Modern science, neuroaestetics, meets ancient wisdom, Feng Shui
Jeanette 
Why is it that a particular space feels more calming and relaxing compared to other rooms or places? Neuroaestetics and Feng Shui can explain this.
Feng Shui Is Neuroaesthetics
When ancient wisdom meets modern science
Recently I got a newsletter from a friend in the US. She´s and artist and creates divine art that really brings a beautiful space. She shared about her interest in neuroaesthetics which got me interested due to my efforts trying to explain how clearing a space can have a very positiv effect on how people experience a room. So lucky me I got this inspiration at this time. In this article I simply want to bring awareness to how modern science is explaining what the Chinese feng shui masters knew long time ago. Hope you enjoy this.
What really happens when we walk into a room and instantly feel:
"I can breathe here."
or
"I don't want to stay here."
Feng Shui speaks about energy.
Modern neuroscience speaks about the nervous system.
But in many ways, they are describing the same thing.
When the brain encounters beauty
In the 1990s, neuroscientist Semir Zeki began studying what happens in the brain when we experience art and beauty. His idea was radical at the time: art could help us understand how the brain works.
When we experience something harmonious and beautiful, the brain’s reward system becomes active. This must have been fascinating to discover.
When we encounter chaos or visual overload, stress responses increase.
In other words:
Beauty is not only superficial.It is biological.
Clutter is not just “mess”
In Feng Shui we say that clutter blocks the flow of energy.
Neuroaesthetics would say something slightly different:
Clutter increases cognitive load.
It keeps the brain in a constant state of processing and interpreting the environment. Over time this can activate low-grade stress.
Every object in a room requires a small amount of mental processing.
When the number of stimuli becomes too large, the nervous system moves into a subtle state of alertness.
This is why decluttering can feel like getting your energy back.
It is not magic.
It is regulation.
The “command/power position” and the brain’s alarm system
A classic Feng Shui principle is the command position — placing yourself so you can see the door without sitting directly in line with it.
Why does this work?
Because the brain is constantly scanning for potential threats. If you sit with your back toward the entrance, a part of your nervous system remains subtly vigilant.
The amygdala — the brain’s alarm system — stays slightly activated.
When you can see the door:
Your nervous system relaxes.
Your body leaves its state of alertness.
Focus and creativity improve.
Feng Shui described this principle centuries ago.
Neuroscience is only now beginning to explain it.
Nature is not decoration — it is restoration
Research shows that natural elements in our surroundings can:
• lower cortisol
• reduce blood pressure
• activate the parasympathetic nervous system
In Feng Shui we always integrate elements such as:
• plants
• water
• natural materials
• light
Humans are biologically wired to feel safe in environments that resemble nature.
A home without nature is like a body without breath.
Seems like it´s well spent time to learn about Feng Shui : )
You can find mini courses on my webpage where you can start this journey.
Categories: : feng shui, nervous system, sacred spaces, modern science, ancient wisdom, neuroaesthetics, brain science, Interior design