Essential Feng Shui Tips: Front Entrances

Feng Shui Definitions

The area leading up to your front door, the threshold itself, and the area immediately inside the house, are all part of your front entrance. Front entrances are the place of first impressions, and the primary place where vital Ch’i enters your home. Ideally, your front entrance is “entrancing,” symbolizing your desire to welcome others into your home. Roll out the welcome mat and make your front entrance fabulous. In so doing, you’ll attract an abundance of nourishing Ch’i into your home.

Outdoors

• Install an outdoor water feature near your front entrance to symbolize your desire to receive wealth and prosperity in all forms. Choose one that suits your entrance area—anything from a huge fountain to a small birdbath. If your fountain is directional, make sure it’s directed toward the house. Whether you choose a flowing fountain or a vessel of still water, keep it very clean and in good repair.
• Make the landscaping around your front entrance especially inviting. Design a wide, welcoming path to your front door that is distinct and separate from the driveway. Let it meander so that people have a chance to slow down and enjoy your special touches before reaching your door. Place seating near the front door to suggest comfort and relaxation. Embellish it with flowers, wind chimes, and other beautiful appointments. Even in the most humble or confined areas, a friendly sign or seasonal wreath on the door carries welcoming Ch’i.
• Always keep the front path (and all paths) in good repair; and clear of overgrown plants, toys, hoses, pet bowls, or any other potential hazard.
• Be sure your entire front entrance area is well lit with great outdoor lighting. This assures comfort and safety and also illuminates your beautiful entrance features at night.
• Keep the front entrance of your home in good repair. Paint or spruce it up as soon as it shows signs of wear and tear.
• In Feng Shui, the color red is often suggested to attract celebration, prosperity, and joy into the house. Many people paint their front doors an appealing shade of red, while others plant red flowers or place red objects near their front doors.

Indoors

• Traditionally in Feng Shui, the best painting in the household is displayed by the front door. This is to honor your guests (and you) as they enter your home. When you have the space, set up a welcoming arrangement that may include a painting and a table with a vase of fresh flowers and an interior fountain. When your entry area is small, hang an attractive mirror or art that has depth to open up the space. Create a token place of welcome even when there’s no official foyer. Do whatever you can to present your guests—and yourself—with a warm and welcoming first impression.
• Consider making your home a “shoeless” house. Design a place near the front door to store shoes. You might even want to provide socks or slippers for guests. This helps keep your home clean, and symbolizes leaving your worldly cares and concerns at the door.
• As with the outdoor entrance area, keep the indoor path clear of migrating possessions such as toys, sports equipment, recyclables, and mail.