Now that 2024 is upon us, many people are revamping their homes in order to create a more harmonious and positive environment. In doing so, many people are finding that the ancient Chinese art of Feng Shui is a fantastic way to promote positivity and balance. By incorporating Feng Shui principles into your home, you can tap into the flow of positive energy — also known as “chi” — which sets the tone for a happy, healthy space all year long. To start the new year off right, here are eight feng shui tips to help you usher in positive vibes all 2024.

1. Clear the clutter.

The first thing you need to do to start the new year on the right foot is declutter. Studies show that a cluttered space can have a negative effect on your mental health. And on top of that, Feng Shui dictates a crowded space can mess up the flow of energy in your home, too.

So to avoid this, start the new year by getting rid of any items that you don’t use or no longer hold meaning to you. By decluttering, you can create a cleaner, more open living space that allows positive energy to flow freely.

2. Balance the elements.

In Feng Shui, there are five important elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Incorporating each element into your home can create a  harmonious balance that provides the perfect start to the new year. For example, adding wooden furniture, candles, houseplants, metal accents, and water fountains can help usher in a well-rounded aesthetic and overall vibe.

3. Maximize natural light.

According to Feng Shui, light represents positive energy, which is why having plenty of natural light is important for promoting harmony in your space. If you don’t have a lot of natural light, you can take advantage of what you have by keeping windows unobstructed, installing light-colored or sheer curtains, and arranging decorative mirrors so that they reflect light in the room.

4. Choose calming colors.

Colors play a pretty big part in how energy is felt within your space. So much so, that there’s a whole psychology behind it! To make your color palette work for you, be sure to opt for tranquil shades that promote balance — i.e. pale blues, greens, or neutral tones. Being strategic regarding the colors you choose can help you usher in the type of energy you want to keep around for the new year.

5. Incorporate living plants.

Incorporating nature is key to creating a calming space, which is why it’s a fundamental principle of Feng Shui. Plants symbolize growth, vitality, and prosperity, so if you want to attract any of these, shop for plants with rounded leaves for a gentler energy. Then, position them in a way that enhances the overall chi in the room.

6. Create a positive entryway.

The front entrance of your home can tell you a lot about the energy it keeps. To promote a happy, healthy environment, be sure to make creating an inviting entryway a priority. You can do this by decluttering the area, ensuring it remains well-lit, and decorating it with nice elements such as a welcoming doormat, houseplants, or some wall art to set a positive tone for guests.

7. Personalize your space.

One of the best parts about having a home to call your own is that you can decorate it however you like. Try displaying your favorite artwork, family photos, or personal mementos that remind you of the good times. Decor can bring about good energy, so always add pieces that resonate with you to promote positive vibes.

8. Foster positive energy flow.

Nothing can ruin the energy in a home quite like a crowded space. To avoid negativity energies, try rearranging your furniture so that energy can flow freely with interruptions.