Feng Shui Tips for Windowless Office

I often get this question: "I work in an office that has no windows. How do I make it more livable?"

Working in a space without natural light is poor feng shui. It can be depressing and lead to lower productivity and well-being. 

My first response is this: Lighting. Traditional office lighting is fluorescent and it's been proven that fluorescent lighting contributes to headaches, migraines and a general malaise. Why? The color spectrum is unnatural. It makes skin look a lovely shade of green. Everyone looks sick under traditional fluorescent. And, the current of the light flickers. The ballast sends pulses of electricity, and in effect, turns the light on and off very quickly;  so quickly that you don't notice it – but your body does.

To solve the "green" issue, see if it's possible to get full spectrum fluorescent bulbs. They have a more blue caste to the light which is closer to natural light. Although more costly, they can last two-thirds of the time longer than traditional bulbs (a more sustainable option).

To solve the flicker issue, I suggest adding incandescent lighting to your office with a table lamp and a floor lamp – one directing light upward is great for lifting the chi of your office.

Then, of course, bring other natural elements into your space. Bring in artwork and other objects that you love. A mirror hung to the side of your desk can mimic the illusion of a window. And, plants. Bring several live plants into your office, depending on the size.

I hope that helps!