Latest news with #FengShui
Time of India
20 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
9 indoor plants you should not keep at home
Not all houseplants are as harmless as they look. While indoor greenery can brighten up your space, clean the air, and boost your mood, some plants may pose unexpected risks. Certain varieties are toxic to pets and children, trigger allergies, or attract pests and mould. Others can be difficult to care for or symbolically linked to negativity. If you're planning to decorate your home with plants, it's worth knowing which ones to avoid. These are nine indoor plants that may not be the best choice for your home, no matter how attractive they seem. Avoid these 9 indoor plants if you want a healthy, happy home Cactus Cacti are popular for their low maintenance and aesthetic appeal, but they come with sharp thorns that symbolise negative energy in Vastu. These thorns are believed to cause arguments, stress, and tension among family members. While some feng shui practices say cacti can ward off intruders when placed outside, they are best avoided inside living spaces, especially in bedrooms or near entrances. Caladium (Elephant ear plant) Caladium, known for its colourful, heart-shaped leaves, contains calcium oxalate crystals that are toxic if ingested. This makes it dangerous for households with pets or small children. Even touching the plant can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Knee Pain Keeping You Up at Night? This Trick Could Help Instantly Learn More Undo Aside from the health risk, its high maintenance needs and moisture sensitivity make it a poor indoor choice. Cotton plants Cotton plants may seem decorative, especially with their fluffy white blooms, but they are not recommen ded indoors. According to traditional beliefs, they are associated with poverty and misfortune. Additionally, dried cotton can attract dust, mould, or pests like mites, potentially triggering allergies or affecting indoor air quality. Babul plant (Acacia nilotica) Though valued in traditional medicine, the Babul tree is not considered auspicious for indoor spaces. Vastu Shastra discourages keeping thorny plants like Babul at home, as they are believed to attract discord and conflict. Its strong thorns are also physically hazardous, especially in households with children or pets. Plus, it requires full sunlight and outdoor space to thrive, making it unsuitable as a houseplant. Dead or dying plants Keeping dead, dried, or decaying plants indoors is considered inauspicious in both Vastu and Feng Shui. They are said to block the natural energy flow and symbolise stagnation and decline. On a practical level, these plants may also attract mould, insects, and dust, negatively impacting both aesthetics and hygiene. Always remove withered leaves and replace dead plants with healthy, thriving ones. Dieffenbachia (Dumb cane) This common indoor plant is often chosen for its large, attractive leaves. However, Dieffenbachia contains toxic compounds called calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, it can cause burning sensations, swelling in the throat, nausea, or even breathing issues. It's particularly dangerous for pets and small children who may chew on the leaves. While it's easy to grow, its toxicity makes it risky indoors. Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis) While the banyan tree is sacred in many Indian traditions and temples, it is not suitable for indoor growth. According to Vastu, keeping a banyan tree at home can hinder progress and create stagnation. Its expansive roots symbolise entanglement, which may energetically affect the flow of positivity indoors. Moreover, it requires a lot of space and sunlight, something most indoor environments can't provide. English ivy (Hedera helix) Though beautiful as a hanging or wall plant, English ivy is considered invasive and toxic. It contains saponins that can cause skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues in pets and people. Additionally, if not regularly maintained, it may attract pests like spider mites and scale insects. In Vastu, plants that creep or climb without support are thought to bring instability and unpredictability. Lilies Lilies are elegant and fragrant, but many varieties, especially peace lilies, Easter lilies, and tiger lilies, are toxic to pets, particularly cats. Even a small amount can cause kidney failure or severe illness. Some lilies also exude pollen that can stain furniture or trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. From a Vastu perspective, their association with funerals in some cultures may also symbolically invite grief or sorrow. While indoor plants can improve well-being and aesthetics, it's essential to choose them wisely. Plants like Babul, cactus, and cotton may look harmless but could introduce negative symbolism, allergies, or toxicity into your home. Always consider your household needs, pet safety, and the energetic balance you wish to maintain. By avoiding these nine plants and opting for Vastu-friendly, non-toxic alternatives like bamboo, money plant, or areca palm, you can create a safer, more harmonious indoor environment. Also Read: 5 easy ways to bring the 2025 biophilic design trend into your home
Time of India
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
10 worst colours for home interiors that can ruin your mood, according to design principles
