In the questionnaire that I ask my clients to fill out, good health is among the top of their concerns. The Family and Health Area of any space is located in the East and in the Center. There is a good reason why this area of the home should never be ignored even if it is not a priority. Without health and vitality we cannot truly enjoy the fullness of life. In Feng Shui, health equals wealth.
The concept of “Health” in classical Feng Shui applies to Longevity and Prosperity. Prosperity does not necessarily mean wealth. Prosperity is defined as “a state of flourishing, thriving, good fortune and/or successful social status.”
Balance is required to achieve a state of prosperity. Longer hours at work do not necessarily equate to prosperity, as the extra hours are exchanged for quality of life. To achieve balance, there must be a corresponding output and input. Work related activities are what we give OUT, time spent to nourish ourselves is an INward activity. Some examples of nourishing activities are healthy family interactions, traveling, reading, dinning out, charity work, or working on a hobby.
Classical Feng Shui is used to change the energy of an environment to create balance and keep the residents in good mental, physical and emotional health as well as to prevent accidents and injuries. By neutralizing the negative energies first and then tapping into favorable Chi of the environment one can rejuvenate the body and soul from the wear and tear of stress and everyday life. A balanced environment, along with restful sleep, a good diet and exercise, can minimize health complications, promote robust health and create vitality.
Having great health allows us to enjoy future generations. To be part of your children’s children’s lives and be able to enjoy them is the hallmark of longevity. During my father’s last visit here, I was able to witness with happiness, and wonder, how this 75 year old man, carrying 
a colostomy bag, was able to play soccer, baseball, football and do scooter races down the driveway with his then 7 year old grandson. Although his body’s health was compromised, his vitality was still that of a young man for a period of time.
What we eat and where we sleep influences our health. For best bed locations see my previous blog on Bedroom Feng Shui, part 1, 2 and 3. A family room is also a place I look at for Health because it is usually the space where families should be able to spend time together. Whether it is watching a show or movie together, reading or playing a game, fun and loving family interaction promote good health. Remember that your own personal environment has a big influence on your state of being, because it is the space where you spend the most time in.
For those of us who are fortunate to have extra space, a craft room or workshop and meditation room are also great places for health. When being creative and in the flow we are expressing our selves and releasing our innate creativity. Meditating is as beneficial as walking outside in nature, as we connect to Source in both ways.
Bringing nature indoors also promotes health. By placing plants, stones and water fountains indoors, we strengthen our connection with nature therefore creating an environment that supports and nurtures us. For optimum placement of the natural items look to the Bagua.
Plants are great enhancers in the East, Southeast and South. Stones on the Northeast and Southwest. Water enhances the North, East and Southeast.
Surrounding ourselves with nature and natural elements makes us more attuned to our natural energy. When we can make that connection through stones, water, plants and pets, our vitality and creativity increases and our health strengthens. Our quality of life becomes better.