Feng Shui Challenges to Watch Out For and How to Shift Your Space's Energy

Feng Shui isn't about perfection; it's about tuning into your space and making it work for you. If you come across something 'off' in your home, don't stress—it’s an opportunity to shift the energy.

While I don’t really believe in feng shui “mistakes,” there are certain things I often see in homes that can create some challenges. These aren’t things you must change right away, but more like signs you can use to get curious about the energy in your space. Think of them as opportunities to shift things — and remember, it’s not about getting everything perfect but about creating the best environment for you.

Here are seven feng shui challenges you might want to watch out for — and how to work with them:

1. Blocked Doors

Doors are powerful symbols in feng shui. They represent your voice and your ability to bring opportunities into your life. Ideally, doors should open fully — 90 degrees — so energy can flow freely. If there’s something blocking a door, it can restrict that flow of qi. The most common culprit? Clutter. If you’ve got things piled up in front of your door, clear them out! It’s a simple fix that can make a big difference in how your space feels and what opportunities come your way.

2. Trying to Fix Everything at Once

The feng shui bagua map can be an exciting tool, showing you how different areas of your home correspond to different aspects of your life. But sometimes, when people learn about the bagua, they want to tackle all nine areas at once — prosperity, health, love, career... you name it! But aiming for perfect balance in every area can be overwhelming. Instead, focus on one or two key areas of your life that really need attention right now. Work with those and let the rest unfold naturally. Small, intentional changes are way more manageable than trying to perfect everything.

3. Dying or Sick Plants

Fresh, living plants bring energy to a space. But plants that are dying or struggling aren’t helping — they can actually create stagnant energy. If you’ve been nursing a plant back to life for months with no success, it might be time to let go. And if you’re holding onto dried flowers for sentimental reasons, that’s okay — but don’t expect them to do much for your space’s energy. Replace them with fresh, vibrant plants whenever you can.

4. Sharp, Thorny, or Pointy Plants

Some plants, like cacti or succulents, have sharp edges or thorns. While they can offer protection and are great for certain areas, in general, feng shui favors plants with rounded, soft leaves. These types of plants invite a gentle, supportive energy into your home. If you love your prickly plants, keep them, but maybe consider balancing them with a soft-leafed friend or two.

5. Broken or Obscured Mirrors

Mirrors are amazing feng shui tools. They can expand a space and reflect energy back to you, creating a sense of possibility. But if your mirror is broken or cloudy, it won’t have the same effect. A clear, undistorted mirror will reflect your space’s energy and allow you to see things clearly. If you’ve got a mirror that’s less than perfect, consider replacing or cleaning it. It’s a small change that can bring big shifts in how you perceive your space.

6. Storage Under the Bed

It’s tempting, especially in small apartments, to use the space under the bed for storage. But from a feng shui perspective, it’s best to keep this area clear. Why? Because you spend so much time sleeping, and stored items beneath the bed can create subconscious blocks and interfere with the free flow of energy. If you have to store things there, stick to soft items like pillows or linens. The goal is to keep the space under the bed open and free so qi can circulate while you sleep.

7. Bed Without a Headboard

In feng shui, the headboard is important because it represents support, stability, and protection. If your bed has no headboard or isn’t up against a solid wall, it can feel like you’re floating — not as grounded or protected while you sleep. When it comes to headboards, the most important thing is making sure it’s sturdy and securely attached to the bed. The key is making sure your bed feels supported and grounded.

As you take a look at these potential challenges in your space, remember: there’s no “right” or “wrong” here. These are just suggestions, and what works for one person might not work for another. If you feel resistance to making a change, be curious about why that is. Is it practical? Is it just a habit you’re not ready to break? Either way, trust that you can make shifts as you feel inspired.

And remember, you can always sign up for a Home Energy Clarity Session if you’re looking for more personalized guidance!