Ginger Post

Today, there are many definitions of fengshui (風水). Its literal translation into English is Wind Water. Some people see it as the energy around our living environment while others see it as superstition. Fengshui is considered both an art and a science. It is also metaphysics and it has been practiced for thousands of years in China; originated about 2000 years ago when an emperor was in search of a burial ground. Many in the past believed that if your ancestors are properly buried, you will be protected by them. This continues to be a common practice in Asia.

Fengshui is based on the principles of Yin and Yang (representing female and male, darkness and light, moon and sun, and related concepts) and the theory of the Five Phases/Elements (water, wood, metal, fire and earth). It is the practice of creating a happy living environment (harmony) within your home, workspace, and inner self. An understanding of the principles of Yin and Yang and the Five Phases is essential in applying Traditional fengshui methods. In addition, a person’s destiny can be enhanced if there is a correct alignment of the environment’s qi (氣 pronounced as “chee”) to that of the human qi of the individual.

Some people consider fengshui as superstition and this is probably a result of the figures and gods with which people use to decorate their houses. An experienced practitioner will be able to identify immediately what is superstition and what is reality. The figures and gods can be effective as long as one keeps in mind that it is the type of element contained in the statues and ornaments that matters most. Reorganizing furniture, using magic coins, and placing a few statues in the house is not enough to change the energy in your home and the way you live.

A proper fengshui consultation would include a destiny chart reading, compass measurements, Flying Stars analysis, Eight Mansions Theory, Form Analysis, and an understanding of the environment and energy (qi) outside and inside the property. If fengshui is improperly practiced, it can cause more problems to the inhabitants than before!

Qi 氣

Qi is an ancient Chinese concept which teaches that there is energy constantly flowing everywhere. This energy symbolizes life, health, prosperity, and everything that is positive to us. Whenever qi finds obstacles for circulating, we will notice it since it will directly affect our lives. Our life quality can diminish or be improved depending on the way qi flows in the environments we inhabit. According to fengshui, qi should always be able to flow freely through any space in order to help us be in balance with the elements that surrounds us. Qi also likes to meander and circulate. When looking for properties, it is very important to understand the environment outside and around the property. For example, living near electrical power plants, active main roads, highways, or contaminated streams can affect the livelihood of the inhabitants of nearby properties.

In the next article, we will take a closer look at the different types of fengshui forms that you can be aware of before buying a property.