Feng Shui (風水), literally meaning "wind and water," is an ancient Chinese practice that harmonizes individuals with their surrounding environment. With over 3,000 years of history, feng shui offers practical wisdom for creating balanced, prosperous living spaces.
Core Principles of Feng Shui
Chi (Qi) Energy
Chi is the vital life force that flows through everything. In feng shui, the goal is to optimize the flow of chi through your space, avoiding both stagnation and excessive speed. Proper chi flow brings health, prosperity, and positive relationships.
Yin and Yang Balance
The complementary forces of yin (passive, dark, feminine) and yang (active, bright, masculine) must be balanced in your environment. Too much of either creates disharmony. Bedrooms need more yin for rest, while offices benefit from yang energy for productivity.
The Five Elements
The five elements form the foundation of feng shui theory. Each element has unique characteristics and interacts with others in productive and destructive cycles:
Interactive Five Elements Wheel
Click on any element to learn more
Click on any element in the wheel to discover its unique properties, associated colors, objects, and how it interacts with other elements.
The Bagua Map
The Bagua is an octagonal energy map that divides any space into nine areas, each corresponding to different life aspects:
- Next: Career and Life Path
- Northeast: Knowledge and Self-Cultivation
- East: Family and Health
- Southeast: Wealth and Prosperity
- South: Fame and Reputation
- Southwest: Love and Relationships
- West: Children and Creativity
- Northwest: Helpful People and Travel
- Center: Health and Balance
Practical Feng Shui Tips
Entrance and Foyer
Your front door is the "mouth of chi" where energy enters your home. Keep it clean, well-lit, and unobstructed. A clear path to the door and an inviting entrance attract positive energy.
Living Room
Arrange seating in a commanding position where you can see the entrance. Create conversation areas with furniture facing each other. Balance hard and soft surfaces, and ensure good lighting and air circulation.
Bedroom
Place your bed in a commanding position with a solid wall behind the headboard. Avoid positioning the bed directly in line with the door or under a window. Minimize electronics and mirrors for better rest.
Common Feng Shui Mistakes to Avoid
- Clutter blocking energy flow
- Broken items creating negative energy
- Sharp corners pointing at seating areas
- Mirrors facing the bed
- Toilets visible from the front door
Get Personalized Feng Shui Guidance
While these basics provide a foundation, effective feng shui considers your personal energy, birth date, and specific circumstances. FengShuiSensei offers personalized consultations based on your unique profile.