Colour plays a powerful role in how we experience the world. From the clothes we wear to the way we decorate our homes, colour can influence our emotions, energy levels, and even decision-making. While decorating with your favourite shades may feel like a personal choice, colour psychology and ancient practices like Feng Shui suggest that certain colours can have negative effects if used excessively or in the wrong setting. Here's a look at 10 colours that may disrupt the energy in your home and why they should be used with caution. Avoid these 10 home colour mistakes that drain energy and kill vibes Dark or harsh black can feel overwhelming Black is a classic choice for modern, minimalist interiors, and its sleek appearance makes it a popular accent. However, when used too generously, especially on walls or large furniture pieces, black can absorb light and make a room feel small, heavy, and gloomy. This darkness can reduce a sense of openness and negatively impact your mood. If you enjoy the look of black, consider using it sparingly as an accent, such as in accessories or a single piece of furniture, and pair it with lighter hues to balance the overall space. Intense red may create restlessness Red is a bold, energetic colour often associated with passion, power, and alertness. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like My Brows Look Fuller Looking Now [See Results] NULASTIN Learn More Undo While it can be eye-catching and dynamic, intense shades of red are not ideal for spaces meant for relaxation, such as bedrooms or living rooms. Overuse of red can lead to feelings of anxiety, aggression, or overstimulation. However, it can work in smaller doses in rooms where high energy is appropriate, like a dining area, where red is believed to stimulate appetite. Overpowering orange can clash and cause discomfort Bright orange carries similar risks to red. While it can evoke enthusiasm and creativity, its overpowering nature can quickly become visually jarring and difficult to pair with other colours. Too much orange may create a chaotic or uncomfortable atmosphere, particularly in intimate or calm settings. Using it in moderation, perhaps through a small decorative element or accent wall, is a safer way to harness its vibrant energy. Bright yellow can lead to eye strain and irritability Yellow is often thought of as a cheerful and uplifting colour, but when used in high saturation or over large areas, it can be surprisingly overstimulating. Bright yellow may cause eye strain and even trigger feelings of frustration or restlessness. This is particularly problematic in spaces designed for relaxation, like bedrooms and lounges. Softer tones like pastel yellow can maintain a sunny vibe without overwhelming the senses. Neon or fluorescent colours can feel chaotic Neon colours are attention-grabbing and vibrant, but they can create a sense of visual clutter and chaos in the home. These bold shades are often difficult to live with long-term due to their intensity and rapid trend cycles. Rooms decorated with neon tones may feel overstimulating and are likely to go out of fashion quickly. If you love bright accents, try using them in artwork or small decor pieces that can be changed out easily. Cold grey may feel lifeless or bleak Grey is widely used as a neutral base in interior design, but colder shades of grey can make a room feel flat and unwelcoming. Without the warmth of undertones like beige, blush, or blue, grey may create a sterile or even depressing atmosphere. To avoid this, balance cold greys with warmer textures, natural materials, or colourful accents that add softness and warmth. Muddy brown can dull a space While earthy tones can bring comfort and grounding energy, muddy or overly dark browns may make a room feel heavy, uninspired, and dark. This is especially true in small spaces with limited natural light. Instead, opt for warmer shades like taupe, caramel, or tan to maintain a cosy yet lively feeling. Stark white can feel cold and clinical White is often used to brighten a space and create a clean aesthetic, but too much stark white can feel sterile, much like a hospital environment. A room that lacks contrast or texture in an all-white scheme may end up feeling flat and uninviting. Soften the look with warm neutrals, pastel tones, or layered textures through fabrics, rugs, and furnishings to add comfort and interest. Saturated or dark purple can feel too dramatic Rich purples like eggplant or deep plum may seem luxurious, but in large amounts they can feel too intense, moody, or sombre. These shades may also make social or relaxation spaces feel overly serious or enclosed. Lighter tones like lavender or mauve provide a more calming and sophisticated alternative that still adds personality to a space. Heavy green can be jarring rather than calming While green is often associated with balance and nature, very dark or intense shades can lose that soothing quality. Bold greens may come across as jarring and create discomfort if used too heavily. Softer greens like sage, mint, or olive are more effective at creating a tranquil and harmonious environment. When decorating your home, it's important to balance personal taste with how different colours influence your mood and space. If you're drawn to bold or darker tones, consider using them in moderation and pairing them with softer or warmer hues to avoid visual imbalance. The right colour choices can transform your home into a space that feels peaceful, energised, and inviting. Also Read: 6 common mistakes that are slowly killing your aloe vera plant and how to fix them
Al-Ahram Weekly
22-07-2025
- General
- Al-Ahram Weekly
How to choose the right cushions for every room, according to Feng Shui - Style - Life & Style
