• Feng shui means 'wind' and 'water.'feng shui image by razorconcept from Fotolia.com
  
  Feng shui, which is a science and art from developed more than 3,000 years ago in China, uses the principles of harmony and balance to make life more welcoming. The elements of feng shui, while most often used in interior design and home planning, can also be used in diet, especially for people who are looking to lose weight at a healthy pace.
  
  

Decorating the Kitchen

• According to Feng Shui Details, if you are dieting, your kitchen should be decorated in neutral colors. This causes your body to be calmer, as bright colors can excite the mind and body and stimulate the appetite, which leads to overeating. Using tones like muted orange, shades of brown, or earthy green colors will promote satisfaction when eating and make you less likely to eat large portions in order to feel full. Tableware in neutral hues can help you maintain a balanced diet as well. With a kitchen decorated in neutral colors, you may be motivated to cook more meals yourself, giving you control over which ingredients are used.
  
  

Square Plates

• When you're trying to lose weight, the principles of feng shui suggest using square plates for meals. The shape of the square represents contentment, so you are likely to feel full after eating a meal from a square plate, even if the plate is small. Circles, on the other hand, promote inquisitiveness and curiosity, so the very shape of the plate may prompt you to eat more. Square chargers and dinner plates should be used in the kitchen and dining room so that you'll be more motivated to eat balanced meals at every sitting.
  
  

Table Settings and Vision

• Feng shui principles suggest that even numbers promote tranquility, while odd numbers increase a person's awareness and lead to uneasiness. When you sit at the table to eat, make sure there are an even number of seats and table settings, so that you'll feel more relaxed during your meal and stay committed to your diet goals. It may also be helpful to add a mirror to the dining space. This will allow you to see exactly how much is on your plate and exactly what you're eating. Focusing on specifics can help you adjust your meals to include items that may be lower in fat or sodium, or to eat less food per meal.