Feng shui is a Chinese philosophy about the way buildings, furniture and objects are positioned. It is based on the theory of yin and yang, and the flow of chi (energy), which can have negative or positive effects on our lives. Yin is negative and yang is positive. Feng shui is now widely used in Western homes and offices. Let’s see what it has to say about entry doors.

The purpose of an entry door is to allow good health, wealth, careers and relationships to enter a building. Energy and opportunities from the universe come through our entry doors. If an entry door is obstructed by bushes and difficult to see from the street, it cannot freely receive opportunities.

Here are some feng shui tips to attract yang, and to “en-trance” your visitors:

• Create a sense of spaciousness near the entry door so that opportunities aren’t choked or cramped.
• A wall directly in front of an entry door prevents chi from entering, but a mirror on the wall will allow it in.
• Paint the entry door with an attractive color, preferably a different color from the rest of the home. Feng shui suggests that red attracts good fortune.
• Make sure the entry door area is well lit so that opportunity can find its way in.
• If a doorbell doesn’t work or it has an annoying tone, replace it with one that is more soothing.
• Attract positive possibilities by placing live flowers or plants near the entry door. Remove any unhealthy plants immediately.
• Keep the entry door area clean. Wash the floor and don’t leave shoes or boots near the door.