Why Keeping Your Windows Clean Is Important For Feng Shui

Feng shui is the well-known practice of creating harmonious manmade environments by optimizing and controlling the flow of energy. The system is guided by the belief that everything has chi or life-force energy, and the placement and balance of objects impact our experience. Ideally, positive chi is free-flowing and negative (sha) chi is deflected. When feng shui principles are focused specifically on doors and windows, it's because they act as energy portals. At home, obstructed doorways equate to blocked potential, while the sight of its residents is symbolized by its windows. A poor or restricted view will be reflected in the quality of chi.

According to the window purveyor Northview Group, there are several factors that affect the type of energy contributed by our homes' windows. Their size, location, and even shape are consequential. For example, windows that are too expansive leave us feeling unprotected. Similarly, it is contended that our chi will slip through the bottom of floor-to-ceiling windows, causing a symptom that can manifest as fatigue. "The energy can fly right out the window. It's good to address that by using drapes or blinds," feng shui master and interior designer Catherine Brophy explains in Real Simple. By the same token, windows that sit directly opposite the front door strongly attract chi to them.

The windows in our home represent an important connection to two of the essential feng shui elements, water and wood. The glass pane symbolizes water by inviting wisdom, while a view of the outdoors ties us to the vitality of the wood element. Feng shui practitioners believe there is an active exchange of energy through a window — in with the positive chi and out with the negative. Additionally, as a physical representation of our inner state, dirty windows are an impediment to a clear perception of the outside world and they portend a blurred, uncertain path. Likewise, per Red Lotus Letter, cracked or inoperable windows harbor negative chi, and should be repaired to ensure continued good health. For all of these reasons, window glass should be kept pristine, and it's a good idea to vacuum sills and launder window treatments regularly. 

Detoxing our homes of dust, grime, and allergens promotes a positive flow of energy. For those who prefer natural and nontoxic cleansers, a favorite go-to is a simple 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar. The solution makes an effective window cleaner, and a bit of added liquid soap aids in the removal of any build-up from previously used commercial cleansers. For a sensory boost, use soap with fragrance; uplifting citrus or peppermint works well in the kitchen or home office, and soothing lavender is perfect for the living room or bedroom. 

To be in alignment with feng shui principles, window glass in our homes should be clean to provide optimal vision and the flow of energy. However, in some instances, it's beneficial to slow or redirect the chi instead. As previously mentioned, the effects of overly large or inauspiciously situated windows can be partially remedied with drapery. In these cases, sheers will permit light to filter in while providing some measure of comfort; natural fabrics like linen, cotton, and bamboo are best. 

Catherine Brophy explains in Real SImple yet another trick that will improve energy balance. "Put something in front of the window, like a plant or a pretty reflective bowl, to bounce energy back into the room," she says. A multifaceted crystal will reroute the energy too; these are quick and perhaps more temporary alternatives to window treatments. Per Artisans Crest, for a touchstone of peace and enlightenment, place a Buddha statue somewhere with an already high level of good chi such as a windowsill overlooking a beautiful view. Wind chimes, with their delicate sound, and bamboo plants, symbols of prosperity, encourage positive chi to remain when placed in front of a window. Lastly, opening windows frequently, even in cold weather, creates air circulation to revive the life force inside the home and release stagnant energy.