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Feng shui
is an ancient Chinese practice or “art” of placing objects in the correct manner so that harmony with the environment is achieved. This harmony may extend to relationships, financial wealth, health and general well being, as well as harmony in our physical space. Another way of describing feng shui is that it is a philosophy about the relationship between humans and the environment. It’s a belief that everything is connected in nature and all affects our personal well-being. Feng shui literally means “wind and water.” The practice dates back 5,000 years and is still practiced in China and many other parts of the world today. Feng shui seeks to promote the above mentioned harmony by examining the flow of chi, also spelled qi, throughout one’s home, office or other building, or garden. It can also pertain to a particular room in a house. Feng shui takes into account the feminine, passive energy called yin, and the masculine energy called yang. The practice also looks at the five elements of water, fire, earth, wood and metal. Also of great importance in feng shui are the directions on the compass - north, northeast, east, southeast, south, southwest, west and northwest.
A feng shui expert is called a geomancer. Based in the laws of nature, the aim of the geomancer is to create a living and working environment that promotes the flow of energy (chi) with nature. Feng shui relates to placement, elements, color and materials. Mirrors, crystals and fountains are of particular importance in feng shui. It’s believed that the Earth is alive and filled with energy. The ancient Chinese people believed that this energy could either make or break a person, business - or even a kingdom. The geomancer will consult an individual’s Chinese horoscope to figure out what is best for that person. They will often use complicated mathematical calculations from the ancient I Ching (Book of Changes) to determine where feng shui is needed, or what areas are out of balance. The principles of feng shui may be used in any style of decorating - not just Asian. It’s available to anyone. There are hotels, banks, houses - even some whole communities in Hong Kong that have been planned according to feng shui principles.
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