Are you are one of the 150 million people in North America who enjoys the many perks of a homebased business, such as no commuting and the ability to throw a load of laundry in to wash while you work away? Or perhaps you're one of the increasing numbers of people who are employed by companies that allow you to work from home on a full- or part-time basis.

Perks aside, are you also aware of the subtle stress and other possible health risks that you may face each day by working at home? In the traditional work world, we punch out or shut our office doors at 5 pm and go home-home to a different environment where we ideally are refreshed and re-energized with our work far behind us.

Working at home, however, our office is our home environment (especially if it is located in our bedroom!). If we are to be successful in our business life, we must respect and address our work environment.We can do this by becoming even a little bit feng shui savvy.

In feng shui, everything is energy-even collections of household items. If objects pile up in your home office, stagnant chi (energy) fills the air. This can result in feelings of stress, frustration, overwhelm and the inability to make proper decisions in your business. The outcome? Health is negatively affected as well. I suggest, in order of priority, locating a home office in the farthest room away from your bedroom. Your bedroom is a sanctuary for sleep and intimacy only. If you have no spare room in your house, get creative. Dividers and plants can be used to create a space off of the kitchen or living room.

Position your office desk so that you are facing the door. This allows
you to feel in control and take the reins of your business. If this position is not possible, place a mirror on your desk, so you can see the unexpected coming up. Be knowledgeable about how your office will protect you and keep you healthy.

De-clutter, organize, clean and take out your garbage every day. This opens up the chi energy allowing for more opportunity to arrive.
From a safety point of view, take stock of the potential invisible off-gassing from chemicals in the home, such as from carpets, that can lead to many health ailments.

Having a window in your office is an important escape route for any toxic buildup. The wood element of plants also helps to clean up the air. The nice trickling water element of a fountain keeps the air moist and refreshing.

The metal element of a lamp to place near your computer is especially important for your eyes. Use natural light bulbs. Become aware of all the electricity you are encompassed in. These fields decharge the body's bio-energy field, leaving you feeling drained at the end of the day. Purchase the earth element of a salt rock lamp, which permeates a nice pulse of negative ions into the air to help neutralize electromagnetic fields.

To top off the ambience, have a nice fire element of a candle burning with soft music playing in the background, creating a low stress environment that is relaxing for the soul. Take into consideration the aesthetic feeling of your office space. The colours, your furniture, your artwork. Does your room inspire you or drain you? Hire a style consultant if you feel the need for an office facelift.

Respecting your home office and being feng shui savvy will ensure many happy and healthy workdays.

[Kim Easterbrook works with clients in their homes and offices as an Interior Health Stylist. She is also a longevity researcher and published health writer. 604-465-5175 www.zenshuionline.com]

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