Feng shui literally translates to "wind/water," the two natural elements that influence the focus of Earth qi, or energy, in a dwelling or on a site. Figuratively, the term represents the art and science of living in harmony with nature's forces.
Feng shui was born out of China's reverence of nature.
"Classical," or "traditional," feng shui is the combination of the form school and compass school methods.
The five phases of fire, earth, metal, water, and wood represent the movement of qi. Fire qi rises, earth qi revolves, meta qi contracts, water qi falls, and wood qi expands.
Suitably placed and appropriately sized trees, hedges, hushes, or even fences are a valid substitute for landforms and buildings. If your home backs onto a park, for example, you could plant a grove of trees or a hedge to protect your back side. A fence will also do.
In feng shui, land forms are referred to as the bird, dragon, turtle, and tiger shapes.
The patterns of river courses and roadways can bring either fortune or misfortune to your dwelling.
While generally it's favorable to have a natural mountain formation supporting your back and a body of water in front, there are circumstances where this configuration can be detrimental to your health and livelihood. If you are experience inordinate misfortune or illness, a classical feng shui professional can analyze your situation using advanced techniques and can remedy accordingly.
Many modern houses are designed in a W- or lightning-bolt shape. While these houses may be the subject of interesting conversation, the sharp angles created by the juncture of these walls can cause misfortune and illness.
Many public buildings, places of business, houses of worship, and large residential houses feature impressive double doors. If you're the owner of such a dwelling and are experiencing financial troubles, the size of the door may be a contributing factor to your hardship. We suggest using only one side of the door, disabling qi from gushing out.
While bunk beds save space, they don't promote quality sleep. The occupant on the bottom feels threatened by the looming top bunk; the occupant at the top feels unconsciously susceptible to an inevitable fall. If a room is too small for two beds, consider a trundle bed (a bed that slides out from under a bed).
To ensure a restful sleep, your bed should be supported by a wall and positioned away from doors and windows.
In feng shui, numbers express probability of events that are likely to occur.
It is not favorable to sit directly opposite a door. You are subjected to a surge of qi, which can cause a lack of concentration, unproductivity, and illness. Also, it's not favorable to sit with your back toward a door. This position offers only unfavorable psychological and physical effects. Ideally, your back, like your home, must be supported by a wall or a mountain.
