Understanding Basic Feng Shui Principals

Feng Shui is the practice of arranging your natural environment to assure that a positive flow of energy or chi effectively circulates around you. The primary goal is to optimize the flow of the chi energy and to eliminate both Sha Chi (attacking) and Si Chi (draining) energy. Understanding basic Feng Shui principals can help you redirect or eliminate the negative energy to allow the life affirming chi energy to create an atmosphere of harmony, health and success.

The nine areas of energy in each living space are fine tuned to optimize the direction of energy flow. The process starts when a bagua compass is placed over the site plan of a house, room, or area where the Feng Shui practitioner is working. The ancient Chinese king Fu Xi often gets credit for the design of the original bagua. The bagua compass is used to analyze energy in any location and is based on the patterns of a tortoise shell. It was a vital tool in the complex, respected practice of Feng Shui. 

The History of Feng Shui

Feng Shui was developed in China thousands of years ago. It’s a hybrid of Taoism or Daoism, where the five elements of nature (fire, water, wood, metal, earth) and the yin (female) and yang (male) energy are analyzed in order to arrange and open up the positive chi flow. The classic Feng Shui incorporates the elements of nature, the four celestial animals, Chinese symbols, precious stones and waterfalls to bring serenity and renew the positive chi.

Over thousands of years ago various branches, schools and sects of Feng Shui grew out of Asian culture, geography, religion and Chinese astrology. It was applied with precision in graveyards, gardens, homes and public buildings. Architecture was greatly influenced by the application of chi harmony by trained practitioners. This amazing body of knowledge is both a science and an art, with deep roots in religion. Classic Feng Shui practitioners required years of training and the grand masters were honored and respected.  

In the 1970's Grand Master Lin Yunto brought the Black Hat Sect of Feng Shui to the western world. The power of individual intention was merged with more traditional considerations. Feng Shui has become very popular with landscaping and interior design. The arrangement of furniture, clearing of clutter, strategic placement of mirrors, plants and colors are all vital elements in Feng Shui. The westernized version of Feng Shui is adjusted to our environment but retains its power to manifest positive change.

What is Chi?

Chi energy is a life force that flows through all living environments. When this light energy is blocked, becoming unbalanced in fundamental ways, it can lead to illness, restlessness, money problems and relationship issues. As a result of perfectly balanced chi, you can start to feel good and achieve what you desire. Better health, a more rewarding job, a hot new romance, a good relationship and most importantly a serene attitude are all benefits to the extraordinary balance and flow of chi. Good fortune is the successful outcome when chi energy moves smoothly through a space. Many people swear that the harmony of chi energy in their home or business has changed their lives. 

Integrating Feng Shui into Your Everyday Routine

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy to overlook the ancient wisdom of Feng Shui and the pivotal role of chi energy. But, fear not! Incorporating Feng Shui in daily life to enhance the flow of chi can be simpler than you think. Here's how you can start:

Morning Rituals: Welcome Chi with Open Arms

Start your day by opening windows to let in fresh air and natural light. This simple act invites positive chi to dance through your living space. Position your breakfast nook to face east, if possible, to absorb the rejuvenating morning sun. As you sip your morning tea, visualize the day ahead filled with balanced and harmonious chi.

Work Environment: A Chi-Friendly Desk Setup

At work, arrange your desk to face the door or in a commanding position. This not only makes you more approachable but also aligns with Feng Shui principles to enhance the flow of chi. A plant on your desk, preferably one with round leaves, can help to keep the energy vibrant and lively. Remember, a clutter-free desk is not just visually appealing, it’s a haven for positive chi.

Daily Commute: A Journey in Chi Harmony

Your daily commute can be more than just a rush hour battle; it can be a time to harmonize with chi. If you drive, hang a small crystal in your car to promote clarity and positive energy flow. If you're using public transport, try to sit facing the direction you are traveling to align with the forward-moving chi.

Lunchtime Chi: Mindful Eating for Energy Balance

Lunch is more than refueling; it’s a time to recalibrate your chi. Choose foods that are in harmony with Feng Shui elements. For example, incorporate root vegetables to ground your energy or fresh fruits for a burst of positive chi.

Evening Unwind: A Chi-Centric Homecoming

Upon returning home, create a ritual to shed the day’s stress. Light a few candles to symbolize the fire element, encouraging passion and energy. Spend a few moments in your garden or balcony, connecting with the earth element to ground your chi.

Nighttime: Preparing for a Chi-Enhanced Sleep

Before bed, ensure your bedroom promotes a calm, chi-rich environment. The position of your bed is crucial; it should be in a commanding position but not directly in line with the door. Soft, soothing colors and minimal electronic devices can help maintain a serene atmosphere, conducive to a night of rejuvenating sleep.

Incorporating Feng Shui into your daily routine is not about drastic changes; it’s about making small adjustments to enhance the flow of chi energy. From the moment you wake up to the time you lay your head down to rest, each action can be an opportunity to invite and harmonize with chi. With these simple yet effective practices, you can turn every day into a dance with chi, leading to a life of balance, harmony, and prosperity.