Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese practice, has laid the groundwork for creating harmonious living spaces that promote well-being and balance. By understanding and applying its principles, we can enhance the flow of positive energy, or Qi, in our homes. This post explores how Feng Shui has influenced our Clear Living concepts and offers practical tips for integrating these ideas into your space. In today's hectic world, finding balance and harmony in our living spaces is essential for our well-being.

To develop and guide the flow of Qi (energy) for individuals, the Chinese invented various techniques and art forms. Dynamic meditation practices like Taijiquan (Tai Chi) help develop the flow of Qi within the body. Inspired by a huge variety of fruits, plants, and animals, these practices aim to achieve the same goal: enhancing energy.

In the early days, the word just meant "vapour" or "steam" or anything in the sky like clouds. By the time Chinese Philosopher Confucius came around, it had come to mean an animating force in the atmosphere that was manifested in weather phenomena that actively influenced the human body. If you looked after your environment and the Qi was flowing harmoniously in the world, the individual would be healthy, but if there was a block or the atmosphere was damaged, it would manifest as fever's or sicknesses.

But can Feng Shui be understood with our Western ways of thinking? Can we learn it, or is it something we can only understand intuitively? Leave your answers in the comments, we'd love to hear your thoughts!

Yin & Yang - Taoism

Various Chinese arts and sciences, such as nutrition, medicine, pharmacy, and Feng Shui, all share roots in Taoist philosophy. As with Taoism, Feng Shui is based on the principle of Yin and Yang. Yin symbolises the space above—the sky and creative energy—while Yang symbolises the space below—the earth and receptive energy. The combination of these two opposites drives development and is the fundamental condition for any type of change. Feng Shui is deeply rooted in these Taoist principles.

 

Luopan

One of the essential tools in Feng Shui is the Luopan, or geomantic compass. This Chinese magnetic compass, also known as a Feng Shui compass, is used by practitioners to determine the precise direction of a structure, place, or item. The Luopan contains extensive information and formulas regarding its functions. The needle points towards the south magnetic pole. Some formulas specialise in buildings and landscapes, others in how objects in a room affect one's position, and some even in the flow of water, focusing on the location of water.

By applying these principles and techniques, Feng Shui aims to create harmonious living spaces that promote the flow of positive energy, leading to improved well-being, prosperity, and happiness.

 

The energies move like stars flying in space, changing within time. The most developed Feng Shui school is the so called "Flying Stars" based on the Chinese calendar and numerology. With this method, experienced consultants can predict what will happen to the building being studied. It is said every 20 years a new period of time beings, then the direction of the Qi will change.

A good energy flow is necessary for good Feng Shui, but that alone is not sufficient to get all the benefits.

When practicing Feng Shui it is an encouraged tradition to clean the graves of your loved ones. In our death denying society, we forget to look after the memory of our fore fathers. It isn't common knowledge but Feng Shui was original a practice meant to orient the homes of the dead, not the living. Maybe this is the secret knowledge of success of the old dynasties in the West as well.

While energy may capture some of Feng Shui's physical characteristics, it doesn't come close to its spiritual qualities. The Ancient "Book of Burial" written by the 4th century Taoist Guo Pu, characterises Qi as "Life Breath" but in its earliest context Qi was actually used as a description for weather. According to the Zuo Commentary, Qi was a force composed of the six phases: Cold, Warmth, Wind, Rain, Darkness & Light.

The science of Feng Shui analysed the Qi in the environment with the intention of controlling its manifestations for the individual. I mention science as that's actually what it started out as. The practice was based entirely on the mathematical calculations of stars, an empirical observation of the weather patterns surrounding. They would then use these calculations to inform their theory about where the Qi was flowing. As time has progressed, astrology and numerology began to gain coverage, it became less of a concrete science and more of an art form. 

Feng Shui, with its rich history and dynamic nature, offers a unique blend of science, art, and spirituality. From its origins in observing natural phenomena and mathematical calculations, Feng Shui has evolved to incorporate elements of astrology and numerology, creating a holistic approach to harmonizing our living spaces. Whether viewed as a precise science or an intuitive art, Feng Shui’s principles of balance, energy flow, and alignment remain deeply influential. A lot like Clear Living, it priorities calm energy, awareness of surroundings and the reflection on good and bad practices.

By understanding and applying these principles, we can create environments that not only reflect our personal tastes but also promote well-being, prosperity, and harmony. While it's important to acknowledge the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of Feng Shui, it's equally vital to approach these practices with respect and, when necessary, seek guidance from experienced practitioners.

Incorporating Feng Shui into your life can transform your living space into a sanctuary of positive energy and tranquility. Embrace the journey of exploring this ancient art, and discover the profound impact it can have on your daily living. 

Thanks for reading & leave your thoughts on Feng Shui in the comments below!