Feng Shui is ancient Chinese science of geomancy
combining the laws of astronomy (heaven) and geography (earth) to propose a
harmonious balance of the Qi or Spiritual energy that
is an elemental part of every living thing. Thus, Feng
Shui theory is also known as Qimancy
or Qi divination. Feng
Shui is used to determine ways to create a balance of
the environmental energy to ensure sound health, prosperity and good fortune
for the inhabitants of that area.
Feng Shui literally means
Wind-Water. According to ancient Chinese cultures of Yanshao
& Hangshaw who are believed to be the earliest
preachers of Feng Shui,
gentle wind and clear water bring good harvest and good health. It is a Taoist
belief that the land is a living thing and emits energy called Qi that could decide the fortune of a kingdom. Other Taoist
philosophies include the concept of Yin-Yang and the five
elements of Feng Shui
namely water, wood, fire, earth and metal.
The prime Feng Shui
instruments include Luopan or Lu-pan
that is the magnetic compass and the Ba-Gua
that is an octagonal map or grid depicting the symbols or Chinese oracle - I-Ching. Combining the readings of Lupan and Bagua, experts study
the bipolar magnetic field of earth and its corresponding effects on any given
environment. Yin and Yang are the polarities of the bipolar magnetic field of
earth. Feng Shui is based
on the concept that all five above mentioned elements are elaboration of Yin
and Yang and when combined together, the polarities cancel out each other
creating an equilibrium of the energies emitted.
Feng Shui is Chinese
equivalent of Vastu Shastra - the Indian
science of geomancy. As its counterpart, it is also extensively used for home
and business space decorating.