength, sensuality). In a public gym where members are stretching and spending time looking up at the ceiling, is there a way gym owners could utilize some interesting ceiling detail, message or lighting effect? Don’t be afraid to make the suggestion.

Who you lookin’ at?
Mirrors are used in Feng Shui to visually open up a space and bring more light into a low energy area. While best placement is quite technical and case specific, a general thing is to consider is what the mirror is reflecting, and if that is supporting or distracting to the intended functionality of that area.

Public gym Feng Shui…fail

While many gyms feature an industrial, monochromatic design, this can mean a lot of white, black and metal. From a Feng Shui perspective this feels visually and energetically cold, and in turn contributes to increased complaints and arguments amidst members as well as staff. The space can always be warmed up through the use of other textural and tactile materials, art and plants.

Nice equipment

When working out in a public gym, chose a machine where you’re not sweating directly next to somebody else. On a subtler energetic note, people often workout to relieve pressure, and overcrowded gyms become a container for the stressful energy being released.

Some Feng Shui for your head, ma’am?

Intention is vital to the transformative power of Feng Shui, so before you step into your workout space, take a moment to breathe and set an intention. Before you workout, remind yourself; “This time is for me to reconnect with the vitality and flow of my body” or “I desire to feel vital, healthy and sensual in my body, and this workout supports my desires.” Bring joy to your workout and your workout will bring joy to you.

Elana Kilkenny is a Feng Shui Designer, Intuitive Counselor, Empowerment Psychic and Healer.

Whether it’s interviewing Lady Gaga, unveiling the latest trends in fashion, or getting under the skin of our most neurotic social trends, Ruby Warrington is at the forefront of it all. She’s a British lifestyle writer, the celebrated creator of the blog The Numinous, and a regular contributor to the lululemon blog.