The question of whether or not to keep plants in the bedroom has long been debated amongst feng shui practitioners and enthusiasts. Some argue that the wood energy of living plants promotes rejuvenation, vitality, and personal growth – all beneficial energies to invite into the most personal space of your home. Others caution that the upward and expansive nature of plants’ energy can overstimulate the mind and disrupt sleep and relaxation.
Different schools of feng shui have opposing views on how plants impact the human energy system known as qi or chi. With conflicting stances between classical feng shui, Western adaptations, and personal observations, the plant debate remains unsettled. This article will examine the primary arguments on both sides, factors to consider, and advice from feng shui masters. The goal is to provide a balanced perspective to help you evaluate if bedroom plants align with your own energy and sleep needs.
The Case for Plants in the Bedroom
Plants can have a rejuvenating effect in the bedroom by infusing the space with wood energy. According to feng shui principles, the wood element promotes growth, vitality and flexibility. Having living plants in your bedroom connects you to the energy of nature and can make the space feel more alive.
The vibrant chi or life force of plants is believed to counterbalance the yin, or more closed off energy of the bedroom. Sleeping surrounded by wood energy brings a sense of tranquility along with gentle stimulation. Plants breathe out oxygen at night which can promote deep, restful sleep.
Greenery in the bedroom is thought to make the space more nurturing and comfortable. The wood element represents kindness and springtime, so plants can evoke this tender energy. Surrounding yourself with living plants encourages renewal along with emotional and spiritual flexibility.
Overall, proponents argue plants make the bedroom environment more vital and rejuvenating. The living chi of plants flows through the room, promoting personal growth. Sleeping amidst the wood energy of plants is believed to restore your own inner reserves of energy.
The Case Against Plants in the Bedroom
Many feng shui masters advise against having live plants in the bedroom due to the type of energy they bring.
Plants represent the wood element in feng shui, which promotes expansive, upward energy. This “reaching for the sky” energy can overstimulate the nervous system for sensitive individuals. Having active, growing plants in the bedroom may make it difficult to fully relax and unwind.
For people who are restless, anxious, or have trouble sleeping, the vibrant energy of plants can be too much. The wood energy plants give off may create an unsettled feeling rather than a calming sleep environment.
Different schools of feng shui have varying perspectives on plants in the bedroom. While some advise avoiding them altogether, others believe certain types of plants and strategic placement can be beneficial. Those against plants argue the bedroom should be kept simple with minimal stimulation.
Overall, more traditional and classical feng shui practitioners tend to avoid recommending plants in the bedroom. They view the expansive wood energy as disruptive to the ideal tranquil environment for quality rest.
Choosing the Right Plants
When selecting plants for your bedroom, consider the size, light, and care needs to find varieties suitable for the space. Small, low light plants like peace lilies, ZZ plants, and pothos do well in most bedrooms. Avoid poisonous plants like dieffenbachia, as well as prickly cacti and succulents to prevent injuries.
Pay attention to the mature size of plants, not just the size you purchase them at. A small snake plant can grow quite large over time. Make sure to choose plants appropriate to the amount of natural light in your bedroom. Low light loving plants like philodendrons and Chinese evergreens are better for darker rooms.
Select plants that match your desired care level. If you’ll be away a lot, go for lower maintenance varieties that require less frequent watering. Succulents and sansevieria need watering just once every few weeks. Houseplant beginners may want to avoid delicate plants like ferns and orchids. Consider your climate as well when choosing plants. Tropical varieties like anthuriums thrive in warm, humid environments.
By carefully selecting suitable plants, you can successfully incorporate living greenery into your bedroom decor. Avoid varieties known to be poisonous or hazardous to prevent safety issues. Monitor all plants for pest problems which can spread quickly in an enclosed space. With the right choices, plants can bring pleasant nature energy into the bedroom.
Monitor Your Reaction
It’s important to pay attention to how you feel when you add plants to your bedroom. The goal is to promote better sleep, not disrupt it.
Monitor your quality of sleep and overall comfort level in the days and weeks after introducing new plants. Do you feel more relaxed and well-rested, or more restless?
If you find yourself sleeping worse or feeling irritable and distracted with the new plant energy in your personal space, take action. Don’t just assume you’ll get used to it.
First, try moving the plant to a different spot in your bedroom to see if that helps. If sleep issues or negative reactions persist, go ahead and remove the plant entirely. The plant may thrive better in a different room anyway.
Trust your instincts. You know your sleep patterns and sensitivities best. While plants can certainly enhance a bedroom, don’t force it if they are negatively impacting your comfort zone. A good night’s rest is too important!
