The History Of Feng Shui
Thousands of years ago, Chinese scholars discovered that those who existed in harmony with the natural flow of the earth lived happier and more prosperous lives. These ancient spiritual leaders believed that people who practiced the art of “ ” – literally meaning “wind and water” – would enjoy a balanced existence, living their lives according to the flow of the earth’s natural forces of water and wind. While it is not entirely clear when Feng Shui was first established, it is believed that the practice is more than 6,000 years old. Chinese theorists merged aspects of astrology, physics, philosophy and astronomy to create their theory of Feng Shui, and encouraged followers to become more attuned to the rhythm of the earth’s waters and winds. The principle behind the ideology was that if humans could adapt their lives to blend with the natural movements of the universe, they would attract good fortune and fulfilment.
Water + Wind = Harmony and Balance
The two elements underlying the basis of represent balance and harmony on earth, and reflect the flow of “Chi” – the life force which, according to Taoist belief, controls all the world’s natural movements. According to the ancient philosophers, every object in the universe is made up of Chi. Feng Shui is a belief system that encourages individuals to harness this Chi. To do this, they must ensure that the elements of their environment work together to create a natural flow that is in harmony with the forces of wind and water.
Chi: The Dragon’s Celestial Breath
Chi is known, by Chinese scholars, as the “dragon’s celestial breath”, and it is the life force that sweeps through our universe and energizes every object within it. Chi can be found everywhere, although it tends to be most abundant in places where wind and water are able to flow gently and without restraint. To these areas it brings luck, longevity, success and joy, and it is the aim of Feng Shui to create spaces that enable natural rhythms to enhance the effectiveness of Chi.
The Art of Placement
Essentially,Feng Shui can be defined as the art of placement. The concept of Feng Shui is based on the idea that when the energy in a certain place is not flowing correctly, disharmony is created. However, when objects are correctly positioned in their environment, the positive effects of Chi are optimized, and energy and balance is restored. The free, unobstructed flow of Chi dispels negative energy and brings health, happiness and greater productively to the surroundings.
Feng Shui Today
Across the world, people have come to realize the positive effects of Feng Shui on their living and working environments. Internalizing the principles of this ancient belief system, Feng Shui practitioners began to realize that this art could be applied to the cluttered and chaotic spaces created by our modern-day living. As a result, the practice has caught on in the United States and abroad, as people have begun to recognize the importance of dwelling in a space that encourages the easy flow of positive natural energy. Feng Shui experts, basing their theories on those established by their ancient Chinese predecessors, believe that every space has areas coinciding with health, wealth, relationships and success. This means that the spaces in your home, office, and even your car can be optimized to encourage the free passage of Chi through these environments. By making simple adjustments to these areas, the energy flow can be improved to create harmony and balance within our lives.
