There is often some debate in the different schools of Feng Shui as to if a mirror has any place in a Feng Shui bedroom layout at all, however, many experts believe that placing a mirror strategically within a room can overcome layout issues such as not having the bed in the commanding position, or not being able to see the entryway. Here, we look at why it might be a good idea to have a mirror in your bedroom for Feng Shui and where mirrors should be placed in a bedroom for the best Feng Shui.
Where should mirrors be placed in a bedroom for Feng Shui?
Mirrors can be powerful tools in the practice of Feng Shui and, with bedrooms being delicately balanced spaces, it is important to get mirror placement right. ‘Bedrooms are mainly for resting and recharging your energy. It’s not meant to be stimulating,’ says Jessie Kim, Feng Shui consultant and owner of Mrs. Feng Shui (opens in new tab). ‘The only thing that needs to be done is promote good rest and sleep as, without this, you cannot function well at your job, your relationships and it’s not good for your health. All these things will negatively impact your Feng Shui for good luck.’ It is suggested that there are three main ways to use mirrors positively in your bedroom.
1. Use mirrors to reflect positive energies
Mirrors are believed to be powerful tools in Feng Shui meaning as they are thought to activate and multiply the energy of the room. If the mirror reflects clutter, for example, it can multiply negative energy. Similarly, a mirror that reflects positive energy can increase your luck or prosperity. Place mirrors in your bedroom to reflect Feng Shui elements such as wood and live Feng Shui plants to increase your chances of growth, fire for passion in relationships, or water for prosperity and rejuvenation.
2. Use mirrors to correct your bed position
When using Feng Shui, it is a priority to ensure good Feng Shui furniture placement in every room. The bedroom, however, places particular emphasis on Feng Shui bed placement as the bed is an important part of your rest and relaxation. ‘It is really important to consider the layout of the room, and make sure the bed is in the command position,’ warns Feng Shui expert Melissa Waite Stamps (opens in new tab). ‘If possible (when in the command position) have the head of the bed against the wall for support too.’ Using a mirror is a good way of correcting the layout of a room where it is not possible to have the bed in this commanding position as well as avoid the Feng Shui death position in a bedroom. In situations where you cannot see the door from the bed, for example, arrange a mirror so that you may look at the reflection of the door. This might mean that the mirror faces your bed, however, this is okay as long as it does not affect your sleep.
3. Use mirrors to channel the Feng Shui elements
As well as reflecting positive elements to improve their effects, mirrors can be used in the bedroom to introduce these elements into the bedroom. Mirrors are connected to the water element, however, using different shapes and frames can add other Feng Shui elements to your space as well. Rounded shapes represent the metal element for clarity and joy, whereas square or rectangular shapes bring in the self-care element of earth. Triangular mirrors, although unusual, can add visual interest to your room as well as the fire element for inspiration and passion. If choosing a framed mirror, it may be worth familiarizing yourself with Feng Shui bedroom colors and their meanings so that you introduce the right feel to your room without the risk of multiplying negative energy in your space.
Where in the bedroom would mirrors be avoided?
Experts often warn that care should be taken when using a mirror in the bedroom because of its powerful qualities. In fact, some believe that mirrors in bedrooms may be responsible for poor sleep quality or nightmares due to their ability to activate energy. ‘In Feng Shui, mirrors represent the element of water. They reflect and amplify energy so avoid positioning opposite the bed for good quality sleep.’ explains holistic designer Anna Lippett (opens in new tab). If you do have a mirror facing your bed and suffer from trouble sleeping, try covering the mirror overnight to see if there is any improvement. If so, consider moving the mirror in the room. Likewise, it is not advised to hang a mirror over your bed as its weight can disrupt your sleep. What’s more, it is vital that you avoid broken or cracked mirrors for bedroom mirror Feng Shui. Broken, unrepaired items are thought to contribute to negative Feng Shui energy or even block positive energy in a space. Finally, avoid hanging a mirror facing a bedroom window. Feng Shui practices believe that the mirror’s reflective quality can draw negative energy from outside the home inwards, and trap it within your house. With the bedroom being a place of escape and relaxation, it is best to keep the outdoors out. This is also why it is often considered not okay to place a bed under a window in Feng Shui.