Study Of Feng Shui

by Stella

Feng Shui (pronounced "Fung Schway") is the art of placing and situating a structure or object so it at its most harmonious with nature. It acknowledges that physical, cultural and social factors are influenced by cosmological, metaphysical and natural elements. The term Feng Shui means "wind-water" in English, highlighting the significant role played by the elements in this belief.

Placing an object in a certain position or alignment can affect the flow of energy around it and the concept of Qi (pronounced "Chi") or the life force that constantly moves throughout the earth is a core factor in this belief, as is the concept of polarity, or ying and yang. To practice Feng Shui takes many years of study and requires an understanding of natural, astrological and contextual phenomenon.

Those who practice Feng Shui have to comprehend the influence of cosmology on earth. They should also have knowledge of how astronomy and astrology influence the placement of buildings and also understand Confucian classics, the weather, the forces of nature, the magnetic fields and how these all influence us. It also helps to understand a little of the history and layout of the local area where the Feng Shui study is to be undertaken. Knowing area's history, the flow of water and the range of native plants/weeds will allow the practice of Feng Shui to be in harmony with the local environment.

Feng Shui originated from the West Han dynasty around third century BC. These who practice Feng Shui believe that the earth is alive with energy. If individuals built a structure on a land that has revitalizing power, then they would prosper, and the reverse would also be true.

Originally, Feng Shui was only applied to help place tombs for those who had died. Then people realized they could also apply the same energy concepts to the living and determine not only the most harmonious location and orientation of buildings but also the layout of rooms and objects within those buildings, including humans. A more harmonious house would reflect on the inhabitants making the human relationships within these environments more balanced and prosperous.

Today Feng Shui is embraced by cultures in both East and West and brings a degree of balance to those who wish to live in harmony with the earth. This uniting of East and West is truly the epitome of the balanced Ying Yang energy.