The Changing Energy of Berlin
A Personal & Energetic Perspective
Berlin has always been a city of transformation, reinvention, and movement. Its energy shifts with time, influenced by political changes, economic developments, and the people who inhabit it. Over the years, I’ve noticed a distinct shift in Berlin’s energy. More money is flowing into the city, new high-rise buildings are altering the skyline, and an increasing number of foreigners are trying to establish their lives here. At the same time, homelessness is becoming more visible, and a certain carelessness, like the increasing pollution in parks such as Volkspark Friedrichshain, seems to be creeping in. It feels like the Vibe of Berlin is changing a lot, and with it, my personal experience of living here.
The Energetic Landscape of a City
From an energetic perspective, cities carry distinct vibrational patterns influenced by history, urban design, and the collective consciousness of their inhabitants. Berlin, with its complex past and raw, creative energy, has always been a city that attracted free spirits, artists, and those seeking reinvention. But as the structures of the city change, so does its energetic flow. Feng Shui teaches us that the balance between growth, flow, and stability is crucial in any space – be it a home, an office, or an entire city.
Rapid urban expansion can sometimes disrupt the energetic harmony of a place. When the focus shifts too much toward economic gain, high-density construction, and fast-paced change, the natural flow of Qi (life energy) can become imbalanced. This can lead to a feeling of disconnection, restlessness, and a lack of grounding – something I, and many others, are starting to feel more and more strongly in Berlin.
The Importance of Our Personal Space
While the overall energy of a city influences our well-being, our immediate surroundings – our home, neighborhood, and daily routines – play an even bigger role. Our homes should nurture us, provide energy, and offer a space for retreat, recentering, and reconnection. But what happens when we feel drained rather than supported by the place we live in?
Lately, I’ve found myself more in a survival state, feeling like the city takes more energy from me than it gives. Of course, part of this are the long, grey winter months, which are always a challenge in a big city. But beyond that, I’ve been reflecting on my values and what I truly want from my environment. A friend recently encouraged me to write down what I actually need in a place to feel aligned and fulfilled. Among the things I noted were a deeper connection to nature, animals, and a stronger sense of community. Increasingly, I feel that while Berlin has a lot to offer, it may not be able to provide these specific qualities for me anymore. I feel my time here is coming to an end…
Finding Alignment in the Present Moment
Since I am not making a bold move just yet, I have to make the most of my immediate surroundings. This means consciously shaping my home environment to be a place of restoration. Feng Shui offers powerful tools to enhance the energy of a space, whether through decluttering, incorporating elements that align with the five Chinese elements, or optimizing the Qi flow in a room. These small but intentional shifts can make a profound difference in how we feel.
Additionally, I’ve started finding ways to reconnect with nature even while still living in the city. One of my little rituals is taking walks through a nearby neighborhood filled with townhouses and gardens. I love peeking into the windows to see how people have arranged their interiors, soaking in the different energies of each garden, and observing what is beginning to bloom as spring returns. When I find open spaces where I can see the sky and the horizon, I pause to take it in – reminding myself that expansiveness is always available.
To support this process, I created what I call my “Vibe List” – a collection of activities and places that help me feel more in tune with myself and my values while still being in Berlin. Whether it’s exploring new areas that are a bit outside of the city, spending time by the water, or simply making my home feel like a sanctuary, these small actions help me stay connected to what truly matters to me.
The Bigger Picture: Energetics and Environment
Ultimately, our environment shapes us more than we often realize. Feng Shui and energetic principles remind us that we are constantly interacting with the energy of the spaces we inhabit. If we feel drained, uninspired, or restless, it may be time to assess whether our surroundings truly support our well-being and growth. Sometimes, subtle shifts – both internal and external – can make a world of difference. Other times, a bigger change may be needed.
For me, this journey is about becoming more conscious of my needs and desires, listening to my intuition, and making choices that align with my energy. Whether that means adjusting my living space, spending more time in nature, or eventually moving somewhere new, the key is awareness and intentional action.
No matter where we live, we always have the power to create spaces that nourish and uplift us. And in the end, that is what truly matters.
