When I first moved to the PNW I thought of camellias as plants for old ladies’ gardens.  To me the camellias were background for the other more important and flashier plants.  This is my 20th winter in the PNW and I have learned my lesson.  Winter blooming plants and evergreens are some of the most important plants in my garden as far as I am concerned.  Seeing the cheery red and yellow blooms of Camellia sasanqua “Yuletide” this December as I leave and return to my house has lifted my spirits much more than I would have thought possible.

One of the core theories of Feng Shui, no matter what method you practice, is that the small things in your life add up to make it what it is today.  Even things that you might not think of as being important have an effect on you.  The accumulation of these small things can sneak up on you, slowly and subtly changing your qi before you even realize it.  Feng Shui practitioners work to help you change your environment so that the combined effect of the small things makes you feel optimistic, strong and vibrant.  One of my Feng Shui teachers once told me “If you can’t figure out any way to cure the problem, just make it as beautiful as possible”.  And she was right, it does have an effect, even if it’s not a true Feng Shui adjustment.

If you are feeling like your energy is lower than usual, take a good look at the rooms and places where you spend the most time.  Is there enough light?   Is there enough color and warmth?  Do you have any live plants or pets?  All of these small things will add up over time to influence you, so take some time in this New Year to make sure they are things that lift your spirits.  Even if all you do is clean thoroughly and get rid of some old things you don’t use or want any more I guarantee it will make a difference.