According to the principles of Feng Shui and energy flow, each room in your home can benefit from specific cushion choices that align with its purpose and elemental energy. Interior designer and energy expert Cherine Kholoussy told Ahram Online that Feng Shui is a philosophy that divides spaces based on directions associated with the five natural elements: fire, earth, metal, water, and wood. Each element is linked to specific colours, shapes, and materials, all of which influence the energy within a space. To promote harmony and positive flow, it's best to select cushions that align with the corresponding element and direction of each room in your home. Colour and energy: The emotional impact of cushions Colours affect not only mood but also the flow of energy in a space. The right cushion colour can energize, calm, or uplift, depending on its placement and the room's function. Red Cushions (Fire Element): Red evokes strong emotions such as passion, love, and even intensity. In a living room, red cushions can create a warm, dynamic, and inviting atmosphere. Blue Cushions (Water Element): Associated with nature and freshness, blue conveys calm and clarity. Blue cushions are ideal for areas where you want to feel refreshed or mentally alert. Green Cushions (Wood Element): Symbolizing renewal and vitality, green encourages wellness and creativity. It's ideal for studies, home offices, or healing spaces. Gray & Silver Cushions (Metal Element): Naturally calming and structured, these neutral tones foster tranquillity. Use in bedrooms or relaxation zones to bring grounding and quiet strength. Choosing cushions by room function Each space in your home serves a different purpose, and your cushion choices should reflect that, said Kholoussy: Living Room (Family & Socializing): Use warm, earthy colours like red, orange, or brown to create a cozy, welcoming space. Fire and earth elements promote connection. Choose soft textures and rounded shapes to enhance comfort. Bedroom (Love & Relationships): Place cushions in pairs—odd numbers disrupt harmony. Favour colours from the water and wood palettes, such as blue, green, and soft browns. Choose soft fabrics and heartening textures to nurture intimacy and emotional bonding. Home Office (Career & Knowledge): Opt for cushions in calming, supportive shades—think green, blue, or neutral tones—drawn from the wood and metal elements. Rectangular or oval shapes help channel focus and balanced energy. Directional placement: Aligning with nature's elements Feng Shui also considers the orientation of a room. Each direction corresponds to an element, colour, and form: North (Water): Favour blue and black cushions with wave-like shapes or fringes. Water imagery is welcome; avoid green tones or plant prints. West (Metal): Choose gray, silver, or yellow cushions in circular or oval shapes. Prints with fruit or elephants work well. Avoid blue or water-themed designs. South (Fire): Red, cherry, or purple cushions with geometric or triangular patterns are ideal. Look for designs featuring candles or horses. Avoid yellows. East (Wood): Opt for green or brown cushions in rectangular shapes. Nature-inspired prints— leaves , trees, bamboo —are perfect. Avoid yellow in this area. Texture of energy: Why fabric matters Texture influences how energy is felt in a space. Soft, plush materials invite relaxation, while rougher textures create a sense of grounding and stability. Kholoussy advises selecting fabrics with both comfort and energy flow in mind: Silk: Luxurious and soothing, silk enhances areas of wealth and romance. Cotton: Natural and breathable, cotton is perfect for wellness and family zones. Linen: Light and calming, linen is well-suited for meditation or study rooms. Velvet: Rich and indulgent, velvet enhances intimacy, making it ideal for bedrooms. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Time of India
19-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
10 Jade plant varieties that bring positive energy and style to your home
Looking to invite luck, harmony, and style into your living space? Jade plants are popular indoor plants believed to attract positive energy and prosperity. Known for their glossy leaves and easy care, these succulents hold a special place in Feng Shui, where they symbolise wealth, protection, and emotional balance. Each variety adds its own visual charm and calming presence, making them ideal for homes, offices, or personal corners. Whether your goal is to create a more peaceful environment or simply enhance your interiors, these 10 luck-attracting jade plant varieties offer a natural way to bring positivity into your home. 10 positivity-attracting jade plants for a peaceful, prosperous home Crassula ovata (Classic Jade Plant) The classic jade plant is one of the most loved indoor succulents, featuring plump, oval-shaped green leaves and a woody stem that gives it a bonsai-like appearance. Traditionally seen as a symbol of good luck and wealth, this plant is often placed near the front door or in a workspace to attract financial energy. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and is extremely low maintenance, ideal for those new to houseplants. Crassula ovata 'Hummel's Sunset' This stunning variety gets its name from its warm golden-yellow and red-tinged foliage, which glows even brighter under sunlight. 'Hummel's Sunset' adds not only a splash of colour to your space but also a calming presence. