Figen Genco has guided dozens of individuals, couples, families and professionals by teaching, coaching and working side by side in their environments, offering practical techniques that change the way they live. She received her B.A. degree in English from Istanbul University with a double major in English and teaching, and a minor in psychology. She holds a certificate as a Professional Organizer and another certificate as a Feng Shui practitioner. She has completed Reiki Levels I and II. She is currently studying Shamanism. As a speaker, she has delighted different audiences. Her presentations and workshops on self-improvement through organizational skills, time management and defeating procrastination have been well received by a wide variety of audiences, including a fun 8 hour credit course for accountants and tax collectors on a 9 day Carnival Caribbean cruise. Her articles have been published widely. She has been honored with SITAWE award by Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce. Figen can be contacted at 215 354 0275 or figen@lovethewayyoulive.com.

Part I - Uncluttering with Feng Shui

Through the many years of working with people one-on-one in their living and working environments, and as groups in classroom settings; I observed an unchanging rule. When people are in balanced and harmonious environments, they are much happier. They work better. They are efficient and productive. They understand easier; as a result, they learn faster. They feel in control. They enjoy life, themselves, and whatever they do. There is an overall contentment in the air around them. On the other hand, people in chaotic environments feel lost, anxious, dissatisfied, disappointed, overwhelmed, and unhappy.

Applying Feng Shui principals in conjunction with people's personal tastes of color, artwork, decorative objects and furniture; I have been successful at creating places that feel like home for everyone I have helped. Feng Shui is a way to arrange your space and your lifestyle so that it is in sync with the nature and with you. The words Feng Shui mean "wind" and "water". Just like wind and water swirl freely around in their environments, people should be able to move and function with ease in theirs. Feng Shui principals help create surroundings in which negative energy is prevented and positive energy is allowed to flow freely without obstruction. Failing to apply some basic rules and cures lead to disorder, chaos, turmoil, and sometimes even disaster.

Beneficial energy flow in buildings is obtained by correctly arranging furniture and not allowing energy stagnation in any area. The latter is accomplished by not letting clutter build up. Clutter has non- beneficial effects on people mentally and emotionally, also it causes many physical problems. The main rule to prevent a build-up is having only what is really needed and loved in our environment. This requires a thorough uncluttering and letting go off many objects which accumulate for years. After this part is accomplished, the furniture is then arranged with energy flow and functionality in mind. The rest of Feng Shui principals and cures are applied for further enhancement.

Sorting through belongings and deciding to let go is a hard process for many people. Attachments can cause great deal of anxiety. Under the light of my experience working with many different personalities and backgrounds, I have found that mental and emotional preparation before starting the actual physical work has proven to be successful with everyone. This process is especially important for those who really have a hard time to let go. These people might also need a longer preparation time.

Below are some simple and effective preparation methods that I developed. They are followed by some tips for during and after sessions. I have observed that these are simple yet powerful steps that have strong effects on the success of the project completion.

Before starting to work on your environment;

MEDITATION:

Whatever form of meditating you practice is acceptable. It can be going for a walk, or just sitting quietly in a room by yourself. Do it 3 days in a row. Start with taking deep breaths and blowing it all out. In your minds eye, imagine the way your place will look when everything is done. Be bold and creative. Picture your space in your mind. What do you want it to look like? Dream of the colors, the layout of the furniture, the fabrics, the décor and the mood of your place. Smell the new paint, and the fresh aroma of the cleaned rooms. Touch the textures. Imagine yourself walking, sitting, reading, dancing in your recreated space. Feel the smile and happiness in your face.

HAPPY CORNER:

Create a happy spot in the space you will be working in. This could be a shelf, a small table or top of a low cabinet. Clean that space. Bring in fresh flowers, some candles, and a glass bowl with stones or shells in, filled with water. Prepare some music that you love to listen while you are working.

PEACE and QUIET:

No phone calls- received or made, no TV, no radio shows. It is best to work by yourself with no distractions- unless there is someone who would just be there or who could really help.

What is considered clutter:

WHILE WORKING:

Do NOT regret, complain or concentrate on how much work is left. Focus on your goal and how much you have done. Look at your happy corner when you feel overwhelmed. Breath. Drink water from a bottle.

What to do with "clutter" items:

TIP: Trash, donation or give away items must be taken out of the house immediately after the work for that day has ended. This gives a person a sense of accomplishment and feeling of completion.

To learn more about Feng Shui and organizing visit http://www.lovethewayyoulive.com or call 215-354-0275.