Plant Placement
When bringing plants into the bedroom, consider where to position them for optimal feng shui as well as your lifestyle. Here are some tips:
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Place plants in natural spots that make visual sense, such as flanking the bed or dresser, next to the window, or in a corner. Avoid cluttering the middle of the room or walkways.
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If using plants on shelving, make sure they don’t hang down in a way that creates an overbearing sense of pressure from above.
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Avoid placing plants directly next to, above, or behind the headboard. Some feng shui experts advise keeping plants away from the bed to allow for proper airflow.
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Consider easy-to-reach spots for plants that require more frequent watering and maintenance. Place plants that need less attention in more out-of-the-way areas.
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Hang plants up to save space and create an uplifting sense of airiness. Opt for wall-mounted shelves or macrame plant hangers.
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Place larger plants in sturdy containers on the floor in proportion to the size of the room. Too many oversized plants can make the space feel chaotic.
The key is striking the right balance between bringing in lively plant energy and keeping the bedroom uncluttered. Monitor which plant placements feel harmonious or disruptive for you. Make adjustments as needed so your bedroom plants contribute to a serene environment.
Caring for Bedroom Plants
Proper care is essential for keeping bedroom plants healthy. Establishing a regular watering routine tailored to each plant’s needs helps avoid issues like dried leaves or root rot from overwatering. Check soil moisture before watering and monitor for signs of under or overwatering.
Many bedroom plants benefit from occasional pruning. Trimming dead leaves or stems encourages new growth. Wipe broad leaf plants with a damp cloth to remove dust buildup. Clean the leaves regularly with a gentle soap and water solution. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage sensitive plants.
Group plants with similar light and water needs in the same area. This makes care easier than treating each plant individually. Take time to get to know your plants’ preferences and quirks. A little attention goes a long way in keeping bedroom plants thriving. With proper care, bedroom plants can remain an energizing and tranquil addition for years to come.
Alternatives to Live Plants
If you decide live plants aren’t right for your bedroom, there are still ways to bring natural elements in. Here are some options:
Silk or Dried Plants
For the look of plants without the care, consider high-quality silk or dried botanicals. Well-made artificial plants can provide a realistic appearance. Choose varieties that suit your décor style, like trailing ivy, orchids, or eucalyptus stems.
Silk and dried plants don’t require any upkeep besides occasional dusting. You won’t have to worry about watering or sunlight. They can be an ideal hassle-free alternative.
Plant Motifs
Bring in plant motifs through art, bedding, curtains, or accessories. Botanical prints in green and earthy tones can cultivate a peaceful nature theme. Accent pillows or duvet covers with plant patterns are an easy way to add touches of greenery.
For wall art, consider getting a plant illustration, botanical print, or even framed leaves and ferns. Introduce nature themes in lamps, vases, throws, and other decor details. Use plants as inspiration without having live ones.
Expert Opinions
Feng shui experts have varying thoughts on whether plants belong in the bedroom. Here are some key perspectives:
“Plants are incredibly beneficial in the bedroom. The wood energy helps us relax and reconnect with nature, leading to deeper sleep.” – Lillian Too, feng shui master and author
“It depends on the individual. For people lacking in wood energy, plants can provide a balancing effect. But for those already high in wood, too many plants may overly stimulate energy.” – Joey Yap, feng shui consultant
“Take care not to overdo plants in the bedroom. The expansive and upward wood energy can disrupt sleep and cause restlessness.” – Kris Aubrey, feng shui practitioner
“Evaluate how you feel with plants in the bedroom. If they create a soothing, peaceful feeling, they are working well. But if you feel overactive or distracted, consider removing them.” – Angi Ma Wong, feng shui expert
“Rather than live plants, I recommend photos or images of plants and nature in the bedroom. This avoids concerns about ongoing care and potential issues.” – Marites Allen, feng shui master
The range of perspectives shows there is no definitive right or wrong regarding plants in the bedroom. Experts suggest closely evaluating your personal response and making adjustments accordingly.
Conclusion
The debate over whether to have plants in the bedroom comes down to personal preference and careful observation. Those in favor point to the natural, rejuvenating energy living plants provide. But plants can also overstimulate more sensitive sleepers.
If you want to try plants in your bedroom, choose varieties suitable to the space and your care level. Start with just one or two plants, and monitor their impact. Make sure you sleep as well with them in the room. Also check that they don’t increase humidity or allergies.
Ideally, bedroom plants should soothe and relax you. But if you find them visually distracting or high-maintenance, it’s fine to limit them. Many alternatives like pictures of nature or essential oils can provide calming energy instead. Listen to your own reactions and adjust until your bedroom supports rejuvenating sleep.
