Over a year ago, I committed to writing to you every week. Feng shui tips to help you navigate life with a little bit more ease and grace.
Outside of my marriage, that may be the biggest commitment I’ve ever made. And arguably the hardest.
I tend to approach every writing session with dread, wondering if the clarity in my head will ever make it down on paper. This is why the feng shui of my writing space matters so much. Whether it’s my home office or my favorite coffee shop, the energy of my environment dictates how easily the words will flow.
I recently explored this with Nicole Meier on her podcast, The Whole Writer. We talked about using feng shui principles to shape our writing practice, and how even small shifts in our physical space can unlock our creative voice.
Whether your writing appears in a New York Times bestseller, a Substack publication, or your private journal, I think you’ll find valuable wisdom in this conversation.
You can listen to it here...and then scroll down for my feng shui tips on creating your ideal writing space, whether you’re at home or on the road.
FENG SHUI TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL WRITING SPACE
AT HOME (in a private space)
Establish Rituals
Rituals tell our brain and body that we’re ready to write. They also create an intentional shift in the energy around you, marking the transition from everyday life into creative space. It can be as simple as lighting a candle, ringing a bell, brewing your favorite tea, or playing an inspirational song.
Sit in Command Position
Command position means there’s a solid wall behind you and you can see the entrance to the room. This gives your nervous system the best chance to relax. When we can’t see who is coming toward us, even when we’re home alone, our cells quietly and instinctually scan for threats. Having expansive space in front of you creates both a sense of safety and confidence.
Create White Space
Just like text on a page, your space thrives with white space. Piles of clutter within view or across your desk can interrupt your writing flow before it even begins.
Welcome Natural Light
Whenever possible, position yourself near a window or natural light source. Natural light nourishes our energy and keeps us connected to the rhythm of the day. If natural light isn’t available, choose warm, full-spectrum lighting that mimics daylight.
Place Something Inspirational in View
Keep an object that sparks your creativity where you can see it. This might be a meaningful piece of art, a favorite quote, a plant, or an image that represents what you’re working toward. Let it be something that reminds you why you write.
AT HOME (in a communal space)
Set Boundaries
In addition to the tips above, boundaries are the most important thing you can create to support your writing. They’re a way of declaring that your writing matters to you.
Boundaries work in two directions.
To keep your attention focused inward, avoid staring at piles of laundry to be folded or bills to be paid. Either take a few minutes to tidy up before you sit down, or position yourself so these things aren’t in your direct line of sight.
To keep the attention of others out, consider using a decorative screen to carve out a private space within a larger room. Or light a candle when you begin writing and let others know that’s your signal not to be interrupted.
IN THE WILD
For those coffee shop and library visits, I apply the same feng shui principles wherever I land. I create a sacred writing space by selecting the seat that feels most protective (ideally with a wall behind me and a view of the room), blocking out distractions with airpods and ambient music, and placing an altar cloth under my computer. The altar cloth can be anything from a special tea towel to a beautiful cloth napkin. It becomes part of a ritual signaling to your brain that this is your sacred space.
NOW OVER TO YOU
What’s your writing space like? Do you have any must-haves in your space? Or favorite rituals to support your practice?
We’d love to hear.
Let us know in the comments.
xoxo
Dorena
Space Doula®
P.S. If you like House Talk, I’d be honored if you shared it with a friend.
Love this and loved our conversation, Dorena!
When I was writing my book, Taylor Swift became my background muse. Idk y because although I enjoy her songs, I’m not her biggest fan. I also placed my watercolor paints within sight because playing with those when I needed a writing break was so much fun and helped the creative writing juices flow without a ton of effort.