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo In Feng Shui, it represents balance and inner harmony, making it perfect for rooms where you want to create a peaceful and soothing atmosphere. Crassula ovata 'Gollum' With its unusual, trumpet-shaped leaves that resemble small green fingers, the 'Gollum' jade plant stands out as a quirky addition to any home. It is believed to deflect negative energy and attract positive vibes. Because of its compact form, it fits well on desks, bookshelves, or windowsills. It's also drought-tolerant and easy to care for, great for busy households. Crassula ovata 'Hobbit' This variety is very similar to 'Gollum' but has leaves that curl inward at the tips, giving it a whimsical, almost magical look. The 'Hobbit' jade plant is thought to encourage happiness and joy, especially when placed near windows or entryways. Its small size and charming appearance make it a popular choice for adding character to living rooms, kitchens, and even children's bedrooms. Crassula ovata 'Tricolor' The 'Tricolor' jade plant features variegated leaves with shades of green, cream, and subtle pink, making it a visual delight. This plant symbolises emotional balance and peaceful relationships, and is ideal for areas where you want to encourage harmony and clear communication. Its colorful foliage brings a refreshing pop to both modern and rustic interiors. Crassula ovata 'Red Horn Tree' This bold variety features tubular green leaves tipped with deep red, giving it a sculptural and striking appearance. The 'Red Horn Tree' is believed to enhance protective energy and inspire strength and motivation. It works well in home offices, studios, or any space where you need a boost of confidence and creativity. Crassula ovata 'Minima' A miniature jade plant with small, bright green leaves, 'Minima' is fast-growing and perfect for windowsills, terrariums, or small decorative pots. It's often linked with personal growth and renewal, making it a thoughtful plant for transitional spaces like entryways or dorm rooms. Despite its small stature, it offers a powerful lift in energy and mood. Crassula arborescens (Silver Dollar Jade) Known for its round, silvery-blue leaves edged with red, the Silver Dollar Jade has a cooling, calming look. It's often associated with wisdom, clarity of thought, and emotional stability. Place it in a quiet corner, a home office, or a study to encourage focus and inner peace. Like other jade plants, it needs very little watering and adapts well to indoor conditions. Crassula ovata 'Crosby's Compact' A dwarf version of the classic jade, 'Crosby's Compact' has smaller, tightly packed leaves and a bushier appearance. It's an excellent choice for compact living spaces, bedside tables, or small work desks. Despite its size, it radiates peaceful and grounding energy. Its structured form also brings a neat and tidy look to any room. Crassula perforata (String of Buttons) Unlike the traditional upright jades, the String of Buttons has a trailing habit and features stacked, coin-like leaves with pink edges. It adds a touch of playfulness to any setting and is believed to promote happiness and creativity. This variety is best suited for hanging baskets, elevated planters, or shelves where its cascading form can be appreciated. Jade plants are more than just decorative succulents, they're living symbols of prosperity, protection, and peace. With so many unique varieties to choose from, you can easily find one that suits your style, space, and energy needs. Whether you're enhancing your home décor or cultivating a more positive atmosphere, these jade plants are a natural and nurturing addition to any room. Also Read: 10 Medicinal plants you can grow at home for natural healing
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
5 Vastu Plants that attract success
Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural science, aids in the creation of aesthetically pleasing living spaces. Using Vastu plants is one of the best ways to bring success and auspicious energy into your house. These plants are thought to bring luck and money. According to Vastu, you can optimize these plants' benefits by strategically placing them throughout your house. From the lucky bamboo to the money plant, these five Vastu plants provide unique advantages. Five most auspicious Vastu Plants to attract luck and success: Bael Plant (Bel Patra) Bael plant holds a great spiritual importance in Hinduism. Bel Patra, or the auspicious leaves, are regarded as one of the most revered and are offered to Lord Shiva. It is believed that planting a bael plant at home during Sawan month will increase abundance and eradicate poverty. It also exudes positive energy in accordance with Vastu principles, which aids in reestablishing harmony and balance in the living area. Tulsi According to Hindu Scriptures, Tulsi plant holds a great religious and spiritual significance. It is also considered as the most sacred herb that fills a home with calm, prosperity, and health. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Dubai villas | search ads Get Deals Undo Well-known for its spiritual meaning, it is believed to bring success in all pursuits, happiness, and financial security. Tulsi is suggested by Vastu to purify the space's energy and create a positive, auspicious atmosphere. It is believed to improve relationships and assist in removing roadblocks to achievement. Money Plant The Money Plant is perhaps the most well-known plant associated with wealth and prosperity in both Vastu and Feng Shui. It is believed to attract financial prosperity and positive energy. It stands for stability, growth, and vitality—all of which are necessary for attaining financial success. It is also believed to protect the home or place of business by eliminating negative energy and creating a calm environment that is favorable to prosperity. Bamboo Tree Lucky bamboo is a common Feng Shui plant that is believed to attract wealth, good fortune, and health. The plant is believed to balance energies and bring prosperity into one's home or place of employment. Place Lucky Bamboo in the northeast for spiritual development, southeast for wealth, or east for health to attract positive energy. Jade Plant The jade plant, commonly known as the money plant, is a common succulent with coin-like thick, round leaves. When positioned correctly, it is believed to provide prosperity and financial stability to a home or workplace, particularly in the southeast corner, also known as the wealth corner. Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
