This article gives an overview of the underlying theories, principals and history of Feng Shui. It highlights the controversies over what’s seen as a simplified version of Feng Shui, but seeks to include some popular methods to enable positive energy to flow into your life.
Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese holistic system utilizing the basic principles of the Universe. The aim is to facilitate the movement of Ch’i or cosmic energy around your environment. Free flowing ch’i ensures the creation and maintenance of harmony and balance. Contrary to popular belief, practicing proper Feng Shui goes far deeper than the placement of wind chimes, clearing clutter or keeping the toilet seat down, but literally translated it does mean ‘Wind and Water’!
Modern Day Practice
Many large businesses, including Virgin Airways, Microsoft, and major financial institutions, have used the services of a qualified Feng Shui consultant to improve their position and harmony within the business world. The complex nature of Feng Shui (Fung Shway) has stimulated the development of many disciplines or schools of thought. Most agree on the fundamental principles, but disapprove of the popular “New Age” or “Hippy” system introduced to the West by the Black Hat sect in the 1970’s. This has fuelled fierce debate. Other disciplines, such as Xuan Kong or Pa Chai, argue that Feng Shui has been reduced to purchasing a “few wind chimes” without considering why. The Black Hat schools are very popular in America and rely heavily on the intuition of the practitioner.
Naturally, I understand that some of you are “champing at the bit” to get started on “feng shuing” your abode, but it’s important to your future health and wellbeing to discover the underlying theories first. This will enable you to approach your surroundings with greater appreciation of the beneficial and opposing forces involved.