• Make sure you can block out the light with heavy curtains or shades. Ideally you will want a variety of lighting options so that you can block out direct sun when the baby is awake, (newborns are sensitive to light), but keep the room very dark for naps and in the early morning.
• Cleanse the energy in the room periodically. One sleepless night tends to lead to another sleepless night if the energy is not shifted. Open windows, let in fresh air or lightly spray some water with a few drops of lavender essential oil (after the baby is six weeks old- check for sensitivities or allergies) to freshen the room setting the intention that you are clearing the air and restoring peace.
• Keep the room simple by clearing clutter (which stagnates energy) and avoid electronic equipment, which can also interfere with good sleep.
• If you live in a noisy area, consider installing double pane windows or heavy curtains to block out street noise. You can also purchase a white noise machine to mask household sounds, like creaking floors or other children playing.
• Create a pleasing view from the crib. Especially as your baby gets older what she sees when she first wakes up in the morning and what she sees last before going to sleep will influence her "view" on life. Uplifting artwork, or a view of a tree outside a window are both examples of positive views.
• Create a nighttime ritual. Putting toys away, dimming lights, closing curtains and taking a bath can all become part of the nighttime routine. Talk to you baby and explain what is happening and what is expected. For example, you might say "Now we are preparing your room for bedtime, we are going to take a bath and put on your night clothes, then it will be time to sleep for 12 hours." Your baby will not only be comforted by your voice and knowing what to expect next, but also setting the intention for a good night always help!

Remember, your baby is transitioning from a womb into the world. The more nurturing, soft, warm and comfortable your baby's surroundings the better. And above all- enjoy the process! Your baby will feel all the love, positive energy and mindfulness you bring to the process of creating this very special room.

Home and life design experts, sisters, and co-founders of The Art of Everyday Living Laura Forbes Carlin and Alison Forbes have created the ultimate guide for expectant parents in their new book The Peaceful Nursery: Preparing a Home for Your Baby with Feng Shui, to be published as a Delta Trade Paperback Original on February 28, 2006. In this fully-illustrated, colorful guide, filled with gorgeous photos and quick reference charts, the authors show parents-to-be how to unite the basic principles of Feng Shui with healthy living to create a warm and nurturing nursery.

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